As Johannesburg gears up to host a series of global mega-events including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the upcoming Miss World Pageant, the city is launching cutting edge technology offering visitors instant details of the latest hotels, restaurants and attractions.Joburg.city.mobi, a partnership between World Mobi Ltd and the Johannesburg Tourism Company, was unveiled at World Travel Market in London in an initiative to provide locals and travellers with mobile access to information on Jo’burg - one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Africa.

Mobile information services are bucking the trend in international travel and tourism which is hardly surprising considering that more people in the world have access to a mobile phone than a PC with internet facility. Joburg.city.mobi is super fast, providing on-the-go information in seconds on everything from bars, shops and attractions to events, entertainment and, of course, the World Cup matches. The portal is designed for the needs of a mobile user, either on a basic mobile or a high-end device such as an Apple iPhone or Nokia N96.

The introduction of Joburg.city.mobi is an important step in preparations for the World Cup, providing visitors with the latest news, weather and quick, convenient advice on where to stay, eat and play in Johannesburg.

“Information is valuable currency for tourists”, said Lindiwe Mahlangu, CEO of Johannesburg Tourism Company. “Not only do they need to know the basics, such as where to stay and what to do when they visit Jo’burg, but they also require information about whether their chosen destination is able to cater to their personal interests.
“As the gateway to the continent, Johannesburg is one of South Africa’s most frequently visited cities and our partnership with World Mobi has introduced a new communication era for visitors.

“It will undoubtedly play a vital role in helping us to meet the expectations of tourists visiting a world-class city, not only reflecting global trends but offering flawless service and excellent infrastructure.”

joburg.city.mobi site joins a rapidly increasing number of travel and tourism companies who have gone ‘mobi’, including the American Automobile Association (AAA), Amtrak, Air France, Hilton, KLM, Marriott, Renfe, SAS, Spanair, Thalys, The Weather Channel and ZAGAT Survey.
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