Magical Kenya
For me, 2023 was the year of the destination wedding and October saw another adventure - this time, to Kenya!
Kenya holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its breathtaking landscapes, but also because of the warmth and hospitality of my boyfriend’s family. His parents were born in Kenya and lots of family members live there, so each visit feels like a homecoming. And after a whirlwind year, filled with back-to-back projects and events, all stress seemed to fade away the moment we stepped foot in the Kenyan sun.
Our trip kicked off in Malindi, with four days of traditional Indian wedding festivities.
Following this, we headed to the shores of Diani for some much needed R&R. We sunbathed, snorkelled, indulged in a lot of food and made optimal use of the cheap massages on offer.
In terms of recommendations, we loved Nomad Beach Bar for a drink in the afternoon sun and Salty Squid for casual dining. Romantic Ali Barbours also comes highly recommended. And you cannot leave without shopping for kikois at the local market.
Our journey continued onwards to the vibrant capital city. Here, Nairobi National Park offered a unique safari experience within the city’s limits, whilst the Craft Centre showcased local artistry and another opportunity to shop - we came away with some fab tableware items.
In terms of food, we discovered Cultiva, a farm-to-table restaurant with impeccable design and 10/10 vibes. We also had drinks and snacks at Beit é Selam, which is located in a twinkling courtyard. I’ve heard great things about The Talisman, which is firmly on the list for our next trip.
The grand finale of the trip was a visit to the iconic Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club. Despite its colonial roots, the hotel’s charm has endured, with traditional interiors and excellent service (including a turndown service complete with hot water bottle and crackling log fire). And how can you not revel in the beauty of nature here, with roaming wildlife and endless outdoor activities?
Reflecting on this trip, it seems the only logical next step is to nag my boyfriend to move to Kenya permanently.
Until then, there’s whispers of another trip to the continent, perhaps across the rugged landscapes of Namibia. Watch this space…