How To Make a Serviced Apartment Feel Like Home

April 29, 2024 By Serviced Apartments No Comments

Staying in a serviced apartment provides comfort and convenience when you are away from home for a long period of time.

One of the many benefits of serviced apartments is their versatility, which allows you to personalize your space and create a cosy and pleasant environment during your stay. This can help you relax and provide a sense of familiarity, while also getting those creative juices flowing for a productive day at work.

If you’re planning to stay in a serviced apartment soon, here are some tips to help you turn your space into a home away from home:

 

  1. Take advantage of the fully-equipped kitchen

Most serviced apartments feature a fully-equipped kitchen, while others may offer a kitchenette. Whatever your options, having your own kitchen when you’re travelling for work can really boost your emotional stability, allowing you to cook your favorite foods, brew your morning coffee, and relax in the comfort of your own kitchen.

If you wish to have visitors over during your stay, the kitchen is also a nice feature, and because serviced apartments are often located in influential areas, there are likely to be plenty of alternatives for food shopping or a last-minute takeaway.

 

  1. Make the space as cosy as you want it to be!

There’s nothing worse when travelling than arriving at your accommodation to find a hard mattress or a cold room.

Luckily, serviced apartments are known for their ability to make you feel at home, even when you’re hundreds of miles away, and staff do everything they can to make every stay a pleasant and comfortable one for the guests.

Bring your favorite throw blankets, pillows, and cushions. Having a cosy space to call your own can help elevate your productivity if you’re working remotely, or serve as the perfect place to snuggle in to catch your favorite shows.

 

 

  1. Keep the place organized, for maximum productivity

Productivity doesn’t have to mean achieving your work responsibilities during your shift. It can also mean getting through the day with a few tasks off your list.

Staying in an unfamiliar place can quickly make you feel homesick, and may lead to a lack of motivation to get out of bed. While taking a restful break is healthy in small doses, it is also important to do things that encourage you to focus your time and energy on positive activities.

This is why organizing your space is important during your trip. Because serviced apartment providers cater to both long- and short-term stays, they often offer plenty of storage options inside the apartments, to keep things that you don’t need on a daily basis. Organize your belongings into storage spaces, maintaining a clutter-free atmosphere that allows you to be productive and gives you peace-of-mind during your stay.

 

  1. Bring a personal touch to your stay

Being away from home can feel isolating and stressful, but having your loved ones close by will help you manage feelings of anxiety and encourage you to feel at home.

Serviced Apartments NairobiPack some of your favorite photos, books or decorative items that hold sentimental value. And if you’re artistically inclined, consider creating or bringing your own artwork to hang on the walls. Placing them around your serviced apartment will instantly make it feel more familiar, and can help you have a wonderful time during your stay.

 

  1. Explore the area to learn about the history and culture

While your serviced apartment should have everything you need to make this a comfortable and convenient trip, walking around the neighborhood will allow you to learn more about the history and culture of the area!

Serviced apartments are conveniently located in vibrant parts of the city, close to restaurants, entertainment venues and retail stores to explore in your downtime. Dedicate some free time to venture out and discover local restaurants, cafes, and shops, or ask your hosts for recommendations on hidden gems and must-visit places.

Exploring the area can help you break the monotony of work, ease the anxieties of your trip and provide opportunities to meet new people in your travels!

 

Planning your next business trip?

Traveling regularly for business can be demanding on your health, which is why it’s important to make your accommodation as comfortable as it can be during your stay.

Our serviced apartments provide you with the privacy and freedom to customize the space, whether you want to prepare your favorite foods in your own kitchen or add a personal touch with family photos around the apartment. Our team is also available to offer 24/7 support to our guests, with information on the apartments and the neighborhood in which they’re staying, to help them settle in easily.

9 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Nairobi

April 25, 2024 By Blog, Travel No Comments

The city of Nairobi is fondly referred to as the green city under the sun. This is Kenya’s capital and the most populous city in the country. It has a population of 4.4 million people. The larger Nairobi metropolitan area has a population of 9.4 million people. It is also one of the 47 counties in the country and generates about 62% of the entire countries GDP.

This city has grown extensively and is one of the cities in Africa that is edgy and creative in the same space. Nairobi is incredible and has both its old charming buildings blending well with new towering skyscrapers.

Here are the top 9 facts about the city of Nairobi.

 

  • The Name Nairobi means cool waters

The name Nairobi is a Maasai phrase ‘Enkare Nairobi’ which translates to “cool water”. This was about the Nairobi River which flows through the city. The entire land where the city and its environs are used to be swampy and uninhabited. As the city continued to develop, the Maasais who owned vast grazing land were pushed the further sound to allow the expansion if the city.

 

  • The city was founded in 1899

Nairobi city was founded in 1899 by the colonial authorities in British East Africa. This was as a result of the rail depot of the Uganda Railway. The town grew fast and it soon replaced Mombasa as the capital of Kenya. After independence in 1963, Nairobi became the capital of the Republic of Kenya.

 

  • Nairobi became the capital in 1902

Between 1902 and 1910, the population in Nairobi rose from 5,000 to 16,000. The rise in numbers around the city was due to administrative activities and tourism. Most of the tourists that came were here for game hunting which was legal back then. In 1907, Nairobi replaced Mombasa as the capital of the East Africa Protectorate. In 1919, Nairobi was declared to be a municipality.

 

  • It is the headquarters of several international organizations in Africa

Nairobi City is home to thousands of Kenyan businesses and over 100 major international companies and organizations. Some of the international non-governmental organization include UNEP, UN, Embassies and consulates, Google Africa headquarters, General Electric, Young & Rubicam, Coca-Cola, IBM Services, and Cisco Systems. The regional offices include Safaricom.

 

  • There are several parks and open spaces

There are many parks and open spaces throughout the city. The city has dense tree-cover and plenty of green spaces. One of the most famous parks in Nairobi is Uhuru Park. The park borders the central business district and the neighbourhood Upper Hill.

It is a centre for outdoor speeches, services, and rallies. The park was By Wangari Maathai who later won the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in 2004. Other parks include Central Park, City Park, Jevanjee Gardens, Nairobi Arboretum and 7th August Memorial Park.

 

  • Nairobi is the hub of arts and culture in Kenya

Nairobi city is the cultural hub of arts and other high-end events and concerts. The Kenya National Theatre and the Kenya National Archives are found in the city. Several Art galleries can be found in the city too, including the Rahimtulla Museum of Modern Art, the Mizizi Arts Centre, Nairobi National Museum, The Karen Blixen Museum and Kuona Art Center for visual artists in Nairobi.

 

  • Matatu Culture is popular in Nairobi

Most cities around the world identify by their main mode of transport. London has red buses, New York has its taxi cabs, while Nairobi has its matatus. Matatu is a slang term for minibuses that are used as public transportation in the country. In Nairobi, these public buses and vans are the norm for the majority of the population.

What makes Matatus in Nairobi stand out is the unique outlandish art on their body. They are a sight to behold, especially for first-time visitors. Graffiti on pop culture, music icons and contemporary topics adorn the sides of the matatus. They are a cultural phenomenon.

 

  • This is the only city in the world with a National Park

Nairobi is the only national park that borders a capital city.  The Park is on the city’s southern suburbs. While at the Park, one can see the wildlife with a backdrop of the city skyline. The Park is made of wide-open grasslands and is home to Giraffes, Rhinos, Zebras, Lions and Buffaloes.

 

  • Nairobi nightlife is vibrant

As mentioned earlier, one of the characteristics of a Nairobian is to party. It is no surprise therefore that the city has some of the most vibrant nightclubs. The nightclubs are always busy throughout the week and fill to the brim on weekends.

It is common to find a group of revellers club hopping. The nightlife in this city is something not to miss out on. Just outside the clubs, you will find street food vendors selling sambusas, sausages and other Kenyan delicacies.

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5 Reasons Why Serviced Apartments Are Ideal for Conference Travel

April 16, 2024 By Blog, Travel No Comments

Travelling for a conference is more than just a change of scenery; it is a demanding and dynamic experience that requires a delicate balance of work, networking, and personal fulfilment.

When staying for a short time, choosing the right accommodation is critical to having an enjoyable experience. Having a fully functional kitchen allows you to make your own meals, saving money and offering benefits for your health. Plus, serviced apartments that are ideally situated in popular locations facilitate networking opportunities and provide better options for extended stays at discounted rates.

Keep reading to find out more about the reasons why serviced apartments are ideal for conference travel in 2024!

1. Productivity and Comfort

Conference attendees often find themselves caught up in a whirlwind of hectic schedules, needing both focus and relaxation.

For those looking for temporary housing, a serviced apartment becomes a safe place, providing a well-designed space where you can seamlessly transition between conference preparations and moments of tranquilly.

Consider a spacious and modern apartment, with high-speed internet and nearby coworking space, ideal for last-minute presentation updates or virtual meetings. After a long day of intense sessions, retreat to the comfortable living area to relax, recharge, and mentally prepare for the next day’s agenda.

2. Flexible Work Environment

Industry conferences frequently take place over multiple days, necessitating a level of security and comfort that may not be present in hotel rooms. Serviced apartments offer a comfortable and familiar environment that makes it easy to settle in and establish a routine, making them ideal for extended stays.

In the fast-paced world of conferences, adaptability is essential. Serviced apartments offer a flexible working environment, allowing you to arrange the space to suit your needs. Spread out your materials on a large table, request a work desk to work from, and customize the space to your personal preferences.

This flexibility is crucial for those who need to review conference materials, collaborate with colleagues, or hold virtual meetings in a private and quiet environment. Staying in a serviced apartment means working from the privacy of your own space, ensuring productivity without sacrificing comfort.

3. Homemade Meals Everyday

A fully functional kitchen in a serviced apartment is a game-changer for conference visitors who have dietary requirements or who just want a more personalized dining experience.

Imagine yourself shopping nearby markets for fresh ingredients to prepare a meal that suits your schedule and preferences. This not only helps you lead a healthier lifestyle, but it also frees up your schedule so you don’t have to abide by hotel restaurant hours.

Having a kitchen at your disposal is convenient and gives you a certain amount of independence that makes your conference experience better overall. Think about the cost savings that come from being able to cook for yourself instead of going out to eat every day if you have a fully functional kitchen!

4. Networking Opportunities

When it comes to networking during conferences, location is crucial. Strategically located serviced apartments in prime areas offer a distinct benefit. Imagine being able to walk from your flat to networking events, popular attractions and conference venues. This close proximity not only saves valuable time but also makes it easier for attendees to strike up conversations and have informal meetings with one another.

Serviced apartments are usually close to co-working spaces, allowing you to work from a new environment and meet other professionals nearby. Being in the heart of the action makes networking easier and lets you make the most of your time in and out of the conference room.

5. Cost-Effectiveness for Longer Stays

Long conferences frequently require stays of several days, and accommodation costs can mount up quickly. For longer stays, serviced apartments often offer discounted rates, which makes them an affordable option for conference attendees.

Serviced apartments are better value-for-money than hotel rooms, meaning that you can allocate resources more effectively and make sure that your conference experience is comfortable without sacrificing your enjoyment.

Attending a conference soon?

In the dynamic landscape of conference travel, the choice of accommodation is a strategic decision that can significantly impact your overall experience.

When planning a conference trip to Nairobi, book your stay in our serviced apartments. These apartments combine comfort, productivity, and convenience to provide guests with an enriching stay in your business trip.

Travel Etiquette for Tourists

April 11, 2024 By Uncategorized No Comments

There are some etiquette rules to being a tourist that are obvious, like being respectful and well-mannered to locals. But other rules are less obvious, and yet totally crucial to not only being a good tourist, but also a good human. There are pieces of travel etiquette that every tourist should follow no matter where they go. Regardless of whether you’re going to a low-key beach town or a historic religious institution, there are ways that you, as a visitor, should behave to not only show respect, but also represent your character and where you come from glowingly.

You should always remember that it is a privilege to be able to visit another country. When you’re in a new country, you should think of yourself in a stranger’s home, even if you’re in the local coffee shop. The same kinds of manners and considerations you’d make if you were in someone’s private space should be your behavioral standard when it’s not obvious how to behave. Being a polite tourist isn’t just about remembering your please’s and thanks you’s. It’s about ensuring that the country hosting you is aware of just how grateful you are to be there, and just how much respect you have for their way of living — even, and especially if it’s very different from your own.

Know Where You’re Going

Before you travel anywhere, you should do a little bit of preliminary research. Get a general idea of what the area is like, what important historic events have occurred there, and what the culture is comprised of. Was there recently a war there? Are the locals conservative? Are you traveling there during a holy time? To ensure you’re not being unintentionally disrespectful, and to be a good travel student, do a little homework, it will only enrich your time there and help you relate to the people better.

Don’t Take People’s Pictures without Asking

People don’t want to feel like they’re a human zoo. You should never take someone’s picture from up close without asking for permission. If the person is far away, it might be OK to snap a quick photo — but, and this will be relevant if you’re visiting a memorial site or a cemetery, remember that under no circumstances is it ever OK to take a photo of someone grieving. If you’d like to take someone’s picture, go up to them and ask if they will permit it, and if they do not, be understanding and back down immediately.

Be Mindful At Memorials & Religious Places

If you really want to take a picture of a memorial or religious place, do your best to ensure there’s no one in the photo, as people who have come to grieve deserve privacy and respect. Places like concentration camps and cemeteries should be no photo zones, if possible. While you’re there, make sure that you’re also respectful of the tone. Aka, these are not the places to make phone calls, to laugh with friends, or to speak loudly.

Prepare To Dress Conservatively If the Culture Calls for It

If you’re going to a conservative country, respect the culture. Dress as close to the locals as you can, both to show them that you respect their dress code, and also for your own safety. If everyone else has their shoulder’s covered, you should have yours covered, too. If you’re unsure of how to dress, get in touch with a travel agency or tour guide to get some reliable advice.

Try To Translate, If Possible

No one expects you to learn a new language before visiting a new country, but having some knowledge of the language will only help you. At the very least, do some research to find out the best way to greet people, so that you don’t offend anyone with an outdated phrase. When in doubt, use Google Translate.

Do As Others Do

Before you open up your laptop at a cafe or make a phone call in a museum, look around to see if anyone else is on their phone or computer. If you’re tempted to take a photo of something but no one is taking pictures, perhaps there’s a reason. Always scan a room for clues before you make yourself too comfortable.

Be Polite, Always

For instance: If you don’t like the local food, you don’t have to eat it. But you do have to be gracious, and at the very least take a small bite and pretend to like it. Insulting food is insulting a culture in many cases. In the same way that you wouldn’t spit out something your grandmother made special for you, you shouldn’t crinkle up your face or turn up your nose at another culture’s food, drink, dress, music, or lifestyle.

Be Patient

Even when you are in a rush, make sure that you are being careful and polite. If you’re used to a metropolitan life or travel often, it’s easy to forget that you’re a visitor. But when you’re visiting a new country or culture, it’s important to hold the door for people, walk at a respectful distance and pace, and not show signs of frustration when waiting for food or other services. Even if you are jet lagged, even if you are late for an important event, even if everyone around you is slow, or distracted, find patience, as you are a guest and it’s not your place to demand fast service or the right of way. Reminding yourself that it’s an honor to be there is a good way to put things into perspective.

(Source >> 

9 Interesting Places to Visit in Nairobi

April 3, 2024 By Uncategorized No Comments

While most tourists flock the Kenyan Coastal region for Sandy beaches and the Maasai Mara for wildlife, Nairobi city is also a sight to behold on its own; a sheer beauty that is simply breathtaking, full of culture, historically rich and also boasts of a few wildlife parks and sanctuaries. From wild animals roaming so close to the CBD, thrilling entertainment joints, beautiful skyline, rich history collection in museums and art centres, wildlife conservation centres to world-class hotels, Nairobi is truly a gem to explore.

Here are a few things to do while visiting Nairobi, or you live here and would like to get out and have some fun:

1. Nairobi national park

The park is located approximately 7 kilometres (4 mi) south of the centre of Nairobi, with an electric fence separating the park’s wildlife from the metropolis. Nairobi’s skyscrapers can be seen from the park. Wide-open grass plains and backdrop of the city scrapers scattered acacia bush play host to a wide variety of wildlife including the endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and a diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded. Visitors can enjoy the park’s picnic sites, three campsites and the walking trails for hikers.

Where else are you going to find wild animals so close to the city centre? This is what makes Nairobi so unique.

2. Nairobi Safari Walk

The Nairobi Safari Walk is closest to the wild as you can get. It has a raised wooden boardwalk that allows for uninterrupted views of the animals. It is a breathtaking showcase for Kenya’s Parks and Reserves, allowing visitors to discover what they can expect to see across the country.

Visitors can see a sample of the country’s rich animal life including the rare bongo, white rhino and albino zebra as well as big cats, antelopes and primates. It is also home to some 150 species of local trees.

3. Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Center is located in Lang’ata, approximately 20 kilometers from the centre of Nairobi, Kenya. It was established in order to protect the endangered giraffe, which is found only in the grasslands of East Africa.

The centre runs a breeding program for Rothschild giraffes (one of the rarest species of giraffe) and releases them into the wild.

It’s a good place to make unique memories. From feeding giraffes, taking selfies with them up-close (they are very photogenic!), getting your hand licked and getting a sloppy kiss. What else could you ask for from Mother Nature?

4. Elephant Orphanage

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) operates the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world. They rescue orphaned elephants, raise and protect them. The most common reasons for getting orphaned being: Mothers poached, falling into wells, and human/wildlife conflict.

The animals are fed in turns, which is the most amazing thing to witness. You can watch each little one slurp and gargle their milk. Then, you’ll have time to watch the elephants play. You find out how old they were when they arrived at the orphanage, where they were rescued from, and what got them into trouble.

5. Ngong Racecourse

The Ngong Race Course and Golf Park is the only horse racing course in East Africa. It is situated on Ngong Road towards Karen and has the most beautiful grounds, offering a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi.

The Racecourse is a very popular wedding destination and annually hosts many other functions such as the Christmas Craft Fair, Concours d’Elégance, Beerfest, Shaggy Dog Show, Heart to Heart Fun Day, including visiting South African Johnny Clegg and his band. There are restaurants to cater for everyone, with adequate & secure parking, as well as washrooms.

These events usually are full house and provide the perfect day out in an environment of leisure and networking opportunities.

6. KICC helipad

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is a state corporation KICC and the largest Convention centre in Eastern Africa with the capacity to hold a large number of delegates. Apart from business, it has a rooftop that offers one a unique chance to view all of Nairobi and its environs.

The view is magnificent, for those who are not afraid of heights and the sunsets there are the most beautiful sightings you will ever see. Gives real meaning to the phrase ‘city in the sun’.

7. Panari Sky Centre

The Panari Sky Center is a sleek modern shopping centre and hotel in Nairobi, located along Mombasa Road, a few minutes from the airport. It houses a number of boutiques, banks, and an entertainment centre that includes East Africa’s first ice skating rink!

The Solar Ice Rink at Panari is the only one of its kind in East and Central Africa. It measures 32 × 12 meters with an ice skating surface area of 15,000 square feet. It is totally enclosed with ice temperature at -25oC and the air temperature inside the hall is 12oC. The rink can accommodate 200 skaters at any time.

8. Kenya National Theatre

For the love of Arts and Culture, enjoy local plays at some of the most popular theatrical powerhouses in Nairobi; Alliance Francois, Kenya National Theatre and Phoenix Players. There are frequent plays, almost every evening. The plays are very entertaining with political and marital satire being the main theme.

9. Nairobi Museum and Kenya National Archives

The Nairobi National Museum is the flagship brand for the National Museums of Kenya. Located on Museum Hill, the museum showcases Kenya’s rich Heritage with four distinct themes representing Kenya’s Culture, Nature, History and Contemporary Art.

Other attractions within the compound include the Snake Park and Botanical Gardens as well as a State of the Art Auditorium that occasionally hosts concerts, film shows and other events. Dining and shopping facilities await you after your tour with us in our commercial wing.

The Kenya National Archives is a national treasure located right in the heart of the city along Moi Avenue. This centrally located collection contains historic photographs, Kenyan crafts and paintings. It is one of the most popular buildings in the city which most people argue that if it was ever repainted or moved, a lot of people would get lost.

Experience Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife

The nightlife in Nairobi is one for the books. There is no party like a Nairobi party. Most popular joints in the city are ever full every other day of the week. Starting from the city centre to the outskirts in Westlands, Nairobi West and Lang’ata, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to exceptional bars, restaurants and clubs.

Nairobi is simply outstanding. So many places to see, each unique in its own way. The list is endless.