"This is Us" promises to be a gathering unlike any we've held before. We'll strip away formalities and reconnect with the heart of who we are. It's a homecoming, a celebration, and a powerful reimagining of what it means to be the voice of Southern African tourism.

In previous years, we've tackled industry challenges head-on, often preoccupied with external factors affecting our sector. Our conferences typically featured panel discussions and presentations, sometimes limiting two-way dialogue. This year, we're shifting our focus inward, inviting every attendee to become a storyteller, reconnecting with our roots, and celebrating the narratives that define us.

In an age where information is omnipresent, it is often mistaken for knowledge, and knowledge is mistaken for wisdom. We're returning to the essence of how wisdom has been imparted over the ages: storytelling. Our conference will highlight the power of personal narratives to forge deeper connections through intimate conversations, shared laughter, and the impact of individual experiences.

We're departing from the familiar to create an intrinsically immersive gathering of minds. Our chosen venue in the Cape, Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa, lends itself perfectly to this objective, offering a winter retreat complete with soul-nourishing fireside chats.

So, what's the craic?

Storytelling is deeply woven into the fabric of our diverse cultures. From the ancient African tradition of "Imbawula gatherings" around a fire, to the Afrikaans concept of "oor die kole," stories have always been a means of passing down knowledge, fostering connections, and finding meaning in our shared experiences. This tradition isn't unique to South Africa; cultures worldwide have their own ways of weaving tales and connecting through shared experiences. In Ireland, they refer to "the craic" – a rich, humorous, and connected conversation, often enjoyed in the warm atmosphere of local pubs.

This year's conference is a celebration of that rich storytelling heritage. It will unfold as an engaging chronicle of Southern African tourism's past, present, and future. As our sector rebounds and reshapes itself, we're collectively crafting its narrative.

But it isn't just about listening to stories – it's about sharing them. You'll hear from the likes of Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Craig Foster ("My Octopus Teacher"), Robbie Brozin, co-founder of Nando's, and many others who have shaped our industry. Yet, we believe that every voice matters.

This conference is your platform to share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs. We want to hear from SATSA members, industry partners, and anyone with a passion for Southern African tourism. Your stories are the heart of our industry, and we can't wait to hear them.

Come prepared to be inspired, to connect with others, and to add your voice to the collective narrative of "This is Us."

Date: 14 August 2024

Venue: Arabella Golf Course

Tee-Off Time: 10:00 to 11:00

Book your ticket here

You are invited to join David Frost for the pre-conference golf day. Attendance is not limited to conference delegates, so if you're in the area and want to connect with industry colleagues and friends, get your ticket today.

The fabled Arabella 18-hole, Par 72 Championship course has consistently been ranked in the top 10 courses in South Africa. The 8th hole has been described as one of the most beautiful par 5's in South Africa and the 18th hole was rated one of the finest finishing holes in the country.

The highly acclaimed South African golf course architect Peter Matkovich designed and built the course in 1999. Since then, many professionals and celebrities have enjoyed the Arabella Golf experience, including Jack Nicklaus, Samuel L. Jackson, Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, Ronan Keating, Lee Westwood, Tim Clark and Gary Player. 

Facilities on offer include

- A fully stocked pro shop

- A warm-up range

- A putting green

- A chipping green

- A halfway house

- A Golf club bar

- Locker rooms and showers

- Golf carts with GPS

- Golf clubs for hire

- Golf clinics and coaching

Located in the Kogelberg Biosphere, one of the world's richest floral reserves, the Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa welcomes SATSA conference delegates to explore the stunning natural surroundings, modern accommodation and wellness in a one-of-a-kind luxury Hermanus hotel.

Just 90 minutes from the heart of Cape Town, with 145 modern rooms and suites​, complimentary WiFi, indulgent spa treatments​ and 18 holes of exceptional golf​, we are excited to offer fantastic discounted accommodation rates for you.

Our partners at Southern Sun​ are providing accommodation at only R1,900 per room per night. They will manage all your accommodation needs and bookings can be made here​ or by emailing Nadia McGregor. There is still availability (even if the link doesn't show it), so please enquire directly if you are struggling.  

Houw Hoek Hotel​, in the heart of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, is a leisurely 80 km from Cape Town, just off the N2 freeway. This exquisite location makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of conferencing. Most rooms have balconies with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. 

We are thrilled to let you know that Houw Hoek has offered 75 rooms for the 14th and 15th of August at a fantastic rate of just R590 per person twin sharing, including breakfast. Single occupancy will be R950 B&B.  

To book your room, contact Veronica on 028 284 9646 or email res@houwhoek.com (please copy in events@houwhoek.com) and enjoy your 5-star treatment.

Exclusive SAA Discounts for SATSA Conference Attendees!

We are thrilled to announce that South African Airways​ (SAA) will offer exclusive flight discounts for the upcoming SATSA Conference.

What's on Offer?

• Discounted Fares: Enjoy discounts ranging from 5% to 15% off SAA's lowest published fares. The exact discount will depend on your point of sale and is subject to relevant class availability.
• Extended Travel Window: The discounted fares are valid for travel starting 14 days before and extending up to 14 days after the official event dates. This extended validity period encourages attendees to stay longer and explore more of the beautiful Western Cape.

How to Avail the Discount?

To book your discounted flights, click here​ and insert Promo Code SATSA24.

This offer will not only make attending the SATSA Conference more affordable but also enhance your overall experience by allowing you to take full advantage of your time in the Western Cape. Whether you choose to arrive early or extend your stay, there's so much more to see and do. Stay tuned for more information on pre- and post-conference activities.

Thank you, SAA, for supporting our conference and the tourism industry! 

As the proud mobility partner of SATSA 2024, Avis is thrilled to offer an exclusive 15% discount to all conference delegates on car rentals. This discount applies to all vehicle groups, making your travel to the conference even more convenient and affordable.

Prefer not to drive yourself? No problem! Take advantage of our Avis Chauffeur Drive service at discounted rates. Enjoy the luxury of having one of our professionally trained chauffeurs drive you around while you relax in the back seat of your rental.

Don't miss out on these fantastic offers! Click here​ to book your drive and learn more about the Avis Chauffeur service.

The Overberg, an area well known for adventure, offers something for everyone. From exhilarating zipline tours and serene paddling excursions to captivating shark cage diving and wine-tasting journeys.

Our exclusive adventures for 14 August 2024 are designed to provide you with unique and unforgettable experiences, showcasing the best of Overberg's natural beauty, wildlife, and culinary delights.

Review the exciting activities and book here today to avoid disappointment.

Please note that tickets are for conference delegates only, one per delegate and are on a 'first-come-first-served' basis. 

Welcome Dinner, 14 August 2024

After a day of adventure and golf, join us for a gastronomy delight in the grand foyer of the Arabella Hotel.

Networking Dinner, 15 August 2024

A special treat is in store at the Elgin Railway Market, an old apple warehouse converted into a bustling Steampunk, Art Deco venue boasting local food and craft vendors, and live music to keep you entertained.