From the skies Kenya is a sight to behold

Boitshepo Majube | Friday November 22, 2013 17:03

Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport itself opens an ordinary Motswana’s mind to a whole new world of liberated skies. The airport is one of the busiest in Africa, despite the recent fires that engulfed the facility. The airport is the gateway to the continent.  Kenyan Airways has capitalised on this development, acquiring state of the art aircrafts to be of world class standard.

To be among the first to fly across Kenya in the new state-of-the-art aircraft B777-300ER, the largest of the Kenya Airways airline fleet, brought a new experience of flying in my life. With a seating capacity of 400 (28 - Premier World and 372 Economy) and long-range flying capability, the aircraft offers excellent passenger experience. Inside the monster aircraft one can easily surf the net, as it has unlimited Wi-Fi access.

Every seat has got its own entertainment cubicle, loaded with movies and a selection of soothing music from different genres. All you need to do is relax and chose the type of entertainment you want. To monitor your journey from this aircraft is simple as it is fitted with navigation computers that shows you were you are, and how much distance and time you need to cover to reach your destination.

Take off is less turbulent; the aircraft blasts through the skies while you enjoy the view. Once it has stabiles, it’s like a moving hotel with exquisite service on board, and movement around the aircraft is less challenging.

After an hour in this aircraft, I was lost to the realisation that I was on board an aircraft, only to be reminded by the captain who kept us abreast of the natural wonders Kenya has to offer below. From the skies, you appreciated the beauty and wonder Kenya had to offer. The sight of flowing blue waters below was a thirst quencher from the native of desert Botswana. But the one thing my land and Kenya share in abundance is wildlife, another sight to behold over the skies.

And then there is Mount Kilimanjaro. When the captain announced to all to capture the majestic view, I was strategically placed to absorb it all. As the aircraft flew closer a giant cloud covered natural wonder. Kilimanjaro is very huge, misty and covers a lot of distance even from the sky. It reminded me of how the people of Francistown used to brag about Nyangabwe hill or how Lentswe la Baratani used to be mystified. During this pleasant viewing of Kilimanjaro the captain stabilised the aircraft to enable everyone to catch of proper glimpse of the mountain, and a football fever excitement was felt all round.

From breathtaking view, the aircraft headed to the port city of Mombassa. Momentarily, I was gripped with the fear of the thought of the Somali pirates that has made that city unbearable. Thankfully the views below calmed my nerves. Add to that the magnificent terrain Kenya has to offer, the exquisite flora and fauna – and all was well. 

The look of the city from above is amazing, with the sea camouflaging the vastly populated city to make it one of the best destinations in the world. We cruised around the city, above the sea level, noticing extensive ships that use the port of Mombassa.

As the aircraft descended, it was party mood all round, with an assortment of drinks flowing to wash down delicious meal. Kenyan beer brand Tusker was the drink of the moment.

The fly back to Nairobi was as jovial. This mood made me search deep into my soul to try and understand how a nation that few months back faced one of the global threats terrorism could be so happy. I couldn’t find answers, which forced me to ask the Kenyan, guy next to me how they managed to handle the situation. His answer was faith and unity within the nation. At this point the captain notified us that we would be landing in Nairobi in the next 20 minutes.

I felt so sad when we touched the ground, because I have never dreamt of an enjoyable flight in my life like this one. The flight landed to a celebratory reception by both passengers on board and those that for the first time watched this monster from the ground take to the Kenyan skies.

Looking outside the window, catching the glimpse of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, made me realise that Botswana need to benchmark from Kenya. The airport infrastructure is perfect, the service exquisite. Getting off the aircraft brought one of the cherished moments in my life, and the party continued into the night.

In Kenya I know I have found my latest holiday destination.