Editor, RE: “Investing in weddings not worth it” (The New Times, November 16). How true it is that many young couples embark on their new life together with the burden of actually repaying a loan they took to impress others. Deborah Umutoni, who is currently engaged, very rightly remarked (in the article) that her wedding budget is within the means that she and her fiancé can afford. The article is interesting as it highlights views and opinions which vary from one end of the spectrum to the other.What I really want to share with all your esteemed readers and, particularly, with all wedding planners, event management companies, and all stakeholders of Rwanda’s tourism sector, is that the “big fat Indian wedding” is something that might give a great boost to the country. “Wedding Tourism” could well be another bouquet in Rwanda’s tourism basket. There are many exotic destinations that the very rich Indians look out for to celebrate weddings of their children. I am reminded of my neighbour who came home from work one day all excited because his managing director gave him an invitation for his wedding in Bali, Indonesia and with the invitation was a return air ticket to Bali. Rwanda may not have the beaches of Bali, but Kivu Serena Hotel, for example, provides one with a perfect setting for a big fat Indian wedding. Next year, Kigali will witness a sudden and a substantial increase in hotel inventories. Again, nothing will please some of our rich Indians more than in getting married at the award winning Kigali Serena Hotel or at one of the upcoming international hotel brands in town. This concept is food for thought and could well add much flavor to Remarkable Rwanda’s MICE offerings. Clarence Fernandes
