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In their conversation, Durban-based freelance tour guides Briony Smith and Bongi Thabede of Bee Africa Travel and Tours argued about the value of community involvement and responsible tourism.
Drawing from her extensive industry experience spanning 25 years, Smith emphasised the significance of community involvement and rural progress. In doing so, she emphasised the positive effects of integrating marginalised communities into the tourism sector and the importance of sincere relationships and respect for local cultures in creating lasting connections.
She stressed her commitment to sustainability and fair tourism practices by saying, “I fit in with individuals and groups, and I ensure that people who were once excluded from the tourism industry are now involved.”
Bongi Thabede reinforced these feelings, underscoring the importance of genuine experiences that are based on respecting and understanding local traditions. As a tourist guide who loves culture and history, Thabede emphasised the significance of presenting various aspects of communities without oversimplifying them as tourist attractions.
“To me, it is not about displaying our poverty but about highlighting the various aspects we possess and the diverse economic and sociological hurdles we face,” expressed Thabede.
Both speakers highlighted the importance of collaborating with local communities and small-scale artisans to support sustainability and economic empowerment.
