As the weather turns, South Africans seem keener to get off of the couch and explore the country with more vigour than ever before.

Still, others are reluctant to travel due to so many citizens being uncertain about the Covid-19 vaccine, waiting it out. Various destinations have now started offering soft incentives to those making an effort to flatten the Covid-19 curve.

The South African government has been in talks about soft incentives for vaccinated South Africans and many companies and brands already offer South African citizens who have been vaccinated discounts, free treatments or vouchers.

Health Minister Dr Joe Phaala said in a media briefing held on 3 September: “The SA government is looking into ‘soft incentives’ to encourage vaccination. It is exploring free entertainment, sports events [such as football games], and cultural events that people will be able to attend if they agree to be vaccinated.”

The Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa’s (Fedhasa’s) national chairperson, Rosemary Anderson, said opening up music and sporting events would go a long way toward the recovery efforts of the hospitality and tourism industry.

Soft incentives at Western Cape museums

The Western Cape announced that partially and fully vaccinated visitors may enter provincially sponsored museums free of charge during Heritage Month.

Reagan Allen, Western Cape spokesperson for cultural affairs and sport, says: ’’I see no better way to responsibly celebrate this Heritage Month than by incentivising vaccinated residents to visit our provincial museums.

’’We encourage the public to get vaccinated and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. Our museums celebrate the diversity of the Western Cape, both in its history and future, and offer a space for residents to embrace the richness of our province’s social, historical, and natural landscapes.’’

Eendracht Hotel & Apartments

Being passionate about helping the tourism sector recover from the pandemic, Cape Country Routes’ elegant Eendracht Hotel & Apartments, which is located in the heart of Stellenbosch, offers vaccinated visitors a special Covid-19 vaccine discount.

They give vaccinated visitors an extra 5% discount and this incentive is valid until the end of September.

The Eendracht offers a history-rich stay with its original building (a small, two-roomed cottage) having been built in 1710. The cottage was changed and significantly rebuilt in the 60s and the hotel and apartments as it is known today, was built and founded by Daniel Lutz in 1996.

Discount at Deluxe Aesthetic Spa

Travelling is not the only self-care option offering vaccination incentives. As they have eighteen branches countrywide, adding a Deluxe Aesthetic Spa visit to your travel itinerary is easy as pie.

When you present your vaccination card at any of the Deluxe Aesthetic Spas’ branches, you will receive one free underarm laser hair removal session to the value of R460.

Deluxe, manager, Tanya Beyers, says: “We respect people’s right to make their own decisions, but we like to reward those South Africans who are prepared to take a stand in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.”

This soft incentive is valid until 30 September and any client who produces their vaccination card and ID or passport will be eligible for the free treatment.

The Capital Hotels & Apartments

The Capital Hotels & Apartments is also offering 15% discount to fully vaccinated guests. A proof of vaccination and your ID will get you your discount.

The group’s existing La Famiglia members will still get the best rates in town, as well as a complimentary upgrade on their next stay (subject to availability).

Through these soft incentives, the group is showing its commitment to making the country travel safe – something that the tourism and hospitality industry has been very passionate about for the last couple of months.

Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

If you are fully vaccinated, you can get 25% discount at the Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel as well. The hotel is offering fully vaccinated guests discount off their accommodation, and also off food and beverages at its Central One Restaurant and Bar.

A copy of your vaccination card and your ID will be required in order to qualify for the discount, which is valid until the end of September.

Uber

Uber is also encouraging South Africans to get vaccinated. They want to help ensure that transport is not a barrier to getting vulnerable people to their Covid-19 vaccinations and therefore they have partnered with Mastercard, covering two free trips (up to R100 each) to and from selected vaccination centres countrywide. You can claim your voucher on their website and terms and conditions apply.