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.

7 Key Benefits Of a Serviced Apartment

March 22, 2024 By Blog, Serviced Apartments No Comments

Modern travellers have diverse needs and preferences. Serviced apartments meet them by offering flexibility, comfort, and convenience while bridging the gap between hotels and apartments. 

Below are the benefits of a serviced apartment:

  • Space

Regular accommodation providers are smaller compared to a serviced apartment. A typical one-bedroom service apartment is around twice the size of the average hotel room. In case you are traveling with family or a group of friends, this is exactly what you need. Everyone gets to have their own space and privacy so there is harmony. Even on a solo getaway, you are guaranteed a comfortable stay in a spacious apartment with modern amenities.

  • Kitchen Facilities

When on a long holiday or business trip, sometimes all you want is a simple, home-cooked meal rather than a dish of fancy food. This is one of the key strengths of serviced apartments – they come with fully-equipped kitchens allowing guests to prepare their meals of choice. This is a highly convenient eating option that can save money on dining out while giving guests the luxury of choosing exactly what they want to eat and when to eat.

Serviced Apartments Nairobi

  • Laundry Areas

Washing machines and tumble dryers are common in serviced apartments. They allow guests to do their laundry at their convenience and when necessary. This is particularly beneficial for those on longer stays and can help save money on expensive dry cleaning.

  • Cost effective

The rental price for serviced apartments is lower on average than a corporate rate for a hotel. Saving money also comes in because there are no restaurant bills, bat tabs, or room service charges. Guests get to come with their foodstuffs enabling them to save a lot of money eating in rather than eating out.

  • Privacy

Serviced apartments generally offer a greater degree of privacy. They allow you to bypass the formalities and, in many cases, you simply can let yourself in and make yourself at home! A reduced maid service means your apartment can be kept clean but you can retain privacy without constant interruptions.

  • Flexibility

In a serviced apartment, you are in control of your time; you can eat whenever you want, whatever you want and you can have it any time you want. You can also come and go as you wish. Everything is per your schedule.

  • Local Experience

Serviced apartments allow guests the time to immerse themselves in local life and the nearby neighbourhood, this is especially useful when guests are staying in the area for extended periods. While hotels can often seem impersonal, serviced apartments provide a richer cultural experience compared with the standardized environment in most hotels.

CONCLUSION

Staying short-term or for an extended period? Serviced apartments can cater to unique traveler profiles by offering an innovative alternative to traditional hotels and rental properties. As travelers increasingly seek accommodations that blend convenience, comfort, and flexibility, serviced apartments are here to stay.

7 Fun Ways to Celebrate Easter

March 11, 2024 By Blog, Travel No Comments

Easter is celebrated as a joyous occasion and the Sunday prior is called Palm Sunday which marks the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem. Various churches begin the celebration in the late hours of Saturday through a religious service called Easter Vigil. Non–religious celebrations include the tradition of Easter eggs, which represent fertility and birth, and Easter bunny which delivers chocolates and sweets to kids on Sunday morning.


For Christians, the Easter season is the best time of the year when friends and family come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This day is also the perfect opportunity to show your friends how much you appreciate their friendship and how much they mean to you.


Below are 7 fun ways to mark this joyous holiday:

Attend a Church Service
With Easter being an important Christian holiday, there is an abundance of church services you can attend to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. You could also gather around the computer and join in with virtual Easter church services streamed live. Some churches even have youth-focused services and activities to celebrate the holiday.

Volunteer
Homeless shelters and soup kitchens often serve Easter dinner on the holiday. Take an opportunity to show your children love and caring in action by heading to a soup kitchen to serve others. You may find that your children get a lot of fulfillment from giving.

Take a hike with family or friends
Easter often takes place as the weather starts to get warmer. If you live in an area where Easter marks the start of spring, take advantage of the warm weather to celebrate the day. Spend Easter Sunday taking a long walk or hike along a local nature trail.
If you don’t live near a wooded area, you can simply take a walk through your neighborhood with family and friends. For example, instead of driving to your favorite ice cream place, walk or bike there.

Have an Easter brunch
Many people love early afternoon brunches on Easter. You can go out to a restaurant that has an Easter brunch special. You can also have family or friends over for an Easter-themed meal. Due to the connection with eggs, deviled eggs or scrambled eggs can be a good thematic fit for your Easter meals.

Plant something to celebrate new life.
As Easter falls during the spring in many parts of the world, it is seen as a celebration of life. Stop by a local greenhouse and pick up some seeds. Plant them in your yard or a pot in your home. Growing some new flowers or other plants can help you commemorate Easter by welcoming spring.

Spend time with family and friends.
Holidays are great opportunities for us to spend time with our loved ones, enjoying the time together. Most people have the day off on Easter, so take advantage of that time. Make some plans with your loved ones to make your Easter together a great one.
For example, you and a group of friends could get together for dinner on Easter Sunday.

Take photos each year to preserve memories.
Photos can be a fun way to remember the holiday. While having brunch, dinner, or engaging in other activities, bring a camera. Take some great photos to help you remember your Easter memories for years to come.

CONCLUSION


Easter is a holiday that holds special religious and historical significance for people of the Christian faith. That element is important to many; however, it doesn’t mean that those who aren’t as religious can’t enjoy the cultural and seasonal joys of the holiday as well.
Reading about different Easter celebrations can provide historical context while taking part in different activities can help you create family traditions of your own. No matter what you decide to do to celebrate, the most important part is spending quality time with your family, and respectfully celebrating and honoring what Easter represents.

4 Reasons Why a Serviced Apartment is perfect for Valentine’s Day

February 13, 2024 By Blog, Serviced Apartments No Comments

Looking for a serviced apartment to get away to this Valentine’s weekend?

The beauty of serviced apartments is that they provide you with a fully furnished stay with personalized services that make you feel right at home. They are the best option for those seeking both short- and long-term accommodation options. They offer you that home away from home feeling with an emphasis on personalized service. 

You’ll enjoy having the peace, comfort, and privacy of a regular apartment, whilst also being able to indulge in the convenience of using the wide range of available apartment services and facilities – much like hotels.

So, here are four reasons why booking a staycation for Valentine’s Day is a great idea:

Location

Booking a serviced apartment in an ideal and convenient location will be worth your while, especially in terms of reaching any of your preferred destinations in the least amount of time at the lowest costs.

When observing the location of a serviced apartment you’re interested in, consider whether it’s nearby or easily accessible (maybe via public transport) to the various places you’ll need to go.

Kitchen

Another great aspect of serviced apartments is how they provide the basic kitchen equipment and necessities to easily cook and eat at home. You won’t have to spend unnecessary money on take-out food.

It’s always best to inquire about the full range of kitchen facilities in advance before booking. Double-checking and confirming what is available upon your arrival ensures your stay is free of disappointments, and you receive the best value for your money.  

Facilities and Amenities

The types of services offered in serviced apartments maximize your comfort during your stay.

Some of them are:

  • Gym and/or Swimming Pool
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Laundry service
  • Housekeeping
  • Cable TV 

Guests are invited to choose from a range of standard added extras and can request anything we haven’t yet thought of to make their stay both enjoyable and easy.

Security

By their very nature, serviced apartments offer a self-contained environment that is safe and secure – there are typically fewer communal areas than in hotels for instance. Added security measures such as CCTV cameras, a 24-hour reception service, and in-room safes are some things you should consider when weighing up your serviced apartment options.

CONCLUSION

No matter how long or short the duration of your stay is, booking a serviced apartment that satisfies as many of your necessities can turn out to be the wisest choice in terms of privacy and saving lots of time and money.

Top Travel Tips You Need To Know in 2024!

January 15, 2024 By Blog, Travel No Comments

Are you gearing up for your next adventure in 2024? Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time explorer, staying updated on the latest travel tips is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable journey. Here are our top travel tips to ensure you’re a savvy and safe traveler in 2024.

1. Stay Informed with Travel Advisory Alerts

Stay ahead of the game by setting up real-time travel advisory alerts. Receive instant updates on potential disruptions, safety concerns, or any changes in entry requirements for your chosen destination. This feature empowers you to adapt to changing circumstances, make informed decisions on the go, and ensure a smoother travel experience.

2. Pack Wisely for a Smart Travel Experience

Maximize efficiency and minimize stress by packing smartly. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings, and don’t forget essentials like a universal adapter, portable charger, and a reusable water bottle. Create personalized packing lists based on your destination and the duration of your stay to streamline your packing process.

3. Optimize Your Itinerary with Time-Saving Routes

Make the most of your time at each destination by utilizing an optimized route planner. Discover efficient and time-saving routes between attractions, dining spots, and accommodations, allowing you to experience more without feeling rushed. This not only maximizes your travel experience but also reduces unnecessary stress and allows for more spontaneous exploration.

4. Ensure Health and Safety with Smart Health Recommendations

Prioritize your well-being by accessing the latest health recommendations. Stay informed about vaccination requirements, health guidelines, and nearby medical facilities. This will ensure you are prepared for any health-related situation, providing peace of mind and allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels. Also don’t forget your travel insurance which can save you a ton of money if you run into any medical expenses while travelling.

5. Connect with Locals for Authentic Experiences

Immerse yourself in the local culture by connecting with residents through community features. Discover hidden gems, local events, and authentic experiences recommended by fellow travellers and locals alike. This will help you foster a deeper connection with the destinations you visit, allowing you to experience the true essence of each location. This can be done by doing some local tours, visiting events and community gatherings. Many of the beat places welcome tourists and will go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

6. Optimize Your Itinerary with Time-Saving Routes

Make the most of your time at each destination by utilizing an optimized route planner. Discover efficient and time-saving routes between attractions, dining spots, and accommodations, allowing you to experience more without feeling rushed. This not only maximizes your travel experience but also reduces unnecessary stress and allows for more spontaneous exploration.

Planning an Affordable Family Vacation

December 5, 2023 By Blog No Comments

Photo courtesy

If you travel with kids, then you may have found cheap family vacations more difficult to arrange in recent years. The price hikes for trips during school breaks are well documented, but there’s also the steady upward trajectory of the costs of food, accommodation and entry to attractions, all of which add up when you are traveling as a family.

1.Timing is Everything

Last-minute deals don’t tend to exist during the school holidays, and those that do are usually to less desirable places. If your kids are in school then you’ll know their term dates far in advance; use this information to book months or even years ahead, when prices are still relatively low due to the lack of demand. If your kids aren’t in school yet or you educate them at home, make the most of traveling outside the peak periods, when costs are low and crowds fewer.

A happy African family/ photo courtesy

2. Use your parenting networks

An African American family/photo courtesy

Baby groups may have kept you sane through the newborn haze, but that collective wisdom extends beyond moral support and diaper-changing techniques. Quiz fellow parents about trips they’ve taken, how much they cost and what they would do differently to save money next time. Likewise in the online world there are plenty of forums and family travel bloggers ready and willing to give you their budget tips on destinations they have visited.

3. Turn the journey into an adventure

An American family on a road trip/photo courtesy

Save money on a night’s accommodation and create memories you will all treasure by traveling to your destination (or between two points on your itinerary) in a different way. Taking an overnight bus or train is a huge event for kids and a story they will retell again and again when back home. Alternatively, a family road trip using your own vehicle avoids the cost of hefty air fares and rental cars.

4. Embrace the great outdoors

An African family enjoying nature/ photo courtesy

Kids tend to love spending time in the fresh air, which is great news for penny-pinching parents. Plan day trips that involve nature walks rather than expensive attractions; find the local playground so your little ones can meet other children and take a picnic to avoid restaurant prices. Another great way to save money while exploring the great outdoors is to camp. It allows kids to be truly immersed in nature while also getting involved with some basic chores (e.g. post-BBQ clean-up) so it’s a win-win really, and worth trying at least once, even if you think you won’t like it.

5. Family discounts are your friend

While you can’t necessarily take advantage of big group discounts, there are many little ways families can use the power of numbers. You may be able to get a discount pass for local transport, find family coupons online for the attractions you want to see and take advantage of marketing campaigns such as kids-go-free weeks for theatres or big exhibitions that don’t charge entry for children.

6. Stick to the essentials

African family at the airport/photo courtesy

Anyone trying to save money knows it’s those little extras that really add up and the same applies when you are traveling with kids. Take refillable water bottles, buy ice creams by the pack in a local supermarket and read up on the sites you are visiting before you go to avoid paying extra for audio guides, activity packs or special exhibitions. Having an “eyes only” policy for gift shops can also help keep extra spending at bay.

5 THINGS TO PLAN BEFORE GOING ON A BUSINESS TRIP

November 27, 2023 By Blog, Travel No Comments

Going on any business trip typically requires a lot of logistical planning. Traveling long haul can make small details even more important. From hotel accommodations to flights, everything must be properly organized. Here are 5 things to plan and organize when going on a long-haul business trip.

Transportation

When determining how you will get from point A to point B, consider what class of airline ticket you will book. While the economy ticket and the business class ticket will all arrive at the same time, the experience will be quite different. Business-class tickets will provide you with more amenities like lounge access, free meals in-flight, a quiet seating area inflight, and more. If you intend to be productive during your journey, a business-class ticket may provide be a better choice.

Not only to do you need to book flights but you should also consider how you will get to and from the airport. If traveling to the airport by private car, make sure you book well in advance. If taking your car, sort out the necessary airport parking. Make sure you leave ample time to drop your car off and check-in on time.

Research transportation options at your destination. If you are renting a car, check rates online and book in advance. Do not assume a rental will be available if you do not book in advance.

Accommodation

Before you book your hotel, use a Google map to see where your meetings are in relation to the airport and the areas where hotels are located. It is also a good idea to choose a hotel in an area that has restaurants nearby.

Once you have the area figured out, see what the hotels have to offer. Various hotel brands cater to different types of travelers. As an example, some hotels offer a free breakfast, some offer a cafe breakfast, and other hotels have a full-service restaurant available for breakfast. If you are a member of a hotel rewards program, remember to stay with the brand you prefer and book directly with the hotel.

Make sure that your family and direct work colleagues know where you are staying and provide them with the necessary contact details. It is also a good idea to give them your flight details.

Business Meetings

Before you book your hotel, use a Google map to see where your meetings are in relation to the airport and the areas where hotels are located. It is also a good idea to choose a hotel in an area that has restaurants nearby.

Once you have the area figured out, see what the hotels have to offer. Various hotel brands cater to different types of travelers. As an example, some hotels offer a free breakfast, some offer a cafe breakfast, and other hotels have a full-service restaurant available for breakfast. If you are a member of a hotel rewards program, remember to stay with the brand you prefer and book directly with the hotel.

Make sure that your family and direct work colleagues know where you are staying and provide them with the necessary contact details. It is also a good idea to give them your flight details.

Finances

You may be traveling to a country that uses a different currency. While you can use digital payment methods around the globe, it is always handy to carry some cash with you. If you haven’t arranged this in advance, most airports have a travel money booth. Track all of your expenditures while you are away and keep receipts. If your company allows, use an expense tracking app on the go or take photos of your receipts right after you incur the expense. This will make it far easier and quicker to claim back any necessary expenses when you return.

Explore the area

When you are on a business trip, take advantage of the new location and take time to explore. Whether you can spare an hour, a day or a long weekend, incorporate leisure into your business trip.

Before you leave for your long-haul business trip, research the area and different activities you can do. Some tourist excursions require advanced booking. It can be tempting to stay in your room and work or fly home as quickly as possible, but remember that you may never visit again so make the most of it when you can.

Experiencing local cuisine is a great way to learn more about the location you are visiting. Take a look online for recommended restaurants or places of culture to visit during your stay.

How to Choose The Right Accommodation For Medical Tourism

November 21, 2023 By Blog, Serviced Apartments No Comments

Selecting suitable accommodation is a crucial decision when traveling abroad for medical reasons. A poor choice in lodging can exacerbate a patient’s health condition and pose serious risks. For instance, individuals recovering from cardiac or orthopedic surgery need to ensure their accommodation allows for avoiding stairs.

Therefore, the patient has to be careful while making the decision and must take into account several factors like proximity to the hospital, cost, quality of services rendered, etc.

Distance from hospital

When selecting accommodation, it’s crucial for the patient to choose a facility that is in close proximity to the hospital. This ensures quick access to medical services in case of complications and minimizes physical strain during post-operative check-ups. Doctors advise against travel in the week or month following surgery (depending on the procedure) to prevent stress and support a smooth recovery.

Recognizing this, various health and welfare entities have invested in establishing accommodation and recuperation facilities near hospitals, aiming to minimize the need for extensive patient travel.

Aga Khan University Hospital in Parklands, Nairobi

Distance from recuperation facility

The patient’s journey towards full recovery doesn’t conclude upon leaving the hospital; instead, the subsequent weeks or months are pivotal for complete healing. Hence, it is crucial for the patient to have convenient access to their recuperation facility.

A recuperation facility serves as a space where the patient can undergo both physical and mental recovery post-procedure. The selection of such a facility requires careful consideration, ensuring it can cater to the patient’s specific needs such as dietary preferences and exercise routines.

Importantly, it should be in close proximity to the chosen accommodation, considering the adverse effects of travel discussed earlier. Prolonged travel can be especially challenging for a patient who may still be under the influence of medication, leading to increased exhaustion.

HCG Centre in Parklands, Nairobi

Food

After surgery, the patient’s focus should extend to their diet, making it essential to select accommodation that offers nutritious and healthy meals. Poorly prepared or contaminated food can lead to adverse health effects such as food poisoning, potentially prolonging the recovery period. The ideal post-surgery diet should include a balance of nutrients like fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, playing a crucial role in the healing process.

Additionally, the patient should ensure that the cooking facilities are clean, maintaining a hygienic environment to prevent contamination of the food. For medical tourists, unfamiliarity with foreign cuisines or diets can pose a challenge. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the offered meals align with their preferences when renting accommodation.

Breakfast served on a wooden tray

Infection control mechanisms

To prevent postoperative infections, it is crucial to implement sufficient measures and precautions to maintain a sterile environment for the patient after the procedure. A well-equipped hotel can play a pivotal role in helping the patient avoid complications such as wound infections, drip site infections, and respiratory issues.

Certain medical procedures require extraordinary postoperative care. For instance, in some cases, it may be necessary to cover the room’s windows with mesh screens to prevent the entry of mosquitoes and other insects. Additionally, the room may need to be regularly sprayed with a disinfectant to eliminate harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. Individuals entering the room might be required to wear masks to cover their mouths and gloves when touching the patient. It is essential for the accommodation to facilitate such setups to ensure the patient’s well-being.

(African person cleaning an apartment)

Distance from grocery store and pharmacy

It proves highly convenient for the patient if there’s a grocery store and pharmacy in close proximity to the chosen accommodation facility. This not only benefits the patient but also assists their caregiver or companion in minimizing travel for essential items. For instance, a patient may need specific toiletries or cleaning materials for wound care, which can easily be obtained from a nearby general store.

Having a pharmacy nearby is equally advantageous, as it ensures easy access to all the required medications. This proximity allows for swift renewal and refill of prescriptions without prolonged waiting times. The economic growth spurred by medical tourism has led to the establishment of grocery stores and pharmacies near hospitals and healthcare centers, facilitating easy access to necessities such as headrests and garbage bags for patients.

Sarit Centre in Westlands, Nairobi

6 Reasons why people choose serviced apartments over hotels.

November 14, 2023 By Blog No Comments

Business travelers are increasingly looking for alternative accommodation solutions in order to stay more comfortably when away from home. More and more, business travelers are open to staying somewhere other than traditional chain hotels. 

Business professionals, who are more than familiar with the drawbacks of continuously living out of suitcases while staying in traditional hotel rooms, appreciate the features of a serviced apartment. Have you ever considered switching hotel rooms for a serviced apartment? Here are six reasons why you should.

1.You’ll feel at home

Staying in a serviced apartment gives you the freedom to do exactly the same things you would do at home: prepare your meals in your kitchen, finish up work in the living room, throw your sports clothes in the washing machine after a run, then kick back and watch Netflix in your bedroom. In other words, serviced apartments offer you a move-in-ready solution, where you can enjoy comfort and convenience so that you’ll feel right at home even when you’re travelling.

2.You’ll save money

Staying in a serviced apartment can save you money in two different ways. First, the longer you stay, the cheaper your nightly rate gets. For long stays, the savings can be significant compared to the fixed nightly prices of hotels. Second, you can save good money by skipping restaurants and instead doing your grocery shopping and cooking your meals in your apartment’s kitchen. 

3.You’ll have more space

Where in a hotel one usually stays in a relatively small room, a serviced apartment typically offers more square meters – on average 30 % more than a hotel room. In other words, a serviced apartment offers a more comfortable space for you to relax. Additional space also allows you to bring and store your sports equipment, for example. Apart from the additional square meters, serviced apartments have separate rooms for eating, sleeping, and relaxing. And if needed, there’s enough room for the entire family or a larger group of colleagues.

4.You’ll dodge the “hotel death”

If you have ever been on the road for a longer project, you surely must know how quickly you get hit by the so-called “hotel death”. Let’s face it: in a small room, there’s little you can do but stare at the TV. In a serviced apartment, you can live your normal life. Cook and eat in the kitchen, fill up the washing machine and relax in the living room, and of course get a good night’s sleep in the bedroom. You can also take advantage of the extra space and bring your hobby with you, be it yoga on the floor or long cycling trips to the surroundings on your bike. Storing your gear is not a problem in a spacious apartment.