CoNect Geek Convention 2025 Nelson Mandela Bay Metro The Real Travel Guy Part 1

Описание: This October, I touched down in Nelson Mandela Bay Metro for one of South Africa’s most exciting and fast-growing cultural events — CoNect Geek Convention 2025. Hosted at the Fairview Sports Centre in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), this two-day celebration of geek culture ran from October 25th to 26th, and it was nothing short of electric. From the moment I walked in, the energy was contagious. Over 100 vendors filled the venue with everything from anime merch and handcrafted collectibles to retro games and indie comics. Families, fans, and first-timers mingled in a space that felt welcoming, inclusive, and alive with creativity. One of the standout additions this year was the Silent Book Club — a cozy corner where book lovers could gather, read quietly, and connect over shared literary passions. It was a beautiful contrast to the buzz of cosplay competitions, gaming tournaments, and live performances happening throughout the day. The organizers of CoNect have a bold vision: to grow this into one of the biggest geek culture events in South Africa. They’re calling on more families to join next year, with plans to expand food trailers, bring in more local vendors, offer bigger prizes, and create even more immersive experiences for attendees of all ages. If you’re planning a trip to Nelson Mandela Bay, don’t miss the hidden gems around Port Elizabeth and Gqeberha — from the scenic Donkin Reserve and beachfront walks to local eateries serving up Eastern Cape flavors. CoNect is more than just a convention; it’s a gateway to discovering the soul of the city. 📍 Location: Fairview Sports Centre, Willow Road, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape 📅 Dates: Saturday 25 October – Sunday 26 October 2025 (09:00–17:00 daily) 📞 Contact: +27 (0)66 098 5614 📧 Email: [email protected] 🎟️ Tickets: Early Bird from R80, Door Entry R120 🎪 Organizers: CONect South Africa This is Part 1 of the journey — capturing the pulse of the event and the people who make it special. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into the stories, the games, and the magic that makes CoNect more than just a convention — it’s a movement. Let’s make next year even bigger. Bring your family. Bring your fandom. Bring your curiosity. This is The Real Travel Guy — and this is CoNect.