Jacaranda-Plus-1

ISSUE ONE I 2012-13 I www.jacarandahotels.com

NATURE+

BIRDLIFE SPECTACLE AT

Lake Elementaita

ZUMBA fitness

CRAZE SWEEPS NAIROBI

DIANI BOUND A RICH MAN’S PLAYGROUND

WELCOME

A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR OUR FINE RANGE OF HOTELS Dear guest, As chairman of Jacaranda Hotels Kenya, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the first edition of our new magazine, Jacaranda Plus.

Over the last few years we have transformed Jacaranda Hotels and driven our properties into the 21st century.

One of our key aims and objectives is to ensure that all our properties have a competitive edge in what is a highly competitive local hospitality sector, and I believe that we are achieving this.

ONE OF OUR KEY OBJECTIVES IS TO ENSURE THAT ALL OUR PROPERTIES HAVE A COMPETITIVE EDGE

I am delighted to report that our experienced management team is offering a world-class service for our guests and that we continue to provide these services on a value-for-money basis.

Kung’u Gatabaki I would like to wish all our guests a happy

Chairman

and enjoyable stay at Jacaranda Hotels.

Jacaranda Hotels Kenya

I ISSUE 01 I 1

16

A publication of Jacaranda Hotels and designed by

Land & Marine Publications (KENYA) Ltd Suite A5, 1st floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 374 1934 Cell: +254 (0)722 731 003 E-mail: kenya@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com Contributing Editor: Denis Gathanju Sales Manager: Linda Gakuru Photo credits: Denis Gathanju, Jacaranda Hotels, Shutterstock The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. Š2012 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd

2 I www.jacarandahotels.com

CONTENTS

Contents

ISSUE one

36

6

26

22 04 Foreword More reasons than ever to enjoy

your stay with us

06 Nature+ Birdlife spectacle at Lake Elementaita

10 Kekopey Ranch Larger-than-life tale of resort’s

blue-blooded creator

13 News Briefs Latest news from the world

of Jacaranda

16 Diani A rich man’s playground

21 Eating Out

The Go Places Chef’s Delight Awards 22 Sport+ Touch Rugby Touch rugby event puts Diani

Beach on world map

24 Business+ Westlands is a growing business hub

26 Sport+ Volleyball Bouncing with health – and

reaching for victory

33 The Hon. James Njenga Karume Rise and rise of the charcoal burner

36 Kiambu Golf Club Spectacular tournament keeps

golfing traditions alive

38 Jacaranda Hotels Index 39 Location Map 40 Hotel Profiles

28 Fitness+ Zumba Zumba craze sweeps Nairobi

I ISSUE 01 I 3

FOREWORD

More reasons tHan eVer to enJoY Your staY WitH us

I

t gives me great pleasure to welcome

Indian Ocean Beach Resort and we have

you to the first edition of Jacaranda

equipped all rooms at our Lake Elementaita

Plus, the corporate and in-room magazine

property with TV sets.

of the Jacaranda Group.

We don’t plan to stand still. Our exciting For those who are unfamiliar with it, the

plans for 2012 include a refurbishment

Jacaranda Group comprises three hotels:

of the lobby area and coffee shop at the

the flagship Jacaranda Hotel in Nairobi; the

Jacaranda, together with the opening of

exotic Indian Ocean Beach Resort at Diani,

serviced apartments and office space. At

on Kenya’s south coast; and the colonial-

Indian Ocean Beach Resort we will boost

style Lake Elementaita Lodge in the Great

capacity by adding more rooms. We will

Rift Valley.

be refurbishing rooms and adding more capacity at Lake Elementaita. We also plan

In addition, the group embraces non-hotel

to extend the dining area.

interests such as Pizza Garden, conveniently located opposite the Jacaranda Hotel, and the getaway Village Inn in Kiambu.

As a group, we have won a hard-earned reputation for first-rate service and a will-

AS A GROUP, WE HAVE WON A HARD-EARNED REPUTATION FOR FIRST-RATE SERVICE

ingness to continually upgrade our product.

This, of course, has been particularly evident in Nairobi, where we have added what is, without doubt, the city’s best gym

This is an ambitious programme of

and spa plus a fabulous new swimming

enhancements, and we are convinced that

pool area to the Jacaranda Hotel as well as

guests will be delighted with the end result.

installing flat-screen TV sets in each room.

So, welcome to Jacaranda Hotels. We will

Patrick Muriuki

Down at the coast, we have installed TVs

do everything possible to make sure you

Managing Director

in all rooms and improved security at our

enjoy your stay with us.

Jacaranda Hotels Kenya

4 I www.jacarandahotels.com

nature+ BIRDLIFE

Birdlife spectacle

at LaKe eLeMentaita

in tHe PinK Lesser flamingo at Lake Elementaita

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LAKE ELEMENTAITA IS PART OF A WIDER LAKE BASIN ECOSYSTEM THAT CONTAINS SOME OF THE RICHEST AREAS OF BIRDLIFE IN AFRICA

I ISSUE 01 I 7

nature+ BIRDLIFE

T

he constant chirping of birds awakens

The flamingo – one of the few birds I can

me. i lie still in my bed, watching the

identify – is a resident of this ecosystem.

orange rays of the morning sun peering

The pink-coated bird is a favourite with

through the curtains and trying to figure

birdwatchers in particular and nature lovers

out where i am.

in general. It comes in two varieties: the lesser flamingo and the greater flamingo.

After driving from Nairobi with a detour into Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha,

After breakfast, I meet Joseph Ole Kodonyo,

I arrived here at Lake Elementaita Lodge

senior naturalist at the lodge. A Maasai from

tired and in urgent need of a soft and warm

the local community, Joe has a wealth of

place to lie down and relax.

knowledge, especially on birdlife in the area.

aLKaLine LaKes

Joseph normally takes people out on nature

Listening to the chirping of the morning

of the lodge, he is quick to point out a

birds, I try to decipher the sounds using the

resident bird here, a migratory bird there

little knowledge I have of birds. I soon give

and a rare bird there.

walks. As I walk with him round the lawns

up as other sounds from my stomach rudely inform me it is time for breakfast.

LocaLe

The Lake Elementaita ecosystem is part of

According to Joseph, Lake Elementaita is

a wider lake basin ecosystem that contains

the only place in East and Central Africa

some of the richest areas of birdlife in Africa.

where pelicans breed. On the western side

The lake is part of a system that also includes

of the lake is a secluded island that provides

Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria. These three

the birds with a secure location where they

alkaline lakes form a unique triangle that is

can breed safely away from predators and

rich in resources and birdlife. Together, the

human encroachment.

three bodies of water provide a habitat for over 600 resident and migrant bird species.

“Birds are very sensitive and particular to

The three lakes have recently been added to

security,” explains Joseph. “They will only

the Unesco list of World Heritage Sites.

stay in a location for long and breed there

VERREAUX’S EAGLE-OWL AND THE NORTHERN SHOVELER ARE AMONG THE RARE BIRDS THAT CAN BE SPOTTED IN THIS LOCALE

because they have been afforded security and feel they are not threatened by other predators or external forces.”

Other birds that can be spotted in this locale include the Verreaux’s eagle-owl, one

shoveler is another rare bird that can be

of the rarest birds in Kenya. The northern

seen here. According to Joseph, the bird is very sensitive to intrusion and relies largely on its instincts for survival. Among the

coLourFuL The lesser flamingo is a favourite with birdwatchers

8 I www.jacarandahotels.com

known predators of the northern shoveler are the fish eagle, the crested eagle, baboons and human encroachment on

eaGLe-eYed Below: One of the rarest birds in Kenya is Verreaux’s eagle-owl

‘KinG oF tHe birds’ Left: The rare hammerkop

golden bunting, golden oriole, wood

nest is made so small so that bigger preda-

sandpiper, superb starling, Montagu’s

tory birds cannot gain access.

harrier, African marsh harrier, black heron and squacco heron.

Apart from its king-sized nest, the hammerkop is the only bird that can toss

‘KinG oF tHe birds’

frogs and fish. It belongs to the stork family and is the size of an eagle or the hadada ibis.

While on a birdwatching expedition here, look out for the rare hammerkop, nicknamed ‘king of the birds’. Though small

MiGration

in stature, it has acquired this nickname

Lake Elementaita receives a wide range of

because of the big nests it makes. The nests

migratory birds from the Middle East, Asia

are divided into compartments that allow it

and Europe. During the winter of 2010 the

their territory. These birds can be seen only

to share living space with other birds. This is

lake was host to more than 200,000 white

within the Lake Elementaita ecosystem.

mainly for security reasons as the bird feels

storks from Europe which had flown south

much safer in the company of others.

to escape the harsh conditions in Europe.

The hammerkop takes up to six months to

Explains Joseph: “The birds stayed here

Other rare birds here include the white

build its nest, which can accommodate up

for two weeks before flying south-east to

browed coucal, Temminck’s courser,

to 20 different birds. The entrance to the

Ngong and northwards to Europe.”

rare sPecies

I ISSUE 01 I 9

KEKOPEY RANCH

bLue-bLooded The Hon. Galbraith Lowry Egerton Cole

THE YOUNG EGERTON COLE ACQUIRED A TASTE AND LOVE FOR AFRICA AFTER HE WAS DISPATCHED TO SOUTH AFRICA AT THE AGE OF 19 TO FIGHT IN THE 2ND BOER WAR

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LARGER-THAN-LIFE TALE OF RESORT’S BLUE-BLOODED CREATOR

B

uilt in 1916 and set in more than 100 acres, Lake elementaita Lodge retains the typically grand atmosphere of a colonial home in africa.

Egerton Cole. He was packed off in 1917 to

farm the estate until 1977 when it was sold

what was then German East Africa; but he

to a cooperative society and the expansive

returned to Kenya disguised as a Somali

farm was divided into small plots. The brick

and was somehow rehabilitated and

farmhouse remained firmly in place and it

allowed to resettle.

is this farmhouse that now forms the main building of Lake Elementaita Lodge.

The man behind the creation of this still spectacular lodge was a blue-blooded

Unfortunately, and despite his grand home

settler rejoicing in the name of the Hon.

and seemingly idyllic lifestyle, it seems that

Galbraith Lowry Egerton Cole, son of the

Egerton Cole was not a happy man. He was

4th Earl of Enniskillen (a town in Northern

blind in one eye and suffered badly from

Not far from the main house, is another

Ireland).

rheumatoid arthritis. At the age of 48 he

relic that was constructed by Lord Cole’s

shot himself at his favourite lake viewing

wife. This is the Church of Goodwill which

place. Today, the spot is marked by a

stands off the Old Nairobi-Nakuru Road.

memorial in the shape of an obelisk.

The church was built in 1945 by Lord Cole’s

EARLY LIFE

CHURCH OF GOODWILL

wife as a goodwill gift to God for the safe

The young Egerton Cole acquired a taste and love for Africa after he was dispatched

Egerton Cole’s son David (the 6th Earl of

return of Lord Cole’s two children, David

to South Africa at the age of 19 to fight in

Enniskillen, who died in 1989) continued to

and Arthur from the Second World War.

the 2nd Boer War. Wounded in battle, he later travelled to Kenya, where his sister had already married the eminent British settler and fellow aristocrat Lord Delamere.

TROUBLED His good fortune in gaining close ties to the Delamere family resulted in his new and immensely wealthy brother-in-law offering him 30,000 acres overlooking Lake Elementaita. Egerton Cole chose the Maasai name Kekopey Ranch for his splendid new home.

Not everything was going swimmingly, however, and after he shot a local labourer, the British colonial administration deported

neWs brieFs

Jacaranda

Briefs New facilities for Jacaranda Hotels

Sales team gets motivated With a view to enhancing service standards at Jacaranda Hotels, the group provides regular training of staff. this

Jacaranda Hotels Kenya is looking

helps them to respond to market dynamics and anticipate

to expand its facilities to cater for

customer expectations.

growing demand. the sales and marketing team at Jacaranda Hotels recently under the new programme, the

underwent a course on sales motivation.

hotel group will increase the accommodation facilities and create an international conference centre at the Jacaranda indian ocean beach resort in diani as well as building a new eco-lodge in the scenic Masai Mara national reserve.

beLoW

Members of the sales team receive their certiďŹ cates after the training course.

Left to right: Edwin Kihara, Doris Makena, Liz Tapawa, James Chege, Rose Naggi and Joyce Wambui.

the new conference centre at Jiobr will accommodate up to 600 people. conFerence FaciLities

it is part of the group’s strategy to

Part of the Jacaranda Hotels strategy is to develop business and conference services

tourism sector.

win more business in the conference

the hotel group embraces the Jacaranda Hotel in nairobi, the Jacaranda indian ocean beach resort in diani, the Lake elementaita Lodge near nakuru and the Village inn in Kiambu.

I ISSUE 01 I 13

neWs brieFs

Jacaranda at Travel Expo Jacaranda Hotels participated in the Holidays 2012 tourism Fair at the sarit centre. this annual travel trade show is aimed at promoting foreign and domestic tourism in Kenya. in line with the aim of the expo, the hotel group was offering attractive discounts on travel and holidays across its product line including the Jacasarit centre

randa Hotel in nairobi, the Jacaranda indian ocean beach resort in diani

Jacaranda marketing team at the Holidays 2012 Tourism Fair

and Lake elementaita Lodge near nakuru.

Scenic visit for corporate guests Jacaranda Hotels recently arranged a familiarisation trip to the scenic shimba Hills forest for 20 corporate guests. the trip was organised in conjunction with airKenya.

sHiMba HiLLs Corporate guests enjoy a scenic trip courtesy of Jacaranda Hotels and AirKenya

I ISSUE 01 I 15

DIANI

A rich man’s playground Government invests in new infrastructure to ease access and spur tourism

By Denis Gathanju

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DIANI

IN RECENT YEARS DIANI HAS BECOME AN EXCLUSIVE DESTINATION AND A MAGNET FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS.

a GLiMPse oF Paradise Diani has one of the world’s finest beaches

I ISSUE 01 I 17

Header HEADER

Fun in tHe sun Holidaymakers enjoy the beautiful beach

T

ourism in Kenya is on an unprec-

paradise just 35 km south of Mombasa,

break down, causing huge delays for people

edented trajectory. With tourism

has become an exclusive destination and a

on their way to or from the south coast.

earnings amounting to nearly Kes 100

magnet for the rich and famous.

billion last year and over 1.3 million

In addition, major traffic jams on either

tourist arrivals, there is no doubt that

The resort has become a favourite holiday

side of the crossing, especially during the

the industry is on a growth path.

getaway for high spenders thanks to its

morning and evening peak periods, add

relative quiet and the exclusivity it offers

to the delays for tourists making their

In recent years, the industry been looking

guests. Today, its white sandy beaches are

way between the north coast and south

to add innovative products and services

home to over 20 star-rated tourist hotels

coast. These delays can even result in some

aimed at enhancing and complementing

and 500 or so luxury villas and cottages.

tourists missing their return ights home.

This holiday hot spot has one of the

To deal with this problem, tour operators

the traditional tourism offerings such as beach and safari holidays.

longest, widest and most beautiful public

and hotel companies based in the south

The Vision 2030 blueprint, which aims to

beaches in the country and is considered

coast have teamed up with Kenya Ferry

turn Kenya into a middle-income economy

by many to be among the world’s finest

Services to help provide a faster movement

by the year 2030, has identified tourism as

beaches.

of tourist passengers. This has been

one of the main routes to realisation of this

achieved by introducing a special permit For these reasons, Diani has continued

that allows vehicles from tour companies

to attract huge investment in new luxury

and hotels to gain express passage onto

Laid-bacK Paradise

beach hotels, villas and holiday homes.

the ferry without having to queue. This has

The resort town has seen rapid economic

eased the situation somewhat.

The Kenyan coast continues to play a critical

growth recently, with over 10 commer-

role in tourism development, and the

cial banks and a major supermarket chain

resort cities of Mombasa and Malindi are

opening their doors to tap the business

at the core of this. However, the projected

potential.

dream.

development of a new resort town south of

airstriP iMProVed The Kenyan government has shown its commitment to providing better access to

Mombasa catering for high-end tourists has

Diani’s main challenge, however, is the

the south coast by investing heavily in infra-

continued to excite the industry.

problem of access. The resort is reached by

structure. A key project has been the recent

way of the Likoni Channel Crossing from

renovation works at Ukunda Airstrip, which

Mombasa City and the Likoni ferries often

serves the whole south coast. The govern-

In recent years Diani, a sleepy and laid-back

18 I www.jacarandahotels.com

DIANI HAS CONTINUED TO ATTRACT HUGE INVESTMENT IN LUXURY BEACH HOTELS, VILLAS AND HOLIDAY HOMES

When Jose Mourinho, manager of Real

national Airport, on the mainland. As well

Madrid Football Club, came to Diani for a

as improving access to the south coast, the

two-week stay, his chartered plane landed

bypass will serve the Mombasa Free Trade

at Ukunda. The same happened when inter-

Zone in the Port of Mombasa, thus helping

national football manager Guus Hiddink

to boost trade and commerce.

and the Hollywood star couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie came to holiday in Diani.

tHinGs to do

Those arriving at Mombasa’s Moi Interna-

So, what can the rich and famous do while

tional Airport have to travel to Diani via the

in Diani?

Likoni Channel Crossing.

Apart from leisurely walks on the unspoilt ment, through the Kenya Airports Authority

However, with new properties continuing

white sandy beaches and relaxing by the

(KAA), is working to enhance the capacity

to be developed in Diani and the govern-

poolside, there is a host of exciting things

of this airstrip to serve not only domestic

ment keen to establish a resort town, there

to do.

but also regional flights.

are plans to ease access to the south coast

Air traffic at Ukunda Airstrip has been

by going ahead with construction of the

For those keen on game watching, the

long-overdue Dongo Kundu bypass.

Shimba Hills Game Reserve and the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary offer the ideal

growing year on year. Major carriers such as Fly540 and AirKenya fly directly into

The Kenya National Highway Authority esti-

Ukunda from Wilson Airport. The airstrip

mates the 17.5 km bypass will cost about

also serves chartered flights from Mombasa

KES 4 billion. The new bypass will also link

Other outdoor activities include bird-

and Malindi as well as flights to national

the Mombasa-Nairobi highway with the

watching and nature trails in the exclusive

parks and game reserves across the

Likoni-Diani highway at Ng’ombeni. It will

Kaya Chale and Kaya Kinondo, where

country.

start from Miritini, just west of Moi Inter-

visitors can get to know more about local

destination.

culture.

Lovers of water sports will be spoilt for choice in Diani, which offers a wide range of activities, from kite surfing to scuba diving and snorkelling and from sailing to big game fishing.

This aside, the rich man’s game is never far away, and Diani has one of the best golf courses in the country. The Leisure Lodge Golf Club is an 18-hole, par 72 championship course that is also the venue for the Diani Beach Masters Golf Championships.

So next time you’re thinking of a stylish holiday on the coast – give Diani a try.

I ISSUE 01 I 19

EATING OUT

THE GO PLACES CHEF’S DELIGHT AWARDS

INITIATIVE TO HIGHLIGHT GOOD RESTAURANTS IN KENYA

T

he Go Places Chef’s Delight Awards

The Chef’s Delight Awards is also an ideal

programme seeks to recognise and

platform to significantly increase the number

honour restaurants and chefs in Kenya

of walk-in clients at dining establishments.

who have made a notable contribution

The awards are intended to help cultivate

to the art of cooking. Initiated in 2002

customer loyalty and guarantee customer

under the banner ‘Vote to Win with Go

retention. The programme will position

Places’, it brings together food enthu-

restaurants strategically to benefit by

siasts, culinary artists and restaurants

tapping into a significantly wide market.

to celebrate the culinary styles and signature dishes of Kenya. The awards

Members of the public will participate in

programme, which is the first of its kind

the programme by providing their honest

For more information on how to participate

in the region, allows the restaurants

opinion and reviews on the quality of

in the Go Places Chef’s Delight Awards,

to bring out the best of the country’s

service and food offered by the various

please visit www.chefsdelightawards.com

culinary scene in a competitive spirit.

The Chef’s Delight Awards involves restaurants and chefs who are nominated through a strict selection process by a team of experts in the culinary, hospitality and tourism sectors

THROUGH THESE AWARDS, RESTAURANTS GET A CHANCE TO SHOWCASE THEIR BRILLIANCE

in Kenya. These restaurants and chefs receive a Nomination Certificate and Nomination Pack and are duly recognised by Chef’s

dining establishments through the Vote &

Delight insignia in the establishments.

Win with Chef’s Delight initiative. Those diners who provide their opinion will get

Through these awards, restaurants get a

a chance to win an assortment of prizes,

chance to showcase their brilliance in taste,

such as airline tickets, holiday packages,

ambience and service, while the culinary

restaurant and shopping vouchers as well as

artists who are the chefs get a chance to

instant prizes from corporate sponsors.

display their creativity through unique signature dishes.

THE PANEL The panel of experts who will provide consultancy services to participating restaurants include: L&T CEO Mansoor Jiwani, who is also a qualified professional chef; Chef Felix Huwyler, of Top Chefs Culinary Institute; Chef Tom Owino, of Tanzaniabased Chef Tom Culinary Services; Nicci Pain, a South African-trained wine expert; Lucy Macridis, a hospitality expert from LMC Consultancy, who is also president of SKAL International Nairobi; and Jacqueline Anjao, a hospitality expert, also from LMC Consultancy.

ABOUT LEISURE AND TRAVEL GUIDES EA Leisure and Travel Guides East Africa (L&T), the company behind the Chef’s Delight Awards and the Go Places brand, was established 17 years ago. L&T has five main products: the flagship Go Places magazine, giving details of travel and leisure options in the region; Go Places Hotel and Restaurant Directory, a detailed listing of the best accommodation and dining establishments in East Africa; Go Places Conference Directory, highlighting the best conferencing options in the region; the Go Places Privilege Card, which provides card holders with discounts of between five and 40 per cent at over 500 establishments in East Africa; and sister company Global Image Advertising, which offers tailor-made Above the Line and Below the Line marketing and branding solutions.

I ISSUE 01 I 21

SPORT+ TOUCH RUGBY

TOUCH RUGBY

EVENT PUTS DIANI BEACH ON THE WORLD MAP

T

he Forty Thieves Beach Bar in Diani

tournaments each year – three in Nairobi

will be the host venue for this

and one in Naivasha.

year’s Diani Beach Touch Rugby Tournament, to be held on 6, 7 and 8 July. The

Rugby, a game originally developed on the

tournament, now in its fourth year, is

muddy fields of England, is not something

recognised internationally, attracting

naturally associated with idyllic sandy

professional teams from other East

beaches. Touch rugby, however, is a non-

African countries and from overseas as

contact sport, traditionally played in order

well as from all over Kenya.

to keep players fit without risk of injury, and Diani Beach provides the perfect backdrop

Last year’s tournament consisted of 20 teams,

for a weekend of tags, teams and tries.

with three international teams attending from Swaziland, Tanzania and the United Kingdom and some of the best Kenyan teams

ENERGETIC

from Nairobi, Naivasha, Mombasa, Nanyuki

Over the weekend, men and women, young

and Diani. The tournament has various team

players and ‘veterans’ (or any combination

categories for women, men, mixed teams

of the above) play each other, while friends

and veterans (over 40).

and family cheer from the touchline. Each match lasts just seven minutes a side, so play

GROWTH

is quick and energetic, allowing players to retreat to the shade at regular intervals.

Since the tournament began in 2009, Kenya has seen a growth in the popularity of

This year the ocean tides will allow most of the

touch rugby. There are now four recognised

games on Saturday and Sunday (7 and 8 July)

UNITED Players from all 20 teams celebrate the end of the 2011 tournament

22 I www.jacarandahotels.com

SMILES OF VICTORY 2011 Eisy Bru Shield winners

RUGBY, A GAME ORIGINALLY DEVELOPED ON THE MUDDY FIELDS OF ENGLAND, IS NOT SOMETHING NATURALLY ASSOCIATED WITH IDYLLIC SANDY BEACHES to be played in daylight. All teams are expected

As well as providing fun for players and

to be present on Friday, 6 July for a captain and

spectators, the tournament aims to raise

team briefing and a few starter games.

funds for the Age Grade Rugby Programme, initiated by the Rugby Patrons Society, and

The aim of the event is to provide an enter-

to make more people aware of this charity.

taining weekend with some great touch rugby while catching up with old friends and making new ones. For non-partici-

NURTURING

pants, there are plenty of other activities to

Under the direction of the Kenya Rugby

enjoy, including kite surfing, scuba diving

Football Union, the Age Grade Rugby

and deepsea fishing. Or, if you prefer to

Programme targets underprivileged

just relax, the beach is the perfect place

children and street kids aged from nine to

to laze around.

16 years, nurturing their rugby skills and identifying talent at an early age.

CHARITY The Forty Thieves Beach Bar will stay open throughout the weekend and food will be served all day until 10 pm. Toilets and showers will be available.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED? For further information, entries, sponsorship or suggestions, please contact George Barbour: Tel +254 735 411 110 Email: george@dianibeachtouchrugby.com www.dianibeachtouchrugby.com

I ISSUE 01 I 23

BUSINESS+ WESTLANDS

WESTLANDS IS A GROWING BUSINESS HUB T

he leafy suburb of Westlands in

But what has led Westlands to achieve the

Nairobi continues to grow in stature

status of a commercial hub in such a rela-

as an up-and-coming business district.

tively short time? One of the main reasons

Once mainly a residential area, West-

is the continuing congestion in Nairobi’s

lands has been transformed over the

Central Business District, where office space

years into a hub of commerce and trade.

has become scarce and parking is a nightmare for many businesses. The net effect

Located west of the Central Business

is that businesses have relocated away

District of the capital city, Westlands

from the bustle of the Central Business

continues to attract large corpora-

District to less congested and quieter

tions, businesses, hotels, restaurants and

neighbourhoods.

shopping malls. Today, the area is dominated by the construction of new office

The only downside of this is that the move

blocks and residential apartments.

to Westlands has put a considerable strain on roads, telephone lines, utilities and other

COMMUNITY

aspects of the infrastructure. However,

As well as being a magnet for new business,

upgrade the city’s transport network will be

Westlands is a popular meeting place for

of benefit to Westlands. This programme

many Nairobians. It attracts a range of well-

includes a new overpass at the Museum Hill

to-do entertainment seekers including the

and Limuru Road junctions and the planned

large expatriate community, most of whom

construction of a new ring road linking

live within walking distance of Westlands.

Westlands with Ngong Road via Waiyaki

Other revellers include wealthy Kenyans

Way, which will divert through traffic away

and the growing Kenyan middle class.

from Westlands.

the ongoing programme to expand and

The area offers a wide choice of entertainment spots, from pubs and restaurants to

Access to Westlands from the Central

high-end nightclubs.

Business District is via the busy Chiromo

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EXCLUSIVE New facilities in Westlands

AS WELL AS BEING A MAGNET FOR NEW BUSINESS, WESTLANDS IS A POPULAR MEETING PLACE FOR MANY NAIROBIANS

Road, to the south, and Parklands Roads,

In the daytime, the streets are a hive of

just north of the district.

activity. The shopping area is dotted with little stalls offering wonderful opportuni-

SHOPPING MALLS

ties for bargain-hunters. Here, one can buy

Apart from the new office blocks and

freshly cut flowers to African curios and

apartments that are mushrooming there,

paintings to second-hand clothes and cut-

Westlands is home to some exclusive

price shoes.

anything from fruit and vegetables and

shopping malls and arcades – more than any other district in Nairobi. These include

In the early evening, the nightlife awakens on

the Sarit Centre, The Mall and Westgate

the well-lit streets of Westlands as people come

Shopping Mall. These shopping malls offer a

out to enjoy the rich variety of amenities.

wide range of social amenities and facilities such as ATM machines, banks, cinemas,

The quieter residential areas and apart-

clothing stores, food courts, restaurants and

ment blocks of Westlands are popular with

supermarkets as well as large exhibition halls.

expatriates, young professionals and a few families. However, others prefer to live in

Westlands is also served by smaller

the quieter surroundings of Spring Valley,

shopping centres like Soin Arcade, Viking

where bungalows and large houses replace

House and Waumini House.

the apartments of Westlands.

I ISSUE 01 I 25

SPORT+ VOLLEYBALL

Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort Volleyball Club

BOUNCING WITH HEALTH

– and reaching for victory W

hat began as an opportunity for

month later a qualified coach, Benedict Juma,

recreation has turned into a high-

was hired to train the players and improve the

flying success story for the staff volleyball

quality of the game.

team of the Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach

TEAM MEETING Safaricom Youth Beach Volleyball tournament 2010

Resort. These talented lovers of the game

By December 2006 the team had won the

have proved themselves to be one of the

Diani Senior Volleyball Trophy at district level.

best teams in Kenya, winning trophy after

The coach hit on the idea of integrating the

trophy over the past few years.

team with young players from school with the aim of improving the standard of play of the

The Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort

existing older staff players.

Volleyball Club was set up in October 2006 as a recreational facility for members of staff. A

RECRUITMENT In 2007, following the recruitment of several young players, the team saw a huge improvement in the standard of volleyball at Indian Ocean Beach Resort. The team (men and women) scooped 12 of the 16 trophies in a competition organised by the Kenya Volleyball Federation’s Coast Branch office. The team was registered in National League, 2nd Division.

Thanks to these good performances, the Jacaranda team was nominated to represent

26 I www.jacarandahotels.com

HOW JACARANDA TEAM HAS PERFORMED 2006 – Team wins Diani Senior Volleyball Trophy at district level in December 2007 – Team wins 12 trophies in a Kenya Volleyball Federation Coast Branch competition and joins 2nd Division of National League. Team represents Kenya at the Nyerere Memorial International Volleyball Tournament in Tanga, Tanzania, taking first prize.

2008 – Team wins eight trophies and is voted Most Promising Team by Kenya Volleyball Federation.

2009 – Team wins its first league match against Nyeri Stima Club in Machakos.

Kenya at the inaugural Nyerere Memorial International Volleyball Tournament in Tanga, Tanzania. The team emerged the winner, taking the trophy along with a cash prize of

2011 – Team takes a break from the local league, but enters the Hotoso Games, where it wins the Volleyball Trophy. Team also wins the Nyerere International Memorial Cup at Moshi (14 to 19 December).

2012 – Looking forward to joining the National Volleyball League.

TSH 250,000 (equivalent to KES 14,000).

TROPHIES

violence, which had a negative impact on

The same feat was repeated in 2008. The

games but stayed together and managed to

year brought a bumper harvest for the team,

defend three trophies as well as retaining the

which won (among other competitions)

Nyerere Memorial International Volleyball

the Bamburi Cement Trophy, the Mduda

Trophy at Tanga, Tanzania, for the second year

Waweru Trophy, the Coast Chairman’s Trophy,

running, despite the hardship.

the tourism industry. The team played fewer

the Kalumass Trophy, the Charles Lwanga Trophy, the David Maveke Trophy, the Seaside Academy Trophy and the Jacaranda Hotels

COMEBACK

Volleyball Trophy, thus setting the crown on

In 2009 the team made a comeback and

Over the past four years the team has partici-

a super volleyball year. At the end of the year,

registered in the National League, 2nd

pated in the Hotoso Games in Nairobi and in

the Jacaranda team was voted Most Promising

Division, where it won its first league match

2008 it won the Hotoso Volleyball Trophy.

Team by the Kenya Volleyball Federation.

against Nyeri Stima Club in Machakos. The women were runners-up in the Kenya Volley-

In the East & Central Beach Volleyball Tourna-

In 2008 there was uncertainty for the

ball Federation Coast Branch Chairman’s Cup

ment, held at Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach

Jacaranda team because of the post-election

in Voi in February.

resort, the Jacaranda team, consisting of John Ndungu and Herman Sifuna, was eliminated in the quarter finals. Rwanda came first and the Uganda were runners-up.

THE JACARANDA INDIAN OCEAN BEACH RESORT VOLLEYBALL CLUB WAS SET UP IN OCTOBER 2006 AS A RECREATIONAL FACILITY FOR MEMBERS OF STAFF

The Jacaranda team won the third Nyerere Memorial International Volleyball Tournament 2009 in Tanga, thus becoming the permanent holders of this trophy. The trophy now has pride of place in the general manager’s office at the Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort.

I ISSUE 01 I 27

FITNESS+ ZUMBA

Dance your way to physical fitness

CRAZE SWEEPS

28 I www.jacarandahotels.com

A

new fitness craze has taken Nairobi by storm. In a fast-paced world,

where the rigours of everyday life take their toll on our bodies, it’s no surprise that so many people are looking to physical fitness as an outlet. In recent years, this has led to a mushrooming of fitness centres and gyms across the Kenyan capital.

But it is the rapid spread of a new fitness regime that has got tongues wagging and bodies shaking in the keep-fit community.

NAIROBI

Known as Zumba, this new fitness programme – only two years old in Kenya – combines music and exercise to help tone the body and tighten the muscles. The programme involves dance and aerobic elements that rely on music and rhythm to keep the fitness class moving.

PHENOMENON Since Zumba was first introduced to Kenya in 2009 it has grown tremendously and has become widely accepted as a genuine fitness programme. One of the key attractions of Zumba that have made it a fitness phenomenon is that almost anyone can participate. Initially it was popular with women, but men have recently taken the Zumba plunge.

A typical Zumba programme lasts an hour and includes a warm-up session and high and low intensity dance routines followed by a cool-down. The workout also incorporates a series of traditional strengthening exercises, including lunges and squats, so as to complete a full body workout.

I ISSUE 01 I 29

FITNESS+ ZUMBA HEADER HEADER

Another key factor that has led to Zumba’s popularity in Nairobi is that it does not involve complex body movements or terminology that might deter newcomers. Unlike an aerobics programme that requires people to move in drill-like steps, Zumba offers a medley of dance moves that lead to an invigorating workout led by an instructor.

With Zumba, the music is the central element that guides the person’s body movement.

INNOVATIVE Apart from physical fitness, Zumba helps people learn the basics of other popular Latin American dance styles such as the cumbia, merengue, salsa and samba.

Zumba owes its origin to the Colombian aerobics instructor Alberto Perez.

It is derived from a Colombian word that means to move fast and have fun. The fitness programme was accidentally developed

by Alberto after he had left his aerobics music tapes behind while hurrying to the gym to teach an aerobics class. Alberto decided to get creative and came up with innovative dance moves that were much appreciated by his class.

MISSION Zumba, however, did not gain ground until 1999 when Alberto exported it to Miami, Florida, in the USA. There, he teamed up with two other Colombians to form Zumba Fitness LLC. They trademarked the word Zumba and began a mission to spread it across the world.

30 I www.jacarandahotels.com

Today, over 12 million people around the world are said to be attending Zumba classes. In Nairobi, fitness-conscious people have taken to Zumba with near-fanatical zeal and, today, almost every gymnasium and health club worth its name is offering

THE BENEFITS OF ZUMBA INCLUDE WEIGHT LOSS AS WELL AS IMPROVED MUSCLE TONE. BUT THE GREATEST APPEAL OF ZUMBA LIES IN THE FACT THAT IT’S FUN

Zumba sessions.

FUN FOR EVERYONE In order to take part in Zumba sessions, the first thing you need to do is ensure that you are properly kitted out with sweat pants, a T-shirt or vest and comfortable sneakers to allow ease of movement.

The benefits of Zumba include weight loss as well as improved muscle tone.

But the greatest appeal of Zumba lies in the fact that it’s fun. Unlike other fitness programmes, such as aerobics, there is no steep learning curve, so that even beginners can learn quickly. This is especially important when it comes to encouraging regular exercise by slow learners or those who are easily demotivated by traditional exercises.

Another significant fact is that Zumba is not only enjoyed by young people.

It appeals equally to older people who are less supple and find it hard to cope with the rigours of aerobic exercises.

While the programme has become an all-time favourite for fitnessconscious Nairobians, the only drawback is the lack of proper Zumba instructors.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Zumba is offered at: Jacaranda Gym & Spa P.O. Box 14827-00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 254-2-4448713/4/5/6/7 Fax: 254-2-44446159/4448977 Email: jacarandahotel@africanonline.co.ke

I ISSUE 01 I 31

HEADER HEADER

TRIBUTE

rise and rise of the charcoal burner A tribute to the late Hon. James Njenga Karume

W

hen an old man dies, so goes the

movers and shakers of Kenyan politics and

African proverb, a whole library

commerce to ordinary villagers.

burns down. This is particularly true of

By Denis Gathanju Family occasion Above: James Njenga Karume with his wife Grace at the wedding of his son Kigera

the Hon. Dr James Njenga Karume, who

Njenga Karume made his name in business,

Official opening

died on 24 February aged 82. His was a

working his way to the top. Entering the

remarkable story of rags to riches.

world of business at a time when Kenya was

Below: The Hon. Najib Balala, Minister of Tourism, with Dr Njenga Karume at the opening of the Jacaranda Gym and Spa

still under British colonial rule, the young Those who knew him speak of his humility.

Karume faced everyday challenges with a

He was able to converse easily with anyone,

clear vision of a better tomorrow.

regardless of social status, from the

The herder Njenga’s formative years on Lord Dela-

When an old man dies, so goes the African proverb, a whole library burns down

mere’s Estate in Elementaita, Nakuru County, where he herded cows and goats, gave him a sense of responsibility and teamwork. The threat of an attack by wild animals was ever-present, and Njenga and his peers learned how to depend on and take care of each other – a vital lesson that would help him in later life.

I ISSUE 01 I 33

Dr Njenga Karume and his wife Grace with the Hon. Najib Balala, Minister of Tourism, at the official opening of the Jacaranda Gym and Spa in 2011

It was during his time on Lord Delamere’s Estate that he began to take a keen interest in education. He was fascinated by the ways of the colonial masters or athungu, as they were known to the Kikuyus. His quest for an education was prompted by the humiliation that was directed at the african labourers by their white masters.

In his memoirs, entitled ‘Beyond Expectations: from Charcoal to gold’, he describes a visit to his uncle when he saw a white man for the first time. He asked why africans feared the British so much and wondered how a few British people could instil so much fear into hundreds of africans. “It is because the athungu are educated,” his uncle told him.

THe sTuDeNT In 1942, at the age of 13, he began his elementary education at Kahuho primary School, where the fees were pegged at KES 1.50 per term. Like many children at this time, he walked to school barefoot. In 1944 he joined Riara primary School, in Kiambaa, which was run by Catholic missionaries.

Njenga was curious to know why they

34 I www.jacarandahotels.com

TribuTe

fRom HUmBLE BEgINNINgS, HE LIvED TRUE To HImSELf aND CREaTED a BUSINESS EmpIRE

were known as ‘brothers’ when their looks,

pass up. He discovered that exercise books

It was at that point that he ventured

culture and language suggested otherwise.

cost 15 cents from an Indian-run shop in

into charcoal burning, cutting the trees

These white people were much kinder to

Kiambu compared with 30 cents at the

to make charcoal and cedar posts. He

the africans than those he had encoun-

Catholic bookshop. a light bulb lit up in

sold charcoal to the africans for 25 cents

tered in Elementaita. Curious to know more

his head. The missionaries were selling the

and cedar posts to the white settlers for

about the white people, he passionately

books at double the price and making good

fencing at KES 1 per pole.

studied Christianity so as to understand

money. If they were making a profit, he

their religion.

thought, then why not him?

Business was brisk and Njenga opened a sawmill in Njoro. He also started buying

He was baptised in 1947 and chose the

There was a problem in the shape of

quantities of red potatoes from local

Christian name James. for the first time,

start-up capital. But Njenga never lacked

farmers for KES 1 and selling them to white

he wore a proper shirt and pair of shorts.

ingenuity. He decided not to pay his school

settlers for KES 2. Soon afterwards, he

Having worn goatskins since birth, he saw

fees in time so he could use the money

ventured into the timber industry, buying

this as a privilege.

to buy the books and sell them in school,

timber from local sawmills and sending

then pay his school fees a week later and

it to Nairobi by train to be sold to Indian

THe eNTrepreNeur

keep the profits. He bought the books for

customers.

It was while living with his uncle, gatenjwa

cents. It was his first successful business

The rest, as they say, is history. from

munge, that Njenga had his first direct

venture.

humble beginnings, he lived true to himself

15 cents and sold them to students for 25

and created a business empire that included

encounter with commerce and learned

THe selF-mADe mAN

the Jacaranda Hotels group.

uncle would buy goods to stock his shops

Njenga failed to secure a job after he

Njenga Karume was a walking library of

and sell them at a profit. This was a revela-

rudely questioned from whom and at

wisdom and counsel. as well as leaving

tion to him and the cornerstone of his first

what price the Wazungus (white men)

behind a wife and children, he has left

commercial enterprise.

had bought the land. The frustration that

a valuable legacy in the form of his

followed this made him vow that he would

memoirs, which will doubtless prove a

In 1948, while still at Riara School in

never be employed by someone else. He

source of inspiration for thousands of

Kiambaa, the 19-year-old Njenga saw a

wanted to go into business and become

young Kenyans who want to succeed both

business opportunity that he could not

his own boss.

in business and in life.

some vital lessons about business. He writes in his memoirs about observing how his

I ISSUE 01 I 35

Spectacular

Tournament

keeps golfing traditions alive

36 I www.jacarandahotels.com

KIamBU goLf CLUB

O

n every third saturday in september since 1982, golfers have

gathered in large numbers at Kiambu

TropHy wiNNer Stephen Karanja receiving the Karume Cup in 2011

golf club, just outside Nairobi, to play for the prestigious and highly coveted Karume cup.

The Karume Cup is probably the oldest continuously sponsored corporate event in Kenya and the annual tournament has been a particular passion of the late Hon. Njenga Karume, former chairman of Jacaranda Hotels. on this occasion, chefs and other catering staff from Jacaranda Hotels take over the venerable Kiambu golf Club for the day and

IN SEpTEmBER 2011 SomE 180 To 200 goLfERS TURNED oUT To CompETE foR THE KaRUmE CUp provide a truly spectacular buffet including

– provides one of the best examples of a

a delicious nyama choma (roasted meat)

settler-built and designed golf course.

feast for club members and invited guests. a certain and probably long-since-forgotten

cHAriTAble

W.a.f. platts, was named as the club’s first

Jacaranda Hotels also donates gifts and

meru’s District Commissioner. He would

prizes, and a large share of the proceeds

surely still recognise the clubhouse and the

from the day’s golf is donated to various

course, which is little changed since colo-

charities. These charities change from

nialists first huddled around the large open

year to year but are mostly located in and

fire at the ‘19th green’ over 90 years ago.

president in 1922. mr platts was, in fact,

around Kiambu. only now are things starting to change a In September 2011 some 180 to 200 golfers

little and Jacaranda Hotels is at the forefront

turned out to compete for the Karume Cup,

of the club’s plans for a new KES 6 million

with the winner receiving a new golf bag.

irrigation system that will, during the dry season, transform the sometimes parched

The nine-hole Kiambu Club was opened

look that greets golfers. Now players can

in 1920 and – along with nearby Limuru

look forward to a year-round lushness.

I ISSUE 01 I 37

JaCaRaNDa HoTELS INDEX HeAD oFFice & ceNTrAl reservATioNs Waiyaki Way, p.o. Box 14287 – 00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 254 – 020 – 444 8713/4/5/6/7 fax: 254 – 020 – 444 5818/6159/8977 mobile: 254 – 0722 205 486/7, 0733 60161/4 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com

JAcArANDA HoTel NAirobi p.o. Box 14827-00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 254-2-4448713/4 fax: 254-2-44446159/4448977 Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com

JAcArANDA gym & spA p.o. Box 14827-00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 254-2-4448713/4/5/6/7 fax: 254-2-44446159/4448977 Email: gym.spa@jacarandahotels.com

JAcArANDA iNDiAN oceAN beAcH resorT p.o. Box 73 – 80400 Ukunda, Diani Beach – Kenya Tel: 254-040 3203730 fax: 254-040-3203557 Email: infoiobc@jacarandahotels.com

lAKe elemeNTAiTA loDge p.o. Box 66 gilgil Tel: (+254-050) 50836/50648 fax: (+254-050) 50836 Email: lakeelementaita@jacarandahotels.com

piZZA gArDeN p.o. Box 14827-00800, Nairobi Tel: +254-2-4448713/4 fax: +254-2-44446159/4448977 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com

38 I www.jacarandahotels.com

KENYA LAKE ELEMENTAITA LODGE

PIZZA GARDEN

JACARANDA HOTEL NAIROBI including Jacaranda Gym & Spa

AFRICA

JACARANDA INDIAN OCEAN BEACH RESORT KENYA

JACARANDA GYM & SPA

I ISSUE 01 I 39

JACARANDA GYM & SPA

Taking the perfect pathway to fitness and well-being B

ody fitness and wellness are two

There is free underground car parking

to meet their fitness and wellness targets,

very different things – and yet, to

and the health club has its own entrance,

whether these consist of total fitness,

conveniently separated from the hotel.

controlled weight loss, body toning or any

most people, they mean the same. But, in fact, it does not really matter which is which, especially for the average person who is looking to achieve and maintain a

other special need.

The spa

The gym also has steam room and sauna

healthy body. The pressures of family life

The spa is devoted to enhancing the overall

facilities in the women’s and men’s

and the fast-paced corporate scene have

well-being of its customers by offering a

changing rooms as well as a clean and

led to an increased focus on body fitness

variety of body treatments to encourage

spacious rest area.

and wellness.

and enhance the renewal of mind, body and soul.

The Jacaranda Hotel in Nairobi came up

Personal training • This combines high-density workouts

with the right answers to this in 2010 when

The spa offers personalised services and

and nutritional counselling with the

it established the Jacaranda Gym and Spa,

professional treatments that are designed

motivation needed to reach and maintain

one of the best health clubs in the Kenyan

to achieve a head-to-toe sensory revival as

long-term personal goals.

capital. This spacious and ultra-modern

well as cultivating inner and body strength

health club, set in four acres of grounds in

and creating a healthier, more balanced

the heart of the Westlands Business District,

lifestyle.

offers a breath of fresh air to the fitness and wellness seeker.

Spa services: • Massages

Beautiful gardens The gym and spa is housed in a new custom-

• Body treatments • Facials and foot spas

• Every lesson is structured to build cardiovascular endurance, improve strength and increase flexibility.

Class exercise • Introductory classes, aerobics • Sport conditioning, traditional cardio training

designed building next to the hotel. There

• Manicure and pedicure

• Dance fitness

is a large heated swimming pool as well as

• Body treatments

• Spinning

beautiful gardens and well-kept lawns, all helping to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Designed and equipped to

The gym

• Step and athletic training For the mind and body

meet the most discerning expectations of its

The well-equipped gym features the latest

• Stretch and relaxation

customers, the Jacaranda Gym and Spa can

in Life Fitness equipment. Professional

• Yoga

proudly stand its ground against the best in

fitness trainers and gym instructors are on

Nairobi’s gym and spa market.

hand to assist the guests and help them

40 I www.jacarandahotels.com

• T’ai chi (an ancient mind-body exercise).

relAX Guests can enjoy a range of professional treatments, or simply unwind in the heated swimming pool

I ISSUE 01 I 41

HoTel oFFers Five-sTAr service AT A Four-sTAr price L

ocated in the business area of

Between the leaseholds, the hotel under-

westlands, a leafy western suburb of

went continuous upgrades and today the

Nairobi, the Jacaranda Hotel is an ideal

accommodation consists of 128 rooms.

venue for business guests in search of

It is a four-star facility catering mainly for

five-star service at a four-star price.

business travellers looking to stay in the quiet neighbourhood of Westlands while

one of the longest-established hotels in

attending business meetings and confer-

Nairobi, it began life as a training facility for staff

ences in Nairobi.

of the Italian oil company agip in the late 1950s and early 1960s, also doubling as a motel with

In order to meet the accommodation

just 42 rooms. The property was acquired by

requirements of its many business guests,

the late Hon. Njenga Karume in 1963.

the hotel is set to install 48 new business executive suites and to convert one wing of

In subsequent years, the hotel was trans-

the hotel to cater for business travellers.

formed as it was leased to various leading hotel operators such as alliance Hotels

In addition, the hotel has one of the most

when its name changed to Quality Inns. It

modern health club and spa facilities in Nairobi.

was later leased to Block Hotels in 1995 and its name changed to Landmark Hotel.

coNFereNciNg

It was during this period that the hotel

The hotel has various conference facilities to

brought new quality standards and proce-

cater for the needs of its business clientele.

dures to its operations. This led to the

These include the Wariara Conference Centre,

adoption of enhanced training programmes

which can accommodate up to 250 people in

for staff and a gradual improvement in

theatre style, and the palm, acacia and Jaca-

services and product standards at the hotel.

randa rooms, each of which can each hold 40 people. There are also two boardrooms, each

Between 1999 and 2001 the hotel changed

with a capacity of 18 people.

its name to Sheraton four points Hotel after Block Hotels sub-leased it to the internationally recognised hospitality brand Sheraton Hotels.

However, Block Hotels went into receivership in 2003 and the property changed its name to the current Jacaranda Hotel.

42 I www.jacarandahotels.com

swimmiNg pool The tranquil pool is ideal for cooling off

guesT room Modern furnishings and crisp white linen come as standard

AT A glANce Choice of 128 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms suitable for all guests.

Each room has: • Central ceiling fan • Direct-dial telephone • Satellite TV • Minibar • Electronic safe deposit • Work station area • Mosquito net on request • Tea/coffee-making facilities • 24-hour room service.

• Private bathroom and toilet en-suite • Hairdryer Facilities & Activities: • Gym and spa • Heated swimming pool

I ISSUE 01 I 43

luXury beAcH resorT wiTH A HiNT oF ArAb ANTiQuiTy O

n what many regard as one of

The beach resort contains various antiques

the best stretches of beach in the

and relics from the Sultan’s palace. The

world lies one of the best-kept secrets of

main reception area, for instance, features

Kenya’s south coast, the Jacaranda indian

an antique chandelier that was given to the

ocean beach resort (Jiobr).

sultan by British traders in exchange for landing rights.

Located on more than 29 acres of prime land overlooking the blue waters of the

The JIoBR also has a tastefully designed

Indian ocean, the JIoBR offers its guests a

room suitable for physically challenged

perfect holiday getaway.

guests. In addition to the above amenities, it has a walk-in shower and both shower

ArAbic iNFlueNce

and toilet are fitted with hand supports.

The resort, which opened in 1992, is built

There is a four-bedroom villa suitable for

on the site of a 16th-century mosque.

families.

Known originally as the Indian ocean Beach Club, it was an exclusive and luxurious property. Like the Nairobi-based Hotel

coNFereNciNg

Jacaranda, it was at that time under the

The Wariara Convention Centre is one of

management of Block Hotels.

the largest conference facilities on the south coast, with a capacity of about 300 people.

To underline the rich influence of the Swahili culture that was once dominant on the Kenyan coast, especially under the rule of the Sultan of Zanzibar, the architectural style adopted in all the buildings at the beach resort has a strong arabic influence.

44 I www.jacarandahotels.com

service Hotel guests receive attentive service

seA breeZe Guest relax by the pool, which overlooks the Indian Ocean

AT A glANce 100 deluxe rooms (including 25 ocean-facing rooms), all handsomely designed and beautifully furnished.

Each room has: • En-suite bathroom with bath/shower and separate toilet • Minibar and tea/coffee-making facilities • Air conditioning and ceiling fan • Safes • Hairdryer • Own veranda • Smoke detectors • Room attendance and evening turndown.

Facilities & Activities: • Kids’ club • Water sports • Diving • Massage & salon • Tennis • Volleyball

I ISSUE 01 I 45

eXperieNce THe HAppy vAlley L

ake elementaita lodge is situated in

and colonial leaders from across the Rift

over 100 acres of land on the banks

valley, Nairobi and Central regions.

of the magnificent lake elementaita off the Nakuru-Nairobi highway.

coNFereNciNg

The lodge’s main building, which contains

The lodge offers the perfect conference

the main restaurant, is a relic of the colonial

setting in a relaxed country atmosphere.

era, built in 1916. It was a farmhouse owned by the pioneer settler and farmer

The conference room is fully equipped to

galbraith Cole.

meet the needs of the most discerning conference groups and can accommodate

specTAculAr

50 people.

In front of the main house is a terrace

a secretariat and conference amenities are

overlooking the well-kept lawns in the

available on request

foreground and the spectacular Lake Elementaita beyond.

The lodge is located in an area known in colonial times as Happy valley. The name came from the monthly meetings organised

perFecT seTTiNg

by the then colonial masters. These festive

Breakfast ‘al fresco’ with a beautiful view

gatherings brought together white farmers

46 I www.jacarandahotels.com

sHADy reTreAT The terrace overlooks well-kept lawns

AT A glANce The lodge has 33 rooms (11 triples and 22 twins).

Each room has: • A fire place • Bath & shower • Own veranda Facilities & Activities: • Large swimming pool • Horse riding • Nature walks • Birdwatching • Visits to Kariandusi prehistoric site

I ISSUE 01 I 47

upmArKeT eATery wiTH AN AuTHeNTic iTAliAN FlAvour T

he upmarket pizza garden in Nairobi has become a favourite rendezvous

for local people and visitors who appreciate good food and warm hospitality in an unpretentious setting.

Built in the 1950s, the pizza garden was originally an eating place for trainees of the Italian oil company agip at the former agip motel, now the Jacaranda Hotel. most of the agip trainees were from Italy, so the pizza garden was established to serve Italian cuisine.

TrADiTioNAl Since its acquisition by Jacaranda Hotels group, the pizza garden has maintained its Italian tradition and is perhaps the only place in Nairobi where you can enjoy a truly authentic Italian pizza made the traditional way in a coal-fired oven.

week including Sundays. It has a children’s playground that makes it a popular

This tradition has been maintained over

weekend venue for families. The pizza

the years thanks to constant training and

garden also has a lively nightclub with

the handing down of information from the

theme nights to cater for fans of contempo-

former Italian pizza cooks to the restaurant’s

rary african music (Rumba afrique) as well

modern-day chefs. This explains why the

as rock, soul, jazz and the latest hits.

pizzas at this restaurant have a superior taste and colour to those at some other outlets.

apart from pizza, you can order other dishes from the à la carte menu, which

Today, the pizza garden is a vibrant and

includes burgers, grilled items, vegetarian

informal restaurant, open every day of the

dishes and snacks.

48 I www.jacarandahotels.com

iTAliAN sTyle The mouth-watering pizzas are famous