Sarova Spotlight - March 2011 - June 2011

MARCH 2011-JUNE 2011

DID GOD CREATE

KENYA FOR

LOVERS? PEOPLE & PLACES MAASAI REMAIN TRUE TO THEIR CULTURE

ICONS

DAVID RUDISHA

OUT&ABOUT

COUNCOURS D’ELEGANCE

FOREWORD

WELCOME J

ambo! It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to our second edition of the Sarova Spotlight. We cherish your immense support and encouragement on the inaugural issue and we now aspire to shine the spotlight on Destination Kenya.

and front façade to which a renowned Kenyan

in its own right and is possibly the first of its kind

artist brings rustic, earthy, aesthetic African mural

of restaurant - in a lodge setting – in Kenya. The

art to tantalise the eye.

Isokon’s refurbishment brings the culinary safari to a journey befitting the pride of Kenya’s most

The Sarova Stanley; our 109 year old heritage

famous game reserve. Isokon Restaurant’s refur-

city hotel in the heart of Nairobi’s CBD will

bishment incorporates the highest standards of

boast a brand new porte-cochère that is set

hygiene, with temperature-controlled display

As a brand icon in the regional hospitality industry,

for completion by end-March 2011. Our lodges

counters, covered food stations and an intelligent

the Sarova Group of Hotels continually seeks ways

too, are continually in the search of the ultimate,

German cooking system sans pareil.

to enrich the guest experience through enhanced

enriching safari experience.

customer service and high quality products. With this in mind, we open our doors to welcome you

The Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge in Lake Nakuru

to an all new Sarova that is continuously under-

National Park offers relaxing massage therapy at

going product improvement to ensure the highest

its brand new Tulia Wellness tent. We are proud

Honeymoon and wedding experience Continuing the celebrations post-Christmas…

standards of service delivery and comfort for you

we raise a toast to the wedding season romance

– our distinguished guest.

that Cupid brings at this time of the year. We highlight some truly Kenyan wedding experi-

Giving Back

ences; be they at the coast, upcountry or in the city. As we share pointers from our 37 years’

One of the main objectives of Sarova Hotels’

experience, we show you why Kenya ranks so

Corporate Social Responsibilities is to support

highly among the world’s leading wedding and

the learning experience of students across the

honeymoon destinations.

country through various initiatives and partnerships. Sekenani Primary School is one of the

Let Sarova take care of all your needs, to enable

projects we support. The students will benefit

you to spend quality time with your loved ones.

from the services of a team of teachers from the

Our collection of hotels, lodges, camps and

UK who, through ETC (Educate the Children),

resorts in the most exotic locales in the country,

will volunteer three months of their time to teach

await your cherished patronage.

at the school. Sarova Mara Game Camp strongly supports this initiative by offering complimentary

to announce that the second tent at Sarova Mara

On behalf of everybody at the Sarova Group of

full board accommodation and transport to the

Game Camp – with its attendant luxurious thera-

Hotels, I wish to thank you for choosing to stay

teachers for the entire duration of their stay.

pies – is now in place.

with us.

Africana peaks in its inherent beauty and a genu-

The Sarova Mara Game Camp proudly launched

inely heartfelt welcome in the gem that the Sarova

its newly refurbished, spacious 185-cover restau-

Panafric is transforming into. As we write, we are

rant in December last year. The Mara Isokon

Jaideep S. Vohra

putting the final touches on a brand new lobby

restaurant offers a niche destination experience

Managing Director, Sarova Group of Hotels

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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Contents SAROVA SPOTLIGHT // March 2011-June 2011

4

A publication of Sarova Hotels and designed by

Land & Marine Publications (KENYA) Ltd Suite A6, 1st floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 232 4343 Cell: +254 (0)722 731 003 E-mail: kenya@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com Contributing Editor: Denis Gathanju Sales & Marketing Manager: Sheila Njiru Sales Manager: Minaywa Laboso Photo credits: Denis Gathanju 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.

Š2011 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd

CONTENTS

26

28

16

COVER STORY

4 DID GOD CREATE KENYA FOR LOVERS?

42

32 10 News 12 Easter holidays

Easter is family time

14 Sarova colours

New hotel uniforms inspired by nature and local culture

16 Romantic getaways

Love......makes the world go round

22 Marriage on the rocks 26 Growing for love

Say it with flowers

28 PEOPLE&PLACES

Maasai remain true to their culture

32 Sarova weddings

Exchanging vows at Sarova

38 OUT&ABOUT

Golden oldies grace Nairobi

42 GivingBack

Community partnership provides enhanced education for Sekenani children

46 BeyondBorders

Good food and a sparkling nightlife

50 ICONS

Run, Rudisha, Run

54 Sarova Hotels & Lodges Index 64 What’s cooking

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Love made in Kenya

Did God create

K e n ya

for lovers?

T

he world will freeze on 29 April 2011 – not because of an extended winter, but because it will be bitten by the love bug. On that day in spring, all eyes will be fixed on Westminster Abbey in London, where Prince William will be married to his fiancée, Catherine, better known as Kate Middleton.

in line to the British throne, proposed to Kate.

He had been carrying the late Princes Diana’s engagement ring in his backpack for some time, and the solitude of a mountain landscape provided him with the perfect location to pop the question. Now the news has spread to the four corners of the earth and the whole world can celebrate a royal love that blossomed in the mountains of Kenya.

And as the world marvels, it will be remembered that this day exists because the love bug struck thousands of miles away in the remote mountains of central Kenya.

Kenya, the romantic getaway The royal engagement has certainly turned the spotlight on Kenya as one of the most romantic

Hiking for love

getaways in the world, whether for an engage-

It was on a hiking expedition in this picturesque

Couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to

corner of the world that Prince William, second

splendid locations. The list includes the jungles

ment, a wedding or a honeymoon vacation.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Love made in Kenya

of the Masai Mara, the wide-open spaces of

of wild animals involving huge numbers of wilde-

the Shaba National Reserve, the plains of the

beest, gazelle and zebra in a trek across the Mara

Amboseli, the white sandy beaches of the coast,

River to the Serengeti Game Reserve.

and the breathtaking hills and peaks of Mount Kenya, the Aberdares and Mount Elgon.

The sights and sounds of this spectacular event will provide a memorable backdrop when

It is often said that when God was creating

couples exchange their wedding vows by the

heaven, he first created Kenya as a guide. This

river bank.

begs the question – did God create Kenya for lovers?

The royal engagement aside, many couples are choosing Kenya for their romantic getaway. With its wide diversity of locations, activities and things to see and do, Kenya is probably the world’s top destination for loving couples.

As the undisputed home of the African safari, Kenya offers couples a unique chance to experience many of the natural wonders of the continent in a relatively short time as well as getting to know more about its cultural heritage.

This special vacation will be something they can share and enjoy, thus strengthening the bond between them.

Favourite destination A favourite destination for loving couples is the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, which has played host to countless wedding ceremonies as well as providing an exclusive location for honeymoons. With its picture-perfect locations of wide-open grasslands, dotted with wildlife, the Masai Mara is a perfect backdrop for that romantic occasion. But the real crowd-puller

An attractive feature of this type of vacation is

in the Masai Mara is the great annual migration

the programme of entertainment provided in the evenings by members of the local tribal commu-

It is often said that when God

nities. In the Masai Mara, a mock-up of a Maasai wedding ceremony can be arranged. The same

was creating heaven, he first

is replicated in northern Kenya in the Samburu,

created Kenya as a guide

Reserves, where the morans (warriors) perform

Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Game traditional Samburu wedding songs around a bonfire. Dressed in tribal regalia, the couple take

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

7

Eddie Mulholland / Rex Features

away from the parks and reserves, the Kenyan coast offers lovers a totally different backdrop for that perfect wedding ceremony

lined by the traditional cuisine, ranging from rice cooked in coconut oil to delicious snacks that include mahamri (Swahili doughnuts), samosas and mnazi (coconut wine).

Royal romance in Kenya With the world’s attention glued to the colourful ceremony at Westminster Abbey on 29 April

part in a traditional ceremony that is blessed by

voted some of the best in the world. The ambience

2011, it will be remembered that the love bug

the community elders. Traditional meat and beer

is no less exhilarating than in the national parks.

first struck on a sunny day in November 2010.

can also be served.

A sunrise or sunset wedding ceremony offers a perfect backdrop of golden beaches against the

No-one could capture the magic of that day

Love on the sands

dark-blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

better than Kate Middleton herself. Hours after

Meanwhile, away from the parks and reserves,

Here at the coast, the evening will most likely be

wrote in the visitors’ book: “Thank-you for such

the Kenyan coast offers lovers a totally different

spiced up by the melodious sounds of Taarabu,

a wonderful 24 hours. I love the warm fires and

backdrop for that perfect wedding ceremony.

the traditional dance of the coastal people. Most

candle lights – so romantic!”

Prince William had asked her to marry him, she

wedding themes are taken from the rich Swahili Stretching from Lamu in the north to Chale in the

culture that is unique to the Kenyan coast. The

So did God create Kenya for lovers? Come

south, Kenya’s white sandy beaches have been

décor is deeply Swahili and the theme is under-

and discover.

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Sarova News Hotel group embraces mobile payment system Sarova Hotels, Resorts & Game Lodges, in partnership with Kenya’s leading telecom company, Safaricom, will now offer guests the option of settling their bills through the globally acclaimed M-Pesa service.

This follows the signing of an agreement between Safaricom and Sarova Hotels.

Initially, the M-Pesa payment option will be available to guests making accommodation payments and will be available only in Kenya.

The M-Pesa payment system allows Sarova Hotels to engage fully in mobile commerce, with customers able to book and pay for their holidays at any time, from anywhere, via their mobile devices. This will save customers the trouble of driving to Sarova’s reservations office to make payment.

“This agreement between Sarova Hotels and Safaricom provides both a reliable and convenient avenue for guests to settle their bills,” said Mr J.S. Vohra, managing director of the Sarova Hotels Group.

He said it was a valuable addition to Sarova’s Easy Pay Plan option, launched in 2002, which gives guests the option of paying for their holidays in easy instalments.

“We are proud to be the first hospitality group to engage in M-commerce through Safaricom’s M-Pesa,” said Mr Vohra.

Sarova hosts annual golf challenge Sarova Group of Hotels played host to business partners, clients and suppliers at an annual golf challenge. The event at the Royal Golf Club in Nairobi in October 2010 was also a social gathering for Sarova to engage with its business partners at an evening cocktail party at the same venue.

At the party, Sarova not only thanked its clients and business partners, but unveiled a number of new products designed to enhance its brand in the market.

Among the new products was the revamped ‘Sarova Spotlight’, the in-house magazine that is available in all Sarova properties. The magazine is produced by contract publisher Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd. The guests were also treated to a fashion show when Sarova unveiled a set of new staff uniforms designed by leading fashion house Kiko Romeo.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Sarova Hotels partners with FAFA Sarova Hotels was the official hospitality partner at the Festival for African Fashion & Arts (FAFA 2010), an annual event that brings designers from all over Africa to showcase their designs and celebrate unity in diversity.

Kitchens of Sarova, the group’s outside catering arm, complemented the creative designs on the catwalk with exquisite food during a high-end fashion show and gala dinner at Nairobi National Park.

Sarova’s link with FAFA 2010 was significant, coming at a time when Sarova Hotels had commissioned Kiko Romeo – the design house whose founder came up with the idea of FAFA – to design and make its uniforms.

Sarova Stanley brings hospitality ‘Oscars’ home Sarova Stanley recently won two awards: • Kenya’s Leading Hotel at the 17th World Travel Awards in South Africa on 12 July 2010 • Luxury Business Hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Awards held in Bangkok on 8 October 2010.

These awards are regarded as the Oscars of the hospitality industry.

The World Travel Awards event was launched 17 years ago with the aim of encouraging the international travel and tourism industry to pursue excellence.

Companies nominated for the World Travel Awards are voted online by travel agents globally and then vetted and inspected by a group of industry experts. Issues such as customer relations, creativity, quality of service, standards, guest satisfaction, product innovation and business acumen are considered.

The World Luxury Hotel Award is a pinnacle of achievement for hotels worldwide. It was established in 2006 by founder and CEO of the World Luxury Hotel Awards Brandon Lourens as a celebration of ultimate achievement in the luxury hotel sector.

The awards are about congratulating hotels that have taken the extra step and become ‘exceptional’ rather than just ‘good’ hotels.

Sarova Stanley is a part of Summit Hotel & Resorts, a prestigious selection of first-rate, privately owned and managed hotels worldwide. Summit has carefully selected over 140 hotels in more than 100 key destinations. Each individual property offers its guests an exceptional experience. Summit-selected hotels are unique, internationally renowned and culturally elegant, offering a level of service that is both outstanding and personal.

Another delightful Easter at Sarova This Easter holiday Sarova Hotels Resort & Game Lodges wants you to relax, unwind, and experience truly Refreshing African Hospitality. Take advantage of the special Sarova Holidays packages to Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge and Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge. All packages are filled with “value ads” including complimentary airport transfers, discounts on F&B, Tulia Wellness treatments and so much more. You can take advantage of Sarova’s Easy Pay Plan and start paying for your holiday in advance

EASTER HOLIDAYS

Easter is

family time

BY Denis Gathanju

The heavy rains during this period came in handy.

than ever, friends and families are connecting

They made our rallying experience closer to what

and bonding more thanks to the Easter travels.

actual rallying was all about. The muddy conditions

But unlike Christmas, when the coastal beaches

and the burning desire to be crowned champion

are crowded, many families opt to visit other

were a common denominator between the street

locations across Kenya. The game reserves are

rallying we did and the actual rallying, graced by

the usual destinations, but, with group tours,

top names like Patrick Njiru and Colin McRae.

there is a trend towards heading further a field.

Today, Easter remains the most successful of

While change has been a constant in life, Easter

Christian celebrations in that it has retained

has remained true to its Christian and family

I recall toiling hard in my ‘garage’ crafting the

its strong sense of holiness. Unlike Christmas,

connections. But, you would agree with me, that

latest new road machine from household tins. My

whose theme has been diluted over the years

it is no longer the same without the Safari Rally.

friends and I would copy the designs of the latest

into a giving holiday, Easter embodies the Chris-

rally cars and we would try to create our own to

tian values and has essentially become more real

look like the real thing. They didn’t, of course.

than any other Christian holiday.

W

hen I was growing up, I vividly remember the Easter holidays as the time for ‘Safo’ – the name my friends and I gave to one of the biggest sporting events at this time of year, the Safari Rally, then part of the World Rally Championships.

EASTER RATES

22nd April - 25th April 2011 Unit

Attention

A true family holiday

At this time, global attention would shift to Kenya

But, aside from that, Easter has metamorphosed

as it hosted the Rally. But our attention would be

into a true family holiday, especially here in Kenya.

focused on the sleek tin-made cars we had just

Christmas is known for meeting up with family,

assembled in our ‘garages’. We would turn our

but in these cases it is the extended family of

estate into something akin to a village market with

distant cousins, uncles and aunts.

Standard Tent Club Tent Family Tent

Many have known Christmas for its partying

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge

our screams and imitations of rally cars hitting a crescendo as we raced through the streets.

mood, but with the solemnity of

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

but unlike Christmas, the partying

Standard room Executive Suite Born Free Suite

CONNECTING And this is the time to travel.

A new and welcome trend is developing here. Now, more

22,000 24,500 25,000

Sarova Mara Game Camp

for prayers and mass over Easter, mood is conspicuously missing.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Standard Room Sea Front room Palm Room

Kenyans will gather in churches

time together. As at Christmas,

12

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa

Standard room 1 bedroom suite 2 bedroom suite Ziwa Suite

Easter, families tend to spend more

Easter Rates (ksh)

17,999 22,999 40,999 17,999 23,499 40,999 43,000 12,999 15,999 18,000

Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge Standard Room

12,999

Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge Standard Room

14,999

New hotel uniforms inspired by

nature and local culture R

ebranding is a conscious exercise undertaken by a corporation with a view to enhancing its brand in the market while at the same time providing its clientele with a new corporate face that distinguishes it from the competition.

its product offering and service delivery and introduced bold new colours for each of its eight hotels and lodges across the country; it also brought out dazzling new staff uniforms to underline the theme of the individual hotel or lodge.

As a leader in the local hospitality industry, Sarova

When the Sarova Group of Hotels was undergoing

turned to Kiko Romeo, a leading fashion house

a rebranding programme, it not only improved on

renowned for its high quality and unique designs.

Anna McCreath, proprietor and founder of Kiko Romeo, spoke to ‘Sarova Spotlight’ Contributing Editor Denis Gathanju.

Wonderful opportunity; challenging assignment When Sarova approached us to come up with creative designs for its staff, we saw this as a wonderful opportunity. Of course, it is a challenging assignment, but different jobs pose different challenges. We were happy that Sarova trusted us with such a critical job that embodies their brand identity. We therefore worked closely with them over the past few months to produce

AS A LEADER IN THE LOCAL hospitality industry, Sarova turned to Kiko Romeo, a leading fashion house renowned for its high quality and unique designs

14

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Sarova Colours Jomo Kenyatta. The huge red robe depicts Keny-

especially since the Game Camp is located in the

atta’s unique dress code, while the unmistakable

heart of the Masai Mara and works closely with

fly whisk was Kenyatta’s trademark.

the Maasai community.

This is further extended to the waiters, who

Victorian inspiration

don clothing inspired by the Kaunda suits that were made popular by former Zambian leader

It is only at Sarova Stanley that one can experi-

Kenneth Kaunda. The waitresses, on the other

ence the Victorian heritage. We did not want to

hand, don uniforms inspired by the dressing

lose this in the staff presentation. The uniform

styles of former African first ladies Mama Ngina

designs for the men were inspired by the dressing

Kenyatta and Graça Machel, then Mozambican

of Prince Edward, while those for the women

first lady.

were inspired by the Duchess of Windsor.

The housekeeping staff wear West African designs that boast cream golden colours that go splendidly with the black fabric. The colours thematic staff uniforms that are not only comfort-

are inspired by the dressing of the late Kwame

able to wear but enhance the brand identity of

Nkurumah of Ghana.

the individual property.

At Kiko Romeo, we did extensive research and

Nature-inspired

consulted a lot with Sarova to ensure that the

The uniforms worn at the Sarova Lion Hill Game

designs, colours and fabrics we used were in line

Lodge are inspired by nature. The food and

with Sarova’s high standards.

beverage staff uniforms reflect the yellow acacia trees that are plentiful within the park.

The staff are in direct contact with Sarova clients and they have to look presentable. The framing

Nature also inspired the uniform colours worn

had to be perfect and the cut had to be right. This

in the Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, where the

would, in turn, make the staff wearing them look

dry, dusty environment of the Kenyan northern

interesting and approachable to the guests.

frontier district is reflected in the mixture of orange and brown colours in the uniforms. The

Each individual property boasts of its own unique

orange represents the setting sun while the

uniform – unique in the sense that it underlines

brown reflects the colour of the soil.

the location and history of the property.

Cultural inspiration African leaders

The uniforms at Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge

The uniforms for the Sarova Panafric, for instance,

and the Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge borrow

borrow heavily from pre- and post-independence

from the rich Taita culture. They come complete

The fabrics are high quality and are a mixture of

Africa. They highlight the dressing styles of various

with a beaded neckline and belts for the men.

Kashmir prints and imported poly-wools. This

African leaders at the time. The Sarova Panafric

makes them durable. They also have a soft finish.

hosted many African independence leaders and

The staff uniforms at Sarova Mara Game Camp

this is the place where Pan Africanism took root.

are inspired by the local Maasai community. The

It was challenging designing the uniforms for

Maasai traditional way of dressing has a lot of red

Sarova Stanley. It was like designing for the

The doorman at the Sarova Panafric has his

colours and has inspired many fashion designers

theatre. However, the uniforms are conserva-

dressing borrowed from that of the late Mzee

across the world. We designed with this in mind,

tive, but chic, especially for the ladies.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

15

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

Love...

16

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

wgo round rld

...makes the

I

n the words of a popular song, love makes the world go round. The strength of love can make grown men cry like babies and strong men fall like a pack of cards. The love bug can transform the most steely-hearted of men into a loving gentleman.

In the name of romance, I offer a challenge to our good ladies: turn things around on your man this love season and help transform a magical

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

17

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

moment into a glorious one that will remain forever in his mind. Like babies, men are easy to please when you know how. I promise you will occupy a special chamber in his heart when you:

1. Eat out Nothing underlines a romantic day better than a candle-lit dinner. After a fun-filled day, a quiet

Nothing

underlines

romantic day better than a candle-lit dinner. romantic evening.

start a truly romantic evening.

Dinner is served in the traditional Chiang Mai With many quality restaurants to choose from

style, in which you and your dinner date will

in Nairobi and Mombasa and within the national

dine in a private section of the restaurant while

game parks and reserves, the loving couple will

seated on padded cushions. The food is served

be spoilt for choice.

by kneeling waiters and waitresses with a good knowledge of Thai cuisine.

There is a wide range of popular dining options,

2. Night out

especially in Nairobi and Mombasa, including

Mombasa ya papasa (Mombasa charms) is the

Indian and Italian; but why not treat him to some-

popular Swahili expression that truly describes

thing quite novel? You could be celebrating your

this coastal city, where fun and pleasure go hand

honeymoon or your wedding anniversary or you

in hand. And the city has lived up to its billing as

just want to give your man a special treat.

THE place to be while celebrating your love.

We recommend the Thai-Chi Restaurant. The

Unlike any other town or city in Kenya, the fun in

food here is excellent, the ambience and dĂŠcor

Mombasa seems to start as day turns into night.

are impressive and the dining experience is very

With so many entertainment venues to choose

romantic.

from, especially in the north coast area, the city lights up under the dark skies and music booms from almost every corner. It’s time to party.

Highly recommended There is something for anyone and everyone in Mombasa. As day turns into night, take a trip further north

into

Mtwapa,

arguably

the entertainment capital of the Kenyan north coast. This entertainment district is dotted with new and exciting night-clubs.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

the

perfect way to start a truly

dinner in a fine restaurant is the perfect way to

Highly recommended

a

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

19

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

Sweat it out with your man on the dance floor. It

watching, hiking, rock climbing and trout fishing.

If this is not tempting enough for him, then I do

will help loosen you up and energise you while

The physically demanding outdoors will no doubt

not know what is. I promise you, ladies, your

the night is still young. You will find music and

enhance the bond between the couple.

man will see your face with his eyes shut and will sing your name forever.

entertainment aplenty on the Golden Stretch, the highway that runs from the Nyali Bridge through Bamburi into Mtwapa.

Highly recommended A visit north can be a welcome break from

Highly recommended

the traditional getaways close to Nairobi. For

If you are taking your date to the coast for the

example, the Shaba National Reserve offers

weekend, we recommend the Tulia Spa. This is

3. OUTDOOR LOVE

a range of fun activities such as rock climbing,

one of the best spas on the north coast, with

hiking and cookouts. Free your mind and spirit

excellent packages tailor-made for couples cele-

The outdoors are some of the best and most

by enjoying bush lunches and dinners in this

brating love. Highly trained therapists are on

interactive ways that present you with not only

huge reserve, popularly known as the Born Free

hand to create the perfect spa treatment for you

intimate moments, but presents quality bonding

Country.

and your partner. Go on – spoil him.

4. The spa

5. Hit the beach

Nairobi while many more are located in secluded

After a day of fun activities – whether it be a game

Nothing is as rewarding or romantic as a trip to

spots that guarantee utmost privacy.

drive, a stroll in the park or a day sunbathing on

the coast. Lazing by the poolside just soaking up

the beach – nothing could be as relaxing and

the morning sun, while sipping a cold fruit juice

invigorating as a visit to the spa.

and lying next to your partner, is the ultimate

There is a reason they say music is food for the soul.

time with your sweetheart.

There are numerous sites within and without

The outdoors ensures that you get the undi-

romantic getaway.

vided attention of your man. It takes his mind off football and beer with the boys and ensures that

While your man may want to work out in the

he sees only you and spends quality time with

gym, it’s time to pamper him differently. Arrange

Play a round of pool polo at the hotel in the

you. While you are there, you can undertake

a facial treatment for him. Or enjoy a close-up

morning and go scuba diving or snorkelling during

a series of exciting activities depending on the

moment as you both get a massage lying side-by-

the day. Show some skin and play contact games

location of your campsite. These include bird-

side and looking into each other’s eyes.

such as beach football, or volleyball in the late afternoon. Men love healthy competition while having fun at it.

Highly recommended No-one can deny that the Kenyan coast is a winner at any time of the year. Fun and entertainment are guaranteed, wherever and whenever you go. A leisurely walk or jog on the beach in the early mornings and late afternoons is most welcome.

For an even more memorable trip to the Kenyan coast, fly to Lamu, the ancient Swahili coastal city, which charms the mind and the heart in equal measure. The beaches are less crowded than those in the north coast, thus ensuring plenty of your time with your partner.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

enjoy

a

moment

close-up as

you

both get a massage lying

side-by-side,

looking into each other’s eyes

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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22

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

MARRIAGE

ON THE ROCKS T

HERE ARE THREE most significant days in the life of any human being: the day they are born, the day they get married and the day they die.

While nothing can be done about birth and death, surely a lot can be done to make your wedding day memorable.

Over the years, the experiential nature of humans has drastically changed the wedding day as we traditionally know it. Couples have devised all kinds of ‘wild wedding’ ideas, some of which can seem baffling to their friends and family.

In the rangelands of Shaba National Reserve, deep in the northern frontier district of Kenya,

Because of its significance, a lot goes into planning,

you can find not only the area where George

organising and hosting the big ceremony. The

and Joy Adamson reared lions and released them

occasion must be special – and most couples

into the wild, but also some of the most beau-

spare no expense or effort to achieve this.

tiful scenery in Kenya. With contrasting flat plains

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23

MARRIAGE ON THE ROCKS

and rocky hills in the background, the Msilima

gorges are divided by the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Gorges and the sandy beaches of the Ewaso Nyiro

The rocks glitter in the tropical sun – hence the

River provide a mystical and romantic setting for a

name Shaba, which means ‘shining rock’ in the

wedding.

Samburu language.

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge has an exclusive

Couples can exchange their vows on a giant

location in this vast park and offers in Kenya

rock with a spectacular background of small hills

the best outside catering services north of

behind and the sound of small rapids below.

the equator. The lodge has been doing this

Samburu morans (warriors) and nditos (young

for decades and its staff pride themselves on

women) in traditional wedding garb are on hand

providing the best service for your wedding.

to sing Samburu songs to congratulate the couple on their wedding. A mid-morning ceremony here

A rocky wedding

is particularly beautiful because of the effect of sunlight on the massive rock formations. The tall

Once the legal formalities are complete, every-

dry grass in the background is bathed in a golden

thing else can be left in the capable hands of the

light that blends with the green of the short acacia

lodge. Its staff have a proud history of doing things

trees and the giant doum palms that line the river.

differently, so that no wedding function is quite like any other. James Muchemi, assistant manager of the lodge, says the first step is to choose the site.

Lunch in the river After the ceremony, the couple is whisked away to a secret location for lunch while the wedding party

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

has

an

exclusive location and offers the best outside

catering

services north of the equator

is ferried downstream for lunch under a giant acacia tree overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.

For the newlyweds, lunch is served on the other side of the Msilima Gorge. Here, the river is wide and shallow and the well nourished vegetation is deep green. This is an important watering hole for zebra, giraffe and buffalo, providing a spectacular scene for the newlyweds.

When lunch is ready, the newlyweds must kick off their shoes and wade into the shallow waters

sundowner cocktail party. Here, they can mingle

of the Ewaso Nyiro, because their lunch table is

with friends and family and watch the sunset over

in the middle of the river.

the Ewaso Nyiro before being ferried to another location for dinner.

“We are spoilt for choice as far as site selection

Muchemi, says this location gives the couple

is concerned,” he says. “We have many venues

privacy under open skies and surrounded by

On arrival, they are met by the lodge manager,

where we can host the wedding ceremony, and

green spaces and a vast gorge upstream, while

who leads them down a high cliff surrounded by

many more to host the reception.”

the running water feels very soothing to their feet.

rocks and tall grass. All is quiet save for a few noisy crickets. The skies are dark as the bridal

Among the many venues available is the spectac-

After lunch, the newlyweds can take a walk by

party makes its way down to the sands at the

ular Msilima Gorges, close to the lodge, but deep

the river before leaving for a quiet afternoon at

bottom. They can hear the river and the sound

in the Shaba National Game Reserve. The vast

the lodge. At sunset, they are whisked away to a

of water gushing against the rocks.

24

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Suddenly, the night is brought to life by the sound

away from everyday life. Romantic couples are

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge has four other exec-

of drums as Samburu morans leap from the

attracted to this beautiful venue by its quiet

utive suites with private lounge, suitable for

bushes, armed with spears, bows and arrows,

natural surroundings.

couples on a retreat. This is in addition to 80

dancing to the drum music to welcome the bridal party to The Beach. The morans escort the newlyweds to their table at The Beach, where

standard rooms housed in two-storey blocks.

EXCLUSIVITY

Every room and suite enjoys a river frontage with magnificent views of the Ewaso Nyiro.

a large bonfire provides warmth and light. It all

Most couples prefer to stay in the Born Free

adds up to a genuine ‘wild wedding’ experience

Suite, which offers exclusivity and privacy. The

This underlines the romantic nature of the lodge

for the couple and their guests.

suite has a spacious private lounge and dining

– a perfect location for a ‘wild’ getaway.

area for private meals away from the restaurant.

This event is also available to honeymooning

Facilities include a king-sized bed and a private

couples and to other couples who want to get

Jacuzzi.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

25

Growing for love

Say it with

flowers

Kenya’s growers are exporting love to the world

I

f you live in Europe and you receive a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers from your boyfriend, husband or colleague to celebrate love or a special occasion such as Mother’s Day or a wedding anniversary, there's a good chance those flowers originated in Kenya.

The European Union is the largest destination for Kenyan flowers. The EU consumes over 50 per cent of the world's flowers and receives more than 65 per cent of Kenya's flower exports.

Statistics from the Kenya Flower Council (KFC) show that, of every three flowers sold in Europe, one is from Kenya. On the Japanese market – second only to Europe – one out of every five

In Kenya, a whole industry has bloomed and

flowers sold is from Kenya, according to the KFC.

flourished, outperforming some of the country's other key industries by a wide margin. Demand

Flowers exported by Kenya to the EU and Japan

is forever on the rise and is driven by a magical

include roses, carnations (spray and standard),

feeling that has no respect for physical boundaries

statice, alstroemeria, lilies and hypericum.

and transforms normal beings into affectionate creatures – the feeling of love.

On the home front

European love – Kenyan flowers

Kenyans also buy Kenyan flowers to share with

As the largest producer of fresh-cut flowers in

catalyst for the flower-growing industry.

their loved ones. All year round, weddings, engagements and honeymoons are an important

Africa, Kenya supplies millions of people, espe-

26

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

cially in Europe. And what better way to express

And even although prices will more than double

your love and appreciation than with a bouquet

on the most romantic occasion of the year –

of fresh roses?

Valentine's Day – the uptake is still high, says the

KFC. The same goes for major occasions such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The domestic market is very open, says the KFC, and prices are determined by supply and demand.

Some cut flowers are sold in urban centres by street vendors and floricultural shops in high and medium class shopping centres such as The Mall, Westgate and Sarit Centre in Westlands and Yaya Centre in Kilimani. The produce is distributed either through the wholesale markets, directly to the retailers or through middlemen. Hawkers and street vendors play a key role in the distribution and sale of flowers.

Blooming industry From a modest start in the 1980s, the Kenyan flower industry blossomed in the 1990s before reaching maturity in the 21st century. Its meteoric rise as one of the largest employers in Kenya’s agricultural sector and the third-largest foreign

As the largest producer of fresh-cut flowers in Africa, Kenya supplies millions of people, especially in Europe exchange earner after tourism and tea has been described by many as Kenya’s fairy tale.

Kenya is famous for its uniqueness, and the flower industry is unique in the sense that Kenya is helping to spread the message of love and affection through the beauty and colour of its plants. And with Kenya being voted a destination of choice for honeymoons and weddings, it further underlines Kenya's role in spreading love across the world.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

27

PEOPLE&PLACES

28

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Maasai remain true to their culture

T

he Maasai are the most photographed community in the world. Elsewhere, cultures have come and gone, but the Maasai have held dear to their cherished way of life even when faced with modern traditions and technology.

graced TV screens, newspapers and magazines across the world, and their humility and warmth has been felt and appreciated by all.

traditional

Over the years, they have come to epitomise Their bravery has never been questioned, their

Kenyan culture. Talk of Kenya without talking

beauty is yet to be challenged and their culture

about the Maasai and you are probably discussing

has been admired by millions. Their faces have

a different country altogether.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

29

Their traditional clothes, beads and necklaces are globally identifiable while their dances, especially the moran jumps, have been widely admired. But while everyone has a fascination with the Maasai, few appreciate their culture.

Maasai village In a remote setting, just outside the Masai Mara National Reserve, ‘Sarova Spotlight’ was recently the guest of a traditional Maasai homestead, known in the local language as the manyatta.

A herd of cattle outside the manyatta is testament to the ample supply of pasture. The rains have not failed this time round and the Maasai people are grateful to Enkai (God) for providing their livestock with enough pasture.

We are met by elders from the community dressed in shukas – the loose clothing that has become synonymous with the Maasai community. In the distance are young boys tending the cattle while young girls play around the perimeter fence.

We are with James Ole Tira, a Maasai elder, who introduces us to the men and women of his village. An old woman serves us a gourd of fresh milk while another provides us with pieces of dried meat – a traditional sign of welcome.

Women’s role

Their traditional clothes,

James tells us that the manyatta is home to

beads and necklaces are

about 20 families. It is early morning and the

globally identifiable while

heading off to the rangelands with the cattle.

their

especially

hang around the homesteads but are usually out

the moran jumps, have been

women. However, they return to the manyatta

dances,

widely admired

young boys are finishing their breakfast before The warriors or morans, James tells us, do not in the bush hunting. They rarely mix with young as the sun goes down to protect the families and their prized cattle from rustlers and wild animals such as lions, leopards and cheetahs.

30

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

PEOPLE&PLACES

While men generally play a ceremonial role within the Maasai community, it is the women who tend to do the work. As well as cooking for the family, Maasai women are tasked with building and repairing the traditional houses.

The houses, known as enkagi, are built mainly from wooden poles and sticks collected from the wild and plastered in emodiai or cow dung. The houses are built low, so that one has to stoop to enter. They are normally built this low, James informs us, to make them stable and long-lasting.

Within the large compound, fenced with dried thornwood, we find a woman on top of one of the enkagi working on a leaking roof. This task, we are told, is called emora and is normally done several times a year, especially in the rainy season when the emodiai plastered on the roof is washed off.

Initiation ceremony

While new technologies and

While new technologies and modernity are

modernity are knocking at

knocking at the door, the Maasai have remained

the door, the Maasai have

true to their cultural practices. Key among these is the enkipaata ceremony, which takes place before

remained

young men undergo circumcision or emukatare, after which they are considered morans, the

Circumcision

takes

protectors of the Maasai community and culture.

place on the dawn of

true

to

their

cultural practices

the eighth day. The In the Maasai culture, this is a physical stage that

boys are given a cold

marks the entry of a boy into adulthood. It is such

bath to cleanse them and numb their bodies.

People from other cultures are invited to come

an important stage in life, especially for the boys

The operation takes place before sunrise and is

and watch the last critical ceremony, the eunoto,

and their families, that no-one wants to miss it. It

conducted by an experienced circumciser. It is

when the young circumcised warriors make

normally happens once every six years, with the

a painful operation without pain-relieving drugs

the transition to senior warriors. This normally

festivities taking place over several days.

or anaesthetic. The boys have to prove their

happens 10 years after the boys are circumcised.

bravery as the entire community watches. They For a boy to undergo the initiation, he must

must not move their bodies or flinch their eyes as

Other Maasai ceremonies include the meat-

display signs and assume the responsibilities of

the sharp knife slices through the skin.

eating ceremony, known as enkang oo nkiri. This involves warriors of the same age group (those

a grown man. For instance, he has to carry a huge spear, hunt, herd and protect many cattle

Healing takes three to four months. The boys are

who were circumcised together) fighting for

and sometimes kill a lion. The lads are secluded

clad in black robes during this period, after which

the sweetest meat in the emanyatta. The last

in their own compound, the emanyatta, and for

they are considered new beings and receive the

man standing has the honour of eating the

seven consecutive days they must herd the cattle.

status of a moran or warrior.

roasted meat.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

31

32

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Sarova weddings

Varied experiences bordering on the wild and the cultural

K

enya is fast becoming the destination of choice for that perfect wedding or honeymoon. With wonderful beaches, spectacular landscapes and an unmatched diversity of wildlife, Kenya offers an unrivalled location for this memorable day in any couple’s life. When you add the Kenyan people, with their rich cultural heritage and traditions, you have a recipe for a unique and unforgettable wedding or honeymoon experience.

has pushed the stakes higher. Today, couples have their own ideas and demand nothing but the best. For these guests, cost is not a factor.

This is what they have been saving for – the most important day of their lives.

But it is not only young Kenyans who have been quick to identify this unique product. More and more European and American couples are choosing Kenya for their weddings and honeymoons because of the wide range of services on offer. They want a unique experience that will

The wedding and honeymoon scene in Kenya

further cement their love as well as bringing joy

has become more lively as a growing middle class

and happiness to their friends and family.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

33

Sarova weddings

More than 30,000 couples have chosen Kenya

Alternatively, the hotel’s secluded Coco Beach

for their wedding and honeymoon. Many of these

Bar, shaded by tall palm trees, provides yet

couples opt for two to three different settings for

another perfect location.

the various stages of their wedding.

For a large bridal party, the well-kept lawns overThe Sarova Hotels Group has a lot of experi-

looking the beach are a perfect venue.

ence in the hospitality sector and this includes planning, hosting and catering for bridal parties.

The property’s Baraza Conference Hall – one of

The service record and product line of Sarova

the largest on the North Coast – offers yet another

Hotels is unmatched in the region. The group has

fine location for weddings and receptions.

some of the best properties, at scenic locations across the country, as well as hugely experienced personnel with the ability to plan, organise, host

Wild weddings

and cater for some of the most memorable

The diverse wildlife of Kenya continues to attract

weddings and honeymoons in Kenya.

visitors from across the world, and many couples have chosen this exotic setting for the most

Beach weddings

important day of their lives.

Many couples opt for a beach wedding on the

Today, Kenya hosts more ‘wild weddings’ than

justly renowned Kenyan coast. A morning

any other nation in the region. The Sarova Group

ceremony is the most popular, so that everyone

has a diverse portfolio of products and services.

can savour the golden moment when the sun

For weddings, it can offer couples a choice of at

rises over the Indian Ocean – the dawn of a new

least five uniquely themed properties.

chapter in their lives.

Nestling in the foothills of the Taita Hills, in Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa, on

the Coast Province, the Sarova Taita Hills

the popular North Coast, about 20 km from

Game Lodge and Sarova Salt Lick Lodge offer a

Mombasa, offers first-rate venues for weddings

unique wedding venue. Couples can hold their

and receptions.

ceremony in the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, a private conservancy managed by the Sarova

The property has hosted numerous beach

Group. The sanctuary lies between the Tsavo

weddings within its grounds. Here, couples are

East and West Game Reserves and within the

spoilt for choice. They can have their wedding by

migratory corridor that links the reserves.

the pool with the beach as a perfect backdrop.

The sanctuary is rich in wildlife, including elephant, buffalo and lion. Spotting wild game is easy because the park is comparatively small (about 28,000 acres). This allows the bridal party to enjoy a game drive as they are ferried to and from the wedding location.

Willie Mwadilo, lodge manager of the two properties, says there are various suitable locations for ‘wild weddings’ within the sanctuary. Many couples choose Kudu Point, the highest point in

34

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Kenya

hosts

more

‘wild weddings’ than any other nation in the region

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

35

Sarova weddings

the sanctuary, where guests can enjoy a cocktail

the newlyweds can watch a huge herd of buffalo

shaped entrance, which is covered in grass

and watch the magnificent sunset over the plains

drink from the water pan under the lodge.

thatch. The sense of occasion is heightened by the canopy of tall trees lining the footpath as the

below. Kudu Point also commands a splendid view of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The vast plains of the famous Masai Mara

bridal party makes its way to the well-lit, open

National Reserve offer yet another perfect venue

grounds.

“On a clear day, Mount Kilimanjaro is visible from

for a ‘wild wedding’. The Masai Mara has one of

this location,” says Mwadilo. “The sight is truly

the largest wildlife densities in the region and the

The nights are themed according to the tastes of

out of this world – and what a moment it would

setting is simply out of this world. It is here that

the bridal party. One of the most popular is the

be for the bridal party and the couple. When the

the annual migration takes place, when over a

Samburu theme night, when chefs, waiters and

images of the couple exchanging their marriage

million wildebeest, half a million zebra and more

waitresses are dressed in traditional Samburu

vows are captured on film with the mountain in

than 300,000 antelope head south, crossing the

garb while Samburu morans (warriors) and

the background and the flat plains in the middle

Mara River, in one of the world’s largest wildlife

nditos (young ladies) entertain the guests with

ground, it is an image out of this world.”

movements.

traditional wedding dances and jigs.

For those wishing to have their special moment

When a couple decides to tie the knot on the

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge offers wedding

captured on film or tape with wild animals in the

banks of the Mara River, with the wildebeest

services from atop the popular Baboon Cliff, with

background, Acacia Point and Breakfast Point

crossing the Mara River in the background, there

scenic views of Lake Nakuru, Nakuru city and, in

provide the ideal location.

can be no more exotic setting.

the background, Menengai Crater.

Located in the middle of the vast plains, Acacia

The Sarova Mara Game Camp, a luxurious

Point features a giant acacia tree that towers

property within the Masai Mara, is a unique

Cultural theme weddings

above the other trees. The plains beyond are

venue for a ‘wild wedding’.

Kenya has a diverse population speaking more than 40 tribal languages and dialects, with each

popular feeding grounds for antelope, zebra and giraffe. Acacia Point can double as both a wedding

Another ‘wild wedding’ venue within the Sarova

community boasting a unique cultural heritage

venue and a lunch or dinner site. Dinner under

Group is the Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, also

and tradition. For wedding couples, this is a

known as the Jewel of the North. With its

unique opportunity to interact with the commu-

romantic air of tranquillity and exclusivity, this

nities and to learn more about their language,

According to Mwadilo, the newlyweds are

property is widely regarded as the perfect

cuisine and culture. The Sarova properties

treated to a bush breakfast on the morning after

hideaway where secrecy is guaranteed.

are located close to the various communities,

the moon and stars is a romantic experience.

allowing the couple to experience a traditional

their wedding. This is held at Breakfast Point, a hilly location overlooking the Sarova Salt Lick

At Shaba, wedding couples are spoilt for choice.

Game Lodge. As they enjoy the cool morning air,

The lodge enjoys almost exclusive use of the

wedding ceremony presided over by local elders.

Game

The rich Swahili culture in Mombasa will make

Reserve, which offers a

a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of

range of ideal locations for

every couple, while the spicy cuisine makes for a

ceremonies, receptions and

special experience on the big day. To this must

dinners.

be added the seductive beat of Taarabu music,

Shaba

National

one of the hallmarks of a truly Swahili wedding.

Within the spacious grounds

36

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

of the lodge, the bridal party

Further inland, in the jungles of the Mara and

can dine in The Boma,

Shaba, a rich cultural experience awaits the

an area of open ground

bridal party. Here, Maasai and Samburu morans

surrounded by thick vegeta-

are on hand to accompany the bridal party to a

tion. The bridal party is

traditional wedding ceremony in the manyatta

welcomed at the dome-

(Maasai or Samburu homestead). A bull is killed

and the couple blessed by Maasai or Samburu elders, who spit and spray blood on them as a traditional cleansing and blessing ceremony.

The Sarova Group has two properties in Nairobi. These are principally business hotels, but they also cater for leisure travellers and have something unique for couples in transit to other properties across the country.

The Sarova Panafric, located outside the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), has perfected the art of African theme nights. Couples can choose from a variety of Kenyan and African cuisine while enjoying the traditional music.

CITY weddings Sarova Stanley, flagship of the Sarova Group, is the oldest hotel in Nairobi, dating back more than a century. This high-end hotel caters mainly for business travellers and heads of local, regional and international corporations as well as hosting presidential delegations.

In

addition,

the

hotel

caters

for

leisure

travellers, including the wives or husbands of business guests. According to the hotel’s executive chef, Godfrey Ouda, the Chef’s Table has become a signature service for couples staying at The Sarova Stanley.

“The Chef’s Table is set in the kitchen where the couple can have a private meal and a private time together. The couple have an opportunity to watch the chef prepare their meal for them. It

Sarova properties have

is something special,” he says with a huge smile.

the ability to tailor

While every couple wants their wedding and

each

honeymoon to be special, Sarova properties have the ability to tailor each wedding and honeymoon to the exact wishes of their guests.

The aim is to allow each couple to experience Kenya in a unique way, while at the same time enjoying its truly refreshing hospitality.

wedding

honeymoon

to

and the

exact wishes of their guests

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

37

Concou r s d’Eleg a nc e

Golden oldies g r a c e Na i r o b i

38

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

OUT&ABOUT

O

ld is gold, so goes the saying. But at a time when the new seems to carry the day, especially where cars and motorcycles are concerned, does this saying have any relevance in the 21st century? Read on, my friends.

Glittering rare machines It is one of the biggest and grandest auto shows in Africa; and each year the show gets bigger and the cars get older. Although much of the continent’s attention was diverted to the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, motor enthusiasts kept their diaries closed for September. This is the time of the Access Kenya Concours d’Elegance, when rare machines are dusted and polished and make a grand entrance through the busy streets of Nairobi, effortlessly eclipsing newer models.

The 2010 event was held at its traditional venue at Ngong Race Course, where rare machines, both large and small, glittered in the morning sun and paraded before an enthusiastic crowd.

And judging from the large number of unique entries, both organisers and classic car enthusiasts agreed it was bigger and better than last year’s. The 2010 edition also marked the 40th anniversary of this annual show.

Kampala bikers As expected, competition was stiff, and there was an even wider selection of rare models on display. Kenyan entries dominated, but new entries came from as far away as India and the UK. The South Africans were also present, and there was a strong entry from members of the Uganda Bikers’ Association (UBA), who rode 11 motorcycles across the border from Kampala to make a grand entrance into Nairobi.

Milton Aineruhanga, patron of the UBA, said they were entering the biggest collection of street bikes at the competition. Milton entered a 1989

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

39

OUT&ABOUT Honda that was purpose-built to compete in the gruelling Paris-Dakar Rally. The bike is in prime condition and, according to Milton, is a ‘mean machine’ on the road thanks to its supercharged engine. Milton has had a passion for motorcycles since he was young and has been collecting them for several years. He acquired the Honda in 2006.

Sam Tushabe, another member of the UBA, entered a 1985 Honda Goldwing GL in the large street bikes category. The rest of the motorcycles from UBA were entered in the trail and enduro motorcycles category. The UBA scooped all three top places in the trail and enduro category at the 2009 show. Milton took home the top honour in the category and was hoping for a repeat performance in 2010.

Most elegant mACHINES Among the many fine machine on display, there was huge interest in a Custom Chopper motorcycle exhibited by Andy de Mare. Awestruck enthusiasts were seen milling around the giant

However, the top honour in the motorcycles

but sleek machine. According to Andy, he built

category went to Phillip Gordon, from South

the motorcycle while he was living in the Emirate

Africa, who entered a rare 1915 Indian.

of Dubai and completed it when he moved to his current base in Malindi. His machine has a powerful 1800 cc engine, resting low on an elon-

Show-stopper

gated metal frame, and is also distinguished by its

While the motorcycles impressed the crowds,

high and wide handlebars. This fine machine won

the vintage cars on display were simply dazzling.

the hearts and minds of the judges, earning Andy

In this category, top of the range was a sleek 1952

the most elegant motorcycle award.

Rolls-Royce limousine entered by Roger Tanner.

It is one of the biggest and gr andest auto shows in Africa; and each year the show gets bigger and the cars get older

The show-stopper, however, was a magnificent 1928 Ford Tudor entered by Phoenix Aviation.

But while the Concours d’Elegance is mainly a

The vintage car clinched the coveted top prize

vintage car show, it attracts a wider audience and

for the second year in a row.

has become a fun event where families can enjoy a weekend outing together. Food is readily avail-

Judging at the Concours d’Elegance is subject

able from the food courts and there is a ‘fun zone’

to the rules of the Kenya Motor Sports Federa-

in the grounds to keep the young entertained.

tion (KMSF). The event has full continental status for the vintage cars and motorcycles entered

With the promise of a bigger and better vintage

and is recognised and sanctioned by FIM Africa

car show every year, I dare you to keep your

(formerly the African Motorcycle Union).

diaries closed for 25 September 2011.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

41

Sekenani Primary School offers Maasai children an opportunity to get an education as most other schools are miles away 42

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

GivingBack

Community partnership

provides enhanced education for

Sekenani children

S

ekenani, on the edge of the Masai Mara, was an unknown corner of the republic.

This changed when high-flying British businessman Sir Richard Branson, founder of airline Virgin Atlantic, paid a courtesy visit to the remote location.

villages. It offers them an opportunity to get an education as most other schools are miles away.

Being at the entrance of the Masai Mara National Reserve, the school has benefited over the years from the generous contribution of Sarova staff working at the game lodge and from the Sarova

Known for his business acumen, Sir Richard was

Group of Hotels, which receives donations and

moved to action when he heard of this tiny commu-

contributions on behalf of the school from well-

nity, especially when he saw at first hand what the

wishers and guests visiting the Masai Mara.

locals had managed to achieve with the help of the staff of the Sarova Masai Mara Game Camp.

Having seen the contribution made by the Sarova staff, Sir Richard was so moved by the plight of

Generous contribution

the children at the school that he offered to build two more dormitories: one for boys and another

“Sekenani is Sarova’s baby,” says lodge manager

for girls. The Sarova staff donated mattresses

Francis Msengeti. “We play an active role, espe-

and bedding while a guest at Sarova gave money

cially in the community school, where our staff

for the beds.

have personally contributed towards the construction of two dormitories for the needy students.”

“It was tough for the children in the formative stages because they had to use the classrooms for

Sekenani Primary School is the nearest school

study during the day and sleep in them at night,”

available for Maasai children from neighbouring

Marcos Mugo, clinical officer at the Sarova Mara

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT 43

GivingBack Game Camp, tells me as he guides me round the

and other material donations that have impacted

school compound.

positively on the lives of these poor students.

Improved learning conditions

“For us, we see this as a partnership between

The World Bank funded the construction of the

This is a partnership that is mutually benefi-

first two classrooms at the school, while the

cial and we are proud of the progress and the

Sarova Group of Hotels helped construct an

achievements we have realised thus far.”

Sekenani Primary School, the community around Sekenani and Sarova Masai Mara Game Camp.

additional six blocks of classrooms.

“Over the years, we have witnessed not only

Get-togethers

clean-ups and tree-planting exercises in the

an improvement in the learning conditions at

To demonstrate and enhance their strong part-

the school; we have also witnessed a marked

nership, the Sarova staff members engage the

improvement

students in healthy get-togethers that are geared

The school has over 750 students. According

not only to assessing the progress made at the

to Francis, the support given to the school by

institution but also to creating bonding sessions

Sarova and guests has not only been instrumental

for staff and students through joint activities that

in enhancing education levels at the school, but

demand teamwork and co-operation.

has gone a long way towards discouraging female

in

the

performance

of

the

students,” says Francis.

FESTIVALS “The school was able to participate in the

school grounds.

genital mutilation, early forced marriages for girls

national music festivals in Mombasa and at Sarova

On a quarterly basis, the staff and students are

we are proud to have taken an active role in the

divided into six groups named after legendary

uplifting of standards at the school. We are most

Maasai tribal chiefs: Ole Sonkoine, Ole Shampei,

Last year, Sarova brought in three teachers from

grateful to other supporters, such as Sir Richard

Senteu, Lenana, Mpatiany and Ol Tatuani. The

the UK under the Educate the Children initia-

and guests staying at the game lodge, who have

teams are a mixture of Sarova staff and Sekenani

tive to teach at the school for three months.

visited the school and have donated stationery

students and they engage in activities such as

This year, they hope to bring up to five teachers

and cattle herding for boys.

who will help the students and teachers through better teaching methods.

Revenue sharing As well as helping improve learning conditions at the school, Sarova invites the children to the lodge to perform songs and dances for guests, especially at Christmas. Maasai men perform dances for the guests while the women are invited to sell Maasai beadwork to the guests.

The Sarova Mara Game Camp also runs the Isokon Mara Cultural Village, a museum devoted to Maasai culture. The lodge shares the revenues on a 50-50 basis to help the local community.

“For us, this is more than a partnership with the Sekenani people, we are family,” says Francis.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Last year, Sarova brought in three teachers from the UK under the Educate the Children initiative to teach at the school for three months

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT 45

LOSE YOURSELF AS MOMBASA WARMS YOUR DAYS AND CHARMS YOUR NIGHTS

46

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

MOMBASA

m

ombasa raha (‘mombasa, the fun place’). Whoever coined that phrase must have been charmed by the delights and pleasures offered by this ancient swahili city, so much so that he forgot everything he knew. many from home and abroad have come and seen; but in the process they have been charmed beyond comprehension. and as they lose themselves in the delights of this coastal getaway, many who have visited its shores agree that whatever happens in mombasa, stays in mombasa.

it is an indubitable fact that Mombasa is not only the preferred holiday destination in Kenya, but also the nation’s entertainment capital. And when you zero in on the destination, Kenya’s north coast holds its head high as far as entertainment is concerned. simply put, there is anything and everything for the pleasure seeker in Mombasa. hard as i try to imagine the city without its many entertainment joints and recreation facilities, i seem lost in my thoughts and i am not sure what city i am thinking of.

the golden stretch For the average nairobian, a weekend getaway to Mombasa is just what the doctor ordered. when i sit in the terminal building at Jomo Kenyatta international Airport in nairobi, i don’t see many long faces. The passengers are keen to be on their way to the Kenyan coast. They just

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

47

MOMBASA want to be there and doing all the fun things for which the city is renowned.

The picture is rather more grim on the other side, at the terminal building at Moi International Airport in Mombasa, where the faces of returning passengers are long and everyone seems lost in their own thoughts as they recall their wonderful stay in Mombasa.

GOLDEN STRETCH In their mind’s eye, they are still night clubbing on the Golden Stretch, which runs for 20 km from the Nyali crossing to the emerging entertainment district of Mtwapa. It is lined not only with some of the best hotels and resorts in the north coast, but also some of the best entertainment places.

While each entertainment spot comes with its own strengths and tries to attract as many merrymakers as possible, the fact is that the north coast was created with night owls in mind.

This part of town never sleeps. Taxis, tuks

Jamaica to the latest R&B lyrics. And when the

For me and everyone else in attendance, the world,

tuks (three-wheeled motorcycles) and matatus

Bongo and Ohangla beats rend the air, the dance

as we knew it, ceased to exist. The music and the

(public minivan taxis) operate all night long. From

floor is converted into a hugging venue as blacks

entertainment swept us off our feet and carried us

the brightly lit streets to the dark estate alleys,

hug blacks, whites hug whites and blacks and

to a new planet where fun was everything.

merrymakers seem to have a never-ending party.

whites hug each other. It is a mixture of shades

Dance to the beats

and colours that is incredibly captivating.

FLIGHT

The last time I was in Mombasa, I was attending

Those who were lucky enough not to miss their

Step into any of the local pubs and night clubs and

a four-day business conference. It lasted all the

flight to Nairobi on Sunday morning could hardly

you will see young, middle-aged and old people

way to Friday and we had the whole of Saturday

keep their eyes open at the terminal building.

dancing to the beats. And they come in all forms,

to ourselves, taking the flight back to Nairobi on

And once they got on the plane, they feel

from local Benga beats to reggae tunes from

Sunday morning. Your bet is as good as mine

asleep immediately they got to their seats only

what happened.

to be woken up by the air hostesses and to find

THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS the north coast was created with the night owls in mind

48

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

themselves in Nairobi. The expression on their

ENERGY

faces said it all: they still thought they were in

Dressed for the office minus the blazer and tie,

round of fun.

Mombasa and it was wake-up time for another

we walked into one of the popular night clubs in Bamburi. Though everyone was reserved and

Next time you are in Mombasa, make sure you ride

held back at the initial stages, caution was thrown

on the charm and marvel under its tender caress.

to the wind after a few rounds and the energy

Then and only then will you truly understand

that came from the resident disc jockey and the

what it means to be in Mombasa and why they say

dancing crowd was simply contagious.

Mombasa Mji wa Raha (‘Mombasa, the city of fun’).

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50

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

ICONS: DAVID Rudisha

Run,

Rudisha, Rift Valley ‘wunderkind’ beats his own world record

A

run

young man from the Rift Valley town of Kilgoris has smashed a longstanding 800 metres record in Berlin and charmed the world.

sporting circles, 2010 was one of the best years:

Kenya’s McDonald Mariga became the first East African, and one of only a handful of African soccer players, to win the UEFA Champions League; South Africa successfully hosted soccer’s

His surname, Rudisha, means ‘bring back’ in

FIFA World Cup; Jason Dunford won Kenya its

Swahili. And he has certainly lived up to his

first swimming gold medal at the Commonwealth

name. For 13 long years, the record had stood

Games in New Delhi; and TP Mazembe, of the

unchallenged and eluded the crème de la crème

Democratic Republic of Congo, became the first

in the 800 metres event; but Rudisha has brought

soccer club outside Europe and Latin America to

the title back to its motherland.

reach the finals of the FIFA Club World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Although Rudisha is soft-spoken and shy-looking, these traits disappear the moment this astonish-

Of course, there were many sporting milestones

ingly fast chap steps onto his ‘playground’ – the

in between; but it was David Rudisha’s clock-

all-weather synthetic running track. In African

stopping performance on the track that capped

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

51

ICONS: DAVID Rudisha

a fantastic 2010 in African sport when he first broke the world 800 metres record in Berlin and then went on to break his own record in the space of a week.

Record time Set by Kenya-born Dane Wilson Kipketer 13 years ago in Cologne, Germany, the world record time of 1 minute 41.11 seconds has been one of the longest-standing in recent history.

No sooner had he broken the record than he predicted he could beat his own record. True to his word, the 21-year-old runner from Maasailand was so fired up that he achieved this less than a week later in Rieti, Italy

But the record books were rewritten in no time as David Lekuta Rudisha attacked Kipketer’s record on his first attempt. Rudisha powered

40 days. In fact, the world did not have to wait

has produced the world’s best pedigree in the

through the competition at the Olympiastadion

that long to crown a new athletics king.

two-lap race – which is why Rudisha is sitting on top of the world.

in Berlin to shave two-hundredths of a second off Kipketer’s record and stop the clock at 1 minute 41.09 seconds.

Like father, like son Born and raised in the sleepy neighbourhood of

Rudisha’s crowning moment

No sooner had he broken the record than he

Oltanki, in Kilgoris, David Rudisha did not have

With two world records under his belt, it was just

predicted he could beat his own record. True to

to run 10 km to get to school every morning,

a matter of time before David Rudisha ventured

his word, the 21-year-old runner from Maasai-

like many Kenyan world-beating athletes. But the

into new territories. His crowning moment came

land was so fired up that he achieved this less

fact that his father, Daniel Rudisha, represented

in November 2010 when he was voted World

than a week later in Rieti, Italy. Cheered on by an

Kenya at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics was

Athlete of the Year 2010 by the International

expectant crowd, Rudisha obliterated the compe-

motivation enough for young David to follow in

Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

tition to lower his own mark and stop the clock

his footsteps. The senior Rudisha was a silver

at 1 minute 41.01 seconds – a new world record.

medallist in the 4 x 400 metres relay at the 1968

This is by far the highest award that an athlete can

summer games.

achieve. Rudisha became the first Kenyan and

Writing on the wall

the fourth African to win it. When he accepted Apart from being motivated by his father, David

the award in Monaco, he became the youngest

Before he set these new times, however, the

Rudisha needed to look no further than his own

athlete to claim the prize at just under 22 years

writing had already been on the wall and it was

neighbourhood, the greater Kilgoris region, to

of age.

just a matter of when, not if, Rudisha would break

find even more inspiration.

the record. The early signs were there when he

As the world of athletics gave him a standing

was crowned African champion after clocking an

While the North Rift region has produced some

ovation and marvelled at his meteoric rise in only

amazing 1 minute 42.84 seconds at high altitude

of the best middle and long distance athletes ever

his second season, it knows it has not seen the

in Nairobi at the African Athletics Champions. If

seen, the lower reaches of the South Rift, close

last of this lad from Oltanki.

he could run that fast at high altitude and come

to the plains of the Masai Mara, has produced

within touching distance of the world record, he

some of the world’s best 800 metres athletes.

would surely break it at some point.

For now, Rudisha has withdrawn to his training base in Iten, where he hopes to train even harder

This region is home to many great athletes

as he focuses on the World Championships and

After the impressive win in Nairobi, Rudisha’s

including former world champion Billy Konchellah,

then the 2012 Olympics in London. His mission

manager, James Templeton, was so confident

his brother Patrick and his son Gregory. When

is to lower the mark in the 800 metres to an

of his athlete that he said the world would be

you include the likes of William Yampoy and

impossible time that will stand for the longest

celebrating a new 800 metres record in less than

Stephen Marai, you can see that Oltanki Village

time possible.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

53

SAROVA HOTELS & LODGES INDEX CENTRAL RESERVATIONS Tel: +254 (0)20 276 7000; 271 4444 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566 Email: centralreservations@sarovahotels.com

SAROVA LOYALTY PROGRAM SAROVA ZAWADI Tel: +254 (0)20 276 7440/276 7421 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566 Email: sarovazawadi@sarovahotels.com

Sarova Stanley, NAIROBI

OVERSEAS GENERAL SALES AGENTS

Tel: +254 (0)20 275 7000; 316 377 Fax: +254 (0)20 222 9388; 224 9757 Email: thestanley@sarovahotels.com

USA

SAROVA PANAFRIC, NAIROBI Tel: +254 (0)20 271 4444; 272 0802 Fax: +254 (0)20 272 6356 Email: panafric@sarovahotels.com

SAROVA WHITESANDS BEACH RESORT & SPA, MOMBASA Tel: +254 (0)41 212 8000 Fax: +254 (0)41 548 5652; 548 6536 Email: reservation@sarovahotels.com

SAROVA LION HILL GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)51 852 288; 850 238 Fax: +254 (0)51 221 0836

SAROVA MARA GAME CAMP Tel: +254 (0)50 22 386; 22 194 Mobile: +254 (0)773 610 405 Fax: +254 (0)50 22 371

SAROVA SHABA GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)64 32 030; 30 638 Mobile: +254 (0)728 603 590 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566

SAROVA TAITA HILLS GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)43 30 540; 31 271 Mobile: +254 728 608 765 Fax: +254 43 30 007

Henry Kartagener Kartagener Associates Inc 631 Commack Road, Suite 1A Commack, NY 11725 Tel: +1 631 858-1270 or Toll-Free Number: (800) 524-7979 Fax: +1 631 585-1279 Email: henry@kainyc.com UK Dendy Walwyn Market Places 12 Pummery Square, Poundbury Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3GW Tel: +44 (0)1305 751510 Fax: +44 (0)1305 751511 Email: sales@marketplaces.co.uk SOUTH AFRICA Anita Vernes Southern Spoor Marketing PO Box 691 Witkoppen 2068 South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 4695082/3 Fax.:+27 (0)11 4695086 Email: anita@southernspoor.co.za GERMANY Harald Alber Herzog HC GmbH Friesstrasse 3 60388 Frankfurt Germany Tel: +49 69 420890 22 (direct) Fax.:+49 69 420890 27 Email: harald.alber@herzog-hc.de FR ANCE Fanny Van Lierde Interface Tourism 11 bis rue Blanche - 75009 Paris, France Tel: +33 (0)1 53251111 Fax:+33 (0)1 53251112 Email: sarovahotels@interfacetourism.com INDIA

SAROVA SALT LICK GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)43 30 270; 30 243 Fax: +254 (0)43 30 007

54

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Ankush Nijhawan Nijahawan Group of Companies E77, South Extension New Delhi 110 049 Tel: +91 11 4134 9448 Email: ankush@nijhawangroup.org

SOUTHERN SUDAN ETHIOPIA

Lake Turkana

Malka Mari National Reserve

Sibiloi National Park

Chalbi Desert

Lodwar

Moyale Marsabit

Marsabit National Reserve Marsabit National Park

UGANDA

South Turkana National Reserve

KENYA

Kapchorwa Mt. Elgon Kitale Jinja

Losai National Reserve

SOMALIA 6

Samburu National Reserve

Baringo

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Eldoret

Shaba National Park

Isiolo

Kakamega

Mount Kenya National Park

Nakuru

Kisumu

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Victoria Masai Mara National Reserve

5

4

Aberdare National Park

Bisinadi National Reserve

Meru National Park

Rahole National Reserve

Rahole National Reserve

Mt. Kenya

Garissa

Nyeri

1 2

Arawale National Reserve

NAIROBI

Nairobi National Park

Tana River Primate National Reserve Amboseli National Park

1. Sarova Stanley, NAIROBI

Wajir

Dodori National Reserve

Witu

Tsavo East National Park Chyulu National Park

Boni National Reserve

Lamu Kipini Ungama Bay

Kilimanjaro

2. SAROVA PANAFRIC, NAIROBI 3. SAROVA WHITESANDS BEACH RESORT & SPA, MOMBASA

Mt. Meru

Tsavo West National Park

4. SAROVA LION HILL GAME LODGE 5. SAROVA MAR A GAME CAMP 6. SAROVA SHABA GAME LODGE 7. SAROVA TAITA HILLS GAME LODGE 8. SAROVA SALT LICK GAME LODGE

7 8

TANZANIA

3

Malindi Watamu Kilifi

MOMBASA

IN DIA N O C EAN

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Pemba I.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

55

WHERE VICTORIAN ELEGANCE MEETS AFRICAN HOSPITALITy Close your eyes and imagine walking into a world of Victorian elegance; a world where the ancient and modern world blend seamlessly; where excellence has been the hallmark, a tradition that has been passed on for over 100 years. Now open your eyes, because you are at Sarova Stanley.

Peace Laureate Professor Wangari Maathai. Everyone finds a special place at Sarova Stanley. The hotel enjoys a prime location within walking distance of major government ministries and businesses including the Nairobi Stock Exchange as well as tourist attractions in the city.

Since it opened its doors to the world in 1902, at a time when Nairobi was just a small railway outpost, Sarova Stanley has witnessed the progressive development of the city and has been tried and tested over its long history as the best hotel in Kenya.

While remaining true to its rich Victorian heritage, Sarova Stanley has continued to set standards with a strong emphasis on excellence in customer service; towering head and shoulders in terms of product development and innovation while remaining true to its African heritage.

AmenItIes

Located in the heart of Nairobi, Sarova Stanley has evolved over the years from being the only luxury hotel in the 20th century to being the best hotel in Kenya in the 21st century. Choosing to stay at this landmark hotel, one joins a long list of respected leaders and icons of the past and present who have enjoyed African hospitality. These include the novelist Ernest Hemingway, who penned some of his masterpieces from his hotel bedroom. The hotel has also hosted presidents, film stars and also the Nobel

56

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

The Exchange bar is regarded as the home of the Nairobi Stock Exchange. This spacious bar has a giant screen where data from the NSE is streamed live. The NSE is housed at Nation Centre, a stone’s throw from Sarova Stanley.

The fifth-floor health club is open to guests and outsiders. It comes with a fully equipped gym, sauna and steam bath and massage beds. The pool is also located on this floor.

The open-to-the-street Thorn Tree Restaurant is an historic Nairobi landmark where friends and family still post notes and ‘letters’ under the thorn tree. The al fresco deck restaurant on the fifth floor serves buffets and salads and Tandoori specialities. The new Thai-Chi Restaurant on the first floor is regarded as Nairobi’s best fine dining restaurant for Thai cuisine. It is the only authentic Thai restaurant of its kind in East and Central Africa.

AccommoDAtIon sarova stanley has 217 individually air conditioned rooms on eight floors. these include: 1 Presidential suite 1 Penthouse 2 courier single beds 16 executive suites, 3 junior suites and 2 state suites 32 club rooms 160 Deluxe rooms

The hotel has nine meeting and conference halls including a 227 square metre ballroom and provides free Wi-Fi internet access to hotel guests.

SAROVA PANAFRIC IS PAN-AFRICAN Perched on a small hill overlooking the city of Nairobi is the Sarova Panafric, a four-star city property that towers high above similar hotels in the city. Its location in a quiet neighbourhood, a short walk from central Nairobi, is a big plus for leisure tourists making a stop-over to or from the safari circuit. Its tranquillity is also enjoyed by business travellers staying in Nairobi who would like a quiet evening as they work from their hotel or relax in the evening after a hectic business day.

The hotel is named in honour of the Pan African movement, which was championed by African independence heroes such as the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta of Kenya and the late Kwame Nkurumah of Ghana. It was officially opened by then Kenyan President Jomo Kenyatta in 1965 at the height of the Pan African movement.

Leisurely meals can be enjoyed at the warm and lively Flame Tree Restaurant, once a watering hole for freedom fighters, spies and foreign correspondents and named after the flame tree that holds pride of place in the gardens.

stAte-of-the-ARt Sarova Panafric offers state-of-the-art banqueting and conferencing facilities with a range of meeting and function rooms equipped with the latest audio visual and Wi-Fi equipment. To wind up the day, guests can take a dip in the pool or go for a leisurely massage – or simply enjoy a cool drink to the soothing sounds of Africa’s rhythm.

AccommoDAtIon the sarova Panafric has newly refurbished rooms and suites with separate air conditioning in every room. the 164 spacious rooms are arranged on six storeys and include: 5 suites 13 club (three twins and 10 double) 65 superior (14 twins and 51 double) 46 deluxe 36 standard rooms. sarova Panafric also has fully serviced apartments including 30 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom apartments.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

57

RELAX, yOU’RE AT SAROVA WHITESANDS bEACH RESORT & SPA boasting the longest beach front and being one of the largest and most luxurious hotels on the Kenyan coast is the popular Sarova Whitesands beach Resort & Spa, located in the popular north coast resort area, less than 20 km from Mombasa.

Sarova Whitesands beach Resort & Spa is the epitome of luxury on the Kenyan coast. As well as providing a host of deeply relaxing activities for leisure travellers, it caters for business travellers during the day and helps them relax and unwind in the evening. The hotel has one of the most developed health spas on the Kenyan coast, guaranteeing the ultimate in relaxation for both leisure and business travellers.

The Sarova Whitesands beach Resort & Spa has created a unique niche for itself as a location for beach weddings, honeymoons and wedding receptions at the coast. Its long beach frontage, beautifully manicured green lawns, spacious ballroom and large pool play into the bigger picture of a truly successful wedding and honeymoon location.

This beach resort has some of the best conference facilities on the north coast and has hosted various high-level meetings and conferences. These have included an international conference by the Swedish-based cosmetic maker Oriflame which brought

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

together more than 3,000 participants. The conference rooms include the Makutano, Fahari and baraza halls, all of which are equipped with the latest audio visual equipment and LCD projectors. The resort has a wide range of restaurants and bars. These include the Pavilion I and II restaurants, accommodating up to 680 people at a sitting. buffet breakfasts, lunches and themed dinners are served here. The Minazi Café is open 24 hours a day and serves mouth-watering snacks and a children’s menu.

The Lido Seafood Grill, overlooking the ocean, is the resort’s fine dining restaurant. With a capacity of up to 45 people, the restaurant serves some of the finest seafood menus on bamburi beach and is open every day except Mondays. Cocos beach bar is a favourite with guests. This open-air bar is sandwiched between palm trees overlooking the Indian Ocean.

The Tulia Health bar serves health meals, fresh juices and salads.

The Tulia Spa, arguably one of the best health spas on the north coast, offers the leisure and business traveller a wide range of therapies to relax the mind, body and soul. Among the therapies on offer are Ayurvedic, Western and Oriental. Therapists can also tailor a spa experience to suit the individual needs of the guest or couple staying at the resort on their honeymoon.

AccommoDAtIon sarova whitesands Beach Resort & spa is arguably one of the largest beach resorts on the Kenyan coast. the resort has a total of 338 rooms, spread over three storeys, including: 2 Presidential suites 3 Rooms for the physically handicapped 6 executive suites 66 Palm rooms 128 seafront rooms 133 standard rooms.

All rooms have a complimentary coffee and tea making facility. they also have a private balcony opening to the sea or with a pool view.

EXPERIENCE THE MIGRATION IN THE MARA As one of the seven wonders of the natural world, where the largest wildlife migration is recorded annually, the famous Masai Mara National Reserve captures the imagination of every nature lover. boasting a wildlife density and diversity like no other game reserve in Kenya, the Masai Mara is the epitome of a bush safari in Africa.

Africa. The biggest attraction, of course, is the wildebeest migration, which takes place every year between August and October.

The commotion that occurs as the wildebeest and large herds of zebra and gazelle cross the treacherous waters of the Mara River, to the delight of the hungry crocodiles in the earth-coloured waters, is an impressive experience, to say the least.

When you combine the true spirit of an African safari with the refreshingly African hospitality enjoyed at the Sarova Mara Game Camp, you have a winner; because the Sarova Mara Game Camp offers not only wild safari excitement, but also front-row seats to the greatest show of all – the wildebeest migration. And what a spectacle that is.

ActIVItIes

The camp is located deep inside the Masai Mara National Reserve, about five hours from Nairobi by road and a short 40-minute hop by plane. The camp is set on an elevation surrounded by two streams and is uniquely laid out over the sprawling grounds, which include rolling, manicured greens, a virtual mini forest of indigenous shrubs and exotic trees, a large pond stocked with fish, a bird sanctuary and an authentic Maasai village adjoining the camp, all guaranteed to enhance the overall guest experience of

The camp also provides delightful bush dinners, breakfasts and lunches at numerous spots across the game reserve. It is a preferred destination for bush weddings and honeymoons.

AccommoDAtIon the camp has 20 club tents, 51 standard tents, two family tents, a main restaurant, a bar and many bush dining options. the free-form swimming pool has its own pool bar.

The camp offers morning and afternoon safaris in the game reserve, where wild animals can be seen in their natural habitat.

The camp has an excellent eet of safari vehicles and deeply knowledgeable guides.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

59

WATCH THE FLAMINGO DANCE IN NAKURU Sitting on an isolated hill in the scenic Lake Nakuru National Park, the Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge offers the ultimate weekend and holiday getaway. Its location just a few kilometres from Nakuru and about two hours’ drive from Nairobi makes it an ideal family getaway location guaranteeing ultimate relaxation.

Thanks to its position, The Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge enjoys a spectacular view of the pink-ringed, alkaline waters of Lake Nakuru. Guests have an unobstructed view of the lake from the balconies of their chalets, arranged on four levels up the hill. The Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge is one of only two game lodges inside the Lake Nakuru National Park.

Lake Nakuru National Park is a birdwatchers’ paradise. The park is home to over 450 bird species and it is possible to spot up to 100 different bird species within one hour. Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge employs the services of David ole Naso, a Maasai with deep knowledge of the resident and migratory birds within the park. David is a talented guide who takes guests on informative nature walks around the lodge.

Lake Nakuru National Park is home to the world’s largest flamingo population. The flamingos come to feed on the lake’s algae-rich alkaline waters. Every year, immediately after the long

60

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

rains, the famous mating dance, a well orchestrated routine conducted by the lesser flamingos, is worth watching.

As well as a birding haven, Lake Nakuru National Park is a successful rhino breeding sanctuary with large numbers of endangered white and black rhinos. Owing to the park’s small size, it is easy to spot game.

ActIVItIes Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge organises a range of activities within the grounds of the lodge and in the park. These include: • Cultural dances each evening round a bonfire

AccommoDAtIon 67 ground-floor chalets spread across four levels on the gently sloping Lion hill.

46 superior rooms 18 Deluxe rooms 3 suites

• Bush breakfasts and off-site sundowner cocktails.

• Morning and afternoon game drives

AmenItIes

• Animation programmes for children

• Two conference halls with overhead and LCD projector

• Nature and birdwatching walks in the lodge grounds

• Flamingo Restaurant serving breakfasts, lunches and dinners

• Tree planting programmes as part of conservation efforts by the property in collaboration with various agencies including the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)

• Rift Valley Bar

• Bush weddings and honeymoons

• Massage tent overlooking the lake.

A UNIQUE DESIGN IN A MAGICAL SETTING Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, 7 km from the Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge, features a unique architectural design and style.

The entire property is built above ground, yet it conforms to the traditional homesteads of the local Taita tribe who inhabit the region. The rondavels, built on stilts, are an imaginative reproduction of the local ancestral abodes.

The sanctuary has a large dam and small ponds where young crocodiles are bred. young hippos are to be introduced to the sanctuary, as well as rhinos.

As part of its conservation efforts, the property is keen to make local communities and guests more aware of conservation matters through an elaborate tree-planting programme within the sanctuary.

The lodge has 96 oval rooms, all overlooking a waterhole. Practically every day, this attracts a large array of wildlife, including elephants, especially in the evenings, when they come to drink water and lick the salt.

The underground tunnel at Sarova Salt Lick Game Reserve is a wonderful spot for viewing wild game such as elephants and buffalos that come to drink from the water pan near the lodge.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

61

GET CLOSER TO WILD GAME IN TAITA Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge offers luxury accommodation and is the ultimate base from which to explore Africa’s largest game park. The creeper-covered stone buildings bring English country charm to the African plains and guests have the opportunity to enjoy first-class service and facilities in an unforgettable setting.

This magnificent property offers a wide range of business and entertainment options, with two conference rooms capable of accommodating up to 100 participants.

The lodge has 62 rooms with two suites, a swimming pool, a spacious lobby, a boutique, a restaurant, meeting rooms and a conference hall and is located next to a well maintained air strip.

AttRActIons The Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge is located within the privately-owned Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area consisting of 28,000 acres of semi-permeable terrain. This in turn forms part of the greater Tsavo eco system, which covers about 40,000 sq km.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

The sanctuary is home to huge animal populations that include large herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and resident lions.

In addition, the sanctuary is home to more than 350 bird species.

The sanctuary nestles in the lower zones of the surrounding Taita Hills. These form part of the Eastern Arc Mountains range, which is recognised by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) as conservation area of global significance. Moreover, the overall game viewing experience is enhanced, because the sanctuary is located within the wildlife migratory corridors that link Tsavo East and Tsavo West game reserves.

AmenItIes • Both lodges feature large restaurants and bars.

• Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge has a large pool and two conference halls.

EXPERIENCE THE JEWEL OF THE NORTH AT SHAbA On the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, in the northern frontier county of Isiolo, sits the jewel of the north – Sarova Shaba Game Lodge – arguably Kenya’s best-kept secret. The lodge is located in the Shaba National Reserve, about 8 km from the Great North Road that links Cape Town in the south with Cairo in the north via Nairobi. Thanks to the newly constructed tarmac road from Isiolo to Moyale on the Kenya-Ethiopia border, access to the lodge from Nairobi is now easy.

A natural spring lies within the grounds of the lodge and waters trickle down in small streams and fountains under footbridges and along footpaths in front of the single-storey chalets lining the river frontage. The well manicured lawns and the doum palms around the chalets provide the guest with peace and tranquillity.

This is born Free World.

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is the only game lodge within Shaba National Reserve. It stands on the picturesque banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Guests can watch the crocodiles at night and early in the morning as they feed on the banks. The crocodiles can also be seen basking on the giant rocks that line the river.

Known as ‘The Lover’s Nest’, the lodge has been synonymous with bush weddings and honeymoons, romantic bush dinners,

breakfasts and lunches. There are many places where such romantic getaways can be arranged, including The beach, a large, sand-covered dry river bed at the bottom of a cliff where sundowners and dinners are served. The boma, within the grounds of the lodge, is a spot where themed dinners are served.

Morning and afternoon game drives from the lodge to buffalo Springs & Shaba National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve can be organised. because the lodge works closely with the local Samburu, Turkana and borana communities, visits to their traditional homesteads and villages are also organised.

The lodge is also a wonderful team-building and conference venue for corporates. The Sarova Shaba Survivor challenge is a set of challenging activities that require individual and team spirit to complete successfully. It includes a range of activities such as mountaineering, rock climbing, clue solving and cook-outs at various venues including the magnificent Msilima Gorges within the reserve. All this makes for a highly engaging team experience.

The lodge has a conference room accommodating up to 150 people. The room comes with audio-visual equipment and secretarial services are available.

AccommoDAtIon there are 85 rooms spread over the one-storey chalets, with each block having four rooms. these include: 1 Presidential suite with a private lounge and Jacuzzi. Private breakfasts, lunches and dinners can be served here.

4 executive suites with private lounge 70 standard rooms – 40 twin, 15 double and 15 triple 10 Deluxe rooms – 5 double and 5 twin.

buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served at the Surpelei Restaurant, a large, tree-level restaurant. A pool and a lounge bar are also provided.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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What’s cooking

EASTER SPECIAL MENU Roasted lamb chops, braised rosemary potatoes, wilted spinach and carrots with gravy

INGREDIENTS: 250 g

Lamb chops

200 g

Rosemary

120 g New potatoes 50 g Carrots peeled and cut into buttonet 50 g Cleaned and roughly torn spinach 400 ml Demi glaze 50 g Onion Salt to taste 50 ml Corn oil

Preparation:

glaze, bring to boil, then simmer covered until

Prepare the carrots, blanch and sauté with

potatoes are completely cooked.

onions and serve the meal.

When the potatoes are cooking, seal your lamb

The chops are naturally done so that one can

chops and put in the oven to roast (done medium).

enjoy the true flavour of the lamb, which is

Season the lamb chops and leave for about 5 minutes.

Chop onion and put a little bit of corn oil (lamb

complemented by the potatoes.

is oily, so very little oil) in the pan, let it heat up

Meanwhile sauté (fry) your spinach, seasoned,

and add chopped onion.

until wilted and add a pinch of nutmeg. The idea of tearing up the spinach is basically to preserve

Add sliced new potatoes and sweat for

the vitamins, because when you chop the leafy

5 minutes, then add rosemary and demi-

vegetables, you lose some of the vitamins.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Yield: 2 servings