Freedom To Wish: Making Dreams Come True This Tourism Month

Imagine being a tourist in your own city, and having the opportunity to fulfil one heartfelt wish. What would you choose? Would it be a twilight kayak adventure with dolphins, a scenic horse ride on a beach at sunset, or a thrilling paraglide off Signal Hill? Perhaps it's discovering the hidden 'Gorilla' art murals in the heart of the city or indulging in a sumptuous high tea at the 'Nellie'? We invite you to share your wishes with Cape Town Tourism and the City of Cape Town, and your dream might just become a reality this Tourism Month as we bring back Freedom To Wish.

As the CEO of Cape Town Tourism, I believe that Freedom to Wish is all about giving our local residents the chance to nominate someone they cherish, granting their tourism experience wishes. We live in the 'Greatest City on Earth,' and it's our firm belief that every Capetonian should have the opportunity to explore the cultural, natural, and historical treasures of our home firsthand. Freedom to Wish is our way of giving back, of making dreams come true.

We understand that not everyone can afford a cableway ticket, a helicopter ride over the city, or a guided walking tour through our vibrant communities. Our city is brimming with treasures, and we want to be the fairy godparents who make it possible for more Capetonians to experience these gems.

Last year, we launched Freedom to Wish to aid tourism recovery and to make the dreams of our local residents a reality. The overwhelming success of this initiative, shining a bright spotlight on our city's attractions and boosting the small business sector, has encouraged both the City and Cape Town Tourism to once again celebrate Capetonians during Tourism Month.

Here's how it works: Capetonians can nominate themselves or their loved ones by sharing their tourism wishes within the city. In 2022, we granted wishes worth more than +R150,000, benefiting communities across Cape Town and empowering small businesses in the tourism sector. This year, the initiative promises something for every kind of traveller in the metro, with a diverse range of activities to choose from.

Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth at the City of Cape Town, hopes that Freedom to Wish will inspire even more domestic tourism. He notes that in July 2023, the Mother City achieved an impressive 91% recovery in international and domestic arrivals compared to 2019, signaling a strong rebound in our tourism sector. This sector is pivotal to our economy, and we encourage Capetonians to participate and savour all the experiences available right here in their own city.

Last year, some of the granted wishes included creating special memories at the aquarium for Firyal Isaacs, a widow with two young children, and fulfilling the dream of Khouthar Dramat's elderly parents, who had never ascended the cableway to witness the breathtaking views atop Table Mountain.

Cape Town, with its world-renowned landmarks, splendid weather, and an array of cultural, historical, and culinary treasures, has something for everyone. The power of tourism lies not only in its pioneering spirit but also in its ability to enrich people's lives. Now is the perfect time to nominate someone for an extraordinary experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

'Freedom to Wish' runs until September 27, 2023. Simply send your 60-second video via WhatsApp to CTT on 072-662-0626 or email freedomtowish@capetown.travel with your nomination, desired experience, and a brief motivation. Your wish could become a beautiful reality.

For more information on 'Freedom to Wish,' follow Love Cape Town on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

For further details, visit https://www.capetown.travel/.