Invocations shaping 2025 travel experiences
Africa’s hospitality landscape
Africa and the Middle East are set for a vibrant 2025, attracting travellers with affordable luxury, cultural richness and stunning destinations.Tony Romer-Lee, Co-founder of Valor Hospitality AMEA, highlights key trends shaping the region's hospitality industry.
“Africa stands out as a premier leisure destination, outperforming European hotspots on Average Daily Rate (ADR),” Tony says. “Destinations like Cape Town, Zanzibar and Mauritius appeal to travellers seeking relaxing, crowd-free holidays. Multi-generational travel is rising, and loyalty programmes further boost demand for affordable, high-end African getaways.”
He adds that branded residences are also gaining popularity, blending hotel amenities with home comforts. These properties, especially in Cape Town and Nairobi, cater to remote workers seeking long-term, serviced accommodations. Developers finance projects by selling apartments to investors, creating flexible options for travellers while meeting the demand for apartment-style living.
Visa policies driving tourism
Visa regulations play a pivotal role in tourism growth. “Countries like South Africa and Tanzania facilitate inbound travel through welcoming policies, including South Africa's digital nomad visa, which boosts the economy without job displacement. In contrast, Namibia’s restrictive visa changes highlight immigration challenges.”
Romer-Lee stresses the need for tourism-driven, balanced policies to avoid over-tourism, as seen in Europe.
Hospitality staffing issues persist, with destinations like Mauritius losing talent to higher-paying jobs abroad. In response, the industry is investing in training and soft skills development. Initiatives like the Drostdy Hotel in South Africa, a practical training hub for students, aim to build a skilled workforce. These efforts ensure exceptional service, securing Africa’s reputation as a top travel destination.
As Africa's hospitality sector evolves, its success depends on accessible policies, responsible growth, and investment in human capital. By balancing these elements, the region is poised to solidify its position as a leading global travel destination.