From John Elias of Ol Lentille, February 19, 2008
“Now that a political settlement seems possible in Kenya, I thought it time to update you on life at The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille.
It probably goes without saying that here, we and our guests have been completely unaffected by the demonstrations that occurred in a few parts of the country in the immediate post-election period. Unaffected save that our heartfelt sympathies go to those who have been affected. Ten percent of our February and March revenue will be going to the Red Cross.
It is a huge pity that the media coverage of events in Kenya has resulted in the collapse of tourism in the country. For no good reason. The safety of not a single tourist was put in jeopardy since December 27th. Even so, I know it may now be difficult for you to sell Kenya to a reluctant market with the same enthusiasm as before. June to September are beginning to look quite well-booked, and we have only had a single cancellation. Still plenty of availability! We look forward to giving travelers the best of luxury wilderness experiences this year.
It may be helpful to you to know that for bookings in the Easter period (March 10-30) we are offering half price charter flights direct from Nairobi Wilson Airport to our private airstrip.
Please tell your clients that it is my personal experience and the experience of my family, our neighbours and staff, and all of our guests who have travelled from overseas to be with us here – there are zero security issues. The international airport at Nairobi, the domestic airport from which almost all our guests fly to our private airstrip, the road between the two airports, and “even” the central Nairobi tourist hotels have been completely unaffected during the past almost two months. Except there is a bit less traffic on the roads, airport formalities are quick, and Nairobi hotels have plenty of space.
The only little local difficulty we have here right now is elephants. We have now identified 42 individuals who seem to have taken up residence here, attracted by the lushness of our grass and acacia woodland. I just wish they would not insist in pushing tree trunks across our bush tracks!”
With best regards
John
To read an official tourism update, see News & Resources.
