Latest news with #DepartmentofTourism
IOL News
9 hours ago
- IOL News
New dinosaur centre set to boost rural tourism in Free State
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre will provide a state-of-the-art visitor experience, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. As part of efforts to diversify the country's tourism offerings and promote rural tourism development, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille is set to launch a dinosaur interpretation centre in the Free State. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Free State provincial government. This R120 million investment, funded by the European Union through the South African National Treasury, represents a significant step forward in the country's mission to create inclusive, educational and globally compelling tourism experiences. Ancient bones The new centre will celebrate Africa's ancient history, highlighting one of the world's oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered. With interactive exhibitions that blend palaeontology, archaeology, geology and cultural heritage, the centre aims to awaken curiosity and delight in visitors of all ages. The BaSotho people and their ancestors have inhabited and explored this eastern Free State landscape for centuries. Through their deep connection with the land, early BaSotho communities discovered fossil bones and footprints of unknown creatures. They imagined that these bones and footprints belonged to a mythical beast called 'Kgodumodomo' and created stories about them that continue to feature in BaSotho mythology today. Speaking ahead of the launch, Minister de Lille highlighted the long-term benefits the centre will bring to the community. Attracting tourists 'We will be able to attract more visitors to the Free State province, which is one of the less-visited provinces,' she stated. De Lille also emphasised the importance of making the centre accessible to young people, allowing them to learn about South Africa's history and its ancestors. She is in discussions with SANParks to ensure that visiting the centre remains affordable for South Africans. 'I am in discussion with SANParks about the pricing structure, and even if there is some income, it must be affordable. We have a very high cost of living, and we must consider all of these factors when deciding on the entry fee,' said De Lille. Additionally, she revealed that 30 tour guides from the local community, trained by the Department, will be employed full-time at the centre. 'This centre is a symbol of what we mean when we say, 'Come Find Your Joy in South Africa'," said De Lille. 'Whether your joy is sparked by science, nature, culture or connection, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is an experience that brings it all together in a way that is locally rooted and globally inspiring.'
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
SA to unveil World-Class Dinosaur Interpretation Centre
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, promising a state-of-the-art visitor experience will be unveiled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This R120 million investment is funded by the European Union through the South African National Treasury. The launch, scheduled for June 22, is a milestone moment for the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Free State provincial government. Under the theme 'A Nation That Works for All – Unearthing Our Past, Building Our Future,' the new centre offers an immersive celebration of Africa's ancient story, spotlighting one of the world's oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered. With interactive exhibitions blending palaeontology, archaeology, geology, and cultural heritage, the centre promises to awaken curiosity and delight in every visitor – young and old. BaSotho people and their ancestors inhabited and explored this eastern Free State landscape for hundreds of years. Through their deep connection with the land, early BaSotho communities discovered fossil bones and footprints of unknown creatures. They imagined that these bones and footprints belonged to a mythical beast, 'Kgodumodomo' and created stories about them that still feature in BaSotho mythology today. 'This centre is a symbol of what we mean when we say, Come Find Your Joy in South Africa,' said Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. 'Whether your joy is sparked by science, nature, culture, or connection, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is an experience that brings it all together in a way that is locally rooted and globally inspiring.' The launch of the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre will include the graduation of newly trained local tourist guides, a testament to the project's role in empowering youth, women, and rural communities through skills development, job creation, and tourism-led economic growth. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
5,000 people participate in yoga event at Gandikota
Around 5,000 people participated in the yoga event held as part of the 'Yogandhra' campaign at Gandikota in Kadapa district on Wednesday. The event was organised by the Department of Tourism and named 'Paryataka Yogandhra'. Jammalamadugu MLA and Government Whip C. Adinarayana Reddy took part in the event along with Collector Sridhar Cherukuri. 'The ancient yogic practice has been known to rejuvenate the senses and keep ailments at bay. This is the lesson we have to learn, promote and practice in the forthcoming days,' Mr. Adinarayana Reddy said. Meanwhile, Mr. Sridhar said that the government was keen to promote the concept of 'Happy Andhra Pradesh - Healthy Andhra Pradesh' by encouraging the citizens to take up yoga and meditation. At the district and mandal level, we have trained 5.70 lakh people in yoga through 6,000 trainers, and have enrolled 9 lakh persons, including workers, farmers and students, to participate in Yogandhra event, he added.
GMA Network
2 days ago
- Business
- GMA Network
Marcos to leave for World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to visit the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan and attend business meetings, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Wednesday. 'President to leave for Osaka, Japan for World Expo and business meetings,' PCO said. The PCO has yet to announce the specific departure date of the President, as well as other details. The World Expo 2025 was opened to the public on April 13. The Department of Tourism said over 40,000 people visited the Philippine Pavilion in just nine days. GMA Integrated News' Katrina Son earlier reported that the Pavilion, named "Woven," draws inspiration from traditional Filipino weaving techniques to symbolize the interconnectedness of the nation's heritage and aspirations. The centerpiece 'Dancing with Nature' also brings visitors to the 'living elements of the natural world.' The World Expo will run until October 13, 2025.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/LDF, GMA Integrated News
Malaysian Reserve
3 days ago
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
U.S. Virgin Islands Reports Strong Mid-Year Tourism Growth and Global Visibility in 2025
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At the halfway point of 2025, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is reporting strong gains across airlift, cruise arrivals, accommodations, cultural events, and global brand visibility. With continued momentum and sustained interest from travelers and industry partners alike, the territory remains one of the most dynamic destinations in the Caribbean. 'We've reached the halfway point of 2025 with exceptional results that reflect the appeal and strength of the U.S. Virgin Islands,' said Joseph Boschulte, U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism. 'This is a testament to the dedication of the Department of Tourism team and local stakeholders who together remain focused on sustainable growth, strategic partnerships, and cultural authenticity.' Air service continues to expand, making it easier for travelers to access the territory. New daily nonstop flights from Dallas to St. Thomas are now operating, while additional service from Chicago and Boston is scheduled to begin in December. St. Croix will also gain new nonstop connectivity from Chicago later this year. These new routes come on the heels of record arrivals in 2024. Air arrivals for 2025 are projected to be slightly below 2024's record numbers. Cruise arrivals are also trending upward. St. Thomas/St. John is projected to receive 1,487,753 passengers across 414 ship calls this year, marking a 4 percent increase. St. Croix anticipates 86 calls and more than 208,086 passengers, reinforcing the island's role in the territory's cruise strategy. Hotels and vacation rentals are performing well across the territory. Hotel occupancy has grown 4.3 percent, and hotel tax collections have surpassed 2024 April Year-To-Date (YTD) revenues by 6.7 percent and are 41.0 percent ahead of the same period of fiscal year 2023. Short-term rental revenue is also up, with fiscal year collections tracking nearly 11 percent ahead. The U.S. Virgin Islands now ranks third in the Caribbean for both average daily rate and revenue per available room, each more than 30 percent above the regional average. Signature cultural celebrations continue to be a major draw. The Crucian Christmas Festival and St. Thomas Carnival generated more than $5.6 million in combined earned media value and brought thousands of visitors to experience the music, food, and pageantry of the islands. The upcoming St. John Celebration, taking place June 29 through July 4, is expected to attract visitors from across the region and showcase the vibrant spirit of the U.S. Virgin Islands. National marketing efforts continue to elevate the territory's profile across key markets. Strategic partnerships with the LPGA, Chicago Cubs, New York Jets, Boston Red Sox, Klutch Sports Group, Fenway Sports Management 'Way Up with Angela Yee' and I Heart Radio are helping extend USVI visibility. The destination was also featured at the 2025 Dreamville Festival and is preparing for activations at major lifestyle events later this year, including the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, LPGA FM Championship, Angela Yee Day and One Musicfest. Meetings and incentives travel has also gained traction, with more than 17 programs booked during fiscal year 2023–2024, generating nearly 7,000 room nights, $2.7 million in room revenue, and over $330,000 in tax revenue. According to Cvent, St. Thomas is now ranked as the fifth most preferred Caribbean destination for incentive travel, ahead of Puerto Rico and Jamaica. Recent accolades continue to reinforce the U.S. Virgin Islands' standing as a top Caribbean destination. In 2025, Caribbean Journal recognized the territory as both Caribbean Yachting Destination of the Year and Event Destination of the Year. St. Croix earned the title of Caribbean Culinary Destination of the Year, while local chef David 'Benji' Benjamin was named Caribbean Chef of the Year. The territory also received global praise from Tripadvisor, which ranked Trunk Bay and Magens Bay among the top ten beaches in the world in its Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards. For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit About the U.S. Virgin Islands About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (
