In a bid to stay at the forefront of tourism and showcase the allure of Cape Town, the city authorities have joined forces with local service provider, Gecko Digital Global, to create a state-of-the-art virtual tour. This partnership aims to present Cape Town’s attractions, experiences, and products to a worldwide audience, emphasizing the city as the perfect destination for tourists, professionals, students, and investors.
Embracing a New Approach to Destination Marketing
The City of Cape Town’s MEC for Economic Growth, James Vos, entered into an agreement with Gecko Digital Global to develop a top-of-the-line virtual tour that embodies the city’s six-pillar Destination Marketing Strategy. This plan focuses on the multitude of reasons to visit, work, study, play, invest, and reside in Cape Town.
Discussing the necessity of staying current with trends and technology, Vos stated that destinations must showcase their strengths to retain their appeal to travelers and investors. He further noted that the virtual tour would act as a groundbreaking new instrument to engage with individuals via their computers or mobile devices, featuring the city’s locations and products to increase visitor numbers.
The Influence of Virtual Tours on Travel Decisions
According to research conducted by Gecko Digital Global, which cites Google Analytics, millennials and Gen Z adults are 130% more likely to reserve a travel experience after participating in a virtual tour. Studies also indicate that virtual tours lead to a 16% increase in Google searches and map appearances. As a result, Vos expressed enthusiasm that Cape Town’s virtual tour would incorporate links to product booking portals.
Pioneering Virtual Tour Technology
Gecko is currently developing the world’s first virtual tour booking engine, which users will be able to access once the City’s online tour is launched. Jacques Clarijs, Gecko Digital Global’s partner at its South African division, mentioned that the company is the world’s top 360º virtual tour provider. He also conveyed excitement about collaborating with the city and shining a spotlight on the Mother City.
Clarijs explained that Gecko generates unmatched content for leading hotels, destinations, and experiences around the globe, offering travelers immersive experiences like never before. In partnership with the City of Cape Town, he anticipates utilizing this technology in a groundbreaking initiative.
Exploring the Virtual Tour
Upon completion, the virtual tour will be available through the City’s online destination portal. This thrilling project is expected to draw more visitors to Cape Town and its surrounding areas, showcasing the city’s cultural, historical, and natural marvels.
A Thrilling Winelands Journey
As an added perk, Cape Town provides visitors with an opportunity to embark on a round trip from the city to the stunning Winelands and back for a reduced rate of R2,449 (valued at R3,500). This offer can be accessed through Cape {town} Etc.
The collaboration between the City of Cape Town and Gecko Digital Global marks a new chapter in destination marketing. The captivating virtual tour will not only enable potential visitors to explore Cape Town from the comfort of their homes but also inspire them to experience the city firsthand, boosting tourism and the local economy. The virtual tour is set to revolutionize how people perceive and select their travel destinations, making Cape Town an even more appealing option for inquisitive travelers across the globe.
