When you are waiting for a possible ride, which might arrive after lunch, although you’ve been sitting on a bench for the past few hours, you have time to reflect on the past few days in Kenya. It stirs up different emotions, when considering all the aspects of this love-hate relationship which we developed with this country. (As you read further, you will begin to understand)
A few days ago, we arrived in Nairobi feeling weary with dust filled noses and weak limbs from a bumpy ride from the Kenyan border. We crossed from Moshi, Tanzania, to here with the Scandinavian bus service, and what followed left us recharged and ready for the next few days, which, as we anticipated were harder ones.
Initially seeking shelter at a youth hostel in Nairobi brought us to the very comfortable Wildebeest Inn, where we camped out and let our guard down for a few days. Our environment felt like home away from home with all you need right at your fingertips. Excellent rates which included breakfast had me devouring fruit salad with yoghurt for what felt like the first time in ages!
Accommodation options in this city vary to suit the size of your pockets and availabilities include anything from the Hilton Hotel to youth hostels and backpacker campsites. Wildebeest came highly recommended with other travellers, so we were relieved that we stumbled upon it the first time round. It is just off Ngong Road, a short distance from the main city centre with easy access to Matatu’s which run up and down between tourist sights and attractions, and just around the corner from 24hr shopping centres.
On Sunday we strolled through their Central Park, licking ice cream cones and enjoying the sunshine. We also came upon a church service which was very interesting, yet enjoyable to see.
Monday was a special day; we visited the A.F.E.W Giraffe centre and came face to face with these gentle animals. We had the opportunity to feed them, and to nuzzle closer for kisses and cuddling. From there we overindulged with everything that felt “normal” such as having popcorn, hotdogs and ice cream chow down, browsing through bookshops and seeing two movies (but first standing for the National Anthem, before screening starts).
And just when we eased into the comfort of fried eggs and peanut butter sandwiches, Kenya strikes back with a bus service from Nairobi to Isiolo which swapped a 4 hour journey for a ride which took an entire day. The first of a few that followed in our mission to get through the Northern part of Kenya.
Cheers!
Accommodation Rates:
Grando Hotel, Moshi, Tanzania: 15 000 TSh for a self contained double room including breakfast.
Wildebeest, Nairobi, Kenya: Camping 500 KSh per person per night, dorm 750 KSh per person per night including breakfast.
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