October-December 2019

Why choose TGCSA
star-graded resorts?
SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM
WHEN going on holiday, booking
accommodation can be a daunting
experience. Images of rooms and
facilities may shimmer online, but in
reality, you could be staying in the sticks. But looking
for accommodation has never been easier thanks to the
Tourism Grading Council of South Africa’s (TGCSA)
star-grading system – the hospitality industry’s mark of
quality.
New grading criteria keeps up with trends
The grading criteria was recently augmented to keep up
with the latest global tourism and technological trends.
Three new categories have been added: apartment
hotels, small hotels and boutique hotels.
The grading criteria was recently augmented
to keep up with the latest global tourism and
technological trends. Three new categories have been
added: apartment hotels, small hotels and boutique
hotels.
According to TGCSA’s Chief Quality Assurance
Officer, the new criteria is to ensure South Africa
remains internationally benchmarked and thus
competitive as a destination. “One of the key reasons
behind the triennial review of our criteria, is the impact
that technological enhancements are having on the
hospitality sector and the overall guest experience.
For instance, the provision and access to Wi-Fi is fast
becoming a very basic need and guest prerequisite at
any category of accommodation.”
Guests will be guaranteed that higher graded
establishments have technological capabilities to suit
both business and leisure travellers. Tech developments
in the hospitality industry allow guests to connect
with the hotel service outlets using new platforms and
applications as well as the ability to make outgoing calls
using applications linked to Wi-Fi.
Rewarding responsible establishments
With over 5,200 properties graded across the country,
there are a variety of options with availability seldom
an issue. In addition, TGCSA has introduced the
Responsible Tourism accolade for establishments that
abide by sustainable responsible tourism practices.
“We are of the opinion that limiting the impact
of tourism on the environment is in the interest of
all concerned and it was on this premise that the
TCGSA undertook to include an accolade to recognise
properties that have adopted and are practicing
Responsible Tourism practices,” said Erasmus.
Travel agents trust the grading system
When booking for clients, travel agents look for tried
and trusted establishments that have TGCSA star
grading.
Erasmus said the grading level awarded to
properties annually are by far the most important for
travel agents when recommending an establishment to
a customer.
This indicates the type of product that will be
encountered as well as the levels of product quality,
variety of facilities and service standards to be expected
by your guests.
“We are invigorated to see that our contribution,
through the provision of our world-class grading
system, continues to assist trade in improving the
collective positioning of South Africa as a quality
destination and a leading player on the global stage,”
said Erasmus.
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SA&BEYOND