NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 28 – Most Kenyans have become travel savvy post COVID-19 resulting in a lot of research and early bookings for both domestic and international holiday travels. The number of travel bookings has since increased by 25% compared to pre-pandemic times over the last three years.
Easter holds a special place in the tourism and travel industry, and is mostly recognized as a peak season characterized by heightened demand and notable increases in transport and accommodation charges.
To ensure travelers secure the best experiences, at Hemingways Travel we advise early bookings, ideally 3 to 6 months in advance. This proactive approach not only guarantees availability but also provides travelers with a variety of options to choose from and best experiences, as well as save money, avoiding the constraints of last-minute bookings.
For example, as a traveler you are able to take advantage of destination discounts and season rates. A flight from Nairobi to Mombasa that will cost you Kes. 19,100 in March, when booking in advance you are able to secure the same at Kes. 9,500 resulting in close to 50% savings.
Moreover, early bookings afford travelers the luxury of ample time for meticulous itinerary planning, this enables you to settle on your outdoor itinerary depending on your destination and weather, for instance you cannot go for outdoor excursions during the rainy season such as whale sporting in Watamu or dhow breakfast that is offered at Hemingways Watamu.
Traveling during Easter presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the diverse range of customs and traditions that define this season. Across continents and cultures, each destination offers its own unique interpretation of Easter, providing travelers with a wealth of experiences to discover and experience. In Kenya, many opt for coastal getaways or nearby drivable destinations such as Naivasha, Nakuru, Oloitoktok, or Nanyuki, with each offering its own distinct charm and allure.
Beyond the need of observing the seasonal traditions, Easter travel has since provided a chance to forge meaningful connections and bond with family and friends. Over the years, we’ve observed that the majority of Easter travel bookings are centered around family and friendship getaways. With joint experiences beyond familiar surroundings, such experiences present room to gain insights into the diversity of human experiences and unity.
With the rise in need of sustainability initiatives and measures, it’s imperative to weave sustainability into every aspect of the planning process. At Hemingways Travel we advocate for sustainable practices and in most cases promote and recommend properties that practice sustainability and environmental policies.
We also encourage travelers to minimize their environmental footprint by opting for carbon-neutral travel methods, such as energy and water conservation and also taking an initiative to reduce plastic usage and also supporting local communities through responsible tourism initiatives, and advocating for the preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites which are all integral components of sustainable planning.
Even though most people take this time to relax, reenergize and strategize, Easter travel fosters a spirit of openness and curiosity, encouraging us to embrace unfamiliar customs and traditions with an open heart and mind depending on where and how you choose to celebrate the holiday. In doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage around us.
In the end, Easter travel is not just about visiting new places but being on a journey of exploration and self-discovery, where every encounter is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the world around us. So let us set forth with open hearts and adventurous spirits, ready to embrace the magic of Easter wherever our travels may take us.
The writer is Head of Sales & Client Management at Hemingways Travel
