In addition, Kenya Airways encourages tour operators and travel agents to promote Kenya as well as the rest of Africa, thus combining the best of the continent as  only Kenya Airways can. For those agents who need assistance in planning tours, our sales team takes time to understand the needs of the customer and assists the agent in developing a tour programme. If necessary, we also provide agents with the contact details of Kenyan agents who know and understand the needs of the Indian market. We conduct many contests and prize-giveaways - such as the Simba Contest - for travel agents to involve them in promoting Kenya. Our sales team consistently encourages agents to get involved and we regularly update our schemes sent to enhance participation. We also hold award functions for agents to recognize top revenue supporters and thank them for their support. Our emphasis is to enlighten consumers that Kenya is safe to visit as a destination. Even the Kenyan government has taken initiatives in this direction. They have set up the Tourism Police unit which travels along the tourism route. The other important factor, especially for the Indian traveller, is food. In Kenya, we have a very large Indian community and quite a few Indian-owned restaurants, hotel chains and tour companies. Most tour operators cater to the Indian palette. There is also a general perception that Kenya is an expensive destination. Transportation is generally expensive, but invariably most Kenya packages are all inclusive and full-board. We want to enlighten consumers that the package to Kenya may appear expensive but this figure is inclusive as you pay only once for the entire trip comprising of meals, sightseeing, wildlife safaris and transportation. This makes it easier to budget personal expenses.

Which are the various segments of passengers travelling out of India on Kenya Airways to connect with the African continent?
Currently, the leisure segment comprises 15% of our total business from India. As Kenya has much to offer especially in terms of wildlife and adventure, we are looking to continue promoting tourism. Besides leisure travellers, 30% are business travellers, 7% are the VFR segment (Visiting Friends and Relatives) and 4% are traders. Seamen travellers are around 8% and labourers constitute about 30%. Religious travellers constitute 6%. We have a good mix of travellers.

How has the growth in the Indian market been for Kenya Airways and what have been the significant achievements of Kenya Airways in 2008?
Over the last few years, the load factor has improved by 10%. We have an average load factor of 80% and during peak periods, it increases to 90%. Even during the low season our load factor is maintained at 70%. The Indian market has always been very supportive of the Kenyan market and we are encouraged by the consistent growth. We strongly believe that Africa has the business opportunities and unique holiday experience to offer the Indian market that will ensure this trend continues into 2009 and beyond. Our most significant achievement in 2008 would have to be continuing to remain profitable despite the turbulent and challenging times in the aviation industry.

Kenya joined SkyTeam as an associate airline in 2007. What is the significance of joining SkyTeam?
SkyTeam is the second largest airline alliance in the world - behind Star Alliance - partnering fourteen carriers from four continents. Kenya Airways became an associate airline of the alliance in September 2007.

Benefits for passengers include:

Which are the times of year that you would recommend to Indian visitors to get the best safari experiences?
Kenya is a year-round destination. From July to September however, visitors can experience one of the greatest wonders of the natural world – the animal migration. This is truly a value for money experience. Most visitors from India travel during their summer vacation which is from April to June. As this time of year is low season in Kenya, the best deals are available. The Great Migration which is globally legendary takes place during August and September Kenya offers the perfect experience for honeymooners especially because of the fantastic weather it offers during the months of November until January which is a popular time for weddings in India. The MICE segment travels during the off periods (February/ March/ July) as the best deals are available. The Diwali holidays are also a very popular time to visit Kenya.

Which are the popular beach holiday destinations that one can combine with safari whilst planning a Kenyan or an African holiday with convenient connections on Kenyan Airways?
Kenya offers some of the most beautiful beaches and coastlines in the world. Popular beach holiday destinations in and around Kenya include Mombasa, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Kenya Airways can also take you to the unique beaches of Seychelles and Maputo. One can even use Kenyan Airways to combine a South African beach holiday with a Kenyan safari.

Which are your preferred destinations to visit within Kenya?
Kenya has numerous world-class attractions. Kenya has 48 national parks and 4 marine parks. Some of the must-visit attractions are Masai Mara, Aberdares, Nakuru, Samburu, Mount Kenya Safari Club and Mombasa. The Great Rift Valley is home to one of the wonders of the world - Masai Mara, with its vast grasslands and abundant wildlife, which is home to the Big Five. Lake Nakuru looks pink in colour because of the number of flamingos who have made the lake their home. In addition, the lake is the perfect place to come face to face with the Rhino. Mount Kenya Safari Club is one of the leading hotels in the world in one of the most relaxing environments. The Aberdares lie mainly above the tree-line where you can stay amongst the tree tops and have the animals come and visit you. The white sandy beaches of Mombasa have to be experienced to be believed. Nairobi National Park is the only wildlife park in the world that has a city as a backdrop. For those who enjoy adventure sports, we have facilities for water rafting and mountain climbing in Central Kenya. Since Kenya is located on the equator, the weather is pleasant throughout the year. In Kenya, you can experience a truly different safari.We are optimistic that the election of Barack Obama has put Kenya on the global map. We are encouraged that people from across the world are now curious about our country and want to visit and discover where the new President of the United States comes from. We believe that this will yield some positive gains in the tourism sector.

Why is it that the Kenyans always excel in long distance running? What is the secret of their success?
Kenya has always invested heavily in developing athletes. The secret lies in the training which is usually done at high altitude in hilly areas of the Rift Valley. That is where the majority of world record breakers live and train. The training is extremely vigorous and the athletes are very determined, but the elevation does seem to contribute to their success. Their bodies get conditioned to function with the decrease in oxygen and accordingly, less oxygen is required to exercise the muscles. When they  participate in the Mumbai Marathon, which is at sea level, the higher levels of oxygen available to them makes it much easier to run. Furthermore, the Kenyan diet consists principally of milk, meat and vegetables which provide the ideal nutritional balance. Most importantly, running is a habit in Kenya. As a child, one is used to run and not walk. It is in our culture.

What has been your experience of India till date and what similarity do you find between the people of India and Kenya?
I have been in India for six months now. My experience of India has been exciting and extremely challenging. India is an extremely competitive market. Similarities between Indians and Kenyans include placing a high value on family, hard work and culture. The people of India are also very hospitable, cultured, religious and welcoming. I feel very much at home here and I am certain that Indians will feel very much at home in Kenya.

Lastly, what is your message to readers about why Kenya should be a must-visit destination for 2009 and why Kenya Airways should be the preferred carrier to the African continent?
Kenya offers you nature at its vibrant and authentic best. You are guaranteed a stress free holiday that gives you time to bond with your family. Kenya offers a unique and different experience that can be shared with others for years to come. Africa is truly a value for money destination. Kenya Airways is your best choice of carrier as we truly know and understand Africa. We operate daily – and sometimes even more frequent - flights to destinations throughout the continent. Hence, in most cases, you can travel on the date of your choice with a choice of flight timings designed for your comfort. In addition, we have a product that is focused on the customer's experience. We welcome you to our world. We are truly the Pride of Africa.

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