This archive report was first published on 26 December 2019.
December 26, 2019 - Thousands of tourists flocked to Mombasa and other coastal areas to celebrate the Christmas holiday season, resulting in a significant surge in bookings for hotels and tourist establishments.
According to a spot check by the Kenya News Agency, most hotels and apartments in Mombasa and other coastal areas were fully booked, with local visitors taking the lion's share.
Events such as water sports, football, camel riding, family dinners, traditional dances, and live bands were organized by hotels to entertain holidaymakers.
Hoteliers attributed the significant increase in domestic visitors to aggressive marketing, friendly packages, and the introduction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
Malindi and Watamu in Kilifi County, as well as Diani in Kwale County, were the preferred holiday destinations for many Kenyans and foreign visitors.
Travelers Beach Hotel and Club's Marketing Manager, Wafula Waswa, said the players in the hospitality industry were encouraged to see Kenyans embracing domestic tourism.
"We have introduced special packages for Kenyans to encourage them to enjoy affordable holiday retreats," said Waswa.
Plan Hotels International's General Manager, Alexander Zissimatos, commended Kenyans for taking advantage of the special packages offered by hotels, saying Malindi has always been a preferred holiday destination for local visitors.
