If you happen to be a tourist in Nairobi and you are wondering where to shop so as to take back home some memoirs of the country, look no father to these destinations. They are very pocket friendly, reliable and of course they have everything under one roof. Do not be disturbed by the bogus shops no more! Look for quality. To make matters better, they are in areas where one can easily access them straight from the tourist destinations that are spread across the region.
Nakumatt Group Of Supermarkets: These chain stores are in the best places in the town. The Nakumatt Mega branch sits right at the centre of things. From the airport heading to a hotel room in the town centre, you as the visitor is greeted by this chain store on Mombasa road. On your way to Nairobi National park, the store greets you on the left side of Mombasa road. The other Nakumatt Westgate will also bring the great satisfaction of shopping to the tourist. The surrounding neighborhood is also surrounded by curio venders selling wooden animal sculptures and flowers just for you.
Yaya Centre; is a hot spot shopping centre that consists of lots of holiday packages and also various kinds of goods on sale. From furniture to exotic paintings, to restaurants, to curios to stamps, to bed and breakfast packages, to a swimming, to absolutely anything is found at Yaya. Plus they are known to give their customers top class services. Make a visit to Yaya Centre on Argwings Kodhek road in Nairobi today.
The Sarit Centre; situated on Parklands road should also be a good tourist shopping destination. It is a good destination for tourist coming from Ngong Forest bird sanctuary following the Lower Kabete road, or for those coming from enjoying the scenery of the green city in the sun. It consists of various shops, a gym that is fully equipped, a spa centre and much much more.
The Mall Westlands; though it is in Westlands, surrounded by lots of offices, one should expect that the Mall should have managed to acquire huge tracts of land to build on. Despite its small space, it is a good place to shop for any tourist because of its silent serene, good customer care services for the shopper and a wide variety of African ornaments to buy.
Hope you come to shop, shop and shop; you will not be disappointed.
Safari Shopping
Friday, July 30, 2010
Conferencing and other tourist sites at the KICC
For some people, the mention of KICC means the tallest building in Kenya. For others it means a fountain and paparazzi at the gate. For many people, it means a centre for hosting conferences and exhibitions for both local as well as international magnitude. Because it is situated in the heart of the city centre and also close to the major hotels in the country, it is a good location for all these activities to take place.
There main business activity is selling space as it boasts of sixteen conference rooms that accommodate between six to two thousand four hundred and forty four people. Examples of these rooms are the; Tsavo Ballroom with a capacity of 2,444 people at a reasonable rate of 292,320 for the whole day, the Comesa room with a sitting capacity of 7,497 people with a rate of 115,710 shillings and last but not least the Shimba Hills rooms with a capacity of 205 people at a mere rate of 42, 630 shillings. Each conference room boasts of a fully quipped computer presentation facility, PA system together with security guards as well as a beautiful well prepared room.
Exhibitions held in the compound go for different rates which vary depending on the number of sponsors organizing the event and the nature of the event and also whether it is during Peak season (tourist boom) or not. There are also conference rooms that are available on hire on depend maybe for wedding committee meeting and the like.
Being the tallest building, KICC also boasts of having a heli-pad where helicopter rides are given to tourists and locals enabling them to see the city design from a birds eye view. Local rates are two hundred shillings only per person per ride while international rates are ten dollars.
At night the KICC lights up the city with the light from the many rooms inside, that create wonderful scenery.
The next time you have a conference, make the KICC your first choice, you will have value for your money.
Conference Organizers
There main business activity is selling space as it boasts of sixteen conference rooms that accommodate between six to two thousand four hundred and forty four people. Examples of these rooms are the; Tsavo Ballroom with a capacity of 2,444 people at a reasonable rate of 292,320 for the whole day, the Comesa room with a sitting capacity of 7,497 people with a rate of 115,710 shillings and last but not least the Shimba Hills rooms with a capacity of 205 people at a mere rate of 42, 630 shillings. Each conference room boasts of a fully quipped computer presentation facility, PA system together with security guards as well as a beautiful well prepared room.
Exhibitions held in the compound go for different rates which vary depending on the number of sponsors organizing the event and the nature of the event and also whether it is during Peak season (tourist boom) or not. There are also conference rooms that are available on hire on depend maybe for wedding committee meeting and the like.
Being the tallest building, KICC also boasts of having a heli-pad where helicopter rides are given to tourists and locals enabling them to see the city design from a birds eye view. Local rates are two hundred shillings only per person per ride while international rates are ten dollars.
At night the KICC lights up the city with the light from the many rooms inside, that create wonderful scenery.
The next time you have a conference, make the KICC your first choice, you will have value for your money.
Conference Organizers
Tour firms that will leave you wanting more
Have you ever found yourself looking for tour firms and you are bombarded by hundreds of choices some are fake others are poor performers leaving you tired and annoyed? Worry no more because there is a list specially for you to choose the best tour firms in Kenya leaving you wanting to pitch camp in Kenya for good.
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: this is one of the oldest tour firms in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from.
Lets Go Kenya: A fairly new tour firm that has taken travel booking to whole new level on of the few travel firms that actually offer online booking facilities on their website and it works, You make me happy and my hotel bookings such a smooth ride
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti.
Discover Kenya Safaris Ltd: this is tour firm that has established itself in the country in just a short while. It is a member of the (K.A.T.O) Kenya Association of Tour Operators that is responsible for maintaining quality services among the members. As a way of giving back to the society and helping the community around tham, Discover Kenya often donates books and learning materials to schools around them and to orphaned children.
Shoor Safaris East Africa: the best part about his firm is that it has offices in Tanzania, Uganda as well as Kenya which is a good thing especially for holiday makers who wish to travel through the East Africa region. It offers air services as well for the customers with such requests.
Pioneer Travels: This firm as the name suggests is a good tours and travels firm that has cut for itself a niche in the industry. Instead of the firm doing what other firms do they took a different approach to wooing customers. Most firms decided to attach themselves to specific tourist destinations hoping that the customer will be satisfied with the option. Pioneer tours opened its doors to any destination but the customer chooses the packages in terms of whether they are co-operate, individual vacation or expatriate travel with the prices based on those factors. Pioneer Travels is also a member of K.A.T.O.
Of course there are many other firms who have established themselves in the country and if they have made your holiday delightful suggest it to us.
East Africa Hotels
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: this is one of the oldest tour firms in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from.
Lets Go Kenya: A fairly new tour firm that has taken travel booking to whole new level on of the few travel firms that actually offer online booking facilities on their website and it works, You make me happy and my hotel bookings such a smooth ride
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti.
Discover Kenya Safaris Ltd: this is tour firm that has established itself in the country in just a short while. It is a member of the (K.A.T.O) Kenya Association of Tour Operators that is responsible for maintaining quality services among the members. As a way of giving back to the society and helping the community around tham, Discover Kenya often donates books and learning materials to schools around them and to orphaned children.
Shoor Safaris East Africa: the best part about his firm is that it has offices in Tanzania, Uganda as well as Kenya which is a good thing especially for holiday makers who wish to travel through the East Africa region. It offers air services as well for the customers with such requests.
Pioneer Travels: This firm as the name suggests is a good tours and travels firm that has cut for itself a niche in the industry. Instead of the firm doing what other firms do they took a different approach to wooing customers. Most firms decided to attach themselves to specific tourist destinations hoping that the customer will be satisfied with the option. Pioneer tours opened its doors to any destination but the customer chooses the packages in terms of whether they are co-operate, individual vacation or expatriate travel with the prices based on those factors. Pioneer Travels is also a member of K.A.T.O.
Of course there are many other firms who have established themselves in the country and if they have made your holiday delightful suggest it to us.
East Africa Hotels
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Crocodiles
Crocodile are very ferocious, fierce- some, dangerous creatures. Even words just can’t describe the wrath they wage on humans when hungry or provoked. Among the fiercest, are the Nile crocodiles that are known to seize any prey (even as large as the wildebeest), clasp tightly into their great jaws and drag them under the water where they meet their death. The two species found in Kenya as well as most parts of Africa are the African dwarf Crocodile, the Slender Snouted crocodile and the African Nile Crocodile.
They lay about seventy to eighty eggs but out of this huge number, only a few manage to survive until adulthood. A young newly hatched crocodile are also fierce and can also bite off a probing finger.
Most crocodile species prefer living in fresh water basin hence they are found in Tana and Athi rivers and not Lake Bogoria. They swallow stones which may act as a ballast to balance their bodies in water or assist in crushing food.
There are a number of tourists’ sites that are home to these beastly creatures. There is the Mamba village in Mombasa, the Nature Trail in Bamburi still at the Coast and the Nairobi National Park in the Capital city of Kenya. Visitors are seen at the sides of the man made lakes in the parks that are well enclosed to secure holiday goers from danger. The crocodiles catch prey by playing dead with their mouths wide open. Immediately prey settles on the mouth of the crocodile the mouth snaps shut trapping the prey and killing it instantly. This activity is repeated frequently through out the day until it is full or tired with the later being the best reason since a crocodile needs about one hundred and fifty kilograms of meat a day to just survive. As a tourist one should not assume that the creature is dead and get close to it because with just one snap the arm can be chopped off instantly. Of course there is the Tana River site where you can catch a glimpse of these creatures though it is not officially opened to tourists and is quite a risky affair for any one.
Certain restaurants like the Carnivore Simba Salon are licensed to cook delicious, mouth watering meat from these creatures called crocodiles but it is illegal for others to poach wildlife and sell game meat in Kenya.
This bewildering sight is an unforgettable experience.
Maasai Mara Safaris
They lay about seventy to eighty eggs but out of this huge number, only a few manage to survive until adulthood. A young newly hatched crocodile are also fierce and can also bite off a probing finger.
Most crocodile species prefer living in fresh water basin hence they are found in Tana and Athi rivers and not Lake Bogoria. They swallow stones which may act as a ballast to balance their bodies in water or assist in crushing food.
There are a number of tourists’ sites that are home to these beastly creatures. There is the Mamba village in Mombasa, the Nature Trail in Bamburi still at the Coast and the Nairobi National Park in the Capital city of Kenya. Visitors are seen at the sides of the man made lakes in the parks that are well enclosed to secure holiday goers from danger. The crocodiles catch prey by playing dead with their mouths wide open. Immediately prey settles on the mouth of the crocodile the mouth snaps shut trapping the prey and killing it instantly. This activity is repeated frequently through out the day until it is full or tired with the later being the best reason since a crocodile needs about one hundred and fifty kilograms of meat a day to just survive. As a tourist one should not assume that the creature is dead and get close to it because with just one snap the arm can be chopped off instantly. Of course there is the Tana River site where you can catch a glimpse of these creatures though it is not officially opened to tourists and is quite a risky affair for any one.
Certain restaurants like the Carnivore Simba Salon are licensed to cook delicious, mouth watering meat from these creatures called crocodiles but it is illegal for others to poach wildlife and sell game meat in Kenya.
This bewildering sight is an unforgettable experience.
Maasai Mara Safaris
The Best of Western Province
So yes we have talked about the Coast and dreamed about it every day but it is time we set our sails in a different direction off to the west of Kenya that is little talked about. It does not require a lot of money for the traveler because some of these sights are just natural beauty present all over the region and not enclosed in a park. There are the Kericho and Vihiga district Tea zones whose green cover in the area is just wondrous. The air around the tea zones is flavoured by aromatic scents of the exotic internationally acclaimed Kenyan Tea; while driving you may stop to take a deep breadth of the scented air. Don’t forget to take a sip of the tea so that you can write back home to tell them about the sweet tea. There is the bull fight ceremonies held in Kakamega town by market centers’ streets that are open for all to see.
Further away there is the Kisumu Bird Sanctuary which is a fascinating place to visit for budding ornithologists (in lay terms, these are people who study birds species). The sanctuary is a nesting site for herons, ibises, cormorants, egrets and storks.
Still in the west, there are several national parks that are home to different species of wildlife. Ruma National park is one of them which houses the big five animals. The country’s smallest park is also found in this region. The Saiwa Swamp National Park was created with the aim of preserving the endangered semi- aquatic antelope called the Sitatunga antelope which spends it days semi – submerged in the weedy swamp water. Mount Elgon should also be a national park that is near Mount Elgon which is known to be the best park to view elephants in the caves inside the park.
Which part of the country would you find a crying rock? A rock that cries without any scientifically induced processes or gadgets is quite intriguing, right? If you don’t believe me, take a ride to Kakamega to see how water seeps out through two rocks through out the year even in the droughtest of all seasons.
Lake Victoria the second grandest of all fresh water lakes in the world is also found in Western province. Covering an unbelievable area of seventy thousand square kilometers the lake has been known to be able to pull visitors from far and wide.
Kakamega forest which is tirelessly been conserved by the government is amazing. It is the last of the Equatorial forest in Kenya that used to span all the way from DRC Congo is a no miss for anyone. Take a walk inside the park to view the three hundred species of birds, three hundred and fifty indigenous tree species and 400 butterfly species. Among the wildlife are the cheeky, endangered De Brazza, Vervet and the black and white Colobus monkey. Also available are countless picnic sites for the family to enjoy.
The famous archeological site where full human remains of the homo erectus man were found is also in Western Kenya. Though the town is almost deserted you take relief of the fact that there is a luxurious Rusinga Island Club for a nights rest.
Lastly there are many hotels and lodges for the traveller to lay her head. These are such as Mfangano Island Camps, Kakamega Sports clubs and the Golf Hotel Kakamega.
See you soon in Western Dear Traveler!
Further away there is the Kisumu Bird Sanctuary which is a fascinating place to visit for budding ornithologists (in lay terms, these are people who study birds species). The sanctuary is a nesting site for herons, ibises, cormorants, egrets and storks.
Still in the west, there are several national parks that are home to different species of wildlife. Ruma National park is one of them which houses the big five animals. The country’s smallest park is also found in this region. The Saiwa Swamp National Park was created with the aim of preserving the endangered semi- aquatic antelope called the Sitatunga antelope which spends it days semi – submerged in the weedy swamp water. Mount Elgon should also be a national park that is near Mount Elgon which is known to be the best park to view elephants in the caves inside the park.
Which part of the country would you find a crying rock? A rock that cries without any scientifically induced processes or gadgets is quite intriguing, right? If you don’t believe me, take a ride to Kakamega to see how water seeps out through two rocks through out the year even in the droughtest of all seasons.
Lake Victoria the second grandest of all fresh water lakes in the world is also found in Western province. Covering an unbelievable area of seventy thousand square kilometers the lake has been known to be able to pull visitors from far and wide.
Kakamega forest which is tirelessly been conserved by the government is amazing. It is the last of the Equatorial forest in Kenya that used to span all the way from DRC Congo is a no miss for anyone. Take a walk inside the park to view the three hundred species of birds, three hundred and fifty indigenous tree species and 400 butterfly species. Among the wildlife are the cheeky, endangered De Brazza, Vervet and the black and white Colobus monkey. Also available are countless picnic sites for the family to enjoy.
The famous archeological site where full human remains of the homo erectus man were found is also in Western Kenya. Though the town is almost deserted you take relief of the fact that there is a luxurious Rusinga Island Club for a nights rest.
Lastly there are many hotels and lodges for the traveller to lay her head. These are such as Mfangano Island Camps, Kakamega Sports clubs and the Golf Hotel Kakamega.
See you soon in Western Dear Traveler!
Mzima Springs
West of the Tsavo National Park are four springs called Mzima Springs whose name in Kiswahili means life. One may be curious to know where these springs get their water, which is very simple. They are watered from a natural reservoir under the Chyulu Hills to the north not far from the park. Mzima springs is surrounded by green palms and shady trees which is a sweet relief from the hot temperatures, the hot lava covered area and the very dusty terrain that is characteristic of the Tsavo plains.
The greatest attraction of these springs, are the Nile crocodiles and hippos that lie lazily in the blue waters. The wildlife present is monkeys, hippos and crocodiles as well as birds that form a symbiotic relationship with these animals. Because of the porous lava rocks that form the floor of the springs, water sips through, is purified then is released back up when the rocks are properly saturated. Hence gives the springs a crystal clear blue surface that seems not to ever be affected by pollution of all sorts.
The area is very peaceful for any traveler. There is a wooden plank for visitors to be engaged in a nature trail which also leads to a glass sided tank under the water where four different kinds of fish can be viewed. The hippos could also be seen but they suddenly became very clever and decided to shift their base to the other side of the springs. However, visitors can still view the animals early in the morning as they lazily bask in the morning sun.
The sad part is that this area is susceptible to bad droughts which require the efforts of the wildlife officials to keep wet and the animals to stay alive. In the year of 2009, the officials had a hard time maintaining the wildlife species but they did a good job in conserving the flora and fauna in this wonderful site.
This is a very beautiful place to visit for many reasons. It is a good site for geographers to come and study the region and for animal lovers to come and savor the enchanting animals present. The shady paths are also a good place for tourists to come and visit as the peace and tranquility is sweet relief from the hassle and bustle of the city and work places. Indeed Kenya is a very beautiful country.
Kenya Wildlife Safaris
The greatest attraction of these springs, are the Nile crocodiles and hippos that lie lazily in the blue waters. The wildlife present is monkeys, hippos and crocodiles as well as birds that form a symbiotic relationship with these animals. Because of the porous lava rocks that form the floor of the springs, water sips through, is purified then is released back up when the rocks are properly saturated. Hence gives the springs a crystal clear blue surface that seems not to ever be affected by pollution of all sorts.
The area is very peaceful for any traveler. There is a wooden plank for visitors to be engaged in a nature trail which also leads to a glass sided tank under the water where four different kinds of fish can be viewed. The hippos could also be seen but they suddenly became very clever and decided to shift their base to the other side of the springs. However, visitors can still view the animals early in the morning as they lazily bask in the morning sun.
The sad part is that this area is susceptible to bad droughts which require the efforts of the wildlife officials to keep wet and the animals to stay alive. In the year of 2009, the officials had a hard time maintaining the wildlife species but they did a good job in conserving the flora and fauna in this wonderful site.
This is a very beautiful place to visit for many reasons. It is a good site for geographers to come and study the region and for animal lovers to come and savor the enchanting animals present. The shady paths are also a good place for tourists to come and visit as the peace and tranquility is sweet relief from the hassle and bustle of the city and work places. Indeed Kenya is a very beautiful country.
Kenya Wildlife Safaris
Keekorock lodge
Keekorock lodge in the Maasai game reserve was the first lodge to be built in this reserve. The cedar and stone buildings provide luxurious accommodation for guests interested in seeing the large variety of game which roams within a very short distance of the lodge.
The most fascinating thing about Keekorok Lodge is that it is situated in the direct path of the famous wildebeest migration. At the height of the migration, the area around Keekorok is surrounded by animals which you can view from the lodge itself especially from the walkway leading out into the open area near the lodge. Also the lodge is very near Nairobi thereby attracting the residents of this town.
Early morning and afternoon game drives offer animal encounters unparalleled in the world all round the year. Imagine being greeted by ninety five species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles plus over four hundred bird species. My guess is that Nowhere in Africa is wildlife more abundant and alive than there at Keekorock.
The eighty nine standard rooms, eight superior rooms and four suites rooms are well constructed to suite the needs and pockets of all their clients. What’s more the rooms are well ventilated and air conditioned to shelter clients from the harsh African sun that tends to really shine on this land. The compound comprises of green lawns with colorful bougainvillea along the walls of the lodge.
Other facilities include a swimming pool, open bar and professionally trained staff who are only too willing to offer the best services in town. Lectures on the Maasai culture / ethnic group are held regularly to touring groups.
The lodge however should not be excused for not maintaining the finished chipped off walls outside the lodge. Instead they should try to constantly improve the exterior surface. Other than that, the lodge is a good place for both the family and co-operate groups that are on Safari.
Kenya Safari Operators
The most fascinating thing about Keekorok Lodge is that it is situated in the direct path of the famous wildebeest migration. At the height of the migration, the area around Keekorok is surrounded by animals which you can view from the lodge itself especially from the walkway leading out into the open area near the lodge. Also the lodge is very near Nairobi thereby attracting the residents of this town.
Early morning and afternoon game drives offer animal encounters unparalleled in the world all round the year. Imagine being greeted by ninety five species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles plus over four hundred bird species. My guess is that Nowhere in Africa is wildlife more abundant and alive than there at Keekorock.
The eighty nine standard rooms, eight superior rooms and four suites rooms are well constructed to suite the needs and pockets of all their clients. What’s more the rooms are well ventilated and air conditioned to shelter clients from the harsh African sun that tends to really shine on this land. The compound comprises of green lawns with colorful bougainvillea along the walls of the lodge.
Other facilities include a swimming pool, open bar and professionally trained staff who are only too willing to offer the best services in town. Lectures on the Maasai culture / ethnic group are held regularly to touring groups.
The lodge however should not be excused for not maintaining the finished chipped off walls outside the lodge. Instead they should try to constantly improve the exterior surface. Other than that, the lodge is a good place for both the family and co-operate groups that are on Safari.
Kenya Safari Operators
The Impala
There are many Impalas in the Nairobi National Park and other parks in Kenya, however they are not found in parks that are in mountainous regions such as the Mount Kenya National Park. They are categorized on the same category as the gazelles, lobs and hartebeests being the most graceful of antelopes and are very alert. To differentiate a male from a female look for the horns; the males have long curvy horns while females have no horns at all.
The black Impala is the rarest of all species with small numbers being found around the southern African region. Females’ gestation period is seven months but they are known to delay giving birth for up to one month if the weather conditions are just too harsh for the young one to survive. The young are then suckled for six months or so with males and females taking a different turn in life. If it is a male, it is chased away from the herd, to go and form a bachelors herd with other young males. The females are left in the herd for longer where the grown up bachelor males start to woe them there by beginning the cycle of life all over again.
Being herbivorous by nature, the impalas are known to feast on shrubs, grass and twigs and berries. Unlike other wildlife, the impalas do not eat their young one even in the driest of weather conditions with the sickest of all being left alone to die a natural death.
At the Kenya national parks, one will be greeted by a spectacle of these jumpy creatures walking around in herds. They can jump to about three meters high as a way of sounding a distress call to other members about any impending danger.
Come and enjoy these simple pleasures of life of observing the wildlife.
Africa Safaris
The black Impala is the rarest of all species with small numbers being found around the southern African region. Females’ gestation period is seven months but they are known to delay giving birth for up to one month if the weather conditions are just too harsh for the young one to survive. The young are then suckled for six months or so with males and females taking a different turn in life. If it is a male, it is chased away from the herd, to go and form a bachelors herd with other young males. The females are left in the herd for longer where the grown up bachelor males start to woe them there by beginning the cycle of life all over again.
Being herbivorous by nature, the impalas are known to feast on shrubs, grass and twigs and berries. Unlike other wildlife, the impalas do not eat their young one even in the driest of weather conditions with the sickest of all being left alone to die a natural death.
At the Kenya national parks, one will be greeted by a spectacle of these jumpy creatures walking around in herds. They can jump to about three meters high as a way of sounding a distress call to other members about any impending danger.
Come and enjoy these simple pleasures of life of observing the wildlife.
Africa Safaris
Friday, July 23, 2010
The Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Manor, built in 1932 by Sir David Duncan, is situated on 140 acres of land just a few miles (15) from the city center of Nairobi. In the centre you will have an enticing experience of a real giraffe touch, feeding the famous and endangered Rothschild giraffes. There is an impressive variety of birds’ species which can be viewed through the year.
A visit to the Karen Blixen Farm, which was named after a Danish lady who came to Kenya in the early part of this century, will provide a relaxing experience. The farm’s name was once a shooting site to a movie that was shot in Kenya by the name, Out Of Africa which was also a title to Karen’s own novel. The early morning after spending a night at one of the five spacious and executive rooms is mmm…ahhah even words can not describe this scene. You will be greeted by the curious giraffes as they stretch their necks towards your bedroom window which is such a wonderful and an un-expected event. During the day there will be a walk and nature excursion that will reward you with a great view of a variety of bird species, wildlife and natural scenario.
See you there soon; you will not be disappointed by these places
Tour and Travel Safaris
A visit to the Karen Blixen Farm, which was named after a Danish lady who came to Kenya in the early part of this century, will provide a relaxing experience. The farm’s name was once a shooting site to a movie that was shot in Kenya by the name, Out Of Africa which was also a title to Karen’s own novel. The early morning after spending a night at one of the five spacious and executive rooms is mmm…ahhah even words can not describe this scene. You will be greeted by the curious giraffes as they stretch their necks towards your bedroom window which is such a wonderful and an un-expected event. During the day there will be a walk and nature excursion that will reward you with a great view of a variety of bird species, wildlife and natural scenario.
See you there soon; you will not be disappointed by these places
Tour and Travel Safaris
Types of Giraffes in Kenya
There are various species of Giraffes in the world with various physical traits that distinguish them. Despite these differences, through research, it has been found out that they all belonged to one main species but through evolution in different geographical regions, these differences have therefore emerged. The funny thing about giraffes is that they are the only animals that are born with horns at birth. In Kenya there are mostly three kinds of species found though they are so similar making it hard for the common eye to spot the difference.
Maasai Giraffe or Kilimanjaro Giraffe As the name suggests is found in central and southern Kenya and Tanzania. It is unique with its jagged-edged, vine-leaf shaped spots of dark chocolate on a yellowish background.
Rothschild Giraffe or Baringo Giraffe or Ugandan Giraffe has deep brown, blotched or rectangular spots with poorly defined cream lines. Hocks may be spotted. It is found in Uganda and northern Kenya.
Reticulated Giraffe or Somali Giraffe has large, polygonal liver-colored spots outlined by a network of bright white lines. The blocks may sometimes appear deep red and may also cover the legs. It is found in northeastern Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
The next one is the Angolan Giraffe or Smoky Giraffe which is characteristic of large spots and some notches around the edges, extending down the entire lower leg and is found mostly in Angola, Zambia.
The rest of the species are in southern Africa and they include the South Africa Giraffe, the Rhodesian Giraffe, the Nubian Giraffe, the Kordofan Giraffe and the Nigerian Giraffe.
Where is the best spot for finding these animals you may ask? None other than the Giraffe centre and the Karen Blixen Farm both of which are situated in Karen, Nairobi.
Travel Desitnation to Kenya
Maasai Giraffe or Kilimanjaro Giraffe As the name suggests is found in central and southern Kenya and Tanzania. It is unique with its jagged-edged, vine-leaf shaped spots of dark chocolate on a yellowish background.
Rothschild Giraffe or Baringo Giraffe or Ugandan Giraffe has deep brown, blotched or rectangular spots with poorly defined cream lines. Hocks may be spotted. It is found in Uganda and northern Kenya.
Reticulated Giraffe or Somali Giraffe has large, polygonal liver-colored spots outlined by a network of bright white lines. The blocks may sometimes appear deep red and may also cover the legs. It is found in northeastern Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
The next one is the Angolan Giraffe or Smoky Giraffe which is characteristic of large spots and some notches around the edges, extending down the entire lower leg and is found mostly in Angola, Zambia.
The rest of the species are in southern Africa and they include the South Africa Giraffe, the Rhodesian Giraffe, the Nubian Giraffe, the Kordofan Giraffe and the Nigerian Giraffe.
Where is the best spot for finding these animals you may ask? None other than the Giraffe centre and the Karen Blixen Farm both of which are situated in Karen, Nairobi.
Travel Desitnation to Kenya
Why Kenya Is The Preferred Tourist Destination
Kenya, you ask me why it is the preferred tourist destination, I respond confidently, why not. There are so many things that characterize Kenya that will make me want to fantasize and romanticize about it till the end of the earth. I am sure that with time, as you enjoy your stay, you shall begin to understand my love for Kenya instead of thinking that I am just but a mad case.
First of all, where in this world would you get such warm weather that is so evenly spread out through out the year? Whether it is in January of July, the weather is tolerable except for a short cold spell in June and July whose temperatures don’t fall below fifteen degrees Celsius averagely speaking. The temperatures don’t fall too low or rise too high thus packing for a journey is made easier and more predictable.
Despite the fact that there are over forty different ethnic groups in Kenya (though the Maasai are the SI unit of ethnic groups in Kenya with their red checked garments), they all bring their cultural differences to merge and form a wonderful unified state with very friendly, hospitable and accommodating people. Kenyans are known to be very helpful especially foreigners who will not only enjoy the great tourist destination, but also enjoy wonderful service from people who understand and accept people by treating them well.
We must not forget the main reason as to why Kenya is the preferred destination. The luring sandy beaches, the wildlife, the parks, the forests name it; they are magnetic elements to foreigners form far and wide. Be it the safari hotels such as White Sands, beaches like Shelly, Parks like Tsavo, Maasai Mara, forests like the Kakamega forest or lakes like Nakuru, they are just a bewildering experience even for the most wildly traveled person in the world.
Why Kenya? Well, if Kenya is to be compared to its neighbors in terms of political stability and peace, it is an open secret that Kenya is proud to say that it is a very peaceful and politically stable country. Go to Central Africa and you will find the genocide ravaged Rwanda, to the North there is the Darfur region whose political state is shaky and then there is our Eastern counter part, Uganda, whose president is still facing problems from the guerilla rebels in the forest. Kenya is the only country that has managed to maintain peace since independence. If those others were not good reasons, then this one that concerns your security will sure lure you into our sandy beaches haven.
Kenya should also be your preferred tourist destination because it has the state of the art infrastructure that is just icing to the cake to one’s holiday. The roads are in tip top condition pothole free with several lanes on each side on most major highways in the country. Telecommunication lines such as cell phone services or internet access is just to be envied by many. Network for these services is available throughout the country. There is no incident where you will be stranded because these services are not available in that particular area. Even to make international calls to loved ones who were left behind is available with the lines being very clear.
Lastly, Kenya should be your preferred tourist destination if only it is to come and see why our athletes steal the show in athletic competitions. Come and find out why the athletes win, what it is that they eat or do. Even Bolt admitted that his secret to his wins are cassava. WOW
Lets Go Travel Kenya
First of all, where in this world would you get such warm weather that is so evenly spread out through out the year? Whether it is in January of July, the weather is tolerable except for a short cold spell in June and July whose temperatures don’t fall below fifteen degrees Celsius averagely speaking. The temperatures don’t fall too low or rise too high thus packing for a journey is made easier and more predictable.
Despite the fact that there are over forty different ethnic groups in Kenya (though the Maasai are the SI unit of ethnic groups in Kenya with their red checked garments), they all bring their cultural differences to merge and form a wonderful unified state with very friendly, hospitable and accommodating people. Kenyans are known to be very helpful especially foreigners who will not only enjoy the great tourist destination, but also enjoy wonderful service from people who understand and accept people by treating them well.
We must not forget the main reason as to why Kenya is the preferred destination. The luring sandy beaches, the wildlife, the parks, the forests name it; they are magnetic elements to foreigners form far and wide. Be it the safari hotels such as White Sands, beaches like Shelly, Parks like Tsavo, Maasai Mara, forests like the Kakamega forest or lakes like Nakuru, they are just a bewildering experience even for the most wildly traveled person in the world.
Why Kenya? Well, if Kenya is to be compared to its neighbors in terms of political stability and peace, it is an open secret that Kenya is proud to say that it is a very peaceful and politically stable country. Go to Central Africa and you will find the genocide ravaged Rwanda, to the North there is the Darfur region whose political state is shaky and then there is our Eastern counter part, Uganda, whose president is still facing problems from the guerilla rebels in the forest. Kenya is the only country that has managed to maintain peace since independence. If those others were not good reasons, then this one that concerns your security will sure lure you into our sandy beaches haven.
Kenya should also be your preferred tourist destination because it has the state of the art infrastructure that is just icing to the cake to one’s holiday. The roads are in tip top condition pothole free with several lanes on each side on most major highways in the country. Telecommunication lines such as cell phone services or internet access is just to be envied by many. Network for these services is available throughout the country. There is no incident where you will be stranded because these services are not available in that particular area. Even to make international calls to loved ones who were left behind is available with the lines being very clear.
Lastly, Kenya should be your preferred tourist destination if only it is to come and see why our athletes steal the show in athletic competitions. Come and find out why the athletes win, what it is that they eat or do. Even Bolt admitted that his secret to his wins are cassava. WOW
Lets Go Travel Kenya
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Top Rated Hotels in Nairobi
The Stanley Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Kenya and has been in existence sine 1911. Though it was built such a long time ago, it has consistently been improved so as to maintain high international standards that tourist in the business sector expect. It is in the city centre/ Central Business District n\very near majority of business. The Thorn Tree café in the courtyard is a favorite rendezvous spot.
The Norfolk Hotel is also one of the oldest hotels in the country. It is mostly known for its horse riding services in the hotel which is the mode of transport for visitors while in the hotel.
The Nairobi Hilton Hotel is a very posh and executive hotel in the country. It definitely maintains the high standards that is expected of the Hilton Group of hotels. It used to be the tallest building in the country, but over time it has been dwarfed by many other buildings that have sprouted up in the city.
Safari Park hotel is the new kid in the block when it comes to hotels in the city. Situated on the outskirts of Nairobi on the Thika highway, it is away from the sometimes noisy town centre thereby being a good destination for quiet low key conferences and parties. The staff is very competent and professional.
Six Eighty Hotel this hotel is fancy and flashy in all aspects. The combination of a very central location, wide range of facilities and decent rates put this hotel at a respectable position among the high fliers in the hotel industry. The hotel is located along Kenyatta Avenue, in the heart of the shopping and business centre that is ideal in attracting business people. Though it does not have the standards of the top players, it is a wonderful place that will cater for all your holiday needs.
The Intercontinental Hotel is also a very highly rated hotel in Nairobi. The deep brown and yellow theme in the entrance hall is just but a small reflection of the quality of services that they provide. The cool palm trees at the gate create a very relaxing atmosphere to the visitors. Security is tight considering that there are security personnel manning the gate with a metal detector and cameras throughout the hotel for the visitors to feel safe.
Perhaps you have also experienced quality services from other places. Put your remarks about these places.
The Norfolk Hotel is also one of the oldest hotels in the country. It is mostly known for its horse riding services in the hotel which is the mode of transport for visitors while in the hotel.
The Nairobi Hilton Hotel is a very posh and executive hotel in the country. It definitely maintains the high standards that is expected of the Hilton Group of hotels. It used to be the tallest building in the country, but over time it has been dwarfed by many other buildings that have sprouted up in the city.
Safari Park hotel is the new kid in the block when it comes to hotels in the city. Situated on the outskirts of Nairobi on the Thika highway, it is away from the sometimes noisy town centre thereby being a good destination for quiet low key conferences and parties. The staff is very competent and professional.
Six Eighty Hotel this hotel is fancy and flashy in all aspects. The combination of a very central location, wide range of facilities and decent rates put this hotel at a respectable position among the high fliers in the hotel industry. The hotel is located along Kenyatta Avenue, in the heart of the shopping and business centre that is ideal in attracting business people. Though it does not have the standards of the top players, it is a wonderful place that will cater for all your holiday needs.
The Intercontinental Hotel is also a very highly rated hotel in Nairobi. The deep brown and yellow theme in the entrance hall is just but a small reflection of the quality of services that they provide. The cool palm trees at the gate create a very relaxing atmosphere to the visitors. Security is tight considering that there are security personnel manning the gate with a metal detector and cameras throughout the hotel for the visitors to feel safe.
Perhaps you have also experienced quality services from other places. Put your remarks about these places.
The Most Frequented Places In Kenya
When one hears about Kenya, the first picture that comes to mind are the sandy beaches, the lions which some outsiders think that they live co- currently with the local people. But there are so many sites which the locals visit alongside the very energetic and expectant tourists. Some of these sites are in the Coast province, others in Nairobi while the rest are scattered throughout the country. These are:
The Shela Beach in the city of Lamu is one of the most popular beaches of the country which serves as popular tourist sites for all kinds of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, sailing among others. The holiday lovers are treated to all these activities in just one place at reasonable rates, with the best service providers in the country. Lamu is also known for many old landmarks which one may visit after sampling the beach. Lamu is in Coast province.
Nairobi National Park is also a frequented place that tourists visit especially the local people. Although it is the smallest park in Kenya occupying only 114 square kilometers, it is a very popular destination. It is home to many exotic animals like the impala, lion, wildebeest the vervet monkey (which is the most noisy and restless of monkey species especially around visitors) and of course the cheetah among very many more animals. It is also home to the Animal Orphanage which is the conservation programme that was started with the intention of preserving endangered species like the rhinos, Maasai giraffe among others. The orphanage was also founded with the intention of it being a hub for research and education to learners.
Amboseli National Park is a very popular park. The Maasai tribe who live there are responsible with the administration of the park. The park is characteristic of hot dry thorn bush area full of white volcanic ash from the Kibo Mountain. The park also has swamps and wood for the animals to eat and bathe in especially the elephants on a hot sunny afternoon.
Lake Turkana is one of the biggest lakes in Africa. It is however in a very remote area but that does not deter tourists from visiting the region because just the lakes size, antiquity and color is mesmerizing enough. The bird life is wonderful with the pelicans, ibis, darters, water fowl and herons majestically parading on the shores of the lake.
Lake Nakuru National Park is a frequented place and perhaps it should be named as another modern wonder of the world. From a birds eye view, the lake is color in a beautiful mixture of pink and blue throughout the circumference of the lake. The pink water lily color is not the color of water lilies but of flamingoes that parade the area majestically.
For the locals, Uhuru Park is also a frequented site especially on public holidays. The lush, beautiful park is a very good place for relaxation to take place. The park also has a large man- made lake where boat rides have been introduced for the tourists to enjoy. Also present is a large monumental structure of the founding father of the country as a symbol of the freedom and peace that we enjoy.
Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak. Mount Kenya is a part of a larger reserve which is home to many rare species of animals after climbing the mountain, the view is just but breath taking. The best part about the climb is that one does not need special training to reach its two main peaks - Batian ( which is 5200m above sea level) and Nelion ( which is 5188m above sea level). The mountain slopes are cloaked in forest and moorland which gives way to rock, ice and snow.
If you happen to be in the country, just try a few of these attractions, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
The Shela Beach in the city of Lamu is one of the most popular beaches of the country which serves as popular tourist sites for all kinds of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, sailing among others. The holiday lovers are treated to all these activities in just one place at reasonable rates, with the best service providers in the country. Lamu is also known for many old landmarks which one may visit after sampling the beach. Lamu is in Coast province.
Nairobi National Park is also a frequented place that tourists visit especially the local people. Although it is the smallest park in Kenya occupying only 114 square kilometers, it is a very popular destination. It is home to many exotic animals like the impala, lion, wildebeest the vervet monkey (which is the most noisy and restless of monkey species especially around visitors) and of course the cheetah among very many more animals. It is also home to the Animal Orphanage which is the conservation programme that was started with the intention of preserving endangered species like the rhinos, Maasai giraffe among others. The orphanage was also founded with the intention of it being a hub for research and education to learners.
Amboseli National Park is a very popular park. The Maasai tribe who live there are responsible with the administration of the park. The park is characteristic of hot dry thorn bush area full of white volcanic ash from the Kibo Mountain. The park also has swamps and wood for the animals to eat and bathe in especially the elephants on a hot sunny afternoon.
Lake Turkana is one of the biggest lakes in Africa. It is however in a very remote area but that does not deter tourists from visiting the region because just the lakes size, antiquity and color is mesmerizing enough. The bird life is wonderful with the pelicans, ibis, darters, water fowl and herons majestically parading on the shores of the lake.
Lake Nakuru National Park is a frequented place and perhaps it should be named as another modern wonder of the world. From a birds eye view, the lake is color in a beautiful mixture of pink and blue throughout the circumference of the lake. The pink water lily color is not the color of water lilies but of flamingoes that parade the area majestically.
For the locals, Uhuru Park is also a frequented site especially on public holidays. The lush, beautiful park is a very good place for relaxation to take place. The park also has a large man- made lake where boat rides have been introduced for the tourists to enjoy. Also present is a large monumental structure of the founding father of the country as a symbol of the freedom and peace that we enjoy.
Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak. Mount Kenya is a part of a larger reserve which is home to many rare species of animals after climbing the mountain, the view is just but breath taking. The best part about the climb is that one does not need special training to reach its two main peaks - Batian ( which is 5200m above sea level) and Nelion ( which is 5188m above sea level). The mountain slopes are cloaked in forest and moorland which gives way to rock, ice and snow.
If you happen to be in the country, just try a few of these attractions, I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
African Jungle
The African jungle is perhaps the most interesting jungle in the world since it is home to a number of rare species of animals both of the mammal and reptile families. Each part of Africa is responsible for hosting different animals that are well adapted to the regions climate.
In West Africa there are many animals that are found in the equatorial climate rain forests. In Cameron for example there are a number of animal species, majority of them being snakes. The snakes are in various shapes and sizes ranging from the small non- poisonous snakes to the poisonous Anaconda, cobra and flesh squeezing python snakes. Examples of jungles in Cameron are, the Dzanga Ndoki national park, Nouabale Ndoki and the Lobeki national park.
In Central Africa region such as the DRC Congo, jungles like the Virunga Mountains and the Kahuzi- Biega national park are famous for hosting the mountain Gorillas. Still in central Africa there is Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park that is famous for hosting the greatest number of primate species such as orangutans, baboons, gorillas, chimpanzees and the mysterious Mandrill Monkey.
The Eastern Africa jungles are different in terms of the species found. In the Eastern Africa region, the species are mostly birds and animals from the cat family. The snake species are not so many as compare to the western region but they do have a considerable number of the species of snakes.
The only jungle not mentioned now is the Southern Africa jungle region which is blessed in many ways. First it is lucky to have the largest variety of animals in the world. It is even home to the smallest tortoise in the world the speckled padloper which is only 8.5 cm long, and the largest land tortoise which is the Leerugsea mountain tortoise that weighs up to 40 kilograms when fully matured. The forest grasshopper otherwise termed by many as the praying mantis is commonly found in these jungles, and it used to be a symbol of holiness for the San/ Khoisan people.
The African jungle however has its own fair share of problems that threaten the livelihood of the animals in the habitat. For example through massive logging and deforestation, the animals’ habitat is continually threatened. The source of their food is destroyed leaving them starved, eventually they die. The problem of poaching also threatens many species of the African jungle. The Gorillas are poached for fur to make mink coats and jackets, the snakes to make shoes, the heads of chimps as hunting trophies and also the frogs for scientific exploration. Violence, civil wars or ethnic battles are also threats to the animals. Those displaced by wars move to forests thereby diminishing the natural resources without any measures taken upon them, the rebels hiding in the forest chop down trees to build hide outs without taking into consideration the lives of the animals already dependent on the forest for survival.
Measures should be taken by respective countries to protect these jungles otherwise both the animals and the forests will become extinct in the long run affecting the tourism sector that many African economies depend on for sustaining the lives of their citizens.
Africa Safaris
In West Africa there are many animals that are found in the equatorial climate rain forests. In Cameron for example there are a number of animal species, majority of them being snakes. The snakes are in various shapes and sizes ranging from the small non- poisonous snakes to the poisonous Anaconda, cobra and flesh squeezing python snakes. Examples of jungles in Cameron are, the Dzanga Ndoki national park, Nouabale Ndoki and the Lobeki national park.
In Central Africa region such as the DRC Congo, jungles like the Virunga Mountains and the Kahuzi- Biega national park are famous for hosting the mountain Gorillas. Still in central Africa there is Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park that is famous for hosting the greatest number of primate species such as orangutans, baboons, gorillas, chimpanzees and the mysterious Mandrill Monkey.
The Eastern Africa jungles are different in terms of the species found. In the Eastern Africa region, the species are mostly birds and animals from the cat family. The snake species are not so many as compare to the western region but they do have a considerable number of the species of snakes.
The only jungle not mentioned now is the Southern Africa jungle region which is blessed in many ways. First it is lucky to have the largest variety of animals in the world. It is even home to the smallest tortoise in the world the speckled padloper which is only 8.5 cm long, and the largest land tortoise which is the Leerugsea mountain tortoise that weighs up to 40 kilograms when fully matured. The forest grasshopper otherwise termed by many as the praying mantis is commonly found in these jungles, and it used to be a symbol of holiness for the San/ Khoisan people.
The African jungle however has its own fair share of problems that threaten the livelihood of the animals in the habitat. For example through massive logging and deforestation, the animals’ habitat is continually threatened. The source of their food is destroyed leaving them starved, eventually they die. The problem of poaching also threatens many species of the African jungle. The Gorillas are poached for fur to make mink coats and jackets, the snakes to make shoes, the heads of chimps as hunting trophies and also the frogs for scientific exploration. Violence, civil wars or ethnic battles are also threats to the animals. Those displaced by wars move to forests thereby diminishing the natural resources without any measures taken upon them, the rebels hiding in the forest chop down trees to build hide outs without taking into consideration the lives of the animals already dependent on the forest for survival.
Measures should be taken by respective countries to protect these jungles otherwise both the animals and the forests will become extinct in the long run affecting the tourism sector that many African economies depend on for sustaining the lives of their citizens.
Africa Safaris
Monday, July 19, 2010
Choosing A Good Travel Agent
Before going through the whole process of finding a good travel agent, make plans before hand to know where one is headed, for how long, what kind of holiday you are looking forward to (safari or simply hotel stay) or even how much one is willing to spend during that holiday. After all, failing to plan is planning to fail. Different travel agent offer different holiday packages and destinations and it is thus important to plan where the holiday destination shall be.
After planning, the next step is to choose which travel agent to pick. These few steps could reduce the burden of this tedious and confusing process.
The first is that you should select a few agents who satisfy all or most of your travelling needs. That is, they offer the packages that one needs, they operate in the area of travel or are willing to travel to that destination and provide quality services.
If the country has a tourism/ tours and travel regulations board, select from their list of accredited tours and travel companies. In Kenya select companies that have been endorsed by the Kenya Tourism Board.
It is known that tourism has Off Peak and Peak periods. To be safe, choose firms that operate throughout the year not just during the peak season. This can be done by checking what packages they offer and for what months of the year.
Do research to find out how many years they have been in operation and the portfolios of their work. The longer the period the better since they have more experience in regards to the industry and the other players in the field.
Do not rely on vocal agreements by the travel agent. Do not pay the agent for any services that have not yet been rendered by the agent. It is not a gold rush and they will still be there next season.
In some cases it is good to ask friends and relatives about good travel agents they may know. It is more secure to be introduced to an agent by somebody you know as it seals the deal better.
Of course have the budgetary constraints in mind, choose an agent who is affordable and one who is able to cut the best deals in the industry for you. They are aware of all the practical and affordable offers by hotel firms and tourist destinations rates during the particular season.
Lastly choose an agent who is related to a larger group of tourists’ travel agents. They may be part of a larger tourist sector like the Safari Operators in Kenya or are accredited to a particular major holiday destination like the Maasai Mara National Park for example. This way tracing them for discount claims and the like is easier.
Using these few criteria, check out the ones that do not fit into the checklist. After that, make a call to finalize details regarding the trip.
Enjoy your holiday and if they please you, pick them again for your next holiday trip.
Masai Mara Safaris
After planning, the next step is to choose which travel agent to pick. These few steps could reduce the burden of this tedious and confusing process.
The first is that you should select a few agents who satisfy all or most of your travelling needs. That is, they offer the packages that one needs, they operate in the area of travel or are willing to travel to that destination and provide quality services.
If the country has a tourism/ tours and travel regulations board, select from their list of accredited tours and travel companies. In Kenya select companies that have been endorsed by the Kenya Tourism Board.
It is known that tourism has Off Peak and Peak periods. To be safe, choose firms that operate throughout the year not just during the peak season. This can be done by checking what packages they offer and for what months of the year.
Do research to find out how many years they have been in operation and the portfolios of their work. The longer the period the better since they have more experience in regards to the industry and the other players in the field.
Do not rely on vocal agreements by the travel agent. Do not pay the agent for any services that have not yet been rendered by the agent. It is not a gold rush and they will still be there next season.
In some cases it is good to ask friends and relatives about good travel agents they may know. It is more secure to be introduced to an agent by somebody you know as it seals the deal better.
Of course have the budgetary constraints in mind, choose an agent who is affordable and one who is able to cut the best deals in the industry for you. They are aware of all the practical and affordable offers by hotel firms and tourist destinations rates during the particular season.
Lastly choose an agent who is related to a larger group of tourists’ travel agents. They may be part of a larger tourist sector like the Safari Operators in Kenya or are accredited to a particular major holiday destination like the Maasai Mara National Park for example. This way tracing them for discount claims and the like is easier.
Using these few criteria, check out the ones that do not fit into the checklist. After that, make a call to finalize details regarding the trip.
Enjoy your holiday and if they please you, pick them again for your next holiday trip.
Masai Mara Safaris
Advice On Star Ratings In Kenya
Hotels in the world have different star rating depending on many factors in the countries that constantly change. The most constant factor is that the ratings range from one star to five star.
The quality of services determines whether the hotel is classified as five star or four star and so on. How efficient are the employees when it comes to delivering the services or customer relations. Of course the quality of services is directly proportional to the level of training of the employees and the paying scale of the employees. The more the employees have been trained the better the quality of services. Training must also be done continuously to ensure that the employees are up to date with the demands of the clients and also to ensure that the standards of the hotel are maintained.
The paying scale is important in maintaining hotels five star ratings. This is because the pay acts as a motivational tool for the employees to dwell upon. Paying scale not necessarily means monetary benefits but also includes un-quantifiable amount such as; benefits like housing packages, family benefits or even support that the hotel gives in uplifting the employees’ standards of living (like educational funds and study leave).
Quality is indeed an important factor when it comes to rating hotels however there are external factors that affect the quality of service sin which the hotel owners have no control over. For example; security or lack of it, road network and even political instability of the country or of bordering countries can not be controlled by the hoteliers.
Star ratings in Kenya are also determined by ability of the hotel to adapt to new and emerging trends to accommodate them into their holiday packages. For example; massage parlors and therapy sessions were very alien benefits to the customers on holidays. As time has gone by, they have become a compulsory requirement for hotels to provide with those offering the best services being highly rated. Five star hotels keep abreast with new paradigms in production quality assurance and services.
With the environment being a major concern to countries, especially in Kenya, hotel ratings are based on the hotels efforts in conserving the environment. This is not only based on terms of environmental sensitivity and responsibilities but also commitment of the hotel to improve the lives of the people in the community surrounding the hotel. However environmental conservation is also important in matter of proper disposal of solid wastes, water and lethal gases.
Of course, the rating is all dependent on the level of competition among hotel owners. How competitive are they in ensuring customers are happy and well taken care of. How much effort have they put in maintaining quality of staff? The tighter the completion, the higher the bar for reaching five class status.
There is a story once told, true story by the way, where a customer forgo this ticket with the bellboy in Serena Hotel as he was leaving for the airport. The Bellboy took a taxi delivering the ticket right on time. Talk about efficiency and quality. No wonder Nairobi Serena Hotel is rated as a five star hotel.
Kenya Safari Hotels
The quality of services determines whether the hotel is classified as five star or four star and so on. How efficient are the employees when it comes to delivering the services or customer relations. Of course the quality of services is directly proportional to the level of training of the employees and the paying scale of the employees. The more the employees have been trained the better the quality of services. Training must also be done continuously to ensure that the employees are up to date with the demands of the clients and also to ensure that the standards of the hotel are maintained.
The paying scale is important in maintaining hotels five star ratings. This is because the pay acts as a motivational tool for the employees to dwell upon. Paying scale not necessarily means monetary benefits but also includes un-quantifiable amount such as; benefits like housing packages, family benefits or even support that the hotel gives in uplifting the employees’ standards of living (like educational funds and study leave).
Quality is indeed an important factor when it comes to rating hotels however there are external factors that affect the quality of service sin which the hotel owners have no control over. For example; security or lack of it, road network and even political instability of the country or of bordering countries can not be controlled by the hoteliers.
Star ratings in Kenya are also determined by ability of the hotel to adapt to new and emerging trends to accommodate them into their holiday packages. For example; massage parlors and therapy sessions were very alien benefits to the customers on holidays. As time has gone by, they have become a compulsory requirement for hotels to provide with those offering the best services being highly rated. Five star hotels keep abreast with new paradigms in production quality assurance and services.
With the environment being a major concern to countries, especially in Kenya, hotel ratings are based on the hotels efforts in conserving the environment. This is not only based on terms of environmental sensitivity and responsibilities but also commitment of the hotel to improve the lives of the people in the community surrounding the hotel. However environmental conservation is also important in matter of proper disposal of solid wastes, water and lethal gases.
Of course, the rating is all dependent on the level of competition among hotel owners. How competitive are they in ensuring customers are happy and well taken care of. How much effort have they put in maintaining quality of staff? The tighter the completion, the higher the bar for reaching five class status.
There is a story once told, true story by the way, where a customer forgo this ticket with the bellboy in Serena Hotel as he was leaving for the airport. The Bellboy took a taxi delivering the ticket right on time. Talk about efficiency and quality. No wonder Nairobi Serena Hotel is rated as a five star hotel.
Kenya Safari Hotels
GEDI RUINS
On the North coast of Mombasa Southwards of the town of Malindi, lies one the most historic, fascinating and capturing ruins found in Mombasa, called the Gedi Ruins. The sixteen kilometers or so drive offers a view of Acacia thorns trees in the background together with savanna grassland plains for the tourist to watch. Vultures, crows among other scavengers are seen flying at a distance perhaps waiting for flesh to feast on.
Gedi used to be a small thriving town hundreds of years ago that was built entirely from rocks and stones and was ruled by a very rich Sultan. The Gedi (Gede) Ruins were declared a national park in 1948, instantly becoming one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya, for those wanting to enjoy Kenya beach vacations in Mombasa and Malindi.
The surrounding forest whose inhabitants are mostly monkeys; Displays an interesting variety of plant life with a good chance of encountering wildlife in the early morning hours. The bird life is tantalizing, featuring many forest birds such as the humming bird, doves and Malabo storks. The surrounding community regards the Gedi indigenous forest as a sacred site used for traditional rituals and sacrifices. In most African countries (that have managed to conserve the forests), forests are regarded as sacred places or shrines with the locals revering the forest gods. In this way, the forests are protected from De- forestation and encroachment of the human population.
Also at Gedi ruins is a tree nursery aimed at protecting and promoting coastal trees and shrubs that are on sale to the public to those wanting natural beauty and aesthetics that the trees provide.
Next time you are in Mombasa, take time to visit the ruins for they provide a great avenue for learning as well as entertainment or better still experiencing cultural diversity in the region.
Mombasa Hotels
Gedi used to be a small thriving town hundreds of years ago that was built entirely from rocks and stones and was ruled by a very rich Sultan. The Gedi (Gede) Ruins were declared a national park in 1948, instantly becoming one of the top tourist attractions in Kenya, for those wanting to enjoy Kenya beach vacations in Mombasa and Malindi.
The surrounding forest whose inhabitants are mostly monkeys; Displays an interesting variety of plant life with a good chance of encountering wildlife in the early morning hours. The bird life is tantalizing, featuring many forest birds such as the humming bird, doves and Malabo storks. The surrounding community regards the Gedi indigenous forest as a sacred site used for traditional rituals and sacrifices. In most African countries (that have managed to conserve the forests), forests are regarded as sacred places or shrines with the locals revering the forest gods. In this way, the forests are protected from De- forestation and encroachment of the human population.
Also at Gedi ruins is a tree nursery aimed at protecting and promoting coastal trees and shrubs that are on sale to the public to those wanting natural beauty and aesthetics that the trees provide.
Next time you are in Mombasa, take time to visit the ruins for they provide a great avenue for learning as well as entertainment or better still experiencing cultural diversity in the region.
Mombasa Hotels
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Travel tips for the African Bush
We all dream of coming to Kenya to visit the bushland regions and get a feel of the area.
the problem is perhaps what preparations one needs to do beforehand or during the trip
so as to make it as memorable as possible. These are some of the tips for you dear traveler:
We have all heard of the mosquito problem in Africa, the deaths caused by
malaria are many and as a traveler of the African Bush, take anti-malaria drugs
or carry mosquito repellent creams to apply on the body. it is better to be safe than sorry.
know the climatic conditions of the place in mind. In some places for example, in the South of Africa near the Chalbi desert, the days are extremely hot while the nights are extremely cold. On the other hand, the Western region of Kenya is cool and wet most of the time; more of equatorial climate.
Get a local guide who will run you through the codes of dressing and taboos of the people
so as to be able to fit into the community as easily as possible. As a traveler you could
try to learn the language beforehand through the internet at least for some basic
salutations and requests.
Ensure that you plan the days with few activities spread out through the entire journey so
as to fully savor the entire scenery. Avoid rushing as if the animals are going to get
extinct today or the parks are going to shut down in a few hours. It is better to say
that you spent a whole day in the area and saw everything than roam all over and
see nothing and at the end of the day you are exhausted beyond repair.
If as a traveler you have decided to go camping at night, ensure that a fire remains lit
the entire night as it tends to chase away wild animals which have broken through the
parks fences.
The African Sun is on good servant but a very bad master. It sometimes gets so hot to the point you imagine that the sun is just ten feet away. For this reason, wear protective clothing such as hats and sun glasses to protect the face and eyes. Sun-screen is also a good solution for preventing sun burns on the skin.
As a traveler perhaps you encounter a river whose still waters mesmerize you and with the hot sun you are tempted to swim. Do not swim no mater how still and shallow the water is. Beneath most African rivers are crocodiles, Rhinos and fish that are only laying bait waiting for some fresh meat
Ensure that You carry enough water for the entire journey. Perhaps you could make preparations on accommodation spots that will provide water during the trip. Do not allow yourself to get de-hydrated from the sun.
Wear comfortable shoes such as boots and sneakers that way you can walk for long distances across the grassland savanna. It also protects the feet from crawling animals like snakes.
As a traveler, keep it as light as possible and as simple as possible. Avoid jewelery and accessories that are loosely attached to the body. These necklaces easily get caught in the bush causing injury to the skin and also one may accidentally get strangled.
Make arrangements for the bush safari with a couple of friends or join a group that is already prepared. This has two advantages; first, it cuts cost of hiring traveling vans as the group members all chip into the expenses. Secondly it is company traveling with others and meeting new people. Groups are also a source of security as members may protect one another from hostile communities.
Last but not least, do not hitch hike. Though the majority of Africans are hospitable and friendly people, do not ask for a lift from strangers. That may be a dangerous poacher or thief who will rob you of all your possessions.
Lastly, carry a camera, video camera and tape recorders for those Kodak Moments while there. They will provide good memories for those sunset years when the brain has deleted some sweet memories of the holiday.
Relax and enjoy the African Sun, people and wildlife.
Karibu Sana Africa!
Africa Travels
the problem is perhaps what preparations one needs to do beforehand or during the trip
so as to make it as memorable as possible. These are some of the tips for you dear traveler:
We have all heard of the mosquito problem in Africa, the deaths caused by
malaria are many and as a traveler of the African Bush, take anti-malaria drugs
or carry mosquito repellent creams to apply on the body. it is better to be safe than sorry.
know the climatic conditions of the place in mind. In some places for example, in the South of Africa near the Chalbi desert, the days are extremely hot while the nights are extremely cold. On the other hand, the Western region of Kenya is cool and wet most of the time; more of equatorial climate.
Get a local guide who will run you through the codes of dressing and taboos of the people
so as to be able to fit into the community as easily as possible. As a traveler you could
try to learn the language beforehand through the internet at least for some basic
salutations and requests.
Ensure that you plan the days with few activities spread out through the entire journey so
as to fully savor the entire scenery. Avoid rushing as if the animals are going to get
extinct today or the parks are going to shut down in a few hours. It is better to say
that you spent a whole day in the area and saw everything than roam all over and
see nothing and at the end of the day you are exhausted beyond repair.
If as a traveler you have decided to go camping at night, ensure that a fire remains lit
the entire night as it tends to chase away wild animals which have broken through the
parks fences.
The African Sun is on good servant but a very bad master. It sometimes gets so hot to the point you imagine that the sun is just ten feet away. For this reason, wear protective clothing such as hats and sun glasses to protect the face and eyes. Sun-screen is also a good solution for preventing sun burns on the skin.
As a traveler perhaps you encounter a river whose still waters mesmerize you and with the hot sun you are tempted to swim. Do not swim no mater how still and shallow the water is. Beneath most African rivers are crocodiles, Rhinos and fish that are only laying bait waiting for some fresh meat
Ensure that You carry enough water for the entire journey. Perhaps you could make preparations on accommodation spots that will provide water during the trip. Do not allow yourself to get de-hydrated from the sun.
Wear comfortable shoes such as boots and sneakers that way you can walk for long distances across the grassland savanna. It also protects the feet from crawling animals like snakes.
As a traveler, keep it as light as possible and as simple as possible. Avoid jewelery and accessories that are loosely attached to the body. These necklaces easily get caught in the bush causing injury to the skin and also one may accidentally get strangled.
Make arrangements for the bush safari with a couple of friends or join a group that is already prepared. This has two advantages; first, it cuts cost of hiring traveling vans as the group members all chip into the expenses. Secondly it is company traveling with others and meeting new people. Groups are also a source of security as members may protect one another from hostile communities.
Last but not least, do not hitch hike. Though the majority of Africans are hospitable and friendly people, do not ask for a lift from strangers. That may be a dangerous poacher or thief who will rob you of all your possessions.
Lastly, carry a camera, video camera and tape recorders for those Kodak Moments while there. They will provide good memories for those sunset years when the brain has deleted some sweet memories of the holiday.
Relax and enjoy the African Sun, people and wildlife.
Karibu Sana Africa!
Africa Travels
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs have always caused great mystery among the human population. Many movies have been produced such as Godzilla, Jurassic Park among others so as to try and dispel the myths surrounding these creatures. But still for most people, this is not enough to quench their curiosity surrounding these animals.
Maybe these few facts will do the tricks.
Dinosaurs were a group of pre- historic reptiles which ruled the earth from the Triassic period (225 million years ago) until the end of the Cetaceous period (66 million year ago). The word dinosaur means ‘terrible lizard’ in Greek. Some species of them were large fearsome creatures while others were very small about the size of chicken.
They have been divided into two categories: the Saurischia (lizard hipped dinosaur) and the Ornithischia (bird hipped dinosaur) according to the arrangement of the bones of the pelvis. Examples of the Saurischia are the Apatosaurus or Brontosaurus and the Tyrannosaurus a huge twenty feet high meat eater with the terrifying jaws and pointed teeth.
The heaviest dinosaur was the Brachiosaurus a swamp – dwelling herbivore weighing fifty one tones and measuring seventy nine feet from the head. They were believed to be able to travel as fast as twenty five miles per hour. Interesting to note is that scientists do no know which color these great creatures were. Some think that they may have been as colorful as the birds of air or just a plain brown- grey color.
A velogiraptor fossil was found in the Utah state of America with claws of fifteen inches on each foot which were indeed very effective hooks for catching prey.
No clear evidence is available as to why these creatures successful for so long, suddenly disappeared almost overnight in evolutionary terms. Many theories from cosmic radiation to a rapid cooling of the earth have been suggested but the truth remains a
Pre-Historic Safaris
Maybe these few facts will do the tricks.
Dinosaurs were a group of pre- historic reptiles which ruled the earth from the Triassic period (225 million years ago) until the end of the Cetaceous period (66 million year ago). The word dinosaur means ‘terrible lizard’ in Greek. Some species of them were large fearsome creatures while others were very small about the size of chicken.
They have been divided into two categories: the Saurischia (lizard hipped dinosaur) and the Ornithischia (bird hipped dinosaur) according to the arrangement of the bones of the pelvis. Examples of the Saurischia are the Apatosaurus or Brontosaurus and the Tyrannosaurus a huge twenty feet high meat eater with the terrifying jaws and pointed teeth.
The heaviest dinosaur was the Brachiosaurus a swamp – dwelling herbivore weighing fifty one tones and measuring seventy nine feet from the head. They were believed to be able to travel as fast as twenty five miles per hour. Interesting to note is that scientists do no know which color these great creatures were. Some think that they may have been as colorful as the birds of air or just a plain brown- grey color.
A velogiraptor fossil was found in the Utah state of America with claws of fifteen inches on each foot which were indeed very effective hooks for catching prey.
No clear evidence is available as to why these creatures successful for so long, suddenly disappeared almost overnight in evolutionary terms. Many theories from cosmic radiation to a rapid cooling of the earth have been suggested but the truth remains a
Pre-Historic Safaris
Embu: Mt Kenya
Embu is situated on the latitudes and longitudes of 0 32’S 37 37’E but for the lay people we may simply say that Embu is a large town in Kenya, located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Nairobi towards Mount Kenya. Embu serves as the provincial headquarters of Eastern Province in Kenya and is also the district headquarters of Embu District. Located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Kenya, the town of Embu has a population of 41,092
The district plays host to the renowned Mt. Kenya to the north. This remains an everlasting tourism attraction with hordes of foreigners and local people flocking to its slopes to savor the allure of its beauty and majesty. Numerous expeditions set out each year to scale the slopes to the mountain top. It is an enthralling experience, especially watching the sun rise in the horizons in the early morning from the highest Batian mountain peak. However, this climb is no mean achievement, and it calls for great stamina and resilience. Legend has it that one man Munyao did scale the mountain to the peak and hoisted the national flag during the Independence Day on 12thDecember 1963.
Other attractions in the region are the huge Karue hill towering high along the Embu-Meru highway. It's a magnificent view, made of a huge crested rock, at the top of which has grown two unique eucalyptus trees. Lovers are known to savor the early intimacies of their love by basking in the twilight light of the evening at the hilltop. From such a bird's eye view, one has a widespread view of far reaches of the entire of Embu. Nearby to this hill are two magnificent waterfalls in close proximity which color the sky white as their waters fall down, then marry to form one big Ena river that then meanders downstream to encircle the Karue hill. To climax the scenery is the renowned Kirimiri hill in close proximity. Though not open for tourism, it is home to a diverse array of wildlife.
On the outskirts of Embu town one may be obliged to visit the Shunem Gardens that is a good environment for family picnics as well as a good photo session for the recently wedded couples or visitors intending to get a good site for pictures to take back home.
Towards the Kianjokoma area at the Mutunduri junction, one is met by scenic views of huge tea farms. The luscious green slopes with the ever cool breeze running through the air, is a magnificent moment for one to behold. The tall Mikima trees from Mt Kenya that surround the region are the icing on the cake. The region is famous for tea and coffee farms that form wonderful scenic views for the inhabitants. The Masinga Dam recreational site that is now in the newly formed Yatta district is another place to savor the Embu region. The site is host to thousands of bird species as well as animals like the rhinos, chameleons, Zebras and geese. All one needs is to reach Embu town and follow the Kindaruma road for about one hundred kilometers just near the Masinga Seven forks Dam Reservoir.
The next time you are interested in a weekend drive, Embu should be your priority after all it is only a two hour drive from the city Centre.
Nairobi Hotels
The district plays host to the renowned Mt. Kenya to the north. This remains an everlasting tourism attraction with hordes of foreigners and local people flocking to its slopes to savor the allure of its beauty and majesty. Numerous expeditions set out each year to scale the slopes to the mountain top. It is an enthralling experience, especially watching the sun rise in the horizons in the early morning from the highest Batian mountain peak. However, this climb is no mean achievement, and it calls for great stamina and resilience. Legend has it that one man Munyao did scale the mountain to the peak and hoisted the national flag during the Independence Day on 12thDecember 1963.
Other attractions in the region are the huge Karue hill towering high along the Embu-Meru highway. It's a magnificent view, made of a huge crested rock, at the top of which has grown two unique eucalyptus trees. Lovers are known to savor the early intimacies of their love by basking in the twilight light of the evening at the hilltop. From such a bird's eye view, one has a widespread view of far reaches of the entire of Embu. Nearby to this hill are two magnificent waterfalls in close proximity which color the sky white as their waters fall down, then marry to form one big Ena river that then meanders downstream to encircle the Karue hill. To climax the scenery is the renowned Kirimiri hill in close proximity. Though not open for tourism, it is home to a diverse array of wildlife.
On the outskirts of Embu town one may be obliged to visit the Shunem Gardens that is a good environment for family picnics as well as a good photo session for the recently wedded couples or visitors intending to get a good site for pictures to take back home.
Towards the Kianjokoma area at the Mutunduri junction, one is met by scenic views of huge tea farms. The luscious green slopes with the ever cool breeze running through the air, is a magnificent moment for one to behold. The tall Mikima trees from Mt Kenya that surround the region are the icing on the cake. The region is famous for tea and coffee farms that form wonderful scenic views for the inhabitants. The Masinga Dam recreational site that is now in the newly formed Yatta district is another place to savor the Embu region. The site is host to thousands of bird species as well as animals like the rhinos, chameleons, Zebras and geese. All one needs is to reach Embu town and follow the Kindaruma road for about one hundred kilometers just near the Masinga Seven forks Dam Reservoir.
The next time you are interested in a weekend drive, Embu should be your priority after all it is only a two hour drive from the city Centre.
Nairobi Hotels
Monday, July 5, 2010
Lakes to Visit While in Kenya
Lake Elementaita
The word Elementaita is derived form the Maasai word Muteita meaning Dust place. it is near Gilgil, Lord Delameres Soysambu Ranch. In fact the Soysambu ranch covers two thirds of the shoreline and is home to more than twelve thousand six hundred wild animals. In pre- historic times Lake Elementaita and Lake Nakuru were united together.
The lake hosts vulnerable and endangered water bird species such as the great white Pelican that breed on the Island close to the Soysambu ranch. Other species of animals that can be observed at the distance of the lake are; buffalo, gazelle, water buck, jackal, lion, zebra, eland and cheetah. The lake is known mostly for it’s bird species as it is home to more than three hundred and fifty species.
The lake is managed by friends of Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita conservation project.
As a tourist, there are affordable and luxurious hotels that suite the entire family. There are also other sites for daytime activities such. These places could be such as:
Lake Naivasha Country Club
It was opened in 1937 as a staging point for Imperial airways flying boat services from Durban to London. It sits on a fifty five acre land located near the open shore of Lake Naivasha. The club offers many activities for holiday seekers such as fishing for Black Bass and Tilapia, sundown boat trips as on is watching the sunset and also watching the hippo colonies day of life.
Lake Naivasha Hotel
It was built in 1916 as Kekopey ranch situated just thirty kilometers form the lake.. It has a total of thirty three twin and double bedrooms. The best part about the hotel is that it has a restaurant offering live entertainment, twenty four hours entertainment, a sitting room with a library and a log fire by night.
Hells Gate National Park
Hells Gate national Park is famous for its hot geysers and vulture breeding grounds for the tourists to watch. The activities that one can engage in while there are such as camping, rock climbing and cycling. It is home to three basic geothermal power stations covering an area of sixty eight square kilometers. It is not more than two hours drive from the city centre.
It you are looking for a weekend treat be it with friends or family, these are the places to visit.
Nairobi Hotels
The word Elementaita is derived form the Maasai word Muteita meaning Dust place. it is near Gilgil, Lord Delameres Soysambu Ranch. In fact the Soysambu ranch covers two thirds of the shoreline and is home to more than twelve thousand six hundred wild animals. In pre- historic times Lake Elementaita and Lake Nakuru were united together.
The lake hosts vulnerable and endangered water bird species such as the great white Pelican that breed on the Island close to the Soysambu ranch. Other species of animals that can be observed at the distance of the lake are; buffalo, gazelle, water buck, jackal, lion, zebra, eland and cheetah. The lake is known mostly for it’s bird species as it is home to more than three hundred and fifty species.
The lake is managed by friends of Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita conservation project.
As a tourist, there are affordable and luxurious hotels that suite the entire family. There are also other sites for daytime activities such. These places could be such as:
Lake Naivasha Country Club
It was opened in 1937 as a staging point for Imperial airways flying boat services from Durban to London. It sits on a fifty five acre land located near the open shore of Lake Naivasha. The club offers many activities for holiday seekers such as fishing for Black Bass and Tilapia, sundown boat trips as on is watching the sunset and also watching the hippo colonies day of life.
Lake Naivasha Hotel
It was built in 1916 as Kekopey ranch situated just thirty kilometers form the lake.. It has a total of thirty three twin and double bedrooms. The best part about the hotel is that it has a restaurant offering live entertainment, twenty four hours entertainment, a sitting room with a library and a log fire by night.
Hells Gate National Park
Hells Gate national Park is famous for its hot geysers and vulture breeding grounds for the tourists to watch. The activities that one can engage in while there are such as camping, rock climbing and cycling. It is home to three basic geothermal power stations covering an area of sixty eight square kilometers. It is not more than two hours drive from the city centre.
It you are looking for a weekend treat be it with friends or family, these are the places to visit.
Nairobi Hotels
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The Cinchona Tree
The Cinchona Tree also known as the Perusian or Quinine bark is a tall evergreen tree that often reaches between fifty to a hundred feet in height when fully matured. Their leaves are broad marked off by large veins accompanied by pink, red or white flowers.
The use of the Cinchona tree in treatment of malaria was accidently discovered by American soldiers while in tropical forests of Indonesia and one of their soldiers fell terribly ill. They then scrapped the bark of the tree because the locals used it in treatment of fevers. Luckily the casualty survived and it was soon converted into a tablet.
Seeing this great discovery the locals grew the bark in large tracts of land in the Islands of Java in Indonesia. The tree was notoriously felled by European doctors leading to a great scarcity of the trees in the nineteenth century. To curb the shortage two scientists discovered another option which was the synthetic Quinine.
The tree thrives on rain forests on an attitude of between three thousand and eleven thousand feet above sea level.
During the time when the church had strong influence on the people in Europe, the tree came to be known as the Jesus bark or Jesuit powder.
The chemical compound responsible for the cure of malaria is an alkanoid quinidine which today is used in the treatment of abnormal rhythms of the heart as well as relieving muscular cramps and treating headaches.
The cinchona in ancient Brazilian times was used to improve appetite and reduce fatigue in the muscles, treating sore throats and other oral problems.
Today it can also be used in the treatment of chronic arthritis, sciatica and dysentery and kapha disorder.
Responsible Travel
Vacations for Travelling Medics
The use of the Cinchona tree in treatment of malaria was accidently discovered by American soldiers while in tropical forests of Indonesia and one of their soldiers fell terribly ill. They then scrapped the bark of the tree because the locals used it in treatment of fevers. Luckily the casualty survived and it was soon converted into a tablet.
Seeing this great discovery the locals grew the bark in large tracts of land in the Islands of Java in Indonesia. The tree was notoriously felled by European doctors leading to a great scarcity of the trees in the nineteenth century. To curb the shortage two scientists discovered another option which was the synthetic Quinine.
The tree thrives on rain forests on an attitude of between three thousand and eleven thousand feet above sea level.
During the time when the church had strong influence on the people in Europe, the tree came to be known as the Jesus bark or Jesuit powder.
The chemical compound responsible for the cure of malaria is an alkanoid quinidine which today is used in the treatment of abnormal rhythms of the heart as well as relieving muscular cramps and treating headaches.
The cinchona in ancient Brazilian times was used to improve appetite and reduce fatigue in the muscles, treating sore throats and other oral problems.
Today it can also be used in the treatment of chronic arthritis, sciatica and dysentery and kapha disorder.
Responsible Travel
Vacations for Travelling Medics
Whales
Whales are warm blooded mammals. They are categorized as cataceans because they live in water through out their entire life. In this category one will also find the dolphins and porpoises too. Their bodies are well adapted to living in the water in various ways. First their bodies are streamlined thereby reducing friction between their bodies and the water. They are also almost hairless ensuring that water doesn’t get soaked and soggy in water. Unlike other fish, whales don’t breathe through gills instead they have a sprout like blow-horn that they breathe through with the fresh air then being taken into their lungs and pumped into their entire body.
There are two kinds of whales; the Baleen whales and the Rright whales. The Baleen whale cruises among the masses of tiny shrimp like creatures which abound in most waters as it gulps in great mouthfuls of them. Water is strained out through the sides but the food is trapped and swallowed whole. All Baleen whales have two blow holes. An example of them is them is the blue whale. The Right whales on the other hand have two blow-horns. Interestingly they have no teeth instead their gums are fringed with long bristle like structures that are similar to corns on the toes. It is therefore easy to categorize whales basically by studying their feeding habits and physical traits.
Like mammals they too have a hierarchical system of association in their groups always maintaining close relationships within their groups. They communicate using a variety of sounds that are highly pitched for the common ear to hear.
Over the years, the population of whales has dwindled significantly as a result of hunting there they are starved, or as a result of pollution in oceans such as massive oil spills that have suffocated them to death. Some species of whales are known for a variety of reasons for example: the Sperm whale has the largest brain in the animal kingdom, the Right whales don’t sink when the die. The Humpback whale is referred to as the singing whale because it is the only whale that produces audible rhythmic sounds while communicating. The Orcas is the killer whale that uses its forked fins to kill prey.
Whales are so heavy that if a whale went on land it would literally kill itself as a result of its bones caving in on it. That is why it stays in water throughout its life because the seas up-thrust force reduces the whales’ weight by up to a half ensuring that it stays streamlined in water.
I would love to witness the Humpback whales communicating. Perhaps they sound like a beautiful orchestrated Beethoven composition.
Beach Safaris Africa can be organised by LetsGOKenya.com
There are two kinds of whales; the Baleen whales and the Rright whales. The Baleen whale cruises among the masses of tiny shrimp like creatures which abound in most waters as it gulps in great mouthfuls of them. Water is strained out through the sides but the food is trapped and swallowed whole. All Baleen whales have two blow holes. An example of them is them is the blue whale. The Right whales on the other hand have two blow-horns. Interestingly they have no teeth instead their gums are fringed with long bristle like structures that are similar to corns on the toes. It is therefore easy to categorize whales basically by studying their feeding habits and physical traits.
Like mammals they too have a hierarchical system of association in their groups always maintaining close relationships within their groups. They communicate using a variety of sounds that are highly pitched for the common ear to hear.
Over the years, the population of whales has dwindled significantly as a result of hunting there they are starved, or as a result of pollution in oceans such as massive oil spills that have suffocated them to death. Some species of whales are known for a variety of reasons for example: the Sperm whale has the largest brain in the animal kingdom, the Right whales don’t sink when the die. The Humpback whale is referred to as the singing whale because it is the only whale that produces audible rhythmic sounds while communicating. The Orcas is the killer whale that uses its forked fins to kill prey.
Whales are so heavy that if a whale went on land it would literally kill itself as a result of its bones caving in on it. That is why it stays in water throughout its life because the seas up-thrust force reduces the whales’ weight by up to a half ensuring that it stays streamlined in water.
I would love to witness the Humpback whales communicating. Perhaps they sound like a beautiful orchestrated Beethoven composition.
Beach Safaris Africa can be organised by LetsGOKenya.com
Thursday, July 1, 2010
The Kudu hills
The Kudu Hills are located about seventy kilometres south of Nairobi in Kajiado District, quite close to Amboseli National Park. The traveller needs to follow the Nairobi- Namanga road up until Moi Girls Isinya, where she then turns to the first right tarmac road from the school. one then proceeds driving for another thirty kilometres. The road is bumpy however and drivers need to be keen especially after the rains when rivers have found their routes. The area is sparsely populated with most of the inhabitants being the Maasai people.
In This region there is a spectacular vulture nesting site for tourists to view that is amongst a huge cliff overlooking a dry riverbed: which becomes impassable bursting its banks after a rainy season.
The vulture are very interesting birds as on watches them in their nest. In the morning they usually fly far and wide in search of food only to return in the evening with enough food for both the young and old who are no longer able to fly long distances.
still in the area, there is a small tourist site set up by the local people who organise trips mostly for schools and colleges. the site is near a rocky field and one can climb up to the highest boulder to take a peak at the lush, acacia thorny tree filled escarpment. The locals organise talks, dances and discussion forums that are aimed at showcasing the maasai culture. the traditional dances are the most interesting especially for those who have never seen any traditional folk song. Outside the makeshift hall, the women sell well decorated necklases with each necklase going for about two hundred shillings. Ironically though, the smaller bangles go for three hundred shillings.
The site does not offer camps instead it offers day to day excursions for parties. This is because the people do acknowledge that their habitat is shared together with hyenas and wild dogs. Travellers will also need to carry their own food as they do not offer meals. For this hot weathered region, one is advised to wear light clothes and comfortable sport shoes for the day.
Kudu Hills is best suited for social groups rather than family since the activities involve social interactive forums and also team building events.
Tours and Travel Kenya
In This region there is a spectacular vulture nesting site for tourists to view that is amongst a huge cliff overlooking a dry riverbed: which becomes impassable bursting its banks after a rainy season.
The vulture are very interesting birds as on watches them in their nest. In the morning they usually fly far and wide in search of food only to return in the evening with enough food for both the young and old who are no longer able to fly long distances.
still in the area, there is a small tourist site set up by the local people who organise trips mostly for schools and colleges. the site is near a rocky field and one can climb up to the highest boulder to take a peak at the lush, acacia thorny tree filled escarpment. The locals organise talks, dances and discussion forums that are aimed at showcasing the maasai culture. the traditional dances are the most interesting especially for those who have never seen any traditional folk song. Outside the makeshift hall, the women sell well decorated necklases with each necklase going for about two hundred shillings. Ironically though, the smaller bangles go for three hundred shillings.
The site does not offer camps instead it offers day to day excursions for parties. This is because the people do acknowledge that their habitat is shared together with hyenas and wild dogs. Travellers will also need to carry their own food as they do not offer meals. For this hot weathered region, one is advised to wear light clothes and comfortable sport shoes for the day.
Kudu Hills is best suited for social groups rather than family since the activities involve social interactive forums and also team building events.
Tours and Travel Kenya
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