Serviced Apartments Are The Perfect Relocation Solution
Relocating and now the stress of finding the right accommodation that will meet your most immediate needs? A business relocation brings with it the excitement of many new career prospects. This positive period should not be tarnished by the stress of moving and finding a permanent housing solution as soon as possible.
Serviced apartments are furnished so you don’t have to pack-up all your belongings twice. Instead you can put everything in storage until a permanent solution has been found or your secondment period has ended.
Serviced apartments range in size from studio to three bedroom with either one or two bathrooms. Other options include a balcony or more luxurious penthouse and deluxe apartments with each meeting specific needs and requirements. Serviced apartments are also inclusive of a kitchen with all the basic crockery, cutlery, pots and appliance needed to prepare meals. There is also a washing machine, iron and ironing board so you don’t have to rely on a laundromat.
Why serviced apartments offer the best solution:
- There is no contract that needs to be signed for a fixed period of stay
- No upfront rental deposit required
- Rates are all inclusive of WiFi, parking, water and electricity. No bills so less to remember and stress about!
- Housekeeping service
- Staff are available to assist with any help with regards to getting around the local area, your booking or matters related to your apartment.
- Serviced apartments tend to be centrally located with easy access to rail and road transportation, within walking distance to shops, restaurants, entertainment and sport amenities.
- 24 hour security
CONCLUSION
Once you know the town or city your business relocation or project secondment is taking you to, you can start the process of finding accommodation that best meets your needs.
Our apartments come highly recommended for business travelers and those who are in the process of relocating. All our units are well equipped and furnished apartments which provide you with privacy, comfort and the convenience of coming and going as you please. We are registered with Trip Advisor and Booking.Com and welcome you to read our online reviews and customer testimonials.
Our living spaces are designed to assist you to work, rest and play in absolute comfort. We are located in a safe area and each offer sufficient security for your peace of mind for the duration of your stay.
Travel Etiquette for Tourists
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
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.
6 Tips for Choosing the Best Serviced Apartment
A serviced apartment is a great choice of accommodation for modern-day travelers. Whether you’re looking for your next family home or a jumping-off pad in the city for your business or studies, serviced apartments offer convenience and comfort.
Just like any other travel accommodation choice, there are a few things you need to look out for before booking. Below are six features you should check for before you book that apartment:
1) Regular and reliable cleaning service
Serviced apartments offer hotel-like services like room service and cleaning service. Make sure the apartment you would like to explore offers this service, and how safe, reliant, and convenient it is, especially when you intend to book long-term. Some apartments offer washing areas for those who would be comfortable doing their laundry too.
2) Availability of complete cooking facilities
Serviced apartments offer fully equipped kitchens to facilitate easier preparation of homemade meals. It is important to check that they have all the kitchenware you will need, to avoid carrying things you might not use or getting disappointed upon arrival.
3) Parking
For those arriving using private means, ensure that the establishment offers safe and secure parking options. You should be able to relax and unwind with peace of mind, knowing that your car is safe and sound.
4) Security
Find out the security measures put in place to protect guests. Do they have thorough checkpoints? Are there swift and reliable emergency measures put in place? Are the rooms burglar-proof? You deserve somewhere safe to enjoy yourself, forget your troubles, and relax knowing that your property and life are in good hands.
5) Proximity to modern amenities
Most serviced apartments are located near city centers. The kind of up you will be having determines the location of your destination. A business trip might require you closer to the city center for easier access to business meetings and luncheons. Proximity to church, hospital, coffee shops, and malls helps when you want to step out and explore for a bit.
6) Comfortable furnishings
Serviced apartments are fully furnished. They have all the amenities that make up a home. Make sure everything is comfortable. This could be a comfortable bed or sofa, a clean bathroom, sufficient bedding, kitchenware, and even fast and reliable internet connectivity.
CONCLUSION
At the end of the day, it’s all about comfort. Don’t just book a place because it’s cheaper or highly rated. Take time to do a thorough background check to avoid great disappointments.
We are committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience for an elevated lifestyle. Please get in touch with us to find out about availability for your next stay in Nairobi.
5 Fulfilling Sabbatical Ideas
When you’ve been working hard over a long period of time, burnout will eventually catch up with you. You may even get to a point where you question the purpose of your job. Suddenly the satisfaction that your career gave you wanes. That is where a sabbatical comes in, to take their minds off the stress of their jobs and focus on what they love outside of their work.
Sabbatical is a period of paid or unpaid leave that is granted to an employee. The purpose of a sabbatical is to give an employee a chance to step back from their role at work and focus on personal enrichment and professional development. Though it can include times of rest and relaxation, a sabbatical is decidedly different than a vacation and it is not simply “time off.
A conventional sabbatical is yearlong, though they can be shorter or longer depending on the reason for taking a professional break.
Here are 5 refreshing sabbatical ideas for the modern career man/woman:
- Study
A sabbatical might be a great idea to finally enroll for higher education or take up a few classes at your local college. Keep in mind that education possibilities are endless. Studying doesn’t always mean enrolling for another degree, diploma, masters or a PhD programme. You can take up short online courses, read books and listen to podcasts.
- Write
Since you are going to have a lot of free time, don’t just sleep it away. Jot down creative ideas that pop up in your head. That is how great books have been written. Whether a novel, scripts or academic, write it.
- Travel
Travel is a great way to loosen up, gain new experiences and learn a lot while at it. It opens your eyes to endless possibilities and can be a great way to recharge for work, get new ideas and relax your mind and body.
- Start a side hustle
This is a great time to put down your fears and follow your passion. Not to replace your current profession but simply diversify. If you have a skill that you’ve been wanting to improve, or a bit of your resume that you’d like to enhance, a sabbatical could be the perfect time to do it.
- Volunteer
It’s always a common interest in people to want to give back to society, to make a difference and make the world a better place. Volunteering is very fulfilling, you can look back in time and see the ways in which you’ve made an impact and use those positive feelings to inspire your next move.
Sabbaticals are an opportunity to see the world, open your eyes to new ways of life, and embrace a lifestyle of endless learning. By taking time away from work to slow down and take action toward a goal that has been eluding us, we tell ourselves we are worth more than the usual 9-5. We tell ourselves we were not born to just work, pay bills and die. We owe it to ourselves, and to those that we may inspire, to use our time on earth in a way that lights us up.
7 Tips For Business Travelers
Business travel: love it or hate it. While many people see it as a perk, especially when they get to combine business and leisure, frequent business travelers often find it inconvenient, even uncomfortable.
Traveling for business can be challenging, yes. However, experienced travelers know that they can have a much better experience when they follow certain rules that are guaranteed to work. On this list you’ll find a complete list of business travel tips and tricks that will help you navigate your next trip like a pro!
1. Check your company’s business travel policy
Before you start planning your trip, make sure to check your company’s rules, procedures, and do’s & don’ts when it comes to corporate travel. Here you’ll find more information about corporate travel, which include things such as where to book your trip, who needs to approve it, what expenses you can claim a refund for, and how the refund process works.
2. Keep your essentials packed and ready to go in your suitcase
Keep your essential items, such as toiletries and medicines, always at hand and ready to pack. If you travel often, it’s a great idea to keep these items in a case which you only use for your trips.
3. Keep your essentials handy when on the road
Boarding passes, IDs, important documents, your phone, agenda, credit card, wallet… Pack them together where you can always easily find them when you need them. There’s nothing worse than not finding your ID when you get to the gate, and delaying the boarding while you unpack everything in a burst of panic!
4. Bring your (travel size) toiletries
You want to look your best at that important business meeting, but we all know those hair products from the hotel probably won’t cut it. Even if your hotel offers many quality toiletries, there’s nothing like your own products, which are the best match for your needs—so bring them along!
5. Do your research on foreign business etiquette
You’ve prepared your speech and you have all your stats ready, what else? Depending on where you’re traveling, business etiquette can be very different from your own country. Make sure to check the basic rules beforehand, so you’ll be able to stretch that client’s hand—or not—with confidence!
6. Download helpful apps
From your company’s travel and expense management software to your hotel and rental car providers, in today’s world apps can give you access to an easier way of doing things. Other helpful apps for business travel are Uber, taxi apps, and apps for booking coworking and meeting rooms.
7. Leave reviews
Did you enjoy your stay at the serviced apartment? Was your customer care agent nice to you? Be kind and leave a good review! You might be back at the same serviced apartment next time, and it will give them something nice to remember you for.
We hope you found these travel hacks helpful! Now it’s time to put them into practice on your next business trip: wherever you’re traveling, we wish you a comfortable and successful business trip.
7 Benefits of a Mini-holiday
It’s true that a long trip is a good way to feel refreshed, but a quick getaway is often underestimated. Below are 7 benefits of going on a mini-holiday; whether alone or with your loved ones.
1. Reduce stress
Taking time for a getaway improves your stress levels significantly. Multiple studies found that long weekends off have a strong and immediate impact on reducing the stress hormone cortisol. In addition, moving away from daily activities can help to clear your mind and look at both your work and personal life with a fresh start. Are you stuck on the same issue for a while and don’t know how to solve it? After a couple of days away, you’ll see things from a different angle, which might just include the solution that you’ve been searching for.
More breaks to look forward to will also make you more active and refreshed, adding to a positive mindset. The more trips, the more fun!
2. Renew energy
A short break will help you to feel pumped for the week ahead. Many factors of a mini-holiday play a role in boosting your energy. New surroundings can inspire you to explore the world, nature can help you calm down, and more sleep will give you the rest you need. By putting yourself in a different environment you get the opportunity to reset and prioritize the goals in your daily life. This will help you approach them with a clear head and increased motivation.
You’ll come back healthier and which significantly increases your productivity. Be ready to rock your week!
3. Broaden your horizons
Next to mental benefits, there are also multiple advantages for personal growth. Become a true world traveler by visiting different destinations. Small getaways will let you explore more destinations, learn from multiple cultures, and make memories. Even a city nearby could open up a new way of seeing things. Doing something for the first time can provide a thrilling rush, also called dopamine. Dopamine lets us feel pleasure and excitement and plays a big factor in helping us focus and strive. You’ll broaden your horizons in the most fun way possible.
An extra tip: experience the less touristy destinations. You’ll discover unexpected areas that are less crowded than the popular ones. These cities will also feel calmer, which is beneficial for your rest.
4. Reward your hard work
It’s easy to get caught up in your daily life without taking a step back to be proud of yourself. You need to reward the work you do. By taking some time off to enjoy a break in a new destination, you treat yourself to rest and fun. Sleep in, go out for dinner, do fun activities, and have a glass of wine. You deserve it!
5. Take time for your loved one(s)
Taking more time to spend with family and friends strengthens your bond. Sometimes, it’s difficult to find the time to sit down with loved ones and have those long conversations that are needed to reconnect. By going on a getaway with a friend or partner you create the time to fully listen to each other and appreciate the time together.
6. Motivate & boost creativity
You already know how these mini-holidays help to increase your energy. Having a recharged battery can make you more productive and happier. But there’s more to it. Feeling relaxed and daydreaming on your days off can allow your imagination to roam free, giving your creativity a major boost. On top of that, being surrounded by a different environment can strengthen it even more.
7. Make new memories
Last but not least, the memories you make on your trip will stay with you forever. Your getaway brings excitement in three stages:
- The anticipation before you leave. This gives you a boost before you even take off.
- The joy during your stay. This is where you soak up the fun and new energy.
- The memories you take home. You will live on this for a long time.
Memories are the best gifts we can give to others and ourselves. They bring joy, love, and growth, which are the best contributors to a happy life.
Treat yourself to a mini-holiday, you deserve it!
How to Have a Fulfilling Staycation during Pandemic
The last two years have looked a lot different than any before it. Physical distancing guidelines and travel restrictions have been put in place to keep communities safe and healthy. Don’t worry during this pandemic you can still experience a fun, fulfilling vacation without leaving the city as known as a staycation. Taking time off for a staycation can be just as beneficial to your health as a traditional one. Research has found that one of the happiest parts of taking a vacation is planning and anticipating it.
- Make sure your condition is healthy
The first staycation tips during a pandemic is to make sure your body is in a healthy condition. Not only yourself, also you need to make sure the health condition of your family and friends who you want to take for a staycation. If you feel unwell and not good, it’s better to stay at home and take a rest. Especially if it shows symptoms similar to COVID-19, such as coughing, fever, diarrhea and others.
2. Choose a hotel that has high standards of cleanliness
The second staycation tips during a pandemic is that you have to choose and booking hotel that has implemented cleanliness standards in accordance with those set by WHO and the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association. Usually, hotels that have implemented this policy have a sign that can be seen when you open by an online travel application. Also, you have to read the hotel reviews that you will choose based on their cleanliness reviews. Reviews about cleanliness are usually written by hotel guests who have stayed at the hotel, so you can find out how clean the room you will be staying in and the entire hotel area.
- Avoid physical contact during the check in process
The third staycation tips during a pandemic is, as much as possible you have to avoid physical contact during the check in process. Usually during the check in process, the receptionist will need your signature as approval to stay at the hotel. Instead of using a pen belonging to the receptionist that has been used by many people, it’s a good idea to bring your own pen to make it safer. Or you can choose to do the online check in or self-check in process if the hotel you are visiting has provided it. Of course this reduces your physical contact with other people during the check in process.
4. Request a room that has been empty for 3 days
The next staycation tips during a pandemic is, you have to request for a room that has been empty for three days. This is because according to research on the Corona virus which causes Covid-19, it can last up to five days. For that, you can ask the hotel to get a room that has been vacated for three days. Usually you can ask for this during the room reservation process up to 7 days before the check-in date. You can check the city where the city you live before staycation, like staycation Singapore.
5. Prepare your own food in your apartment/Use room service to order
You can choose to use room service when ordering food. Usually hotels will serve food in the form of a buffet at breakfast where all hotel guests will enjoy breakfast at the hotel restaurant at the specified time. Instead of rallying with a lot of people in a restaurant for breakfast, you can take advantage of room service or room service to ask for food to be delivered to your room.
If you are staying in a serviced apartment, they come with a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare your own meals therefore avoid contact with other guests and staff.
Longonot Place Serviced Apartments is committed to the sustenance of safe and healthy work place for all employees and key stakeholders by acting positively where it can to eliminate hazards, and prevent injury, ill health, damage and loss arising from its operations. We have fumigated our corridors, door handles, lift buttons & doors, reception area surface, staircase railings, and public access areas with a special germicide to fight the Corona virus. Your health is our number one priority.
Fun Facts about Nairobi
Nairobi is one of the most dynamic cities in the continent, the most economic city in East Africa, and the largest city in Kenya, with a population of over 4 million people.
The city is full of culture, it is fun, there are lots of things to do during both day and night, and best of all, and it is affordable for the most part.
Nairobi also has the country’s main international airport – the Jomo Kenyatta International airport, and so many tourists coming to Kenya will most probably land in Nairobi first before preceding to other parts of the country.
Nairobi started as a railway camp, where the British rested as they built the Mombasa to Uganda railway line. It was previously known as “Ewaso Nai’beri”, but the British had a problem pronouncing the name so instead they coined their own name, “Nairobi”.
There’s a lot more I can say about Nairobi, but let’s check out some fun facts you probably didn’t know about the city.
Nairobi attractions
Did you know that Nairobi has some of the best attractions in Kenya? To begin with, Nairobi is home to the Nairobi National Park, the only national park that boarders a capital city. This makes this park particularly special, as you get the opportunity of watching wildlife with a backdrop of the city skyline.
Nairobi is also home to the David Sheldrick’s Trust, best known for protecting orphaned baby Elephants. It is an orphanage that is open to the public for one hour every day where you get a chance to be educated about the animals, watch them being fed, and what’s more, you can adopt one!
Nairobi is also home to the Giraffe Centre, a popular tourist attraction for both the international and local tourists. Here, you have the opportunity of feeding, touching, and taking photos with Giraffes.
The Bomas of Kenya, an open air museum, is also located in Nairobi. It is a place that offers an opportunity to experience cultural performances, and learn about the Kenyan tribes, among other things.
Other attractions to visit in the city include the “Mamba” (Crocodile) village, the Karura Forest, the Maasai markets among others.
Nairobi night life
Nairobi never sleeps, a fun fact you will quickly realize especially if you happen to be in town at night. The city is actually one of the most popular in Africa when it comes to its night life.
The number of night clubs, bars, and “locals” (small gathering areas in the estates) in the city is amazing. What’s more, everyone has a place they will fit, according to their budget. There are clubs where the richest in the city hang out, there are those for the middle class group, there are the “locals” for those who couldn’t be bothered to go to town, and then there are small clubs that serve much affordable drinks to the local “mwananchi” (citizen).
Some popular nightclubs in Nairobi include the B Club located in Kilimani estate, 1824 on Langata Road, 40Forty lounge in Westlands, and Brew Bistro & Lounge along Ngong Road.
There are also many big restaurants all over the city that operate until late.
Transport in Nairobi
Anyone that has ever visited Nairobi will tell you about the streets in Nairobi, the “Matatus”, which are the main public transportation, the “Nduthis” (motorbikes), another popular transportation in the city, and the taxi services including “Uber”, “Bolt” and “Little Cab”, among others.
Matatus are mini buses or smaller vans that provide transport for city dwellers coming from their homes to the city and back. They are pieces of artwork, and can be very interesting to see especially for someone coming to Nairobi for the first time. They are decorated with graffiti, images of international pop icons, contemporary topics, etc. They also play really loud music, and are very popular with the younger generation. There are also some that are not as decorated and not as loud, mostly favoured by the older generation.
You will almost always need to use either or a combination of all the various transportation options in the same day, depending on what you are doing in town, and how fast you want to get from point A to B.
You see, Nairobi is crazy busy. People, in big numbers, are always walking up and down the city. Matatus are almost everywhere and can be noisy sometimes, there will be people pushing carts depending on which area of town you are in, the nduthis are everywhere, and it can get chaotic. But it is also fun to try any of the transportation, albeit for the fun of it!
Nairobi Malls
Nairobi carries the most number of malls in Kenya.
From the Two Rivers Mall along Limuru road, to the Village Market Mall also along Limuru road, to the Garden City Mall on Thika road and the Thika Road Mall also on Thika road, the Hub Mall in Karen, the Waterfront Mall also in Karen, the Junction Mall along Ngong road, to T-Mall and Galleria Malls on Langata road and many more, it’s no wonder the city is renowned as one of the most developed in Africa.
A mall like the Two Rivers Mall is actually the largest shopping centre in East Africa, and the largest mall in sub-Saharan Africa except South Africa, occupying a space of 65,000 square metres.
Nairobi Slums
As you enjoy fine restaurants in the city and see lavish spending in some of the nightclubs in Nairobi at night, you might be forgiven to think that this is the way of life for everyone living in the city.
But it is not. There are some folks that are not so privileged, and these are the ones that live in the slums.
There are two main slums in Nairobi, the Kibera and Mathare slums. Kibera is actually one of the largest and poorest slums in Africa.
These slums are where some of the Nairobi’s poorest people live. But it is also where some very successful Kenyans have come from, and who have gone back to help out the younger generations growing up where they grew up, and giving them hope for a better future.
6 Ways a Weekend Getaway This Easter is Good for You
What if we told you that a weekend getaway is more than just a fun vacation, but is also beneficial to your health? Getting away for just a couple of days and taking some time for yourself is incredibly important. Getting away is good for you. Here’s why.
1. Improves Your Mental Health
One of the most popular reasons that people take short weekend getaways is to refresh their mental health.
Another good reason to get out is to boost your brain’s creative levels. A weekend trip can significantly improve your mental health by tamping down your stress levels, boosting your creativity levels, and lowering your worry levels.
2. Improves Your Physical Health
Your physical health is just as important as your mental health. People who take vacations, even short weekend ones, typically have lower stress levels and lower risk of heart disease.
While regular vacations can lower your overall stress level, which can impact all areas of health, it also specifically reduces your chances of being diagnosed with heart disease.
3. Vacations, Even Short, Help You Disconnect From Society
Another way to significantly lower your stress levels is to disconnect from society, and weekend getaways are a great way to do that.
People in today’s world are constantly on social media platforms, and taking a break from the digital world can help your brain recuperate from constantly processing information on a screen. Most workplaces utilize computer screens in order to communicate with coworkers, and stepping away from technology not only lets your eyes rest, but also makes you physically and mentally rest, as many employees treat themselves as workhorses – pushing themselves to the point where they have to take multiple days off due to health reasons.
This is the same for taking breaks from being around people, as being around others all day every day can be mentally taxing. Taking some time to step away from the crowds allows your brain to stop thinking about other people and their needs, and focus on you and your needs.
4. Weekend Getaways are Cost Effective
Cost is usually a significant factor when it comes to planning a vacation.
Big vacations can make you say “goodbye” to relaxation because they can quickly become very costly. If you’re worrying about money, your vacation will be more stressful. You may be tempted to cram as many activities as possible into your trip, in order to get the most bang for your buck.
Small vacations are not only easier to plan than longer ones but can cost far less. Because the cost is significantly lower, short trips are also much easier to save up for. These savings may mean that you can afford to take a few weekend trips per year, rather than only one big vacation.
5. Getaways Help Strengthen Your Relationships
Weekend getaways are also great for strengthening relationships with your loved ones. Taking a solo weekend getaway allows you to not only have time away from your partner, but also allows you to focus on yourself rather than anyone else.
On the other hand, taking a mini-vacation with your partner can also be a lot of fun. Couples retreats are popular options for couples looking to get away from real life for a couple of days. Many hotels recognize this and offer “romance packages.” Even if you choose to spend your weekend in the hotel, and not out and exploring the town, taking time for yourself with or without company allows you to relax and recharge for the week ahead.
6. Getaways Maximize Your Time with New Experiences
Stay-cations and mini-vacations to another town in your state give you the chance to experience things that you may not normally experience. Playing tourist in your own town, or even somewhere else in your own state, can be lots of fun.
Either way, a short stay somewhere that’s not home is a great opportunity to try something new, and who knows, you may even find a new favorite food or a new activity you enjoy.