Expected growth attributed to a better image of Kenya abroad due to improved security.
Kenya Coast Tourism Association chairman Mohamed Hersi says leading tour operators from key European source markets endorsed Kenya during the ITB Berlin travel show in Germany.
More than 40 Kenyan exhibitors participated in the ITB Berlin travel show which ended on Sunday.
Majority of holidaymakers prefer to visit the country due to its premier beach and safari products coupled with the local culture and heritage.
Hoteliers expect international tourist bookings to increase by at least 10 per cent in November and December despite the August 8 General Election.
Last year, international tourist arrivals to Kenya by air and sea increased to 877,602 from 752,073 the previous year.
Kenya Coast Tourism Association chairman Mohamed Hersi attributed the projected 10-15 per cent winter booking growth to a positive image of the country in traditional and emerging markets due to improved security.
“During the peak period of November to December this year, we expect international bookings to surpass those of last year as more tourists are coming to Kenya as the destination is safer than the previous years,” he said.
He said leading tour operators from key European source markets endorsed Kenya during the ITB Berlin travel show in Germany last week.
Majority of holidaymakers prefer to visit the country due to its premier beach and safari products coupled with the local culture and heritage.
Mr Hersi, who is also the chief executive officer of Heritage Hotels, said the hotel group had engagements with tour operators from Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, India and the United States of America.
“In terms of business, this year’s ITB Berlin was much better for us, as we attracted interest from major tour firms from Europe, the US and Asian markets,” he added.
Diani Reef Beach Resort managing director Bobby Kamani said the hotel attracted business from China, Russia and Iran during the Berlin fair.
He noted that their marketing team also had business deals with tour operators from Germany, India and UK markets.
“During the high season, we expect to receive more visitors compared to last year as Diani is safe, the warm weather, the beaches and quality service to guests,” he said.
Lake Nakuru Lodge marketing director Joseph Muya said he had business deals with tour operators from Germany, UK, US and France at the Berlin show.
“After the General Election, we expect to receive more wildlife enthusiasts coming for game drives at Lake Nakuru Park. Others are interested in visiting Lake Naivasha,” he explained.
Over 40 exhibitors
More than 40 Kenyan exhibitors participated in the ITB Berlin travel show, which ended on Sunday.
