The 5th Annual SATOA Travel Awards in conjunction with The Safari Awards and proudly sponsored by Tourism Kwazulu-Natal took place at ALOFT on 07 November 2016.
SATOA, a non-profit independent organization, has gained a reputation for bringing sub-Saharan African and Indian Ocean industry movers and shakers together throughout the year via travel agent and tour operator dinners & teas, networking social events and, peaks with the annual prestigious Travel Awards.
The evening marked the celebration of the ‘Best of the Best’ as nominated and voted by members and industry employees. Hosted by SATOA Chair, Tessa Bott, the awards are presented to the short-listed candidates with the most votes from both trade and the general public. They therefore provide an excellent barometer to each winner’s performance and popularity built over the last year.
The winners were:
Best UK / Ireland Tour Operator
Winner: Africa Collection
Runner-up: African Pride
Runner-up: Africa & Beyond
Best Property (20 rooms or Less)
Winner: Four Rosmead Boutique Hotel
Runner-up: Bushmans Kloof
Runner-up: Leeu Collection (we have asked for clarity on which property)
Best Property (20 rooms or More)
Winner: The Oyster Box Hotel and Spa
Runner-up: Cape Grace Hotel
Best Tourist Board
Winner: South African Tourism Board
Runner-up: WESGRO
Runner-up: Botswana Tourism Organisation
Best Retail Agent
Winner: Carrick Travel
Runner-up: Kuoni
Best Experience
Winner: The Blue Train
Runner-up: Shamwari Group
