National Accommodation Awards semi-finalists announced

Now in its 18th year, this awards programme is claimed to be the only established mechanism for consumers to voice their opinion about the quality of tourist accommodation in South Africa.

More than 41 000 consumers commented on approximately 1100 AA Quality Assured or star graded establishments across the country this year, either electronically or by completing guest critique forms.

A total of 226 semi-finalists in 36 categories were announced, including guest houses, bed & breakfasts, self-catering apartments, game lodges and different types of hotels. Guests commented on aspects such as service levels, the quality of facilities, cleanliness, ambience and food.

A very effective tool

Convenor Vanessa Sand says all information received from guests, whether positive or negative, is sent back to participating establishments. "This assists owners or managers to improve certain aspects of their operations or to maintain existing high standards. The awards programme is therefore a very effective tool to respond to the needs of consumers and gives establishments a definite marketing edge."

High scoring establishments were examined carefully and were visited by qualified and experienced assessors to verify that the scores were justified.

Finalists will be announced later this month and the winners will be announced at a gala awards ceremony at the tourism Indaba in Durban on 8 May.

The awards programme is supported by American Express Card, Sealy, BnB Sure and Avis.

For more information go to www.accommodationawards.co.za.