PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Plettenberg Bay has been nominated as the World's Leading Beach Destination - and the race is now on to see whether it gets the votes to stamp its authority on the world stage.

It is the first global nomination Plett has received as part of the World Travel Awards, placing it alongside famous beaches in Thailand, Hawaii, and the Maldives.

While Cape Town is also a South African nominee in the Africa's Leading Beach Destination category, as is Plett, Plettenberg Bay is the sole South African contender for the global title.

In a media statement Plett Tourism said it was "thrilled" to announce that in addition to being nominated as Africa's Leading Beach Destination for the 15th year, in addition "Plett has been nominated as the World's Leading Beach Destination in the World Travel Awards this year".

Celebrate excellence

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry, and to celebrate the achievements and strengths of the travel industry within each key geographical region.

Plett's beaches and marine life have long been celebrated as among the best in South Africa - and now possibly the world - with Plett placing a strong emphasis on community stewardship of its natural attractions, said the statement.

Bitou municipality

Plett Tourism CEO, Patty Butterworth said: "Plett Tourism would like to extend our warm appreciation to Bitou municipality for their enormous contribution to ensuring Plett's beaches are pristine, safe and well managed.

"Given Plett's natural attractions and involved community, it makes sense that, in addition to being chosen as a front-runner for Africa's leading beach destination and now a global beach destination, Plett is also positioned as a sustainable conservation, research and nature hub.

"Whether visitors choose winter or summer, spring or autumn to visit Plett and the Garden Route they are assured of pristine beaches, exceptional and unforgettable marine sightings, coastal trails and watersports to enjoy."

Plett's strengths

Cast your vote for Plett to be the World's Leading Beach Destination at www.worldtravelawards.com/vote.

Among Plett's strengths are:

• Having six international Blue Flag-status beaches;

• Being a World Cetacean Alliance Whale Heritage Area;

• Being a Mission Blue Hope Spot;

• Its annual Plett Ocean Festival;

• Its Marine Protected Areas; and

• Its Terrestrial and Marine Wonders.

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