In a strategic move that signals the evolving landscape of Kenya’s luxury hospitality sector, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) orchestrated an exclusive familiarization tour at the newly-minted BW Signature Collection’s crown jewel – the Panari Resort Nyahururu. This carefully curated expedition wasn’t just another hotel visit; it represented a masterclass in sustainable luxury tourism.
Perched majestically in Nyahururu’s pristine highlands, where the thunderous Thomson’s Falls meets the serpentine Ewaso Nyiro River, the resort emerged as a testament to thoughtful architectural integration with nature. Travel professionals discovered a property where luxury doesn’t whisper – it harmonizes with the environment in perfect pitch.
“What we’re offering isn’t just accommodation; it’s an immersive journey into responsible luxury,” reflects Devendra Asher, Group General Manager of Panari Hotels and Resort. His eyes sparkle with enthusiasm as he adds, “When travel agents experience our commitment firsthand, they become not just partners, but passionate ambassadors of our vision.”
The property’s innovative design philosophy reveals itself through cottage-style havens that pay homage to their natural surroundings. Each room tells its own story through botanical-inspired wallpapers, bespoke wooden finishes, and the warmth of stone fireplaces – a deliberate departure from cookie-cutter luxury.
Beyond the architectural marvels, the familiarization tour unveiled the resort’s crown jewels: a solar-heated indoor pool that gleams like a jewel in the African sun, state-of-the-art meeting facilities that can host up to 300 visionaries, and a spa sanctuary that promises transformation. The Brown Olive Restaurant and Silky Oak Bar emerged as culinary destinations in their own right, where local flavors dance with international techniques.
But perhaps the most compelling narrative unfolded at the newly established Elephant Water Hole in Marmanet Forest. Here, luxury tourism and wildlife conservation converge in a dialogue that speaks volumes about the resort’s commitment to sustainable practices. The property’s proximity to Lake Ol’ Bolossat, a haven for 185 bird species, transforms every stay into a potential wildlife documentary.
As the sun painted the sky in hues of amber, KATA members, adorned in vibrant Ankara attire, gathered for more than just a dinner – it was a celebration of Kenyan heritage seamlessly woven into modern luxury. The evening’s sophistication was matched only by its authenticity, creating Instagram-worthy moments that told stories of cultural pride.
In a powerful finale that transcended typical hospitality gestures, participants wielded shovels instead of champagne glasses. The tree-planting ceremony, set against the backdrop of the resort’s existing environmental initiatives, wasn’t merely symbolic – it was a tangible commitment to carbon footprint reduction. Each sapling represented a promise: luxury tourism and environmental stewardship need not be mutually exclusive.
“This isn’t just about selling rooms,” one KATA member observed, patting the soil around a newly planted indigenous tree. “It’s about selling a vision of responsible luxury that our clients increasingly demand.”
As the curtain fell on this meticulously orchestrated familiarization tour, one thing became crystal clear: BW Panari Resort Nyahururu isn’t just another luxury address in Kenya’s hospitality landscape. It’s pioneering a new narrative where world-class amenities, cultural authenticity, and environmental consciousness converge to create experiences that are as sustainable as they are unforgettable.
For the discerning traveler seeking more than just a getaway, this hidden gem in Nyahururu offers something increasingly rare in today’s world – luxury without compromise, either to comfort or conscience.
Aviation is crucial for global connectivity, economic growth, and regional integration. Yet, Africa, accounting for just 3% of global air traffic, remains underrepresented. Kenya, however, is positioned to lead the transformation of the continent’s aviation sector. Now is the time to act.
Why Africa Needs Aviation More Than Other Continents
Geographic & Infrastructure Challenges: Africa’s vast size & underdeveloped road and rail systems make aviation essential. Unlike continents like Europe or North America, many African regions lack reliable transport options. Aviation bridges these gaps
Economic Integration and Growth: The AfCFTA aims to increase intra-African trade, and better air connectivity is key to realizing this potential. Aviation can enhance movement of goods and people, boosting regional economies. The Yamoussoukro Decision on liberalized air services remains underutilized, limiting opportunities for growth.
Tourism and Job Creation: Africa is home to 8 of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots. With aviation, Africa’s tourism industry—already significant in countries like Kenya—can grow further, creating jobs and diversifying economies. Kenya’s tourism contributes $2.2 billion to GDP, and better air connectivity could increase this number.
Overcoming Infrastructure Gaps: Africa’s inadequate land-based infrastructure makes air travel the most efficient way to connect remote regions. Aviation can ensure access to essential services, stimulating economic and social development.
Current Challenges
High operational costs, fragmented markets, and limited regional connectivity. Lack of investment in both major airports and smaller regional airfields. Restrictive air agreements that limit competition and service expansion. Strategic Actions for Growth
Policy and Regulatory Reforms: Embrace initiatives like the SAATM to open airspace and improve trade. Kenya, a regional leader, can foster growth by aligning with ICAO standards and attracting private investment into the sector.
Infrastructure Investments: Modernizing key airports such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and smaller regional airfields will improve connectivity, enhance trade, and support passenger growth.
Cost Reduction Initiatives: African airlines should collaborate through alliances or joint ventures to leverage economies of scale and reduce operational costs, making air travel more competitive.
Sustainability: Align with global sustainability standards like ICAO’s CORSIA to mitigate aviation’s environmental impact while supporting growth.
Call to Action Africa’s aviation sector is primed for transformation. By adopting strategic policies, investing in infrastructure, and fostering regional collaboration, we can position Africa as a leading player in global aviation. The time to act is now.
At the annual Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) event, tagged #UnstoppableAfrica and held in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly last September, Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, shared how, despite investing over $600 million in a certain African country, he still needed a visa to enter.
“As an investor, as someone who wants to make Africa great, I have to apply for 35 different visas on my passport,” Dangote also lamented during the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, in May 2024.
For Dangote and many African business leaders, mobility restrictions stymie business; removing them will unlock the potential of intra-African trade, which currently stands at an unimpressive 17 percent—far behind Europe’s 60 percent trade within its borders.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), unveiled by African leaders in March 2018, is expected to boost intra-African trade and consolidate a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. The World Bank estimates it could increase Africa’s income by $450 billion by 2035, potentially lifting 30 million people out of extreme poverty.
The AfCFTA could expand Africa’s tax base and its capacity to sustainably manage its approximately $1.1 trillion—and growing—debt, asserts the Brookings Institution, a US-based think tank.
Implementation of the trade pact is progressing well, said Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the Accra-based AfCFTA Secretariat, at the GABI event. With 54 AU member states signed on (only Eritrea has not) and 48 countries submitting instruments of ratification, Mene expects trade to grow significantly, although challenges remain.
Free movement is key
A 2023 AU and UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) study maintains that free movement within the continent is “indispensable for intra-African trade and the region’s integration and development agenda.”
Yet only four African countries—Benin, The Gambia, Rwanda and Seychelles—offer visa-free entry to all African citizens; 33 countries provide visa-free travel to citizens from at least 10 African countries; and 30 countries still require visas for over half of Africa’s nations, according to the 2023 Africa Visa Openness Index, produced by the African Development Bank Group and the AU Commission.
Conceptually, African leaders themselves would like to ease movement restrictions. For example, the AU’s Agenda 2063 envisions “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa.” In 2018, they adopted the protocol on free movement of persons, ahead of the AfCFTA’s entry into force.
As well, the AfCFTA Secretariat identifies “excessive border delays” and “cumbersome document requirements” as non-tariff barriers that must be eliminated to facilitate smoother intra-African trade.
But when trading under the AfCFTA began in January 2021, the free movement protocol was still not in effect. As of October 2024, only 32 countries have signed the protocol, with just four (Mali, Niger, Rwanda, and São Tomé and Príncipe) ratifying it—well short of the 15 ratifications required for it to take effect.
Barriers to Implementation
Why are countries reluctant to ratify the free movement protocol? According to the AU-ECA study, there is limited awareness among states of the economic benefits of free movement. Greater labor mobility could drive intra-African trade, knowledge transfer, capacity building and improved market access for African products and services.
Additionally, many countries lack adequate border management infrastructure, making it difficult to efficiently handle migration flows and enforce security measures.
Also, some states fear that foreign workers may take local jobs or strain public resources like health, education and sanitation services.
Visa fees remain a vital revenue source for many countries, often helping to offset budget deficits. Removing these fees could temporarily impact national budgets, even if free movement might yield greater economic benefits in the long term.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also raised health concerns, with some countries worried that unrestricted cross-border movement could facilitate the spread of diseases, complicating public health management.
The AU-ECA study notes a gap between the protocol on the free movement of persons and the AfCFTA’s emphasis on the free movement of goods and services, expressing concern over the disproportionate focus on the latter. It recommends that both aspects be prioritized.
The path forward
Despite these challenges, there is optimism among free trade area advocates. AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative (GTI), which began in October 2022 with seven countries, has grown to 39 countries, including economic powerhouses South Africa and Nigeria. The GTI is a pilot for the AfCFTA’s legal and operational framework, and its success bodes well for broader goals like the free movement of persons.
The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a joint initiative by the AfCFTA Secretariat and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), is facilitating cross-border payments in local currencies and is gradually gaining traction among traders. With over 42 currencies in use among 48 participating countries, PAPSS aims to reduce costs associated with currency exchange, particularly benefiting traveling business leaders and young entrepreneurs.
There is the point of relative integration successes in Africa’s regional economic communities— in the East African Community (EAC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), for instance—that could pave the way for broader continental integration.
In the long term, the launch of the pan-African passport in July 2016 could help tackle mobility barriers. The AU expects citizens to have access to these passports in the future, which will be good news for women traders who constitute about 70 percent of informal cross-border trade in Africa and often face bottlenecks at border crossings.
The stars appear aligned for AfCFTA’s success. A deal of effort has already gone into establishing the legal frameworks for digital trade, rules of origin, a dispute settlement mechanism and so on, as well as instruments such as the PAPSS and the African Trade Observatory, an information portal.
Mene emphasizes more effort will be needed to persuade states to ease restrictions on the movement of persons.
If you’re looking for a place to stay on your upcoming trip, avoid making these mistakes when booking.
by Caroline Bologna HuffPost Writer
When you plan a vacation, there are only so many flight options to choose from. Booking a hotel, however, can be a much more overwhelming experience.
Big cities, famous beaches and other popular tourist destinations boast a wide variety of accommodations: low-budget chains, quirky boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Even once you decide which vibe is for you, you’ll likely find many choices that match your vision. And there are countless factors to weigh as you select your hotel, room type and more.
“People often underestimate how much the actual hotel experience can add to their trip,” said Angela Marini, a travel agent with Fora. “The hotel is more than just a place to sleep ― it’s a key part of the overall travel experience. Whether it’s enjoying the amenities, relaxing in a comfortable room or soaking in the ambiance, your hotel choice can make or break a trip.”
To guide travelers through the selection process, HuffPost asked Marini and other travel advisers to share the common mistakes people make when booking a hotel — and why they try to avoid these errors.
They don’t choose nonrefundable rates.
“I never book the nonrefundable rate unless I’m 100% sure of my plans,” said Brianna Glenn, CEO and travel adviser at Milk + Honey Travels. “Flexibility is crucial in travel, and plans can change unexpectedly. I prioritize refundable or flexible rates, even if they cost slightly more, to avoid losing money if I need to adjust my stay.”
Even if you have every intention of sticking with your plans, you might deal with unexpected flight delays or cancellations that affect your ability to reach the hotel you booked. If you choose a fully or partially refundable option, you can at least get some of your money back when there’s a last-minute change.
“I never book without checking the cancellation policy,” said Fora travel adviser Ronit Margolis. “I prefer flexibility, especially when travel dates aren’t set in stone. If there is a strict no-cancellation policy, I purchase trip insurance.”
They don’t book without talking to someone at the hotel.
“As a travel expert, I never forgo the opportunity to speak with someone at the hotel when booking a stay for myself,” said Kareem George, founder of Culture Traveler. “I have found this to prevent unpleasant surprises, such as discovering certain amenities are not available, the presence of construction, arriving to find that a large group has taken over much of the property, etc.”
He added that calling the hotel also gives him the opportunity to learn about any special events during his stay and to request a complimentary upgrade.
Fora travel adviser Amna Ismail agreed with giving hotels a call before booking.
“If I have specific preferences, like a high floor or early check-in, I always call the hotel directly to confirm availability instead of relying on notes in the booking and always follow up with an email,” Ismail said.
They don’t forget to keep monitoring the price after booking.
“I never ‘set it and forget it’ after booking,” said Michael DeLucca, a travel agent and founder of Otsy. “I prioritize rooms with flexible cancellation policies, especially when booking far in advance. I then manually check rates weekly or use a rate-monitoring tool like Pruvo, which alerts me to price drops. This allows me to cancel and rebook at lower rates.”
He said he often saves 10-30% as hotel prices fluctuate and new promotions arise.
“This approach ensures I get the best possible price without falling victim to price manipulation tactics or losing flexibility in my travel plans,” DeLucca added.
They don’t overlook the location.
“I would never book a hotel in a bad location for a better price,” said Jonathan Alder, founder of Jonathan’s Travels. “Location always comes first, as it can make or break the success of your trip.”
Consider the sites and restaurants you plan to visit during your trip. How long will it take to get from your accommodations to your activities? Is there good public transportation? Are there specific neighborhoods you want to explore in depth?
“It can be the best hotel, but in the worst location,” said Chirag Panchal, a Fora travel adviser. “It is important to check that the hotel is in a safe area, convenient to the places I plan to visit while I am staying there.”
They don’t book without checking the reviews.
“I never skip the reviews,” said Fora adviser Caroline Bernthal. “As an adviser, I know tons of properties across the world. If someone requests a property I don’t know, I immediately head for the reviews. I also always check to see if they are members of any programs I know vet properties well, such as Relais and Château and SLH.”
Hotel reviews from previous guests often include helpful information about noise levels, service quality, and more. But remember to do a thorough analysis for the full picture. Be on the lookout for common patterns, but take certain criticisms with a grain of salt.
“Never fully rely on the really good and really bad reviews online,” said Fora adviser Caroline Weilert. “There is so much online clutter, and usually, when people take time to write reviews, they are for extreme points of view. I skim those but toss them out. It’s the balanced reviews that provide the most insight to inform my own decision-making on where to stay.”
They don’t rely on the hotel-provided photos.
“I never rely only on hotel-provided photos,” Margolis said. “Hotel photos can be misleading or outdated.”
Instead, she looks for reviews for photos taken by guests to get a more accurate sense of room size, cleanliness and overall condition.
“With social media these days, you can look for the hotel tags and see previous guests’ photos to get a more accurate depiction,” Margolis added.
They don’t pick the cheapest room.
“I avoid booking the cheapest room category unless I’ve reviewed its size and amenities,” Ismail said. “Sometimes spending a little more for a higher category can significantly enhance the overall experience and get you additional perks, which actually make it a better deal.”
If you know a beach view helps you better relax on your hard-earned vacation, consider making this small splurge.
Lower rates also might not come with a bed type guarantee, which means arriving to either two doubles or one king. Families traveling with children shouldn’t take this gamble.
“This can be cheaper, but you’re leaving it up to the hotel to place you in whatever room type they have available,” said Rena Shah, the head of lodging and experiences for Chase Travel. “So unless you’re traveling solo, I would avoid this. Don’t book a room without confirming the bedding type.”
They don’t choose a hotel based on star rating.
“Never book solely based on star ratings,” Glenn said. “Star ratings don’t always reflect the true guest experience. A five-star hotel may not always align with personal preferences for boutique or intimate accommodations, and these star ratings also mean very different things in different parts of the world.”
She said she instead considers the hotel’s atmosphere, location, and amenities to identify which option matches her travel style and purpose of the trip.
They don’t use third-party bookers.
“I never book through a third-party channel,” Panchal said. “There is nothing worse than showing up to a hotel to check in only to learn that they have been oversold, and most likely it’s the third-party bookings that will be walked first.”
“Third-party online travel agency rates are also ineligible for extra perks and hotel loyalty points, so although they may be slightly discounted, the lack of additional amenities often outweigh booking through those channels,” he added.
That means you’re more likely to get an upgrade or have a specific room request honored if you book directly with the hotel.
“I have also noted that the OTA room blocks are often the less desirable inventory of the hotel,” George said.
That doesn’t mean you can’t use these services to your advantage.
“I start by checking rates on popular third-party OTAs, but I never finalize my booking there,” DeLucca said. “After identifying the best rate using VPN or incognito browsing mode, I call the hotel directly. Often, hotels are willing to match or beat the third-party rate to avoid paying commission fees and secure the booking directly.”
They don’t consider only the busiest travel seasons.
“Traveling between Christmas and New Year’s is often one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year,” Marini said. “Everything from flights to hotels, restaurants and activities tends to come at a premium. You pay more and get less.”
When she books a hotel room for herself, she tries to open her search up to “shoulder seasons,” which are often the best time to visit a destination in terms of hotel rates, crowds and weather.
They don’t book without pursuing preferred rate options.
“I make sure to never book a regular room rate,” Panchal said. “As a travel adviser who is a preferred partner for most luxury hotels around the world, I always book through a preferred partner rate so that I don’t miss out on potential upgrades, complimentary breakfast, early check-in, late checkout, and other exclusive amenities.”
He believes travelers are “leaving money on the table” when they don’t consider booking through an agent with a direct connection to the hotel.
Alder agreed, saying, “I would never book a hotel without considering using a travel agent, as they get you better amenities at no additional hotel cost to you.”
“Plus, your agent knows the best properties and destinations for your trip,” he added. “Relying solely on online searches can be a disadvantage for consumers.”
NAIROBI, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) — The Kenyan government on Monday rolled out reforms at the main airport Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), located in the capital city of Nairobi, to enhance passenger traffic.
John Mbadi, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of National Treasury and Economic Planning, said in a statement issued in Nairobi that the reforms will deliver seamless, efficient, and respectful services to customers departing and arriving in the country through the facility.
“The goal is to reduce waiting time, minimize any inconveniences, and strengthen Kenya’s reputation as a welcoming destination,” Mbadi said.
He said the government has prioritized advanced technological solutions in the reforms to streamline customs and immigration processes to minimize paperwork.
He added that the initiative will provide travelers with clear information on customs duties and taxes, therefore, promoting transparency.
Mbadi noted that the measures would help position JKIA as a world-class gateway to Kenya and a leading aviation hub.
JKIA is one of Kenya’s three main entry points, with the other two being Moi International Airport located in the coastal city of Mombasa and another in the lakeside city of Kisumu in western Kenya.
Most of Kenya’s tourists arrived through JKIA, while the rest entered the country via the Moi airport.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, in the first quarter of 2024, Kenya received 409,164 tourists through the two airports, with 343,555 using JKIA.
After two years talking and discussing, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s Consulate in Mombasa have this year decided to give their Kenyan counterparts, real life experience of what The Pearl of Africa offers.
“At the beginning of the partnership with Kenya Coast tourism stakeholders, we observed that very few of them, and Kenyans generally, knew about Uganda’s tourism products. For mountain gorillas, many of them confessed that they used to sell Rwanda. This is despite the fact that Kenya is the number one source market for tourists to Uganda,” a Ugandan official said.
The real life experience has already started, but officially, November 20 will be the historic date when Uganda for the first time hosts the Uganda- Kenya Coast Tourism Conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The first two conferences were held in Kenya – in November 2022 in Mombasa and the second one in November 2023 in Diani, Kwale County.
The third conference will be held on 20th– 21st November 2024 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, under the theme “The Uganda- Kenya Coast partnership: Promoting job creation, inclusivity and sustainability”.
The Conference will be attended by over 500 public and private tourism stakeholders from Uganda, Kenya and beyond who will work out a strategy for joint promotion of tourism between Uganda and Kenya Coast.
The conference will equip the key tourism players from Uganda and the Kenya coastal region with first-hand experiences of the key tourism attractions so that they are in better position to market these attractions.
Another key objective will be to promote regional tourism, and popularize the Entebbe – Mombasa route operated by the Uganda Airlines. Previously, the only available air connection to Uganda from the Kenya Coast was by Kenya Airways, through Nairobi.
Ahead of the Conference, seventy (70) tourism stakeholders from Kenya have started a familiarization trip to Uganda from 8th – 18th November 2024 where they will visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semliki Hot Springs, Source of the Nile and Namugongo Martyrs Museum A golf tournament between Uganda and Kenya will be held on 9th November 2024 at Kampala Golf Club.
Skyward Express has launched its Inaugural flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The 109-seater capacity Fokker 100 jet will offer passengers a luxurious experience as they visit one of East Africa’s premium destinations that offer business opportunities, a rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife and historical heritage.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir echoed the commitment by Skyward as a premium airline by a local Investor with regional flight in a space that was previously thought to be dominated by international investors as it serves remote flight routes in the Eastern African Region.
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has further bolstered its presence across Africa, with the introduction of additional flights to Entebbe, Uganda; Addis Abba in Ethiopia; and Johannesburg, South Africa.
Since the inaugural flight into Africa with Cairo as its first destination in 1986, Emirates has progressively grown its presence on the continent and now serves 20 passenger and cargo gateways, boosting Africa’s connectivity and air transport market development.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Africa has long been a priority region for Emirates, and we will deepen our strategic focus of expansion and continued investment on the continent, as an important anchor for our future network. The introduction of frequencies to our existing points in Uganda, South Africa and Ethiopia help support the region’s growth and provide critical links using Dubai as a key gateway to emerging economies across Asia and the Middle East.
“Over the last 30 years Emirates has played a pivotal role in the development of the region’s aviation and tourism sectors, not just through scaling our operations but by establishing strategic partnerships with local governments, tourism boards and likeminded airline partners across the travel ecosystem, to nurture the industry and realise its untapped potential.”
Increasing frequencies to maximize connectivity From 27 October, Emirates ramped up operations between Dubai and Uganda from five weekly flights to a daily service. Operated via a Boeing 777-300ER the additional flight will add 718 seats to and from Dubai-Entebbe every week, connecting to popular onwards destinations from Dubai such as Canada, the US, India and the UK, to name a few. As the only airline offering First Class in and out of Entebbe, the additional flights will enable more passengers to experience Emirates’ unrivalled experience with luxurious touches, a premium gastronomic selection of dishes and fine beverages, and one of the biggest screens in the sky, all in midst of comfort and privacy.
The move builds on Emirates two-decade long commitment to Uganda, a vibrant gem on the airline’s vast global network and up and coming tourism destination. At the 2024 Arabian Travel Market, Emirates signed an MoU with the Uganda Tourism Board, aiming to encourage a diverse range of international travellers to experience the destination’s abundance of natural, cultural and adventure attractions. The additional frequency will further support this, as Uganda continues to invest in building its tourism proposition.
Ringing in the new year, Emirates will also increase frequency in Ethiopia, with a daily flight connecting Dubai and Addis Abba from 1 January 2025. Visitor numbers to Ethiopia continue to grow, guided by the vision to make Ethiopia one of the top five tourist destinations in Africa by 2025. By boosting its flight frequencies, Emirates will provide more convenient access, particularly for travellers from the Middle East and Far East.
This will be swiftly followed by the fourth daily flight to Johannesburg, which, from 1 March 2025, will introduce a morning slot to and from South Africa’s largest and busiest international airport. The additional flight brings Emirates’ operations back to pre-pandemic levels, with 49 weekly flights into South Africa, one of the airline’s most in-demand destinations in Africa.
Once the additional frequencies are activated, Emirates will provide 161 weekly flights between African destinations and Dubai.
Tickets can be booked now on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.
Expanding the network to serve more of Africa With 17 countries in Africa and a further 63 countries and territories globally, Emirates offers near-unrivalled connectivity, further amplified by its extensive partnership network. In Africa, the airline’s footprint expands to over 210 regional points through 5 codeshare and 18 interline partners, providing access to more regional points via frictionless, one-ticket travel and simplified baggage throughput.
As an example, in 2023 Emirates signed an interline agreement with Royal Air Maroc, providing travellers with 18 additional domestic points in Morocco, such as Fez, Tangiers, Marrakech and many others, as well as an additional 17 routes beyond Dubai on an interline basis.
In addition to offering access to smaller regional points across the continent, Emirates’ partnerships unlock access to unique and exclusive destinations too. Through its interline agreement with South African carrier Cemair, Emirates enables customers to visit stunning leisure points such as Margate and Plettenberg Bay, while Pro Flight Zambia unlocks once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Lower Zambezi National Park.
Earlier this month, Emirates made its much-awaited return to Lagos, connecting Nigeria’s economic hub to its global network with a direct, daily flight. Enhancing premium travel options, Emirates is one of only two airlines offering First Class in and out of Lagos.
The airline’s cargo arm, Emirates SkyCargo, will also benefit from the additional passenger flights, which complement its eight weekly scheduled freighters enabling the swift, efficient and reliable movement of goods from Africa to the world. Providing unmatched flexibility to meet demand, Emirates SkyCargo deploys its freighters between six African destinations, to boost the cargo capacity as required. Likewise, to better manage capacity, Emirates SkyCargo moves general cargo from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban via trucks, to ensure goods move on customer’s timelines; the additional passenger flights will address these capacity constraints in each market, as the airline prepares for future growth, with the delivery of new freighters up until the end of 2026.
A recent BCD survey found that business travelers prioritize flight departure time, arrival time, and length when it comes to booking air travel. Convenience, flexibility and price also rank as top priorities. The survey, from August 2024, gathered insights from over 1,300 business travelers who took to the skies in the past 12 months.
Convenience is key
When it comes to air travel, convenience is a top priority. From seat selection to checked baggage, many travelers are willing to pay for extra comfort and flexibility. In fact, nearly half of those surveyed are opting for fully or partially refundable tickets, allowing them to manage unpredictable travel plans without stress. Priority boarding, fast-tracked security, and extra legroom also rank high among add-ons that business travelers are happy to splurge on. Negotiate for these amenities in your supplier conversations.
What influences flight choices?
No surprise here. Price is a major influence on flight selection, with 51% of travelers agreeing it affects their decisions. Four out of 10 travelers prioritize finding the cheapest flight available, even if it comes at the cost of fewer flexible options. The balancing act between comfort and cost continues to challenge corporate travelers, something to keep in mind when shaping travel policies.
But what stands out even more is how the time of departure, flight duration, and employer policy impact decisions. In fact, 71% of respondents cite scheduling as the most important factor, highlighting the need for policies that align with both traveler preferences and corporate goals. While some situations are unavoidable or out of anyone’s control, employers can improve the employee experience by making adjustments to their travel policy.
“A travel policy has the potential to drastically influence employee wellbeing and satisfaction,” said Teri Miller, executive vice president, Global Client Team at BCD. “Adding ancillaries covered by the company like priority boarding or lounge access can make traveling for work more enjoyable and less stressful for employees. Allowing a flexible schedule, work from home or time off after a business trip can also help your employees adjust after returning home.”
Class and duration: A snapshot of business travel
The majority of travelers use air travel for trips between two and six days. For short-haul flights under six hours, 88% of travelers opt for economy class. Business class, while more luxurious, is typically reserved for long-haul flights, with three out of 10 travelers choosing this option for extended trips. The survey’s data around service classes can offer valuable insights for organizations seeking to optimize both traveler comfort and cost-efficiency.
A sustainable approach?
Sustainability is a growing concern in the travel industry, but may not always be top-of-mind for business travelers. While 66% of respondents opt for direct flights (which are both convenient and eco-friendly), few actively choose flights based on carbon emissions, and only 16% are trying to fly less. With two-thirds of respondents admitting they rarely or never consider sustainability if it raises costs, there’s clearly room for improvement.
Olivia Ruggles Brise Vice President of Sustainability BCD
“From our last buyer survey on travel policy, we saw that nearly a quarter of buyers rank making their policy more sustainable as a top priority,” said Olivia Ruggles-Brise, vice president of Sustainability at BCD. “However, this research shows that travelers themselves are not prioritizing sustainability in the same way. Travel managers can influence their travelers’ behavior through encouraging or mandating sustainable measures, which often go hand in hand with traveler wellness. Direct flights, for instance, are more sustainable and less stressful for travelers. Though they may come at a higher cost, direct flights result in less emissions than indirect or stopover flights. On the other hand, while business class is better for traveler comfort, it may not be the most sustainable option. Prioritizing only trips that are vital and choosing business class for those trips can strike a balance, benefiting both traveler wellness and sustainability.”
Addressing traveler challenges and wellbeing
Nearly 70% of travelers report being satisfied with their company’s travel policy and preferred suppliers. However, challenges remain. From booking user-unfriendly tools to low-cost airlines that impact comfort, corporate travelers face frustrations that can hinder productivity. Travelers also experience physical discomfort, especially with overnight flights and long-haul drives immediately after landing. Employers have an opportunity to enhance traveler wellbeing by addressing these pain points.
Offering benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and flexible post-trip schedules can improve the overall travel experience, boosting morale and productivity.
By understanding travelers’ needs and preferences, businesses can adapt their travel programs, ensuring a balance between cost control, traveler care and sustainable practices for the future. BCD’s Program Managers can help customers review their current travel policy, and our consulting division Advito also specializes in assessing, benchmarking and rewriting policies. Once updates are in place, it’s crucial to have a communications strategy that engages and educates travelers. Advito’s Engage experts can help craft a communication strategy that uses cutting-edge marketing tactics to ensure travelers are getting the message.
The travel industry has become increasingly global, with travelers booking flights, accommodations, and tours across borders. For travel agents, this growth means handling a wide array of currencies, payment systems, and financial regulations. Whether booking a vacation package for a family in Maasai Mara or arranging a business trip for a client in Nairobi, travel agents must navigate complex currency exchange and cross-border payment issues.
These challenges can impact profitability, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. In this piece, we’ll explore how travel agents can effectively manage currency exchange fluctuations, reduce payment-related headaches, and leverage modern payment solutions to offer seamless service to their global clients.
1. The Challenge of Currency Exchange in the Travel Sector
One of the primary obstacles for travel agents dealing with international clients is currency exchange. When your business deals with multiple currencies, you face several challenges:
Fluctuating Exchange Rates: Currency exchange rates can change rapidly, leading to unexpected costs or lost profits. For example, if the exchange rate shifts between the time of booking and payment, you might end up receiving less than anticipated for a booking, or you may need to pass on the higher cost to your clients.
Hidden Fees: Traditional banks and payment processors often charge high fees for currency conversion, cutting into your margins. These fees can be particularly damaging when travel agents are processing high volumes of small transactions or payments from clients in various currencies.
Inaccurate Payment Calculations: Ensuring your quotes match the final payment amounts is a common issue, especially when working with fluctuating exchange rates. Clients might expect to pay a specific amount, but unexpected changes in the exchange rate can lead to discrepancies, resulting in client dissatisfaction or even disputes.
To mitigate these challenges, travel agents need to adopt solutions that minimize the impact of currency exchange fluctuations and reduce conversion costs.
2. Choosing the Right Cross-Border Payment Solution
The key to handling international transactions efficiently lies in selecting the right cross-border payment platform. Traditional banks or payment processors may not provide the flexibility or cost efficiency needed for managing global payments. Here’s how modern payment solutions can help:
a. Multi-Currency Accounts
One of the most effective ways for travel agents to manage currency exchange is by using multi-currency accounts. These accounts allow you to hold funds in different currencies, meaning you don’t always have to convert currencies when making or receiving payments.
Hold and pay in local currencies: With a multi-currency account, you can hold payments in the currencies that match your suppliers’ and clients’ preferences (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP, TZS, etc.). This eliminates the need for constant currency conversion, saving you on exchange rates and fees.
Minimize exchange rate risk: By holding funds in different currencies, you reduce the risk of currency fluctuations impacting the final amount. If the exchange rate moves unfavorably between the time of booking and payment, holding the local currency can protect you from additional losses.
b. Transparent Exchange Rates
A major issue with traditional cross-border payments is the lack of transparency in exchange rates and additional hidden fees. Many payment providers charge a margin on top of the mid-market rate, which can add up quickly.
Competitive exchange rates: Partnering with a cross-border payment provider like Verto, which offers competitive exchange rates, can help you manage this issue. By locking in better rates upfront, travel agents can offer more accurate pricing to their clients and avoid surprises in final payment amounts.
No hidden fees: Modern payment platforms are often more transparent with their fee structures. Instead of dealing with multiple hidden charges and intermediary fees, you can know exactly how much you’ll pay and how much your client will owe, making it easier to provide consistent pricing and reduce friction in the payment process.
c. Faster Payment Processing
Cross-border payments can take several days to process when using traditional banking systems. For travel agents, this delay can disrupt the cash flow, especially when paying suppliers or reconciling funds across different currencies.
Instant or near-instant payments: With digital payment solutions, international payments can be processed within hours or even in real-time, depending on the currencies and countries involved. This speed ensures that your transactions, whether between clients or suppliers, are completed on time, preventing delays in bookings and supplier payments.
Cash flow management: Faster payments mean improved cash flow for your business, allowing you to meet your financial obligations promptly and continue to grow without worrying about payment bottlenecks.
3. Reducing Payment Friction for Global Clients
The experience your clients have when paying for their travel bookings is just as important as the services you provide. Handling payments smoothly and offering flexible options can greatly enhance customer satisfaction.
a. Multiple Payment Methods
Global clients have different preferences for how they want to pay for travel bookings, whether by credit card, digital wallet, or bank transfer. Offering a variety of payment options makes it easier for clients to complete their bookings, regardless of where they’re located.
5. Benefits of Efficient Cross-Border Payments for Travel Agents
Implementing a seamless, cost-effective cross-border payment system provides several benefits for travel agents:
Improved cash flow: Faster and more efficient payments help travel agents maintain a healthy cash flow by reducing delays in receiving payments from clients or paying suppliers.
Enhanced client trust and satisfaction: Transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and competitive exchange rates improve the overall client experience, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.
Operational efficiency: Automated currency conversion, reporting, and payment tracking help streamline operations, freeing up time to focus on growing your travel business.
For travel agents handling cross-border payments, Verto provides an efficient way to collect payments from clients globally. With its global accounts and low-cost cross-border payment solutions, travel agents can easily collect payments in the preferred currencies of their clients, without the hassle of manual conversions or delays.
By adopting a platform like Verto for cross border payments, travel agents can provide clients with an easy and secure way to pay from anywhere in the world, reducing friction during the booking process. This enhances the customer experience and ensures that travel agents can focus more on providing exceptional services rather than worrying about payment delays or fees.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of currency exchange and cross-border payments is a necessary part of doing business in today’s globalized market. By leveraging advanced payment solutions like Verto, which provide multi-currency global accounts, competitive exchange rates, and seamless collections, travel agents can ensure smoother transactions for themselves and their clients.
Managing payments efficiently not only reduces operational costs but also enhances the overall customer experience. Whether you’re booking a luxury vacation package for a client in Europe or managing group tours for clients from within Africa, having a streamlined payment process is essential for staying competitive and building lasting relationships with your global clients.
By adopting modern cross-border payment solutions, travel agents can position themselves for success in an increasingly interconnected world, enabling them to grow their business while providing exceptional service to travelers worldwide.
