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SA tourism voucher scheme triggers thousands of bookings

The rush on discount tourism vouchers has turned into bookings with hot demand for a hotel that has not even opened its doors - see the top ten Adelaide and regional venues to benefit.

Tourism Australia launches campaign to 'holiday here this year'

South Australians are flooding accommodation providers with bookings and inquiries following the stampede for discount vouchers last week which saw 50,000 snapped up in 90 minutes.

Since Great State vouchers were released last Thursday:

MORE than 5000 South Australians have already booked a stay using their voucher.

ABOUT 500 have already booked in.

MORE than 380 check-ins to CBD hotels, and 110 to regional accommodation providers, were registered in first five days.

One of the biggest beneficiaries has been the new Crowne Plaza Adelaide which opens on November 2.

General manager Sarah Goldfinch said the voucher program has provided a brilliant start in a troubled year.

Crowne Plaza Adelaide general manager Sarah Goldfinch (centre) with staff members Corona Turner and Armando Campos. Picture: Tom Huntley
Crowne Plaza Adelaide general manager Sarah Goldfinch (centre) with staff members Corona Turner and Armando Campos. Picture: Tom Huntley

“Our phones started ringing non-stop and we’ve added 25 per cent occupancy for November and December and in turn have ordered more food, more wine and put on at least 10 more staff,” she said.

South Australian Tourism Commission chief executive Rodney Harrex said it is clear South Australians are eager to get out and experience their own state.

“By boosting overnight stays, we know the flow-on impact of an extra night here or there and the extra time and money that is spent on experiences and hospitality during those stays, will provide a much-needed boost to our state’s visitor economy,” he said.

The Opposition and Tourism Industry Council of SA are calling for more rounds of the vouchers and for the scheme to be extended to other providers such as tour operators.

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Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/sa-tourism-voucher-scheme-triggers-thousands-of-bookings/news-story/4ac21314ca50d8b7c1f464df07f622fa