Rwanda Taps into Chinese Tourism market at the Guilin Tourism Expo
Rwanda is participating at the China Guilin International Tourism Expo in China from May 29th -31st, 2015, which is taking place at the Guilin International Conference and Exhibition Center in Guangxi, China.
“The China Guilin International Tourism Expo is one of the leading tourism exhibitions that caters for both business and travel sectors. It is therefore a good platform for Rwanda to expand its partnerships and business relationships especially in the tourism industry. Rwanda has all it takes to be a premier destination for Chinese tourists,” said the Ambassador of Rwanda to China Charles Kayonga.
The expo brings together the Chinese tour and travel industry and the Association of South Asian Nations, which has a combined population of almost two billion people, with international buyers and exhibitors. This makes it a strategic platform for leading industry players to tap into the enormous and still growing Chinese and Asian tourism markets.
“With easy access to Rwanda, a destination that offers varied and exciting experiences for travelers and with continuous awareness through roadshows and fairs such as this, we expect to see an increase in the number of leisure and business tourists from China,” Ambassador Kayonga added.
In order to give the visitors at the stand a taste of the Rwanda experience, traditional and cultural dances are being performed and traditional instruments such as the famous inanga (violin) are being used to create music. In addition, there are Business to Business and networking sessions among industry players to exchange information on the various attractions and what it takes for Chinese tour companies to market the Rwanda destination.
Zhang Chao from Hunan Everbright International Travel Service Co. Ltd, one of the outb ,ound companies in China, said that; “Increasingly, our customers are asking about new experiences, Rwanda would be a potential market to look at considering what I have seen and heard here at the expo.”
The China Guilin International Tourism Expo is organized by The People’s Government of Guilin, the Guangxi International Expositions Bureau, China Guangxi Tourism Administration in partnership with The Guilin Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Guilin Municipal Tourism Bureau, and Conference and Exhibition Management Services (CEMS).
Ends
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Nyungwe’s Canopy Walk
Nyungwe Forest National park is, without doubt, one of the reasons why Rwanda has lately become a top tourist destination the world over. A visit to this place should be among the things on your ‘To Do List’ before this year ends. It is not only a place for relaxation but also one for adventure and insight into Rwanda’s unique beauty.
Nyungwe Forest is the largest protected mountain forest in Africa covering between 1600 and 2000 square metres; and, being a five-hour drive into the heart of Rwanda, the long drive to Nyungwe gives visitors a chance to drink in the country’s diverse scenery and impressive landscape en route to the main attraction.
Once you get there, prepare yourself to embark on one of the most incredible adventures you will ever have: The Canopy Walk!
Besides the beautiful scenery, huge, centuries-old trees and extra thick forest, this outstanding tropical forest is shelter to a 200m Canopy Walk way that will give a thrill that can hardly be matched by anything else.
Getting to the Canopy is about 2 hours from the starting point at Uwinka Visitors centre. This forest is on a mountain and so the hike down is quite slippery because of the mere fact the ground on which the tourists trek is wet and moist. Seeing the Canopy on arrival, especially for those afraid of heights, it could be described as ‘The endless walk to Hell’.
The bridge suspended between huge trees gives one a feel of fresh air, 60 metres above the forest floor. Besides the freshness in the air and magnificent aerial view of the trees, you will enjoy the sight of beautiful birds flying across as you enjoy the walk.
The Canopy Walk is the favourite activity for park visitors. It is one of those things you want to attempt before you die.
Opened in 2010 it is the only one of its kind in East Africa and the third on the continent.
The 90 metrelong Canopy walkway offers unique face to face encounters with butterflies, colorful birds and monkeys.
Hard wood trees dominate the upper canopy while the lower part is beautified with a large selection of purple orchids and lush flora and fauna that flourish better in the higher altitudes.
Besides the Canopy Walk, the park offers a range of trails in to different parts of the forests for avid hikers and occasional walkers. All the guided walks depart from the central Uwinka Reception centre, the western Gisakura entrance and the eastern Kitabi entrance.
While the view may be better from above, this tourist attraction is equally fascinating from the forest floor.
A network of over ten mud trails takes you deep into the heart of the forest park.
Finally, do reward yourself after a 10km hike with a visit to Nyungwe Forest’s beautiful Ishumo waterfall. It may be small in size, but this calm waterfall is striking in its own way and the breeze to which one is welcomed will feel like one of life’s simplest and greatest pleasures.
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FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The Virunga mountains in Rwanda are famous for to be a home of to over 40 mountain gorillas which is half of the world’s big population and some of these gorillas where discovered in the neighboring Bwindi Impenetrable Park. There are ten gorilla families that have been habituated for viewing by tourists and they are a must see. The mountain gorillas in Virunga move in a big group including babies, juveniles and the mothers.
Planning your Gorilla trekking safari.
The fact remain that gorillas can be tracked all around the year in Rwanda therefore as a tourist, feel free and ready for you expeditious safari. During the rainy seasons in the republic of Rwanda in April- May and November you are required to carry a rain jacket, walking boots and warm clothes. Its quiet hard to predict weather in Africa because it can rain anytime.
How and when to secure a Gorilla Permit.
Securing a permit, you need to use a reliable tour company which will arrange for you. The permits cost UD 750 and only 80 permits are issued each day for the different gorilla groups though the money seems to be a lot, it is very rewarding to see these gorillas.
Conditions required for Gorilla tracking
As a tracker, you must be physically fit since is the only way you will enjoy the hike as you move through the forest, searching for the gorillas. Some breaks are given as you walk along the walk which enables you to catch a breath. In case you feel so tired and you cannot continue you may hire a porter at a fee. During the walk, some gorilla groups are close and can be seen within 30 minutes though this depends on the one assigned guide.
What is expected on your Gorilla Safari?
You will require an early morning breakfast then head to the park head quarters in Kiningi village for briefing about the rules and regulations that govern gorilla trekking in Rwanda. After you have been assigned a gorilla group to track by the ranger you will be required to move to the forest and it is quiet strenuous although rewarding to you as a trekker.
What is required to be packed for your Gorilla Safari/ Tour
You will only enjoy your trek by packing the right safari/tour clothes which include Khaki clothes, jeans, long and short sleeved shirts, walking boots, sandals, Gloves, Rain jacket, sweater, socks and a safari hat. The trails are muddy sometimes or slippery and do need strong walking shoes. You will also need a walking stick to support you as you walk on the steep slopes of the mountain.
What is the best time to take photos when you are in the field?
Tourists/visitors who come to track gorillas want to remain with good memories. A camera is a must to carry and make sure that it is fully charged or have extra batteries. You must take magical pictures that will remind you of an adventurous safari you had in Rwanda. As a tourist, you will be kindly required to switch off your flash light when taking photos since it disturbs gorillas and they decide to walk away. Since these areas are rain forest, you need to take care of your camera and these needs to be protected. The park is known to have 10 gorilla families for tracking including; Agashya, Amahoro, Sabyino, Umubano, Susa, Karisimbi, Hirwa, Kwitonda, Bwenge as well as Uganda group of gorillas. All these gorilla groups are exciting thus take adventure with the Mountain Gorillas of Volcano National park in the Republic of Rwanda.
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Creating a Perfect Rwanda Safari Itinerary
Thinking about perfect Africa holidays, Rwanda is a well-stocked full of only wonderful & amazing attractions from culture to wildlife. Scenic views can take your attention all through but the friendly beautiful people impact your stay more than what you can imagine. No wonder thousands visit the country often and feel delighted every time they talk or think about Africa and Rwanda in particular.
Gorilla trekking tours are one of Rwanda’s unforgettable travel experience and an outstanding adventure in the whole world. Before heading out for a Rwanda safari ensure that you buy a gorilla permit at the Rwanda tourism board which go for $ 750USD.But if your schedules are tight a Rwanda travel agent can book it for you provided you put in your request in time. Get to the park as early as 7.am to meet up with other day trackers for briefing an activity which unveil all the gorillas dos and don’ts. A traditional dance welcome you at the park head quarter and morning coffee becomes even tastier since it’s sipped in company of the Intore dance performers. Put on right clothes and remember to carry your valid passport plus the insect repellant.
Later the park headquarters assigns you a gorilla group and guide according to your level of fitness, followed by entering the forest with your guide to search for the exclusive Mountain Gorillas. Normally the park guides keep in touch with other park wardens who surely know where the apes are. During Rwanda Gorilla safaris, tourists have ample freedom of speech so they request for particular Gorilla families provided they are sure of their level of fitness. Make good research on different gorilla families before putting in your request at the park headquarters especially if your interest is to track a family with many baby gorillas and members.Before the trek it’s good to hire porters bit fit or not since they give you a solution to slippery grounds (walking sticks).The bottom line of this is to have an exceptional Gorilla tracking experience free from luggage but full of joy and relaxation. Besides viewing mountain gorillas in their natural beautiful home is Rwanda’s most wonderfully rewarding adventure which leave every gorilla tracker happy and full of amazing memories plus stories which last forever.
Interestingly the adventure is great for family holidays, group and sole travel because memories don’t discriminate the adults or youngsters.Even gorilla lodges cater for young and old offering exclusive comfort throughout every guest stay.
There is nothing better than exploring a beautiful country at your own pace at the same time making your dream come true. Africa is a large, beautiful and mysterious continent waiting to be discovered but Rwanda will make you have a million reasons to visit other Africa travel destinations. Take the strain off you and book a tailor made Rwanda gorilla trekking safari to volcanoes national park for three day duration or even more if time permits. A perfect 3 day Rwanda Gorilla safari itinerary will be designed by experienced tour consultants covering the entire main park activities including gorilla tracking, golden monkey trek, a visit to the twin lakes, diany fossey tombs and also mountain hikes to Bisoke and Karisimbi. Still the expert will advise you on the best lodges to use according to your budget hence making you get the most out of your African adventure.
Above all Rwanda itself is amazing, the people are wonderful with spectacular tour activities done under co-operative cool weather, and the tour guides are too tremendous that no guest fails to say thanks to you for taking us through at the end of every Rwanda tour. Kind words like that are what make Rwanda travel the most excellent travel destination in Africa. Check out some of the trendiest gorilla adventures online for a little further evidence of how fun it is to take on a Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour for family, group or sole travel. Everything can be great if you plan well and use right trip planners; however, fantasy feels all over the morning on the Gorilla tracking day in the ancient beautiful forest which comes to life every day.
Read MoreSisters of Rwanda
The Rwandan genocide of 1994 was a tragic period of history as most are aware, causing close to 1,000,000 deaths with over 99.9% of the population being witness to violence and death. Over 300,000 children were made orphans with over 85,000 under 18’s left with the responsibility of looking after their younger siblings. This has lead to many social problems with the younger generations today. Many girls were lead into prostitution due in large, to immense poverty and lack of knowledge of other alternatives.
This is a lonely life of abuse and neglect. Many are repetitively raped and it is believed that today in Rwanda around 25% of sex workers in Rwanda are HIV positive. Legally, Rwandan laws take a very strict criminalizing policy towards prostitution, with the sex seller rather than the sex buyer being prosecuted. When arrested the women are subjected to jail time with the children at most times being left at home to fend for themselves, and is too young left to die. Lots take to drug abuse as a way of coping with their circumstances leading to addiction and difficulty in taking proper care of their children.
Most are desperate to escape the industry but do not know how, feeling totally trapped. Sisters of Rwanda, is a new NGO attempting to break the cycle of prostitution in Rwanda, ending gender based violence and empowering women.
The start of Sisterhood
In the March of 2005 Pastor Joseph Ayienga began going out onto the streets, counseling women and giving them spiritual guidance, in an attempt to help them find a way off the streets. Although the women were unresponsive at first, lacking trust in men from years of abuse, in time they began to confide in Joseph, wanted to find out about the possibilities of leaving prostitution. Joseph did not like to call them ex-prostitutes so began to call them his sisters, leading to the name, ‘Sisters of Rwanda’. In May 2006 Jared Miller a long time humanitarian, met with Pastor Joseph and began to realise the possibilities to help these women escape from sexual abuse, aids and poverty. In December 2006 Sisters of Rwanda became a registered NGO and they haven’t looked back.
Programmes
Sisters of Rwanda now have a compound in the Gasbo District of Kigali where the women are able to come during the day with their children to take part in the programs offered. The NGO strongly believes in giving the women independence and are hoping to make the NGO financially self-sufficient by 2009.
(1) Income Generating Programme
Job opportunities are offered to the women, paying them a wage for pottery and embroidery. Through this, the sisters have a regular set income, hopefully decreasing the chance of them being forced back into prostitution. They are also in the midst of a deal with a big hotel chain, hoping to be given the rights to sell them regular supplies of soap and candles, enabling more sisters to enter the program.
(2) Education
The NGO has raised international sponsorship to enable some of the sisters children go to school. They are now paying the school fees for 34 children but are still in need for further sponsorship so as to be able to open this opportunity up for more. There are over 45 more children in need of education and it is also crucial that the funding continues to keep the current ones at school. They also offer after school English lessons to the children to aid them with their studies.
Future Development
There are also proposals in place to aid the women concerning their healthcare. Through research and interviews with the sisters, they realized the health problems countless face. In Rwanda most invest in a health policy. The Mutualle de Santé costs 1000 francs a year per person, which includes all health expenses. However many of the women, although having a policy, are not using it due to the consultation fee of around 200F, leading to illnesses.
Sisters of Rwanda wants ensure that all of the women and children are enrolled in Mutuelle, by creating a healthcare fund to subsidize the consultation fees and ensure that they are able to purchase medications, as at the moment many of the women are use traditional herbs when they are sick. They also want to put in place a comprehensive health education program to educate
women about reproductive health with a focus on preventative measures, and increase the women’s nutritional status through education and access to subsidized food. They would also like to offer the women education on their legal and human rights. Many are entitled to things such as child support but don’t know how to go about claiming it. When talking to the women they also discovered an interest in programs such as will writing, something of particular importance to the HIV suffers.
On a larger scale the NGO is also conducting advocacy to impact legal legislation for punishing prostitution in Rwanda. They would like to see the focus shift to criminalizing the buying rather than the selling of sex, placing the burden of punishment on the clients who perpetuate the sex trade, rather than the women who are trapped in the business. Moreover, they would like to see greater emphasis on programs to help sex workers leave the trade. A similar legislation was enacted in Sweden, with the government aiding programs similar to Sisters of Rwanda to give women other
options. As a result, the number of prostitutes dropped by two thirds and 80% of men discontinued buying sex. This truly highlights the enormous positive effect this change in law can make in decreasing the destructive pattern of sex selling.
How you can get involved: To find out more go to www.sistersofrwanda.org
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