The festive season is here and what better time to get away on that much needed holiday after a long and hectic year of work and parenting. Rwanda and the rest of the East Africa have various options for a fun-filled getaway. Here are my choices:Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is located on the shores of Lake Kivu, in the town of Gisenyi. It’s an ideal place for beach lovers, honeymooners and holiday makers. The place is calm, the staff is hospitable, the service is excellent and Lake Kivu offers a wonderful early morning and evening view.

If you have children, ask for the rooms facing the pool then you can watch your kids swim from the balcony.  Another destination is Akagera National park in the Eastern Province. It is scenically blessed with the labyrinth of swamps, lakes and animals. An excellent place to relax and associate with wildlife. Visitors will come across elephants and buffaloes, giraffes, zebras and handsome chestnut-coated impalas. Lucky visitors might stumble across a spotted hyena or even a stray lion.Kenya: The coastline south of Mombasa is a tropical paradise of palm fringed white sand beaches, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet beautiful coral reefs. A wide range of world class resorts, more beaches than anywhere else allow visitors to relax and enjoy this natural paradise with the best standards of accommodation, service and cuisine. For game-lovers, The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya and the country’s most popular game park. Uganda:The Eastern part of the country boasts of multitude holiday destinations but Source Of The Smile Guest House is by far the most amazing guesthouse. The rooms, decor, and grounds are absolutely stunning. The place has great food, great service, beautifully designed and great value for money. For people who love being at the lake, Jinja Nile Resort is the place for you. Situated on the bank of the river Nile, the view from this hotel is very impressive and tranquil. Tanzania: Of course a must for any person looking to enjoy Tanzania is head straight to the coastal town of Zanzibar. It’s located in the Indian ocean with incredible and a fascinating past. Its capital Stone Town, a World Heritage site and boasts beautiful traditional houses, narrow alleyways, a Sultan’s palace, and many mosques. It has many beautiful beaches, but Mnemba Island absolutely idyllic for a romantic vacation.Burundi: Burundi’s strength lies in King’s Conference Center. The warmth and honesty of their staff is outstanding and the few who do not speak English made every endeavor to communicate with a smile. The place is secure, the service excellent and a nice swimming pool.Merry Christmas!