Travel advisories and their impact on tourism- case study of Kenya 2000 – 2014

Abstract

This study attempts to identify the degree to which travel advisories influence the decision to travel to Kenya by International tourists and to examine the consequences they have on Tourism and related business. Kenya‟s Tourism Industry has been affected by the threat of terrorism and subsequent travel advisories issued by traditional source markets.The purpose of this study therefore is to examine and find out the exact impact of travel advisories on the tourism industry. The study was guided by the experience Kenya has had from 2000- 2014. The study heavily relied on secondary data that was collected from publications, journals, Kenya National Bureau of statistics, and oral interviews of employees in tourist related businesses such as Hotels, Travel Agencies, Tour operators, Kenya Tourist board and conference organizers. From the findings of the study, it is concluded that travel advisories have adverse effects on the tourism industry and the economy of Kenya at large as tourists opt for other destinations resulting into reduced levels of employment and loss of income for many families. The study recommends several measures to be taken to protect and rebuild the image of Kenya, and boost tourists and investors confidence