21 Oct 2009, Posted by Peter in Little Bits, Responsible Tourism, Travel, 1 Comments

Harden Up: Be a host

A quick rant:

I’ve grown slightly sick of South Africans throwing their toys from their playpen about the ‘massive inconvenience’ the 2010 Soccer World Cup will cause due to the influx of international travelers. It seems that this minority are generally also the ones who are first to strike up conversations about the ‘massive financial benefits and opportunities‘ of the World Cup, but in the same breath raise their voice about Africa ‘not being capable of hosting an event of this scale’.

Bit confused there chap?

This got me pondering about the importance of being a good host. Not only as a destination, but as a nation. The thing is that people differ, and not everyone has the ability, personality, interest, or will to tolerate strangers. Still it is not our choice, but our duty to make our guests feel the warmth, passion and hospitality that makes South Africa so special, which is in my opinion, is the first step in accessing all the other benefits of the event.

So on a lighter note: I have compiled the following categories and relevant solutions to being a good host, regardless of your so called “ability, personality, interest, or will”.

*Ubuntu is an ethic or humanist philosophy focusing on people’s allegiances and relations with each other. The word has its origin in the Bantu languages of southern Africa. Ubuntu is seen as a classical African concept.^{[1] (wikipedia)}

The Xenophobic, ‘No way, boet’ Party Pooper

A peculiar specie who feels extremely negative towards the idea of an influx of foreigners during the WC. They are already piling up their leave at work so they can take off the entire months of June and July 2010 without having to leave the house or interact. Their main concern is the traffic, inflation, crowded beaches and that their partner is about to fall in love with a well-built Italian swinger with a sexy accent.

Your stats:

Recommendations:

Harden up, grow a pair, and move on the the next category.

The Skeptical Sideline Supporter

They are excited about the benefits the WC can bring to South Africa, but still a bit unsure about their comfort zone being invaded by the ‘forrinirs’. They don’t mind the foreigners, as long as they stay out of their way.

The challenge:

Basic human-bread decency. Even though you do not have to seek interaction with visitors, nothing stops you from practsisng some good ol’ manners. Try smiling, greeting, answering questions if they are asked, and not coming across as rude.

Challenge stats:

The Eager Beaver

These guys are looking forward to the WC and are excited about interacting with people from other countries. They are truly interested in what visitors have to share and would even look for opportunities to interact. They interested in the international way of life, rather than the Pounds.

The challenge:

Make the first move. Your average ’soft tourist’ can be spotted from a mile away with cameras dangling and sun-kissed faces that remind me salmon. They can just as easily appear lost, directionless and vulnerable. This is your chance to approach them as a beacon of help. Start off a conversation by asking where they are heading and offer them directions. If they are heading in the same as you, walk with them, ask them questions and make them feel safe and welcome.

Challenge Stats:

The patriot:

They love cultural interaction and can strike up a conversation with housefly. They are actually a bit irritated by how closed off South African can be, despite our general warm culture. They understand the value of a warm welcome, and intend to really get the most out of this opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Most of all, they are proud of you Country and feel that it is ludicrous not to share it with others.

The challenge.

• Consider a Homestay.  This is a form of tourism that allows the visitor to rent a room from a local family to better learn the local lifestyle as well as improve their language ability. Example of homestays in South Africa.

• Offer a foreign traveler a lift (ride), in your car, rather than directions to a taxi rank. Safety is arguable, but I guarantee you, they are more scared of you than you are of them my friend.

• Take details and offer ongoing friendship. If you meet people you like, give them your card, number or tell them to find you online. This way you are not obligated to further interaction, and the ball is in their hands.

Challenge stats:

Now, show us what you’ve got.