Tourism players optimistic of this year's high season

Wednesday, July 3, 2013 - 00:00 -- CHARLES MGHENYI

TOURISM players in the coast have expressed optimism as the high season kicks off in two weeks time.
The Mombasa Coast Tourism Association chairperson Mohamed Hersi said they expect more foreign and local tourists.
“We are currently expecting visitors in the country both local and foreign starting July 15. Domestic tourism will also pick at around August where we will receive visitors from upcountry,” he said.
Hersi, who is also the General manager at Whitesands Hotel, said that they are currently having a bed occupancy standing at 90 per cent comprising of both local and foreign tourists.
The hotel industry has been surviving on local and the conference tourism during this low season.
The association's executive officer Millicent Odhiambo said the country expects more charter planes at around this time hence they are optimistic that the season will be profitable.
She said they are numerous apartments construction which have been going on in the coast region will be able to accommodate all the visitors expected.
“We are optimistic that the season will be good as we do not have any challenges currently,” she said.
Late last year and early this year before the March 4 general election, many countries issued travel advisories to their citizens for fear of violence erupting.
The peaceful elections have however given a boost to the sector.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-126758/tourism-players-optimistic-years-high-season