With the decrease in the fuel price that came into effect on
3 January 2024, the department has encouraged citizens to take a last-minute
January break to mentally prepare for the year, while reducing stress and
supporting physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
"Our country has a wealth of diverse tourism and
cultural offerings nestled in our small dorpies, townships and villages. This
part of the domestic market is the backbone of the tourism sector, playing a
crucial role in addressing the holiday and leisure needs of our visitors, while
creating much needed employment for our citizenry," department
spokesperson Tasneem Carrim said on Thursday.
On Wednesday, motorists welcomed a decrease in the price of
petrol, with 93 (ULP & LRP) decreasing by 62 cents a litre, while the price
of 95 (ULP & LRP) decreased by 76 cents a litre. The Department of Mineral
Resources and Energy attributed the adjustment of fuel prices to current local
and international factors.
The price of diesel (0.005% sulphur) came down by 126.32
cents a litre and the price of illuminating paraffin (wholesale) decreased by
93 cents per litre, and the Single Maximum National Retail Price (SMNRP) for
illuminating paraffin came down by R1.24 per litre.
"We encourage everyone to take some time now to explore
the fun and diverse tourism offerings across the country. Whether it is a Sho't
Left to a quaint picnic park, nature reserve or heritage attraction, the
decrease in the fuel price will facilitate ease of access to our attractions
and contribute to growing tourism communities," Carrim said.