Siphofaneni: Domestic tourism has been highlighted as an essential contributor to the growth of the tourism sector and provides a foundation for sustainable tourism growth and development.
This is especially the case in the prevailing times of global uncertainty. Similarly, the Government of Eswatini has declared tourism as one of the five pillars to drive economic growth over the next five years ending 2023, as outlined in the Strategy Road Map 2018 – 2023.
According to the Domestic Tourism Survey Report of 2019, increased tourism participation of the local market is envisioned to result in a smoothened seasonality pattern in tourism related visitations which will translate to creation and sustenance of all year round jobs while boosting the economy.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced countries to rethink the way they packaged tourism and it has opened a way for domestic tourism to thrive.
In the drive to promote domestic tourism, Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) and industry players have began a domestic tourism campaign called “A Wonder Awaits You, Explore It” which comes with discounts from tourism establishments of up to 50 percent.
Earlier this year, 2020 the Kingdom of Eswatini was named by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten best countries to visit in 2020.
Being number five in the world, the Independent News Travel desk has taken a task to explore the beautiful things and places that can thrill travelers as they visit the Kingdom of Eswatini.
This week as we explored Wendy’s Lodge and we spoke to Zweli Gamedze, the director at Wendy’s Lodge.
The aim is to explore the attractions and activities and to identify what can attract and thrill visitors as they visit Wendy’s Lodge.
Wendy’s Lodge nestled in the banks of the Lubovane Dam, Siphofaneni in the Lubombo Region. It is reachable by car nor any mode of transport. Just bisect Siphofaneni town, and cross the big Lusutfu Bridge, from there turn left and drive 9.2km on St Phillips road following the sighs till you are led to the most beautiful attractions in the Lubombo region.
The lodge is surrounded by some breathtaking landscapes and with the edge of the dam providing great sun set views of the Lubovane dam
Wendy’s Lodge is more of an outdoor facility and has a rustic set up, dubbed with its slogan “The place to be” in the kingdom of Eswatini. “Your Entertainment is our Life”.
Gamedze disclosed that Wendy’s lodge remains committed to ensuring high standards of service delivery with regards to accommodation, retreat escapades and entertainment accompanied by real good soul food. It is our obligation to remain the best place to be in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Activities
Activities offered at Wendy’s Lodge include Quad biking, which may be done by individuals or groups. Swimming pool per person or per groups as arranged and organized, with full adherence to the COVID-19 regulations. The Boat Cruise is one of the, major selling points and attraction at Wendy’s Lodge, which more people come just to enjoy it.
There is also Horse riding in Lodge which encompasses groups and individuals, with guided rides along the Lodge. Guests can also choose Horse trailing, which is done outside the Lodge.
Accommodation
On accommodation Wendy’s Lodge offers affordable rooms. According to Gamedze there are two sleeper with unsuited, which guests can choose from or their romantic accommodation package. Also camping which could be done on your own tent or tents which are provided by Wendy’s Lodge.
This gives guests the option to choose as per their budget, the variety of accommodation package.
There are also Wendy’s houses and Cabins with outside bathrooms and camp houses with air conditioners as well as ensuite that accommodates six (6) people sleeping on bunk beds.
Restaurant
For meals, Wendy Lodge offers a variety of meals. Unpacking the food menu at Wendy’s Lodge, Zweli Gamedze said the much loved Umgcwembe is the fasters selling and the unique meal that is offered at Wendy’s. He said No food allowed from outside, the resort provides at reasonable prices.
“One can enjoy Umgcwembe for 2 with Pork, Wors & Chicken, a Quarter chicken with chips or pap, Ox offals and a wide variety of meals.
Drinks are also served within the Lodge and those bringing cooler box are allowed but at a fee.
Discussion about this post