UK arrivals to Kenya up

Kenya has seen a 4.8% increase in visitors from the UK market from January to May compared to last year.

In May alone the tourism board’s figures were up 5.5% from the UK, with help from its niche marketing to golf, business travel and weddings holidaymakers. It has also received more interest from the UK market due to its connections to the Royal family and Diamond Jubilee.

“Despite the challenges Kenya has faced the increase in arrivals in 2012 to date demonstrates that Kenya is still very much in demand amongst consumers. This is despite the global economic crisis, during which so many destinations have struggled to sustain, yet alone increase visitor numbers between 2008 and 2011,” said Angie Sloan, regional director Kenya Tourist Board UK & Ireland.

The figures have been released as Kenya National House, its home in London during the Olympics, has hailed its tourism programme a success.

The Stratford based house has held events for visitors throughout the last three days including cultural performances, a spa area and games. On Monday it held a Tourism Business Day with speeches from the Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Tourist Board and Kenyatta International Conference Centre looking at Vision 2030. The house will remain open until Sunday.

By Amanda Greenwood, 7 August 2012, Tuesday 4:46 PM