Tourism in Mombasa - Case Study Example

TOURISM IN MOMBASA by Student’s name Code+ course name Professor’s name University name City, State Date Introduction Mombasa is one of the leading tourist destinations in Africa. It is the major seaport of Kenya (Columbia Encyclopedia, 2014). It is located both on the mainland of Kenya and Mombasa Island. Visitors came as early as 6th century (Mombasacity, 2014) for trade and conquering. Mombasa has become a major tourist city attracting diverse visitors from all parts of the globe. Hospitality industries have reacted to this incidence by providing wide-ranging amenities that suit the visitors’ needs. Tourism industry has provided Mombasa residents a rationale of preserving their way of life and legacy. Nevertheless, the recent terrorist attacks at the Kenyan coast and interior have demonstrated how tourism industry is in danger of global terrorism. The project intends to present a scrutiny of Mombasa as tourism target and further investigate implications of tourism industry on inhabitants of Mombasa concerning customs and the social order. It classifies allurements that lure people to Mombasa and judges intentions, which persuade visitors to act in response to the lure of its appeals. In addition, it comments on the methods through which main sectors of tourist business meet the wishes of visitors. Natural Environment of Mombasa Mombasa is partly an island and mainland with causeways connecting it to the mainland. It has a number of beaches. Water is central aspect of their religion. It is also habitat for fish. Therefore, the ocean has significance importance for Mombasa people. Mangrove and palm trees are a common feature in the island. These are used for food, medicinal purposes, as firewood and building ships and houses. Nature parks are also one of attractions of Mombasa. Mombasa has various parks in it and near it. These include parks and reserves like Tsavo and Amboseli, and marine parks like Watamu and Mombasa. These parks contain diverse wildlife. They are home to the big five animals, endangered primates, marine life, reptiles and vast number of bird species. The diversity of wildlife at Mombasa is a prime aspect of the area. Characteristics of Mombasa Society The source of Mombasa settlers is between Cameroon and Nigeria (Crossley, B., Hirsk H., & Northrup, J., 2005, p. 188). They then migrated to the present Mombasa Island through a series of years. The Mombasa people were agriculturists. There is large number of coconut and cashew nuts farms at the city’s surroundings. The people of Mombasa are also anglers. There are large numbers of dhows, which are used for fishing. In addition, fishing nets are a common occurrence in the island. Trading activities are carried out in the island too. There is presence of market centers in the island and mainland. Banking services are offered in Mombasa with presence of various banks in the city. Mombasa people have a strong Islamic believe. There are also Christian converts living in the island and Hindu believers. Traditionally, the women wear brightly dyed sheets made of cotton, which are known as kanga. They cover their heads with black clothing called bui bui. The men wear a sarong called kikoi, which is colored with dazzling bands. Swahili, the national language is commonly used. In addition, the local people use Mijikenda dialects and local Swahili in their communication. According to Mombasa-Island webpage (2013), Initially, Mombasa was an independent city-state with its own rulers. Portuguese conquered it in 1500. In 1502, it regained its independence only to be conquered again by Portuguese in 1528. In 1698 Oman Arabs captured it but Portuguese recovered it later. It regained independence again in 1746. In 1824, it was made a British Protectorate. On December 12 1963, Mombasa made part of independent Kenya. Recently, there are terrorist attacks on the Town especially in 2002 and 2014. This has caused a dark history in tourism history of Mombasa and coast of Kenya in general. Tourists visiting Mombasa are able to experience the history of Mombasa through visiting the Gedi ruins and Fort Jesus among other historic points like Mombasa Old Town. The buildings at Mombasa Old Town show the creative architecture of the coastal town. Traditional dances and practices carried out in the island also demonstrate the cultural richness of the Mombasa people. Mombasa’s Heritage Assets Heritage is anything that is passed from one age group to next. Amherst Center (2014) describes heritage as customs, artifacts, buildings and other physical assets, which are passed from one age group to another. One of the major heritage sites at the Mombasa Island is the Old Town. The town had various residents’ notably British, Portuguese, Arab, Asia and local societies. There are buildings dating as back as 18th century. Different people have built buildings in the town at different times. They give history on architectural development of the ancient town. The tourists are able to interact with the residents of the town at Mombasa Old Town when visiting those buildings. This helps them to understand the various cultural practices of Mombasa people and their way of life at different times in history. The Fort Jesus is another heritage asset of the Island. The Portuguese from 1593 to 1598 erected it although Oman Arabs added its height from 49.2 feet to 59 feet. The building gives a picture of 16th century defense of Portuguese armed forces. The fort’s British occupation is proved by availability of canons around the fort which are shorter than those of Portuguese. There are also various Islamic writings on the beams and doorposts, which shows the presence of Omani Arabs. The fort has numerous cells that acted as stopovers for slaves being sold during the slave trade. Later, these cells acted as prison for war criminals. The fort has Omani House, which was the house of Sultan who ruled the coast. It also has a well and water tank in it. Tourists visiting Fort Jesus are able to experience the history of Mombasa Town and East African Coast in general. Fort Jesus also gives a good insight on colonization of East Africa. The artifacts at the fort offer a good knowledge on social life of Arabs, Portuguese and British rulers that controlled the coast. This fort therefore, offers tourists an opportunity to interact with the historical happenings at the Kenyan coast and appreciate the developments in it. History of Mombasa Tourism Tourists came to Mombasa Island as early as 6th century. However, it was in 1958 when tourism became a tourist island when Kenyan Colonial government created a National Park around it. This encouraged local people in the country to visit the island. The successive governments and private investors built a number of beach hotels. With expansion of Moi International Airport in 1979, Mombasa attracted numerous numbers of international tourists. This expanded the tourism industry in Mombasa. In 1997, Mombasa Old Town and Fort Jesus were presented to UNESCO as world heritage sites. This promoted more tourists to the area boosting tourism. In 2007, World Cross Country Championships were held at the mainland, which boosted the tourism trade. From 2002, Mombasa has been facing terroristic attack. Early 2014, there have been widespread terror hits at Kenyan coast and interior leading to loss of many lives and damage of buildings. This has led to travel advisories on foreign tourists which has significantly affected tourism trade both at the coast and in Kenya. Prior to attacks, Mombasa Island was considered a nonviolent island good for tourism. These attacks have uncovered security weaknesses in both the island the Kenyan government. Poor tactics and weapons to counter terrorism have shown insufficiency of Kenyan government in combating global terrorism. Probable motivational aspects Motivational aspects are not visible to other people. They are only identified by behavior of visitors on what place they choose for the holiday and what they do there. To identify the motivational aspects theories of pull and push are applied (Dann, 1996). Most tourists visit Mombasa due to its distinctive and varied wildlife attractions (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 738). Leisure desires form the greatest motivation for tourists. The natural scenery and wildlife at the coast satisfies the needs of wildlife experience of tourists. Tourists are able to watch the animals in their natural environment. They also participate in feeding them especially at Haller Park. This makes them to be in union with the nature. For holiday tourists, the beaches at the coast offer a lovely place to spend the holiday (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 739). Tourists are able to participate in water sports, enjoy the beach and experience the climate of Mombasa. This makes them refresh their minds and bodies as they prepare for another busy year. Artistic tourists’ also enjoy the diverse cultural practices at the coast. They come across different practices and if they are reasonable, they value them. ‘Push’ factors According to Yoon and Uysal (2005), push aspects are poignant and inner factors of a person that control tour resolutions. These aspects therefore, have socio-psychological power on holiday tourists over preference of a target place. The aspects can be financial, societal, population growth, technical or political impulses that drive people from their local environment (Weaver and Lawton, 2006). By 21st century, Mombasa was well-liked by Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, USA and other European countries (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 736) which had advanced economic structure and developed transport and communication infrastructure which aided them to visit. The freedom of movement also has enhanced these visits. However, of late there have been terroristic attacks hindering these movements due to travel advisories by their governments. ‘Pull’ factors Yoon and Uysal (2005) describe pull factors rather as exterior, circumstantial or emotional considerations, which induce visitors to visit the destination. These forces draw tourists to a particular stop through exposure, advertising among others, which create the apparent illustration of that place. They comprise the attractions, nearness, convenience, stability and others. The diversity and beauty of Mombasa culture attracts tourists to the island (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 739). Various traditional dances that are done at the island by Mijikenda, Swahili and other local residents lure tourists to experience the traditional aspect of coastal people of Kenya. In addition, the hospitality of the local communities, their arts and crafts are a greater attraction of the tourists. There are also a number of historical buildings like Gedi ruins and Fort Jesus, which are of historical significance. These attract tourists who come to learn the history of East African coast. Commodities to Buy at Mombasa There are various things that tourists can buy at Mombasa to remind them of their visit. These artifacts are sold locally among the markets. Among them are woodcarvings. These are curved from wood with special styles to suit your needs. There are also local sandals made from tyres and leather and then beaded to form a beautiful design. There are also African fabrics like Kangas, which are lively color imprints on them. Effect of Tourism on Mombasa City Tourism industry has both good and bad effects to Mombasa Island. Tourism industry has led to flourishing of accommodation and catering business at the coast (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 737). Many hotels and apartments have been built as result. This has led to creation of jobs for people who work in those hotels. This has further led to economic expansion of the island. However, to the local residents this has further alienated them from economic empowerment (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p.737) leaving them in poverty. Crime at the coast has significantly increased. The level of insecurity has risen at coast. People are killed easily in the easily (Virtual Tourist, 2014). The beach boys also have become a threat to the tourists due to constant nuisance (Chepkwony, 2010). Drug trafficking is also a major threat. This problem has culminated to terror attacks in 2014, which has greatly affected the lives of local people and tourism trade (Seychelles News Agency, 2014). Tourism in Mombasa has led to decline of morals of the local society. There has been increase in immorality at the Kenyan coast due to increase in prostitution (Kibicho, 2009). The sex trade has been booming at the coast as tourist numbers increase. As tourist seeking leisure visit the island, they come across the coastal women whom they entice for sexual pleasure. This goes against the norms of Mombasa people and thus degrading their morality. Accommodation There are various types of accommodations in Mombasa city, which cater for different needs of the tourists. Five star hotels offer luxurious services to tourists. Other type of hotels and cottages exists too to provide accommodation services. Mainly, the hotels are located in mainland with few on island. Nyali Beach Resort has a complete luxury for different tourists ranging from cottages to five star hotels. Few people stay in guesthouses at the island (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 739). The scenery around these hotels and is adorned to give a pleasant look of the residence. Gastronomic experiences Mombasa offers a wide range of cuisines. There are traditional Swahili dishes served in restaurants at the island. Due to contact with the Arabs, there are also Arabic dishes provided in the island. Chinese, Indian, Korean and Italian dishes are also provided in the restaurants. However, traditional African dishes like beef, chicken and goat meat are available even in local cafeterias. Seafood is also prominent in the island restaurants. Dishes like fish, seaweeds and other edible sea creatures are served to tourists. Local beer is also in the island alongside the processed beer. Transportation Tourists visiting Mombasa use various means to reach it. There are both local flights linking it with other cities in Kenya and international flights too. Moi International Airport serves the island. There is also a railway line linking it to Nairobi, Kisumu and Uganda. A well-developed road network link the mainland to various cities in East Africa. From mainland to island, there is use of ferries and boats. In addition, people from other countries can use ships to visit the place. In mainland, tour vehicles and private vehicles are used (Akama & Kieti, 2008, p. 739). Minibuses, Taxis and motor bikes are also used in the island. Promotion To increase the number of tourists visiting Mombasa Island, various activities have been done to promote it. This has led to growth of Tourism business in the island. Abroad travel operatives and the domestic auxiliaries have done advertising of Mombasa Island. The promotion has been through profitable prints like T-shirts, caps and bags. There has been also promotion using the electronic media. Travel agencies to advertise Mombasa Island have used online advertisements. In addition, TV and radio stations have been used to advertise the island by these tour agencies. Interpretation Postcard can be used to explain the attractions of Mombasa and its activities. A postcard representing Nyali beach has a pool in the middle ground and an ocean at the background (Zazzle, 2014). The pool shows a swimming pool at the Nyali resort with Indian Ocean in the background. The resort offers luxury during the holiday. The postcard showing Fort Jesus has a picture of a fort (Zazzle, 2014). Portuguese constructed the building in 16th century to control the East African coast. The building has rich history of the coast. The other postcard has two pairs of enormous tusks spanning the two-lane road (Delcampe, 2014). The tusks are made of aluminum. They were erected at Moi Avenue to remember Princess Margaret’s visit to Mombasa. She passed through the same road when she visited the city. Coincidentally, they show the first letter of the city. Conclusion Mombasa Island has a well-endowed culture for tourists with a good history of tourism. There are good beaches, favorable climate and diverse wildlife. A further research is necessary to identify ways in which Mombasa residents can benefit from tourism. Reference Akama, J. S., & Kieti, D. (2008). Tourism and Socio-economic Development in Developing Countries: A Case Study of Mombasa Resort in Kenya, Journal of Sustainable Tourism. Eldoret: Moi University. Amherst Center for Heritage and Society. (2014). What is Heritage? Viewed 21 October 2014 from http://www.umass.edu/chs/about/whatisheritage.html  Chepkwony, R. (2010). The magnitude and effects of tourist harassment on repeat visits: A case study of Kenya’s coastal city of Mombasa, International Journal of Current Research . 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Viewed 20 October 2014 from http://www.mombasa-island.com/facts-and-figures/mombasa-history.html Seychelles NewsAgency. (2014). Insecurity leads to Kenya's tourism decline - Seychelles News Agency. Viewed on 21 October 2014 from http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/780/Insecurity+leads+to+Kenya's+tourism+decline Virtual Tourist. (2014). 3 Tips on Mombasa Island Warnings or Dangers - Stay Safe! Viewed 21 October 2014 from http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Africa/Kenya/Coast_Province/Mombasa_Island-2051547/Warnings_or_Dangers-Mombasa_Island-TG-C-1.html Weaver, D., & Lawton, L. (2002). Tourism management. Milton: John Wiley and Sons. Yoon, Y., Uysal, M. (2005). An examination of the effects of motivation and satisfaction on destination loyalty: a structural model, Tourism Management. Viewed 21 October 2014 from www.emeraldinsight.com/journals.htm?articleid=1795789&show=html List of Images Delcampe. (2014). Tusks, Kilindini Road, Mombasa, Kenya, Africa, 1950-1970s. Retrieved 21 October 2014 from http://images.delcampe.com/img_large/auction/000/126/406/120_001.jpg UN. (2011). Map No. 4187. Department of Field Support retrieved 21 October 2014 from http://www.un.org/Depts/Cartographic/map/profile/kenya.pdf Zazzle. (2014). Mombasa Postcards. Retrieved 21 October 2014 from http://www.zazzle.com/mombasa+postcards? List of Brochure Images Capital Safaris (2014). kenya wildlife safari. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://www.capitalsafaris.com/ Serena Hotels. (2014). Serena Beach Resort and Spa - Luxury Hotel in Mombasa. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://www.serenahotels.com/serenabeachhotel/default-en.html Cresset Travel. (2014). Southern Palms Beach Resort Ukunda Kenya. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://www.cresset-travel.com/Africa/Kenya/Ukunda/Southern-Palms-Beach-Resort-Ukunda-Kenya Pavilion Holiday Resort. (2014). Mombasa Tusks. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://pavilionholidayresort.com/portfolio/mombasa-tusks/ The Telegraph. (2014). UNESCO's newest World Heritage Sites – Telegraph. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/picturegalleries/8604018/UNESCOs-newest-World-Heritage-Sites.html?image=18 Tripomatic. (2014). Mombasa Old Town Conservation Society – Mombasa. Retrieved 23 October 2014 from http://www.tripomatic.com/Kenya/Mombasa/Mombasa-Old-Town-Conservation-Society/ Read More