6 Must-Visit Museums in Nairobi
The various museums in Nairobi are often overlooked gems that offer a fascinating insight into Kenya’s history, culture, and traditions.
The museums may not be stuffed full of ancient artifacts – those were all stolen and shipped away to Europe. But they’re charming and informative, and each one focuses on a unique aspect of Kenya’s past and present.
Whether you’re living in Nairobi or just passing through, set aside a few hours to explore each museum and check out our favorite Kenyan history books to learn even more.
Nairobi National Museum
Location: Museum Hill, Nairobi CBD
Nairobi National Museum serves as the headquarters of all museums in Kenya and hosts numerous permanent and temporary exhibitions dedicated to Kenyan history, particularly the country’s struggle for independence.
Other attractions include the art gallery, prehistoric displays, Botanical Gardens, and the Nature Trail (home to the largest python in Kenya).
Nairobi National Museum also has a terrace restaurant where you can relax and sample some delicious Kenyan food.
Kenya Railway Museum
Location: Station Rd., Nairobi CBD
Like all British colonies, the railway played a crucial role in Kenyan history.
Kenya Railway Museum was opened in 1971 to celebrate the legacy of rail travel in Kenya and educate visitors on the surreal history of the Lunatic Express (the nickname for the rail line that joined Kenya’s coast to Kampala, Uganda).
You get to explore exhibits from the defunct East African Railways, including various steam locomotives and props from the ‘Out of Africa’ movie.
The museum is also home to Nairobi’s only dedicated street art gallery.
The Karen Blixen Museum
Location: Karen Rd., Langata
The Karen Blixen Museum was once a farmhouse owned by Karen Blixen, the famous author of “Out of Africa.”
From here, Blixen and her husband (mis)managed a vast coffee plantation while getting into various misadventures with more notorious British and European settlers, known locally as The Happy Valley Set.
The Blixen estate was eventually presented to the Kenyan government as an independence gift from the Danish government. Shortly after, it was preserved in its original state and turned into a museum.
The Karen Blixen Museum’s architecture, design, and furniture give you a unique insight into the lifestyles of Kenya’s colonizers.
The museum is best visited as part of a day trip to Karen, the neighbourhood named after Ms. Blixen that’s home to some of Nairobi’s best restaurants and tourist attractions.
Bomas Of Kenya
Location: Forest Edge Rd., Langata
‘Boma’ is the Swahili word for homestead.
At Bomas of Kenya, you can visit recreations of the traditional homesteads of Kenya’s many tribes. Each section is unique, making Bomas of Kenya a great way to learn about the diverse tribes who populate Kenya and their cultures and traditions.
Kenya’s tribes are also celebrated through music, crafts, architecture, and dance. The museum also has the largest auditorium in Kenya and hosts regular cultural events.
Kenya National Archives
Location: Moi Avenue, Nairobi CBD
Kenya National Archives is the most extensive Pan-African art gallery, hosting ancient art collections from across the continent.
Opened in 1965, the archives are split into two sections. The library is home to fascinating artifacts, old magazines, and newspapers from Kenyan history. The Murumbi Gallery hosts art exhibitions, with works displayed from across Africa.
The National Archives provide a fascinating insight into life in Kenya in previous decades.
Nairobi Gallery
Location: Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi CBD
The Nairobi Gallery is probably the most overlooked museum in Nairobi. Opened in 2005, it’s both a national monument and an art gallery. Nairobi Gallery focuses on hosting temporary art exhibitions with an African theme. It’s open every day, even on holidays and weekends.
Relocating To Kenya? All You Need to Know About Residence Permits in 2023
Foreigners can successfully and peacefully work and reside in Kenya, as long as a work and residence permit has been obtained. A work or residence permit is issued to allow a person to lawfully work and live in a particular country. The Ministry of Immigration in the Republic of Kenya issues work/ residence permits to non-Kenyans wishing to engage in employment in Kenya whether in gainful employment or voluntary service.
The main offices are located at Nyayo House in Nairobi. Foreigners engaging in any work in Kenya without a permit are committing an offense and can lead to immediate deportation and a ban from ever returning to Kenya.
Conditions
The key points to note when intending to apply for a permit are as follows:
1. The kind of business/investment/employment/residence you intend to get involved in determines the type of permit to be issued
2. Proper documentation in regard to the kind of work you intend to carry out in Kenya is not optional and all necessary licenses or authority to undertake the work should be provided
3. The work intended to be carried out should be legal in Kenya
The permits are classified from Class A to M and are issued in accordance with the Kenya Citizenship & Immigration Act 2011 of the Laws of Kenya.
PROCESS OF APPLICATION
The process commences at the application stage which is facilitated by the Department of Immigration on the Kenyan Immigration portal (https://fns.immigration.go.ke/). This is the official digital payments platform that enables foreign nationals to access and pay for government services online. One thus needs to first set up an account through the following link >> https://fns.immigration.go.ke/
An application form provided on the platform needs to be duly filled. Depending on the category or class of permit, the following need to be provided as you fill out the relevant application form. This applies to all types of permits:
- Cover letter from employer/self/organization; depending on the class
- Copies of the National Passport
- Two recent coloured passport-size photographs
- Application fees upon receipt of approval of the application
- The duly completed application forms are then submitted.
Work permits are issued for a period of two years and so applications for renewal herein ought to be done three months prior to the expiry date. This is for purpose of giving the department ample time to properly verify the application so that the renewal can happen systematically. If employment or work comes to an end before the expiry of the work permit, the person will be required to surrender the work permit and the foreigner’s certificate to the immigration offices and then go back to his/her home country.
If the documents are in foreign languages, they should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary, or authorized or recognized institution.
TYPES OF PERMITS
1. CLASS A (Mining permits)
This permit is issued to persons who are planning to engage in prospecting for minerals or mining. The necessary licenses and registrations should be obtained. This can be obtained by inquiring with the State Department of Mining and registering for access to the Mining Cadastre Portal in person. Further instructions are provided for in the aforesaid entities. A processing fee of Kshs. 10,000 should be paid when applying for this permit. A copy of the Kenya Revenue Authority PIN certificate and current license will be required when renewing the permit.
2. CLASS B (Agricultural investors)
This one is issued to persons who intend to invest in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. This involves farming generally and the business of raising livestock for food or other products and includes day-to-day care and selective breeding.
Requirements in applying for this permit include;
- Proof of land ownership or leasehold interest in land for purposes of carrying out the business herein,
- Proof of capital available for the purpose and clearance from relevant bodies. Also, a fee of Kshs. 100,000/= should be paid annually.
3. CLASS D (Employment permits)
This type of permit is issued to those who are offered specific employment by specific employers qualified to undertake that employment and whose engagement in that employment is beneficial to Kenya. Applying for this permit requires the applicant to produce copies of academic/professional certificates along with the curriculum vitae, evidence that the organization failed to fill the vacancy from the local labor market, form 25 duly filled, signed and sealed by the company employing. A processing fee of Kshs. 10,000 should be paid; this fee is non-refundable.
The annual fee for the permit is USD 2000 which translates to Kshs. 200,000 and the permit lasts for a period of two years. The applicant may also be required to provide a security bond amounting to Kshs. 100,000/= for a period of three years. This amount should be submitted together with the permit fee.
Employer and Employee Tax Compliance Certificates are required when renewing the permit.
4. CLASS G (Investor Permits)
This permit is issued to investors in specific trade, business, or consultancy. The investor may intend to invest alone or in partnership in a particular business or consultancy. He/she should obtain the necessary license or authority necessary to carry out the purpose, should have sufficient capital or resources to invest in the intended area and this investment should be beneficial to the Republic of Kenya.
Proper documents regarding the company or business should be provided; for instance, a certificate of incorporation, articles of association, copies of PIN certificate, and shareholding certificate also known as the CR12.
The investor should provide two copies of bank statements, a valid organizational tax compliance certificate, and also documentary proof of capital to be invested and this should be at least USD 100,000. He/she should indicate current immigration status if in the country already. All this information is required at the application stage.
When renewing the permit, audited accounts for the previous 2years and a certificate of tax compliance from the Kenya Revenue Authority are required.
The processing fee in this case is Kshs. 10,000/= and it is nonrefundable and Kshs. 100,000/= payable annually as the work permit fees.
5. CLASS I (Members of missionary societies)
This permit is issued to a member of a missionary society approved by the Government of Kenya and whose presence is beneficial to the country. It is also referred to as the permit regarding approved religious or charitable activities. This missionary society should be registered under the Society’s Act.
The applicant should provide a copy of the registration certificate of the organization, his/her academic and professional certificates, and the non-refundable processing fee of Kshs. 1,000/=. The applicant should also indicate the current immigration status if in the country already. In addition, the applicant should provide a valid organization Tax Compliance Certificate, and when renewing the permit, he/she should provide both organization and individual Tax Compliance Certificates from Kenya Revenue Authority.
The annual work permit fee is Kshs. 5,000/=.
6. CLASS K
It is a residence permit issued to those who have an assured income derived from sources outside and have agreed to not accept paid employment of any kind. Also known as Ordinary Residents’ Permit.
The applicant should not be less than thirty-five years of age, have an assured annual income of not less than USD 24,000/= derived from sources outside and will be remitted to Kenya, or is derived from pension or annuity payable from sources in Kenya. The applicant should not accept employment or engage in any work without a permit and whose presence in Kenya will be of benefit to Kenya.
The processing fee is Kshs. 10,000 and is non-refundable as well. The annual work permit fee is Kshs. 100,000/=.
7. CLASS M (Refugees)
This one is issued to Conventional Refugees. The applicant should provide recognition letters from UNHCR and the Department of Refugees Affairs and indicate the current immigration status. A valid organization Tax Compliance Certificate should be provided too, upon renewal the individual Tax Compliance Certificate should be provided in addition to the one for the organization as issued by the KRA. There is no charge for the processing fee and the permit.
Dependant Pass
Section 36 of the Citizenship and Immigration Act 2011 provides that passes shall be issued by immigration officers in such manner as shall be prescribed in regulations.
Section 27 of the Citizenship and Immigration Regulations of 2011 (Rev. 2018) stipulates that a person who is Kenya lawfully, is a Kenyan citizen, a person to whom Section 34(3) of the Act applies, has a work permit or is a permanent resident may apply on behalf of his/her dependant for a pass as stipulated in the regulations.
The immigration officer shall only issue a pass once he/she is satisfied that the ‘dependant’ indeed depends on the applicant, that the person is a spouse or a child of the applicant, that the applicant is able to sufficiently take care of the dependant while in the country, and that the applicant has observed any other key requirement as provided by law.
Upon completion of application of the Dependant pass, the applicant is required to pay Kshs. 5,000/= and the pass is valid for the period of the work permit
In conclusion, the digitization of processes has made it easy for foreign nationals to apply for various permits in Kenya. (Info c/o https://www.makaobora.co.ke/workpermit/
7 Hotel Tips for The Business Traveler
You can’t control everything on your business trip, but you can create a setting you feel comfortable working in. This starts in your hotel room.
Unpack Upon Arrival
This is arguably the most common piece of advice you’ll hear when it comes to best business travel practices for hotels, and with good reason: It’s simple to repeat and easy to apply.
When you arrive, clearing out your carry-on will make your room feel more like home. Fold clothes neatly in the dresser, and hang shirts, pants, and jackets as needed. You’ll benefit from a sense of accomplishment, as well as reduce the time spent making sure your button-up shirt is wrinkle-free.
Unpacking immediately will set an organizational tone for your business trip and help get you settled–which can go a long way in helping you focus and relax.
Set Up an Office
Just as you unpack your clothes right away, make it a priority to set up an office.
It doesn’t have to be comprehensive, but plugging in your laptop at the desk and placing one or two trinkets from your home will help establish a work atmosphere.
Setting up a makeshift office in your room will make you feel more comfortable about finishing work there, if necessary, rather than in an actual office or business room.
Get Your Workout Done in The Pool
We think of the hotel pool as a haven for little ones. It can also be a great place to get some exercise in. Fitness centers have their drawbacks, especially those short on space and ventilation—not to mention the sweaty walk back to your room.
Instead, make your way down to the pool during off-peak times, and you may find you have it all to yourself. Tread water for several moments, then mix in some laps, and you won’t feel guilty about skipping your normal workout. A hot tub or sauna nearby is an added bonus.
Research exercises ahead of time via YouTube or a simple Google search. You don’t have to overdo it, either. Even a 10-15-minute workout can make a huge difference.
Bring Your Own Coffee
A cup of coffee, depending on its quality, can make or break your morning. Eliminate the guessing game by bringing your favorite brew from home with you on the road. This will help you maintain your routine while offering some benefits you may not have considered: It’ll force you to be active in the morning, and give you a taste base should you sample local coffees throughout the day.
And hey, if your coworkers stumble upon a poor cup, you can bail them out with the good stuff!
If space is a concern, pre-scoop your preferred-size pot of coffee into Ziploc bags.
Make Use of The Iron
Experienced business travelers will spot wrinkled clothes from a mile away. You may have packed well, but lugging bags to and from the airport can still rumple the most well-kept shirts and pants. Add “iron clothes” to your to-do list to prioritize looking sharp throughout your trip.
Even better: Invest in a travel steamer. They’re quick and easy to use, not to mention effective, especially with lighter blazers or suit jackets.
Allow plenty of time between ironing your clothes and actually putting them on. Sometimes wrinkles take time to smooth out, and rushing to do so rather than hanging the clothes up can damage the fabric.
Make A Plan for Dealing with Excess Noise
If you’re traveling to a convention center, there’s a good chance your hotel will be in a downtown location. In other words, peace and quiet won’t necessarily be easy to come by.
Headphone companies such as Bose are now making wireless sleepbuds that use preloaded soothing sounds to block background noise. You can also mimic the effect using streaming services like Spotify or Pandora, both of which carry sleep-aid stations. If this is new to your sleep routine, however, it’s a good idea to try it out at home for a few nights before experimenting on the road.
Just like televisions, iPhones have sleep timers. Set a timer on the clock app and change “When Timer Ends” to “Stop Playing.” This is useful if you plan to play soothing sounds from your phone.
Leave A Good Impression
There is no set tip rate for hotel rooms. If you’re traveling alone, $2-$3 a night is considered reasonable. If the service is above and beyond, consider more—especially if most of your expenses are taken care of by the company anyway.
In addition to a tip, leave a thank you note on a personalized card. Do this for the front desk as well as the cleaning staff. It’s something that could help build your company’s brand and reputation on the road. Leaving a review doesn’t hurt either, and it may influence others to do the same for you. In addition to business cards, consider bringing personalized thank you cards or stationery on your business travels.
8 Unique Features of Serviced Apartments
Full service apartments have become an increasingly popular accommodation option for travelers. Unlike traditional hotels or rental apartments, a furnished serviced apartment offers the comfort and convenience of a home away from home.
This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for flexible and convenient accommodation options among business travelers, tourists, and ex-pats, as well as the rising popularity of alternative lodging options in general.
So, what exactly is a fully serviced apartment? A serviced apartment is a furnished accommodation with a wide range of amenities and services, including regular cleaning and maintenance, 24-hour security, and fully equipped kitchens.
Fully serviced apartments are designed to provide a comfortable and flexible living space that caters to the needs of both short-term and long-term stays.
Key takeaways:
- Fully serviced apartments are a popular accommodation option for travelers due to their comfort and convenience.
- Serviced apartments offer unique features and benefits such as personalized decor, fully equipped kitchens, sustainable living options, separate living and sleeping areas, and wellness amenities.
Norfolk Towers is an ideal choice for those looking for a comfortable and stress-free stay with top-notch amenities.
Top 10 Features of Fully Serviced Apartments
Fully serviced apartments offer a range of unique features and benefits that set them apart from traditional accommodation options. Serviced apartments provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home for travelers.
- Personalized décor and design
Unlike traditional hotels, fully serviced apartments offer a personalized and unique living space. Guests can choose from different décor styles and designs that suit their tastes and preferences, creating a truly customized experience.
If you are looking for a serviced apartment that offers a distinct and out-of-the-box experience, consider Norfolk Towers.
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
Serviced apartments have fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their meals. This feature is helpful for guests who want to save money on food, have dietary restrictions, or prefer to cook their meals.
- Separate living and sleeping areas
Serviced apartments typically have separate living and sleeping areas, providing guests with more space and privacy. This feature comes in handy for guests traveling with family or friends or those who want to work from home.
- On-site laundry facilities
Serviced apartments typically have on-site laundry facilities, which allow guests to do their laundry without leaving the building. This feature is helpful for guests staying for an extended period or those who prefer to pack light.
- Concierge services
Fully serviced apartments offer concierge services, which include arranging transportation, booking restaurants, and providing local recommendations. Such services are particularly useful for guests unfamiliar with the area or who need assistance with their itinerary.
- Wellness amenities
Many serviced apartments now prioritize wellness amenities such as fitness centers, yoga studios, and swimming pools. These features allow guests to prioritize their health and wellness while on the road.
- Flexible booking options
Serviced apartments offer flexible booking options, which allow guests to book for short or long stays. This facility is assistive to guests unsure about their travel plans or those who need to extend their stay.
- Weekly housekeeping
Unlike traditional hotels, serviced apartments offer weekly housekeeping services, which include cleaning, changing linens, and replacing towels. It is helpful for guests who want a clean and organized living space without the hassle of daily cleaning.
All in all, serviced apartments offer a unique and customizable living experience that combines the comforts of home with the services of a hotel. This makes them an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers, families, and anyone who values space, privacy, and flexibility.
If you are looking for a fully serviced apartment for your next trip, consider Longonot Place for a comfortable and stress-free stay!
