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.
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.”
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.
As AirAsia’s inaugural flight to Nairobi approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch, and for good reasons! Kenya is not only the first African country that AirAsia will fly to, but also the gateway to a groundbreaking connection between the continents of Africa and Asia.
To commemorate this historic event, AirAsia is launching a massive week-long sale, offering unbeatable deals on flights to a wide range of destinations.
AirAsia BIG SALE is back !
Booking period: now until 10th November 2024.
Travel period: 21st April to 28th March
Log on to your agency portal account here and BOOK NOW!
Click here for a fly-thru connections list for your reference.
Our Kenyan office, the first in Africa, is now open for business. Visit us Monday to Saturday for tailored assistance.
Travel Agents, travel consultants, travel advisors, travel specialists, and travel counselors are terms used interchangeably to describe the travel professional who helps to arrange travel for clients. Travel itself has always been in a state of transition.
The industry has evolved significantly since travelers carried paper tickets to the airport, paid in cash, and engaged in a tedious back-and-forth process to confirm their travel plans. What we may now view as cumbersome was once the height of convenience, given the technology available at the time.
In days past, far fewer people traveled compared to today, and the role of the travel agent was central to the entire process. Since the first travel agency was established in 1865 by Thomas Cook, a travel agent operated as a broker connecting travelers to transportation, accommodation and experiences for a commission.
The rise of technology has transformed the industry, moving it from the traditional model of booking travel through a travel agent located in a physical office at a corner street to a digital space where travelers can book trips from the comfort of their homes.
In the past, with limited information available to the general public, it was the travel agent’s job to paint a vivid picture of the destination for potential travellers. Travellers relied entirely on these agents for advice and information that today can easily be accessed online.
Clients no longer needed to rely on agents to convey information about destinations; instead, they could easily find it online. To stay relevant, travel agents had to evolve into travel advisors. This new role leverages their technical knowledge, which includes creating tailored travel packages based on a deep understanding of the traveller’s profile and the destination.
A professional travel advisor can anticipate and fulfill a traveller’s desires, ensuring a satisfying experience, says Nicanor Sabula, CEO of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA).
While one might assume that the advancements in technology would eliminate the need for human expertise, technology’s greatest strength is also its biggest weakness.
The limitless information available online also presents limitless possibilities for misinformation.
The online space is fraught with risks that only a trusted advisor can mitigate. Today’s travellers depend on travel advisors to verify their travel arrangements and provide technical advice on destination requirements.
Julie Dabaly Scott, Managing Director of CWT Kenya and Bunson Travel, says the role of a travel agent has undergone a significant transformation from simply booking and organizing travel arrangements to becoming a trusted travel advisor. As a result, the modern travel agent’s value now lies in offering personalized advice, insider knowledge, and tailored experiences that go beyond what can be easily found online.
She says this evolution in the role has led travel advisors to approach their work differently. In the past, the primary focus was on securing travel arrangements. Now, the role has expanded to encompass a holistic approach to travel planning. This includes assisting with travel insurance, visa applications, restaurant reservations, special event planning, and even providing support during the trip itself.
Tom Kitingu of Grato Travels says Kenyan travellers fall into two distinct categories. The first group consists of those with the resources but little time. These travellers don’t have the luxury to shop around for the best deals but demand customized experiences tailored to their tight schedules.
The second category includes budget travellers who, while knowledgeable about their needs, are willing to forgo certain luxuries but insist on getting the best value for their money.
At KATA, says Sabula, their role is to equip members with the tools and knowledge needed understand the preferences of today’s traveller.
KATA exists to protect the interests of travel agents and the traveling public by educating members, holding them accountable to professional standards, connecting them to opportunities, and representing them to authorities and other stakeholders in foreign policy formulation.
Travellers have increasingly adopted the internet as their primary source of travel inspiration, moving away from traditional travel agents who once served as key intermediaries for information and bookings. A growing number of travellers now opt for websites, AI-generated itineraries, and direct online bookings.
A veteran travel professional, Julie says the evolution of travel advisory services is an ongoing process. While some agents continue to adapt to this shift, others may face challenges. Julie expresses her optimism about the future of travel advisory services and emphasizes that the ability to adapt to changing market demands will be key to thriving in the industry.
Original coverage on Sunday Standard, October 27, 2024
The United Kingdom has announced changes to its visa application process that will affect applicants from several countries, including Kenya.
The UK government unveiled these updates on Monday, October 21, 2024, and will affect current and future visa applicants. Central to these changes is the switch from TLScontact to VFS Global as the new commercial partner for visa printing.
“This transition is set to take place between September 2024 and January 2025 across several regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. For Kenyan applicants, the process will start with TLScontact and conclude with VFS Global,” the UK High Commission in Nairobi said.
The High Commission has urged applicants to “remain calm and follow the instructions carefully,” provided via email from both TLScontact and VFS Global.
These emails will outline the necessary steps in the visa process. Applicants were also reminded to “check their junk folders” to ensure they do not miss any critical updates.
Those with scheduled visa interviews were advised to attend as planned.
However, if a rescheduling is required, applicants will have to pay the mandatory user pay (MUP) fee again, and then request a refund for the initial fee from TLScontact.
Despite the administrative changes, the High Commission reassured applicants that “the processing time for visas will remain unaffected.”
VFS Global will officially take over the visa application centres in Kenya from October 22, 2024.
This transition is part of a broader strategy to improve the efficiency and security of the visa application system.
The shift to VFS Global is expected to bring several benefits, including enhanced service delivery and heightened security.
With extensive experience in managing visa centres globally, VFS Global is well-prepared to manage the increased workload.
Along with the change in commercial partners, the UK Government has also introduced new measures to streamline the visa process.
One such innovation is the launch of an online visa application service called Access UK, which aims to simplify the process by providing “easy-to-follow checklists and online payment options.”
Public reaction to the changes has been mixed.
While some people expressed concerns about potential confusion and delays, others see it as a step in the right direction towards “improving the visa application process.”
The High Commission emphasized its commitment to “ensuring a smooth transition” and providing support to all applicants.
These changes come as the UK seeks to “strengthen its ties” with Kenya and other countries in the region.
UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan highlighted the importance of “maintaining strong bilateral relations” and ensuring an efficient and secure visa system.
As the transition unfolds, the UK High Commission will continue to provide updates and guidance to applicants. Kenyans are encouraged to stay informed and follow all instructions to ensure a “smooth and successful visa application experience.”
It’s been almost five years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the aviation industry has mostly recovered . So, what are the United States’ direct flight connections with the continent of Africa for November 2024 compared to November 2019 before the pandemic? Africa is collectively home to around 1.4 billion people – far more than North and South America combined. According to data from Cirium, flights between the US and Africa have significantly more than recovered from the pandemic.
Airlines flying between the US and Africa
Comparing data for the months of November 2019 and November 2024 for direct flights from Africa to the United States, there has been a notable 33% increase in flights.
Airlines flying between the United States and Africa in November 2024
Royal Air Marco
EgyptAir
Delta Air Lines
United Airlines
Kenya Airways
Ethiopian Airlines
Two of the six African airlines in 2019 were from North Africa (Royal Air Maroc in Marocco) and EgyptAir. Three airlines from sub-Saharan Africa (Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways). One airline from the African island nation of Cape Verde (Cabo Verde Airlines) doesn’t fit neatly into the North/Sub-Saharan African divide.
Notably, US-based Delta and United have driven the increase in flights between the continents. Overall, the number of monthly flights has increased from 640 to 852, a 33% increase.
Photo: Kevin Hackert | Shutterstock
Delta’s flights increased from 160 in November 2019 to 232 in November 2024. That represents a 45% increase in flights and a total of 59,506 seat capacity for November 2024. Delta is the airline with the most flights and seats between the US and Africa. It flies to South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana (in West Africa), and Morocco.
Airline:
Flights November 2019
Flights November 2024
Change
Royal Air Maroc:
134
112
-16%
Delta Air Lines:
160
232
+45%
Ethiopian Airlines:
91
150
+65%
Kenya Airways:
44
60
+36%
EgyptAir:
86
74
-14%
South African Airways:
112
0
-100%
United Airlines:
0
224
+100%
Cabo Verde Airlines:
13
0
-100%
Total:
640
852
+33%
While United lacked any flights to Africa in November 2019, it has 224 scheduled for 225, placing it second after Delta. United’s African destinations are similar to Delta’s: South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Morocco. All of these routes (except for flights from Newark to Marrakesh, Morocco) are served with Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. Most are three times a week, although the flights to South Africa’s Johannesburg are daily.
Despite a large civil war (and a series of other confusing civil wars) ravaging parts of Ethiopia (particularly between 2020 and 2022), the number of Ethiopian Airlines flights to the United States has increased by 65% from 91 flights to 150. That is the largest percentage increase of any airline over that time (from a non-zero starting point).
Ethiopian Airlines has grown to become one of the leading stars of airlines in sub-Saharan Africa and offers some of the best connections for the continent (there are comparatively few inter-African connections). Ethiopian Airlines has made its hub at Addis Ababa a major hub for sub-Saharan Africa in general. Unfortunately, in Western countries Ethiopian Airlines is perhaps better known for Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 , whose Boeing 737 MAX 8 crashed in March 2019 (which heralded Boeing’s MAX crisis that continues to buffet the company today).
Airline
Seats November 2019
Seats November 2024
Change
Royal Air Maroc:
38,508
32,368
-16%
Delta Air Lines
40,044
59,506
+49%
Ethiopian Airlines:
25,155
43,136
+71%
Kenya Airways:
10,296
14,040
+36%
EgyptAir:
26,574
24,790
-7%
South African Airways:
30,780
0
-100%
United Airlines:
0
54,024
+100%
Cabo Verde Airlines:
2,379
0
-100%
Total:
173,736
227,864
+31%
Photo: Abdul N Quraishi – Abs | Shutterstock
Kenya Airways has also been able to increase its flights to the US by 36%. EgyptAir and Royal Air Maroc have both decreased a little, with 14% fewer flights and 7% fewer seats, and 16% fewer flights and 16% fewer seats, respectively. There are no scheduled Cabo Verde Airlines flights scheduled for November 2024.
Africa is the world’s second-largest continent and has so much to see and do. It is one of the least explored regions of the world and very often gets in the news for all the wrong reasons. Sub-Saharan Africa is best known for its safaris to see the animals, but there is so much more on offer. The comparative dearth of flights to only seven of Africa’s 56 or so countries shows there is much more potential.
[Nairobi, Kenya, October 1, 2024] – Kenya Airways in collaboration with its customers is set to elevate its in-flight dining experience following an exclusive Product Selection event held today at KQ’s Pride Centre. This unique gathering brought together select customers and culinary experts to sample a diverse array of meals and drinks, all aimed at reshaping the airline’s onboard dining experience. Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, commented on the event, emphasizing that food is one of the most memorable aspects of travel. He stated, “Kenya Airways is committed to transforming in-flight dining from a routine necessity into an enjoyable experience that passengers can genuinely look forward to.”
Kilavuka further emphasized the new upcoming menu, stating, “The new menu will showcase a harmonious mix of global culinary influences and local flavors, guaranteeing that every guest discovers something delightful to enjoy. Our goal is for our meals to be as thrilling as the destinations you’re visiting.” Sustainability is also a key focus of this initiative, with Kenya Airways planning to source ingredients responsibly and support local producers. Kilavuka noted that this approach marries the culinary experience with a commitment to environmental stewardship, enhancing the meal while contributing to the well-being of the planet. Attendees at the event were encouraged to provide feedback, which will help shape the future of Kenya Airways’ in-flight offerings. This interactive experience underscores the airline’s dedication to passenger engagement, making customers feel heard and valued in the decision-making process. “Through this event, Kenya Airways is not only elevating its in-flight dining but also redefining what travelers can expect from their journeys,” Kilavuka stated. He added, “We aim to ensure that every aspect of your flight is enjoyable, from takeoff to landing, leaving you with delicious memories long after the plane has landed.” As Kenya Airways continues to innovate and refine its services, travelers can look forward to a dining experience that captures the essence of hospitality and flavor, making every journey not just a means to an end but a delightful part of the adventure.
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About Kenya Airways: Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is Kenya’s national carrier and a leading African airline on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 45 destinations worldwide, 37 of which are in Africa, connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through the Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honoured with the Best Airline Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024. For more information, visit www.kenya-airways.com or call our 24-hour Customer Services Desk at +254 20 327
We are also available on X: @ KenyaAirways & @ KQSupport , Facebook: @ OfficialKenyaAirways, Instagram: @ OfficialKenyaAirways Tiktok: @officialkenyaairways For all media enquiries, please reach out to Kenya Airways Corporate Communications at Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com.
THE Tanzania Association of Travel Agents (TASOTA) has underscored the need to embrace innovative technologies to shield the sector from disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Agnes Rwegasira, the TASOTA chairperson, made this appeal at a travel convention and annual general meeting (AGM) in Dar es Salaam yesterday, an event that brought together key stakeholders from the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.
The meeting was intended for crucial deliberations, networking and collaboration with the expectation of shaping the future of the local travel industry.
“We are gathered here with various stakeholders from the airlines and the tourism sector in general. Our goal is to collaborate with the government and private agencies to promote domestic and international tourism in line with the country’s policies,” she stated.
The meeting featured panel discussions on how East African countries can work together to enhance tourism, address policy and infrastructure challenges and foster the industry’s sustainable development.
The new distribution capability protocol adopted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) came up for discussion, which stakeholders say is revolutionizing airline services by enabling personalized offers and improving financial systems.
Discussions centred on how to capitalise on Tanzania’s leisure tourism potential with luxury offerings, innovative experiences and international partnerships, without offsetting sustainable tourism practices.
“Conversations highlighted the need to expand domestic air connectivity, address challenges in remote areas, making air travel more accessible and sustainable across the country, ” she explained.
David Kihenzile, the Transport deputy minister, remarked that the growth of the travel and tourism sector has to be aligned with sustainability, stressing that environmental considerations should be integral to business strategies, not an afterthought.
“As key stakeholders in the industry, you have the power to lead by example by adopting sustainable practices, such as initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and investing in eco-friendly infrastructure and responsible tourism,” he stated.
The TASOTA leadership, government representatives, industry experts from IATA and regional travel executives offered valuable insights into the future of local air travel and in the Southern Africa region.
