Author

  • Wayne B. Tifflin

    • Durban University of Technology, South Africa
    • South Africa
  • R. Balkaran

    • Durban University of Technology, South Africa
    • South Africa

Abstract

Business Tourism is considered an important aspect of a Destination’s Competitiveness. However having a competitive advantage does not guarantee success (Ritchie and Crouch, 2003). Destination success requires a well formulated competitiveness strategy which is effectively implemented (Seymour, 2009:2). Business tourism and its elements (meeting, conference, and convention centres) need to be managed effectively to provide a destination with a competitive edge. Thus it is important to determine the effectiveness and suitability of conference centres and destinations from the perspective of the delegate. This paper examines the responses of delegate of 49 Conferences in relation to the facilities at the International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and the city of Durban as a conference destination. Whilst the broader concept of Business Tourism may encompass more than conferences as a business activity, this paper will show the need for “Conference Tourism” as significant component to Business Tourism. KwaZulu-Natal’s meetings and conferences are one of the most important attractions and activities of domestic and international tourists. This is clearly illustrated in the following tables:

Keywords

References

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  • Seymour, J. (2009). Tour Operator Marketing Planning and Tourism Competitiveness in KwaZulu-Natal. Unpublished Master of Science dissertation.
  • Tourism KwaZulu-Natal. (2008). Statistics of our Tourism Sector 2008.
  • Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (2013). Combined ICC Conference Delegate Survey. Top Line Summary. Power Point Presentation. Unpublished.
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How to Cite

Tifflin, W. B., & Balkaran, R. (2014). The Enhancement of Conference Tourism activities as a means to Bolstering Business Tourism in South Africa: A Case Study of Conferences within KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies, 6(6), 432-437. https://doi.org/10.22610/jebs.v6i6.505

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Section

Research Paper

Published

2014-06-30

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