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Cape Town drought ‘yet to deter UK holidaymakers’

A severe drought affecting Cape Town has yet to result in any UK holidaymakers cancelling trips, according to South Africa Tourism.

However, the tourist office is contacting all key operators “so we should have a better picture next week if visitors are cancelling”.

“So far, the tourist board is not aware of any cancellations,” a spokeswoman said.

Agents and operators can call South Africa Tourism for updated information and advice, she added.

The drought and resultant water restrictions are mostly isolated to parts of the Western Cape Province – particularly Cape Town and surrounding areas.

Tourists will have access to water for “essential daily needs” including access to drinking water and for personal hygiene.

“At present, tourists will be able to shower and maintain daily hygiene. Mandated guidelines suggest a shower of no longer than twop minutes. The use of baths is discouraged. Some swimming pools at hotels have been converted to salt (ocean) water,” the tourist board said.

The long-term drought could result in ‘Day Zero’ by the third week of April when the city of Cape Town could potentially cut the regular flow of water, according to local reports.

“Day Zero’ is a projected date that is entirely dependent on current rates of water consumption: if all stakeholders adhere to the required water savings target, ‘Day Zero’ can be avoided,” South Africa Tourism said.

“In the eventuality of ‘Day Zero’, it will be necessary to contact your travel agent or tour operator to determine what measures are in place to continue the supply of water.”

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