Kenya stamped its authority at the World Travel Awards (WTA) with most of its brands across the global travel and tourism industry receiving accolades for their excellent service.
Graham Cooke, founder, World Travel Awards, said: “The Durban ICC has reinforced its standing as a world-class entertainment venue on what has been a magnificent evening of travel industry triumph, as well as a highlight of our 25th anniversary.
“We have had the privilege of recognising the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from across Africa and the Indian Ocean and my congratulations to each of them.”
Ol Pejeta was named Africa’s leading conservancy.
Ol Pejeta’s human capital manager, Schola Waihenya said, “This prize validates our belief that conservation can and does work best when it benefits local communities.”
“We’re the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, which comes at a high price, yet we still managed to reinvest $750,000 into community projects last year.”
Kenya Airways scooped Africa’s Leading Airline for Economy and Business Class award.
Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa was voted the best beach resort in Africa with its magnificent Diani Beach being recognised for the fifth year running as Africa’s best beach.
Destination Kenya emerged Africa’s Leading Destination Management Company award and Masai Mara is Africa’s Leading National Park.
Satguru Travel & Tourism was voted Africa leading business travel agency and the Aberdare County Club as leading Green Hotel.
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club was chosen as Africa’s leading hotel, Palacina The Residence & Suites ( Leading Hotel residence), Villa Rosa Kempinski, Nairobi emerged as the leading Luxury hotel.
The Maasai Mara National Park was named Africa ’s leading national park, Olare Mara Kempinski( leading luxury tented camp).
Pollman’s Tours & Safaris received the top award of Africa’s leading tour operator while Bonfire Adventure maintained its grip on the award list after being named Africa’s leading travel agency.
Nairobi’s The Stanley hotel was voted as Kenya’s leading hotel.
World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry.
The WTA ceremony in Durban was the sixth leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands.
Regional winners will progress to the Grand Final 2018, which will be hosted in Lisbon, Portugal, on December, 1.