By Kennedy Uduny
(Posted 16th October 2022)
The stars of travel, tourism and hospitality aligned at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Nairobi, Kenya to find out who amongst them had won the industry’s ultimate annual honours.
A capacity audience of 400 VIP guests, industry figureheads and media were in attendance for a sensational World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2022.
Big winners at the red-carpet reception included the Maldives winning ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board. Cape Town picked up the coveted honour of ‘Africa’s Leading City Destination. Kenya topped off an evening that will live long in the memory by scooping the major title of ‘Africa’s Leading Destination’, capital Nairobi claimed the prize for ‘Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination’ and KICC for ‘Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre. ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination’ went to Mauritius, while ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ was won by Seychelles. Thanda Island took the trophy for ‘Africa’s Leading Luxury Island.
Graham Cooke, Founder, of WTA, said: “What a breathtaking event and what a truly memorable experience was had by our blue-chip audience. WTA had the privilege of recognising the region’s leading lights as the industry marked its triumphant return in style. As stellar examples of tourism excellence, our winners have helped to once again raise the bar” before adding:
“Nairobi is a pulsating city, rich in heritage but with a dynamic, forward-thinking business focus. And at its epicentre is the majestic KICC. I would like to put on record my heartfelt thanks to Nana Gecaga – the KICC’s superstar CEO and her fabulous team, as well as extend my gratitude to our generous Event Partners and Supporting Partners. I’ve been travelling the globe for the last 29 years heading up our annual Grand Tour of gala ceremonies. Tonight was amongst the very best I’ve had the privilege of leading. As the industry bounces back better and stronger, Kenya should take its place at the high table of world-class tourism destinations”.
Pollmans’ Tours – this correspondent’s first employer after moving from Germany to Kenya – lifted the trophy again for Kenya’s Leading Destination Management Company 2022 while the Baobab Beach Resort and Spa in Diani earned the Africa’s Leading Family Resort 2022 as a result of continued dedication, client care and overall excellence.
www.ATCNews.org extends best wishes to the ARP Group.
