United Airlines and Certified Africa, a travel and tour company that simplifies travel to Africa, have teamed up to create convenient options for travelers looking to visit Africa for African heritage experiences.
Travelers can now book all-in-one private or group travel experiences that include United flights. The customizable experience packages also include accommodations, airport pick up/drop off, transportation, cultural tours, activities along with some meals and guides. Certified Africa also helps ensure travelers are prepared and informed about travel requirements like visas, immunizations, Covid-19 precautions and travel insurance.
“One of the most intimidating aspects of traveling abroad is the unknown. Every new culture has its own customs, languages, and traditions, which can be hard to navigate if you’re not used to them,” said Certified Africa Co-Founder Kristin Tellis Quaye. “With Certified Africa’s staff and guides accompanying you and the added convenience of United flights included you can feel comfortable and ready for the unknown when traveling to Africa and immersing yourself in heritage and culture.”
Last year, United launched three new nonstop routes to Africa, making travel easier and faster from the U.S. Direct flights to Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria now operate three times a week from Dulles International Airport in the Washington, D.C. metro area and the airline also started a year-round, daily nonstop service from Newark Liberty International Airport to Johannesburg. These convenient flights will allow visitors more time to be immersed in authentic African culture, lifestyle, and heritage in each destination.
“This partnership will be welcome news for United customers who are eager to explore Africa but may need a little help creating their ideal itinerary,” said Glenn Hollister, vice president of sales strategy and effectiveness at United. “Certified Africa’s deep expertise and extensive network of local partners made them a great choice for United to work with.”
Heritage trips to Africa have long been pivotal journeys for people of African descent who are looking to connect to their roots and culture. However, these types of experiences have become increasingly popular over the last few years, especially with the 2019 Year of Return campaign in Ghana. The Year of Return brought many travelers to Ghana in 2019 and boosted the Ghanaian economy.
First published by ATC News