Blog Competition winner to experience freedom in Nelson Mandela Bay

Indaba 2014 was truly an exciting trade show for Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism as they launched the new destination blog http://blog.nmbt.co.za/. Being Africa’s top travel show the team believed this was the ideal platform to introduce and invite all to be part of the new addition to the e-marketing strategy of Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism. This allowed for NMBT to target trade, media and target markets from around the globe in order to showcase the destination’s offerings.

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism combined a “Freedom Captured Themed” competition with the launch, that attracted the interest of storytellers from near and far who submitted their “Freedom Stories” via the online form. The prize is an exceptional Nelson Mandela Bay experience which includes: two domestic flights to Port Elizabeth, two nights’ accommodation in Nelson Mandela Bay, two Nelson Mandela Bay Passes, and two nights at Addo Elephant National Park, and five days’ car rental.

NMBT CEO, Ms Mandlakazi Skefile, shares why NMBT is referred to as Ikhaya lenkululeko, meaning “home of freedom”. “NMB has the ability to provide a continuous experience of genuine freedom. This is not only through the historical value and symbolism of the struggle against apartheid. The Bay has a variety of attractions, activities and authentic experiences which has the ability to evoke the spirit of freedom in any person’s soul.”

Stephen Young, from Cape Town, was selected from a number of entries on the 19th June 2014.

Young’s winning submission about Nelson Mandela Bay read, ‘"When visiting PE (Port Elizabeth) it is great to see people of all walks of life mingling together. The people are friendly and helpful. Freedom is the right to move around with whoever and where you want without discrimination.’

Young will share his prize with his wife Debbie. An excited Young says he loves Nelson Mandela Bay and is looking forward to spending time here: "Port Elizabeth lives up to its name as the friendly city, and all the people are wonderful."

He is looking forward to staying over at the Addo Elephant Park, saying: "I have been to the Addo Elephant National Park as a day visitor but never got to sleep over and interact with the animals in early-morning or sunset drives. I am really looking forward to sleeping over."

Apart from the interactive competition, the blog also features experiences, things to try, photo galleries and insider info, tips and hints to unlock the region known for its warm hospitality, friendliness and staggeringly beautiful natural environment. Utilise these blog features on your journey to discover freedom in Nelson Mandela Bay!