Research conducted by the Democratic Alliance and reported on www.politicsweb.co.za has pointed to an overwhelmingly positive reaction from tourists visiting South Africa during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

While many questioned whether South Africa would experience long-term benefits from hosting the event, the report points towards an improved international image of the nation, which could provide a basis for sustainable economic growth.

International perceptions of South Africa often indicate a relatively dangerous and costly long-haul destination, but the DA’s findings have shown that actual experiences during the World Cup were much more positive.

The survey was conducted by means of 98 face-to-face interviews with tourists at various South African World Cup locations and included travellers from across the world.

Of those interviewed, 89% found South Africans to be ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ friendly and hospitable, while over 90% claimed to feel either ‘safe’ or ‘very safe’ during their stay, despite South Africa’s reputation for crime. Tourists were also impressed with South Africa as a value-for-money travel destination.

South Africa’s Shadow Minister of Tourism, Greg Krumbock recognises the potential that these findings represent: “The results are a ringing endorsement of our successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and a testament to the successful re-branding of our country that occurred during this period.”

With its improved international image, South Africa is in a prime position to build sustainable economic growth through tourism, which in turn could help raise living standards in a country where many continue to suffer at the hands of poverty and disease.

‘Voluntourism’ is likely to be key component of the nation’s developmental growth, making it a perfect time to volunteer in South Africa and help underprivileged communities.

To find out more about volunteer opportunities for career break or gap year travel in South Africa, check out our conservation volunteer work and community development projects in Welgevonden and Cape Town.