Crime and South Africa

Can we change the way people see South Africa when tourists are being attacked on holiday?

International tourism is a growing business that gives third world countries a big chance to generate income. In some countries the laws restricts the growth of tourism. Some of the countries that are classified as destination countries for tourists have a big problem with crime.

In South Africa there is a growing concern for the safety of tourists because of the increase in crime to such an extent that some parts of our wonderful country are not marketed any more for example Durban. Durban was once advertised as South Africa’s favourite tourist destination where the fun never stops but now you will only see litter, more prostitutes than police.

Durban is the largest and most important port for South Africa and an entry point to KwaZulu - Natal region. Durban has a bustle and vibrancy that is missing from most of the other cities in South Africa. With a large Indian population, the city presents a multicultural perspective and a totally different look. Durban has a long history, big business environment, exciting nightlife, and above all beautiful beaches which attracts tourists from all parts of the world. And now all of this has changed because of the crime situation in South Africa.

Luckily for us we still have the wonderful Cape Region - which is now marketed much more to local and foreign holidaymakers and offer more than Durban can offer the tourists. The only thing really missing in the Cape is a warm ocean to swim in! Cape Town has also become a popular destination for both the local and international film industry. The Cape offers white beaches, surfing, wine routes, historical places and much more to visitors.

How safe is our country for foreign tourists really? Crime in SA is a newsworthy reality and perceptions are formed according to what people see and hear on the media - although not all tourist destinations are as bad as they are portrayed in the media. If you open up a newspaper or listen to the news you always hear of some tourists that have been attached, killed or robbed. Which is quite sad, because South Africa has got so much to offer. If South Africans would only realise that the more people come into South Africa the more jobs will be created. The economy can only benefit from tourism.

If you really think about what South Africa can offer the tourist, it is simply amazing. Sunshine, four seasons in one country, eight world heritage sites, the big five, waterfalls, mountains, flora, fauna, friendly people just too much to mention. So why is there so much crime still in a country like South Africa? Generally tourism is flourishing with the one exception of crime in certain areas.

The laws in this country need to be stricter on criminals because it is way too easy to get away with crime. Sentences need to be harsher for violent crimes.

Tourists are a very important generator of income to any country – and definitely to us all in South Africa. So do look after our tourists!