The semi-finalists in the 2011 AA Travel Guides American Express Accommodation Awards programme have been announced. Now in its 18th year, this awards programme is the only established mechanism for consumers to voice their opinion about the quality of tourist accommodation in South Africa.
More than 41 000 consumers commented on approximately 1 100 AA Quality Assured or star-graded establishments across the country this year, either electronically or by completing guest critique forms.
A total of 226 semi-finalists in 36 categories were announced, including guest houses, bed and breakfasts, self-catering apartments, game lodges and hotels. Guests commented on aspects such as service levels, the quality of facilities, cleanliness, ambience and food.
Convenor Vanessa Sand says all information received from guests, whether positive or negative, is sent back to participating establishments. “This assists owners or managers to improve certain aspects of their operations or to maintain existing high standards.”
High-scoring establishments were examined carefully and were visited by qualified and experienced assessors to verify that the scores were justified.
A list of the semi-finalists is available on www.accommodationawards.co.za. Finalists will be announced later this month and the winners will be announced at an ceremony at the tourism Indaba in Durban on May 8. - Saturday Star