A visit to Soekershof will be incorporated in the new (2007/2008) portfolios of some of the major touroperators in Europe and the USA and is already incorporated in the itineraries (individual travels) they provide their customers travelling to (or through) the Western Cape. Two major travel magazines in the USA (Go Nomad and Outdoors; both related to globally operating specialised touroperators) will publish 2 and 4 page features about Soekershof towards the end of this year. Within South Africa: features in Die Burger, Cape Argus and Weekend Argus between May and August resulted in a significant influx of extra visitors; for this reason partly booking accommodation in this area. Later this year there will also be a feature in the SA gardening magazine The Gardener which will focus on the unique collection of succulent plants of Soekershof. Extensive talks and (later) correspondence with specialised touroperators who visited Soekershof during the past few months has learned (and confirmed) us an outside look on this region as a tourism destination and also how and why their customers (consumers) make their choices. Reasons to integrate Soekershof Walkabout in their programmes are the unusual character of this attraction plus the high degree of personalised hospitality. For a few of these tour operators also the certificate of Fair Trade in Tourism in South Africa played a role in their decision (see also http://www.fairtourismsa.org.za ). Open Days August 8 and 15 Soekershof organised two open days for (local and regional) tourism businesses with the emphasis on wine cellars and accommodation propietors within the municipal boundaries. The representives of the invited businesses attending the open days all became enthousiastic (a few after some sceptisism). A positive result is also that a few wine cellars are incorporating Soekershof Walkabout in the itineraries for their so called VIP-guests. The participants of these open days also learned that Soekershof has a "real succulent garden" (and not a nursery garden). Yvonne, Herman & dedicated staff. More info: Soekershof WalkaboutMazes & Botanical GardensPrimary Unusual DestinationCertified by Fair Trade in Tourism in South Africa Mission statement: Soekershof Walkabout is a sacred enterprise, based on an appreciation of nature, humor, play, creation, expression and respect for the land, and the growth and development of the people and plants who participate -employees and visitors alike.Contact Details:Klaas Voogds West, P.O. Box 291, Robertson 6705, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)23 626 4134 Skype: soekershof E-mail: soekershof@lando.co.za Website: http://soekershof.com