Picture this: You are out in a field, minding your own business, when suddenly an angel appears out of nowhere! Your heart races as you try to understand what you are seeing. You cannot believe your eyes - nor your ears as the angel tells you that a king has been born! You quickly reach for your phone to record the moment, but you are too nervous, and your camera settings are not quite right for capturing an evening shot. Then, to your utter amazement, a whole host of angels appear before you, and you snap a picture just in time! You are beyond thrilled and convinced that what you just witnessed is real. Without hesitation, you send an instant message to everyone you know, eager to share this incredible experience with them!

The journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem was a long and arduous one. They had to travel approximately 90 miles within four days, maintaining an average pace of 2.5 miles per hour for roughly eight hours per day. Despite their challenges, they made it to their destination, where they welcomed the birth of Jesus. The shepherds who visited them would have travelled from the fields outside Bethlehem, which were likely not too far away. However, they, too, had to make a journey, and it is believed that they may have travelled a distance of several miles.

The magi or wise men of their time were the intellectuals and scientists of their society, with an insatiable curiosity to understand the world around them. They didn't just take what they saw at face value; instead, they diligently researched and inquired to comprehend the significance of what they were witnessing - the star. They believed that the star was not just a random astronomical occurrence but a celestial sign pointing towards something significant.

I hold dear the memories of my recent trip to Kenya and Ethiopia. During the trip, we came across some young shepherds, and I remember thinking how fortunate they were to have nature as an integral part of their daily routine. However, I did not ponder much on this thought until I received this new assignment.

The story of Jesus' birth serves as a powerful inspiration for how hoteliers fulfil the need for a safe space to rest. Just as Mary and Joseph sought refuge at an inn, hoteliers and guesthouses strive to provide a welcoming environment where weary travellers can find solace and comfort.