The Rwanda Experience

Hey Travel Lover

I’m back from outer space!!! It’s been eons I know….Never mind – we’ll catch up pretty fast.

Who remembers their first trip post Covid? Were you excited or scared? Did you end up thinking travelling wasn’t for you?

My first post covid adventure was a group Christmas trip to Rwanda in December 2021. The solitude and reflections of the Covid months led me to suddenly realize I hadn’t visited many African countries. With this discovery I made a decision to change the dial.

With the world just opening up, travelling was more of a nightmare than a walk in the park. At every turn you got subjected to Covid screening which required several throat and nasal invasions. Ewwwwwww. I’m not sure about you but for me it was uncomfortable and very intrusive. To make matters worse, a new strain of covid was announced a few days to our trip. In a frenzy we almost changed plans but because we had gotten great deals on flights and hotel, we decided to forge ahead despite the tightened covid measures.

On 22^nd December before we arrived the Murtala Mohammed International airport we had been subjected to a bout of nasal invasions as expected. Immediately we landed in Rwanda, it was the turn of our throats to get poked with test kits. To make matters worse, we were then informed of the mandatory quarantine in our hotel room until test results were released. A car from the hotel shepherded us directly from the airport to the hotel so we didn't stray.

After checking in at the hotel, we were whisked away to the third floor - the designated “covid floor”- where we were to remain behind bars (I meant doors) until further notice. Once our test results were released the next day, we were again subjected to another round of cavity invasions. Eventually our holiday began 24 hours later when the second results arrived, and we were cleared to leave the covid floor. Our things got moved to the fifth floor and we rushed outside for much needed fresh air.

Christmas Day was the first time we went downstairs to have breakfast, Goodness Gracious me did we have a feast. I have attached pictures for your viewing pleasure.

After breakfast you bet we eagerly commenced our grand tour of Rwanda. Our first stop was the Inema Art Gallery where we had so much fun looking at inspiring art pieces and taking pictures with the owner; Mr. Innocent Nkurunziza. We eventually sat down with him and discussed art, family, and our respective countries.

When we told him about our next destination he informed us that it was at the outskirt of town and might be closed. He suggested another which was closer to one of the attractions we intended to visit – Hotel Rwanda.

Mr. Innocent went on to offer us his driver to take us to the newly suggested art gallery, wait for us to be touristy and all and take us to Hotel Rwanda when we were done. If ever there was a perfect Christmas gift, this was it right there. We thanked him for his kindness and proceeded to “Choose Kigali”, an art gallery extraordinaire… It combines beautiful art works with amazing meals in a picturesque environment. We had a great time at the gallery, looking at the art pieces and of course taking pictures. We were also shown a section where the chef prepares eight course meals for couples from time to time.

From there  we went on to Hotel Rwanda now referred to as Hotel des Mille Collines. It is indeed a work of art; I can still remember the view of the pool from the top. We took some more pictures and since it was a walking distance to our hotel, we leisurely strolled back

We intended heading back to Choose Kigali for dinner, however we were tired and decided to dine in at the hotel. Lovely meal of course topped up with cocktails. Beautiful end to a beautiful day

So, Travel Lover, can you remember your first trip post Covid? Did you make any travel resolutions during covid? Is Rwanda with its kindness and art beckoning to you? Awaiting your responses in the comment section.

Till Next Time.

Truly Yours

Ajalaress