AKWAABA – African Travel market is the biggest Travel & Tourism Show in West Africa hosting exhibitors and buyers to meet with airlines, hotels, restaurants, tour operators, travel agents, state tourism boards, foreign trade and tourism sectors from over 20 countries in Africa and the UAE.

Making a mark this year at AKWAABA was South African Tourism, with its alluring and fascinating destination stand where it engaged with Trade, Consumers and Exhibitors alike, sharing information on the amazing offerings the destination has to offer in line with the focus of the event for this year 2018 which included; introducing and encouraging African tour operators who promote African destinations to Africans, growing future of Aviation in Africa, showcasing wining and dining as a key element of tourism through food fair, wedding destinations, SPA and Wellness across Africa and engaging youths in Africa Tourism & Travel.
At the opening, Trade Relations Manager: West Africa for South African Tourism, Mr. Mohammed Tanko Kwajaffa received the DG, Nigerian National Council for Arts & Culture (NCAC), Chief Otunba Olusegun Runsewe who declared the exhibition open alongside other top dignitaries from across the continent at the South African Tourism Destination Stand. The DG expressed his admiration saying “We are very proud of South Africa as they made the whole of Africa proud during the World Cup 2010 as the first African Country to host the World Cup”.

Mohammed Kwajaffa, explained the huge impact AKWAABA has brought to Africa ‘s travel trade and tourism saying

“One of the key game changer at Akwaaba Travel Market this year was the inclusion of the Local & Small scale Tour Operators & Travel Agents to exhibit as it attracted more foot fall from their own clients & followers.” Kwajaffa extended a huge appreciation to the founder of AKWAABA, Mr. Ikechi Uko for organizing a good event this year and also thanked Stakeholders from National Association of Nigeria travel Agency, Nigeria Association of Tour Operators & Tour Operators of Ghana who visited the stand to show their continued support and partnership “this gave us opportunity to showcase destination South Africa to more than the usual clientele hence reaffirming SAT’s commitment to supporting such initiatives & activities in the market. Congratulations to all the award winners of the Top 100 Africa Tour Operators and the organizers for a well-organized event” – he further said.

Also in attendance, NANTA BOT Chairman, Mr Steve Isokarie, NATOP President, Hajiya Bilikisu Abdul, FTAN President, Alhaji Rabo Kareem, HATMAN President, Mr Badaki Aliyu Ajayi, NANTA National VP, Mrs Susan, NANTA VP Lagos Zone, Mrs Lola Adewale, NANTA VP Western Zone, Mr Dagunduro Tokumbo all of Nigeria and from Ghana TOUGHA President, Mr Kwesi Eyison, GHATOF Rep, Mr Ahmed Naaman, and celebrities such as Ghanaian famous actor, Van Vicker and Nigeria’s famous Singer, Producer, Actor, Banky W, resounding Nigerian Contemporary Vocalist & Chanter, Ire ‘D’ Stage Diva and many more who visited the South African Tourism destination stand.

AKWAABA was a valuable opportunity for the African Trade Market to network and discuss, trade businesses with others across the continent.

CHECK-IN AT THE AFRICAN PRIDE HOTEL

The African Pride hotel located at 15 on Orange Cape Town has an unparalleled location in Gardens. It Is a short distance from the city center; the hotel allowed us to conveniently access Cape Town’s world-famous landmarks.  From the moment we stepped into the stunning lobby, we were thrilled with its distinctive five-star style. This grandeur extends to the hotel’s immaculate guest rooms and suites; each room overflows with luxury, perfect for a wedding getaway/ vacation.  We soaked up Cape Town sun at African Pride’s magnificent rooftop pool and ate from a selection of first-class restaurant options, the daily breakfast service was full of variety. Yum Yum!!

SUNDOWN AT SIGNAL HILL 

Banky and Adesua

Sun down at Signal Hill was our favourite item on the BAAD2017 wedding itinerary. There are sunsets, and then there are sunsets. The sunset views from the top of Signal Hill definitely rivalled the best I’ve seen. Signal Hill is one of Cape Town’s favourite Hills; it connects to Lions Head mountain in a distinctive hump, making it look as though it’s the tail end of the lion. The top of Signal Hill is 350 metres above sea level, meaning the views of both city and ocean is nothing short of spectacular. It is a popular and ideal spot where locals take their lovers or friends to watch the sun go down. We went without knowing what to expect as most of us haven’t been there before. When we arrived, we were immediately captivated by the beautiful view of the Table Mountains, Atlantic Ocean and good aerial view of Cape Town. The sunset-watching itself was a breath-taking experience and I guarantee you, this is as romantic as you can imagine it to be. The atmosphere atop the hill at sunset is usually vibrant, with many friendly faces taking pictures of the view.

SHOPPING AT THE V & A WATERFRONT 

Shopping at the V & A was an exciting experience for the entire BAAD gang. The Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront in Cape Town is located on the Atlantic shore, Table Bay Harbor, the City of Cape Town and Table Mountain. With over 450 retail outlets selling everything from fashion, home ware and ornaments, to jewelry, leather goods and audio-visual equipment; the V&A Waterfront is South Africa’s most popular shopping destination. It offers diverse products of local and international brands that guaranteed something for every one of us shopping during our trip. We also go to have a ride on the V & A waterfront Wheel. All the cabins are air conditioned and it gives you the most sweeping and magnificent views of Cape Town.

TABLE MOUNTAIN 

The crew took the five-minute cable car trip to the top of Table Mountain, over a thousand meters above Cape Town. It was a great spot to sit and soak up the commanding 360-degree views of Cape Town, Table Bay, nearby peaks of the surrounding mountains and the rest of the Table Mountain National Park, in which the Cableway is situated. Table Mountain is an iconic and significant tourist attraction, every visit up there is always poignant and memorable. Cape Town locals are pretty fond of the mountain that looms over their city… and with good reason! Table Mountain, which is home to the richest, yet smallest floral kingdom on earth, was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2011. It is entirely too beautiful after some hot chocolate everyone was all smiles, and felt on top of the world! Literally!

WINE TASTING AT GROOT CONSTANTIA

 You’re with your bridesmaids and groomsmen, how about a joint bachelorette party in the form of Wine tasting!!! Sounds good to me!! Part of the BAAD2017 South African experience was going wine tasting at Groot Constantia, founded in 1685. We all were able to see the wine and cultural history museum; we were inspired by South African Art, enjoyed world-class cuisine, experienced chocolate & wine pairing and a whole lot of bonding while our taste buds were enticed by exquisite wine. Groot Constantia is nestled in the fertile Constantia Valley. We learned that the word “Constantia” is Latin for constancy or steadfastness and the winery takes after its meaning.  The farm is situated behind Table Mountain for its wine growing potential and magnificent scenery and offers a circular self-guided route of the heritage-rich core of the wine estate.  The wines produced on the estate have caught the attention of influential people across the globe, clearly due to its impressive quality.

CHECK-IN TO WESTIN HOTEL, CAPE TOWN

Moving to the Westin Hotel Cape Town for the big day!! It’s our wedding o!!  We enjoyed exclusive rooms with unique views over the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain. The hotel’s fantastic glass façade allows clear views of the spectacular beauty of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the whole of Table Bay. The whole BAAD crew were in high spirits preparing for the grand white wedding finale of Banky and Adesua Wellington.

WEDDING DAY; CAMPS BAY, WESTERN CAPE

The D-Day is finally upon us! From morning all the way till midnight, it was a gorgeous and perfect day to get married. The Sun came out to play for #BAAD2017. It was a really private wedding as mostly friends and family were in attendance. Guests attending the wedding traveled into Cape Town from several countries to grace and honor Mr and Mrs Banky and Adesua Wellington. Everyone looked their very best; the men were dressed in black tuxedos and the ladies in evening gowns in color combinations of black, white and silver. The ambiance of Camps Bay strong waves and the sight of the Twelve Apostles Mountains, set dramatically at the far end of the bay gave the wedding a feel of romance. The weather was perfect, the destination just as perfect, guests were thrilled and the bride and groom were ecstatic! A wedding destination that they would choose over and over again!

HARLEY DAVIDSON RIDES

It’s the day after, the most amazing night before!! But we’re up, and out to seize the day!! Those who have always dreamed of an outlaw experience were privileged to see the Mother City from the back of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. We all took Harley Davidson rides from the Westin through camps bay beach, to camps bay, tearing up the tarmac that winds its way around the breath-taking Chapman’s Peak Drive. The excursion included an expert driver who was completely at our disposal. The open-road motorbike experience was second to none. There’s something exhilarating about being able to smell the sea and feel the wind in your hair, and as the saying goes, “Only a biker knows why a dog sticks its head out of a car window.”

After the Harleys, it was time for a hot meal Sea food anyone? Perks of being right by the water, everything is fresh!

SUNSET BOAT CRUISE AT CAMPS BAY

The Sunset Cruise took us straight  across with Table Bay. What’s better than a sunset cruise? One with friends, family, and champagne of course!! Scenic views, and of course, music, while sipping on a glass of Cape Town’s Classic sparkling wine. A slow cruise back to dock, and catching a wonderful sun set, to the city lighting – a first class experience with Table Mountain and the 12 Apostles as an exquisite backdrop. This is definitely the cruise of choice for the romantic and after wedding setting of our entire South African trip;  we had a relaxing evening on the water.

ZEBULA GOLF ESTATE AND SPA 

Zebula is a holiday home in Mubala with a private pool, swimming pool, outdoor pool, massage Spa and wellness centre. There’s an access to a golf course within 3km of the estate, an exquisite mountain and pool view with outdoor BBQ facilities. The accommodation is 100 metres from the Reception & Clubhouse parking, and there are activities of Squash, Horse riding, Hiking, Fishing and a large Tennis court; such an awesome place! There was lots of pamper time as well, this is the place to relax and indulge – the Spa experience was first class.

ANIMAL INTERACTIONS AND ENCOUNTERS 

Cape Town’s Zebula Golf Estate and gave us the opportunity to get up close with some interesting wild animals. In addition to learning about the magnificent giant cats, we all got to engage with them in many exciting ways. We could feed them and the ones who were feeling brave enough, got to sit on their backs and take a great picture. Those who preferred to admire from a distance, got to test their strength by standing next to the elephants and Cheetah’s. Whether we all engaged or not, a trip to Zebula Golf Estate and Spa is worth it for one little detail: you could see and touch the world’s most magnificent Cheetah’s, Tarzan and Jane, and appreciate all of God’s creation.

Ever had a bush dinner before? It’s magical, and there was a special birthday to celebrate too! We all had a beautiful dinner under the Zebula Golf Estate skies to complement an eventful and adventurous day

MANDELA HOUSE IN SOWETO 

The Mandela House is a world-class tourist attraction in Soweto, South Africa, and a leading centre for the preservation, presentation and research of the history, heritage and legacy of Nelson Mandela and the entire Mandela Family. It was indeed a meaningful experience for us all during our trip to South Africa. We were informed of President Nelson Mandela’s story, both in the context of his home, and in the context of his life as a whole, in a manner that promotes human rights, democracy, reconciliation, mutual respect and tolerance amongst the peoples of South Africa. Guaranteed, it was a learning experience for the entire BAAD crew; as we stood in awe of a national hero  – “A Winner is a dreamer who never gives up” – Nelson Mandela. Despite it all, the streets of Soweto are ALIVE.

HECTOR PIETERSON MEMORIAL 

The Hector Pierterson Memorial, just down the road from the Mandela House in Soweto was another iconic place we visited.  The Memorial and Museum is situated in Orlando West, Soweto, two blocks away from where Hector Pieterson was shot and killed. The museum is named in his honor. It became one of the first museums in Soweto when it opened on 16 June 2002.  It remembers the role of the country’s students in the struggle against apartheid and in particular the role played by the school children who took part in the Soweto protests of 1976, many of whom were shot by the apartheid police while protesting against the sub-standard of education in black schools in South Africa.

CHECK-IN AT THE AFRICAN PRIDE HOTEL, MELROSE ARCH

Checking in to The African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel in Johannesburg, we were minutes from Melrose Arch Shopping Centre and close to Sandton City Mall. This 5-star hotel is within close proximity of Wanderers Stadium and The Wanderers Golf Club in Jo’Burg. We enjoyed recreational amenities including a nightclub and an outdoor pool. The additional features of the hotel include a complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services and a whole lot more. Planning a vacay to Johannesburg? The African Pride Hotel on Melrose Arch would treat you right.

EARLY MORNING HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE 

If at all we were going to be caught in a balloon all the way up in the air, we had to do it the right way. Bill Harrops Original Balloon Safari definitely felt like a boujie experience.  You have to get up fairly early for a hot air balloon ride, you’re up at 4am!! But it is absolutely worth it! Promise! We sailed in an indisputable style. It was sunrise, the silence of the flight was only punctuated by the occasional blast of the powerful burners and the faint call of a bird or animal far beneath. The thrill was indescribable. It’s so hard to describe a hot air balloon ride, its like gliding, floating, flying all at the same time. We were hovering gently above the tree tops of the beautiful Magalies River Valley, high above the Magaliesberg range in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site, north of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs. The exceptional peace of this unique and almost supernatural view of the world will forever remain a truly cherished memory, also a perfect way to end the trip of a life time!

BUSH CHAMPAGNE BREAKFAST 

After landing back on earth from the hot air balloon, we had breakfast at their well established, traditionally exquisite and beautifully appointed Clubhouse, Pavilion and Restaurant, where we ate and were filled with the warmest of memories. We had the privilege of enjoying the most pleasurable balloon flight and would definitely recommend it to our friends and partners in the industry.

Banky W and Tunde Demuren

Banky W

Wedding venue: THE ROUNDHOUSE, CAMPS BAY

The Roundhouse rests in the valleys of Table Mountain, steeped in a rich history as old as the Cape itself. With its sweeping views of Camps Bay and the expansive Atlantic, it was ideally situated to safeguard the Cape of Storms from attack. It seemed like the entire property was tailored for Banky and Adesua to make romantic memories, with its breath-taking scenery that created an ambiance of romance and royalty. The couple were surrounded by family and close friends, the likes of Funmi Wellington, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Stephanie Coker-Aderinokun, Ihuoma Ejiofor, Noble Igwe and a whole lot of other celebrities who shared in their joy.

Its location was perfect. It takes 34 minutes to travel from Cape Town International Airport to Camps Bay. Approximate driving distance between Cape Town International Airport and Camps Bay is 29 kms or 18 nautical miles. Upmarket Camps Bay is a comfortable suburb in Cape Town that draws a crowd and a large amount of tourists to itself. It is known for its fine white sand, natural rock swimming pool and views of the Twelve Apostles Mountains. Behind Camps Bay beach are posh seafood restaurants, mellow cafes and cocktail bars with patios overlooking the shores. Close to it are malls with boutiques that sell fashion and beachwear, while the intimate Theatre on the Bay stages drama, musicals and comedy.

The Roundhouse building also functions as a hotel, dance hall and, most famously, Lord Charles Somerset’s hunting lodge. Its history of luxury and hospitality is still fundamental in Cape Town and the whole of South Africa today. It offers its guests an extraordinary cuisine, fine wine and spirits, with an exceptional service.

Guests at the event

Segun Demuren and his wife

Reception venue: THE WESTIN HOTEL, CAPE TOWN

The Westin Hotel Cape Town gave the wedding guests memorable experiences. The distance to the hotel isn’t a long journey from the Cape Town International Airport and guests could reach by rental car, shuttle service, or taxi in approximately 20 minutes. The hotel has exclusive rooms with unique views over the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain. Westin hotel’s fantastic glass façade allows clear views of the magnificent beauty of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the whole of Table Bay.

Besides the large variety of restaurants in Cape Town, The Westin hotel has a great selection of elegant restaurants and bars on offer, from brassiere-style Thirty7 to ON19 with its extensive views. Also, some of the largest and most sophisticated hotel conference and banqueting facilities in the city is found in the Westin Hotel where the reception took place.

They experienced a wonderful Cape Town evening to round off a glamorous wedding in the Westin hotel bars; Louis B’s & Terrace and Raleigh’s Cigar Bar, and geared up for a vacation filled with adventure.

Banky W and Adesua

Airport Arrival

Adesua Etomi and Banky W left for Cape Town, South Africa, a day after their traditional wedding for the white wedding. Groomsmen and bridesmaids arrived a day after. So far, they’ve indulged themselves in some pre-wedding activities.

A quick recap as gotten from couples and friends Instagram pages:

Arrival at African Pride Hotel

African Pride 15 on Orange Hotel

Cynthia at African Pride 15 on Orange Hotel

Room at African Pride 15 on Orange

View from African Pride 15 on Orange

The couple and their friends are, right now, enjoying the scenery of Cape Town from African Pride 15 on Orange Hotel that is blessed with a rooftop pool, 72-seater restaurant and the perfect sauna for couple’s time.

Shopping at V & A Waterfront

Ebuka at V & A Waterfront

V & A Waterfront

Racheal Abiriba of Genevieve Magazine at V & A Waterfront

Adesua, Banky W and friends were ready to get their shopping groove on. They took the bus tour to V & A Waterfront that prides itself of having over 266 shops and stores selling everything imaginable and more. It was a great acitivtiy to get the trip started.

Adventure at Signal Hill

Adesua and Banky W at Signal Hill

Banky W, Ebuka, Lamide Lagos, Captain Demuren and Dotun Cool FM at Signal Hill

Capt. Demuren at Signal Hill

Group at Signal Hill

Ebuka, Cynthia, Adesua and Banky W at Signal Hill

Group eating at Signal Hill

Ebuka and Cynthia at Signal Hill

The sunset experience on the top of Signal Hill was a perfect way to end their day after shopping at V & A Waterfront. It was perfect for the couples on the trip, as Ebuka and Cynthia were all loved up in the pictures, so was Adesua and Banky W. The singles were also not left out, as they had the time of their lives.

Definitely more activities to come through from this group, as they are gearing up for Table Mountain and Robben Island today! Let’s see what else they have got in their bag!