Go Places Dec 2018 Jan 2019 Issue 162

Page 1

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 1


2 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


85 YEARS ALWAYS IN STYLE Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 3


From the

Editor

migration with our dedicated partner, Mara Engai Lodge, known for its one of a kind service-quality and faultless experience. Lastly, find out why Seychelles beaches are voted as the world’s finest.

Welcome to yet again another highly-anticipated festive edition of the region’s ultimate bi-monthly Travel Wine & Dine, Lifestyle and Events guide that keeps you comprehensively informed about all what is happening in Kenya, East Africa and around the globe. As the year 2018 comes to a beautiful end and as we make preparations of ushering in a brand new one in 2019, we are privileged to share with you the 163rd edition of the Go Places™ Magazine!! We have put together a fantastic selection of recommended experiences, adventures, products & services that you do not want to miss out! But first, find time and be at the Kenyan Coast Watamu & Diani to witness thousands of petite hatchlings emerging and dashing to the ocean, this season, only when the sun goes down. Go PlacesTM is committed to support the conservation of Turtles As it has been with our festive edition, this issue presents some of the incredibly exciting and invaluable travel-trade events happening all over the world that Go PlacesTM has been highly privileged to be associated with in 2018, including Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2018 at the K.I.CC Nairobi, The Swahili International Tourism Expo (S!TE) 2018 at the historical Julius Nyerere International Conference Centre (JNICC), The Zanzibar Tourism Show (ZTS) at Madinat Al Bahir Business and Spa Hotel and the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), as well as the 79th Skal world international congress in Mombasa, Kenya, at the Pride Inn Resort.

In the Go Places™ Travel Section our team of experts has put together an exceptional selection of ‘must-try’ travel experiences this season. Before anything else, let us start by acknowledging four of our Go Places™ highly recommended international and domestic flight partners respectively. First off is Ethiopian Airlines who have launched a premium Mobile App that redefines the air travel; booking experience for its dedicated customers. Turkish Airlines unveils a new elegant style to the skies with its modernistic cabin crew uniforms that takes the crew’s superlative service-quality and travel experience to a whole new level. Turkish Airlines is always in style, for the last 85 years, giving the Go PlacesTM highly recommended travel partner an upper hand across the globe. Our Go Places™ highly recommended domestic airline partner Silverstone Air Services limited provides you with the finest flight experiences across the Kenyan skies, for exceptionally affordable flights daily from Wilson Nairobi to Lodwar, Ukunda, Mombasa, Malindi, Kisumu and Lamu. Skyward Express, the Go PlacesTM highly recommended convenient affordable, reliable airline of the season, expands its flight route base to Ukunda. Skyward gives you a chance to enjoy the famous and exotic powdery beaches and wildlife safaris including business adventures at Ukunda. We take a look at the authentic and enchanting Tamarind Tree, where you can enjoy sumptuous meals with family and friends during these special holiday season and have every moment etched in your memories. TEKWA cultural enterprise makes your holidays extra special with a unforgettable tours of the western circuit filled with rich cultures of the people and sprawling surrounding sites. Head on an exciting tracking of the wilder beast

As always, our Go Places™ Wine & Dine Section is only reserved for the most finest. This season we present our Go PlacesTM Recommended restaurants and hotels where you can wine & dine and sample special offers this festive season. We also highlight a festive special recipe of an appetizing wild salmon with pepper salsa salad that can be served with a colourful and tasty corn and avocado or Halloumi for vegetarians. Even as you continue to prepare this delicious meal, you can sip a glass of chilled Peppermint Espresso Martini that is perfect for the season, with its sparkling, non-alcoholic twist. In the Go Places™ Lifestyle and News Section, we present Dr. Mattress, the right sleep solution for your hotels, with their new concept Dr. Pillow that gives you a chance to select the right pillow, for a good night‘s sleep. Finally, I am so proud to be part of the Top 100 Women at the African Travel 100 Women Awards that brought together Heroes and Heroines, who continue to promote responsible tourism in Kenya. It was extremely exciting to witness my peers and colleagues get recognised for their terrific efforts, innovations at the 13th #EcoWarriorAwards2018, themed, “Tourism: Protecting Culture and Heritage.” The event was sponsored by the Kenya Tourism Board. All these are coupled efforts by my dedicated, passionate Go PlacesTM Team and our avid readers, supporters and partners. We appreciate all of you! A Very Merry Christmas & A Happy 2019 from the Go Places™ Team… Enjoy the read!

Nev

Copyrights:  All articles, advertisements, photographs, artworks and/or designs of any nature or description appearing in this magazine or any other publication of GO PLACES are the sole and exclusive rights of the Management, Owners and Publishers of the said Magazine. Any reproduction thereof, in any form, in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written consent from Leisure & Travel Guides East Africa Ltd. Editorial opinions expressed in Go Places are not necessarily those of the magazine and the publication does not accept responsibility for the advertising content. P.O. Box 38086 - 00623 Nairobi, Kenya • Tel: (+254) 786 974 634/ 719 764 000 4 Go Places www.goplaceskenya.com E-mail: sales@goplacesonline.com • Website: www.goplacesdigital.com

4 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


FOREWORD As we end the final quarter of 2018 and usher in 2019, we are glad to inform you that the 3rd Chapter of the Chefs Delight™ Awards commenced. We have close to 100 establishments that have been nominated to participate for the top Culinary and Bar & Mixology Awards. The programme runs for a minimum period of three months and culminate towards the Gala Awards Night. Many of you may not know this but the concept of this truly Kenyan initiative and awards programme, was born many years ago. As a chef by profession myself and an avid diner too, I and many of my colleagues in the industry saw the need to create a quality benchmark in the industry that would help our Kenyan restaurants and chefs achieve international status, that would one day put Kenya on the global map as a leading culinary destination. When I handed down this project to my teams, they came up with something truly phenomenal. For the very first time we were going to develop a quality enhancing awards programme that did not put a panel of judges at the centre of the grading process, rather and more effectively we would give you the diner, the paying customer, the ability to anonymously grade your ‘quality of dining experience’ and ‘quality of service received’ every time you dined in a restaurant. This would be the basis on which Restaurant & Chef teams would win awards because let’s face it who better to judge you than your paying customer. Over the years the programme has evolved, using the latest in technology. The customer feedback and review process that began through a manual system in 2012 to a mobile app in 2015 and now in 2018 to an online system based on a proprietary technology developed by our Google certified UK based partner. Customers will be able to access this online system using either their smart phones, tablets, laptop or even desktop to leave their feedback and reviews. This programme is a rigorous exercise and it would have been possible without support and participation of the Chefs Delight™ Awards nominated restaurants who are passionate about providing high quality of experience and service to their clients and value their customer’s feedback to constantly improve their standards. Secondly the customers who dine in these restaurants and provide their true opinion of their experience that allow their favourite restaurant to understand their needs through their valuable

feedback and finally our sponsors who have put their trust in the Chefs Delight™ programme by providing endorsement, supports and guidance, we appreciate them. Finally I encourage all restaurants to fully participate in the programme and any restaurant that have not been nominated and would like to participate, to get in touch with the organisers for next year. Furthermore we urge diners to leave your feedback every time you wine & dine at Chefs Delight™ nominated restaurants and provide a true opinion of your experience, as every time your experience may be different. Diner will get a chance to win fabulous prizes for leaving their opinion in our initiative “Vote & Win with Chefs Delight™” In the coming issues of the Go Places™ Magazine we will have a dedicate section for the Chefs Delight™ Awards. On behalf of myself and the Chefs Delight™ Awards Team, I wish all the readers an exciting season and Happy Wine & Dine experiences. Mansoor Jiwani Group CEO and Founder International Quality Awards Limited

L IT Y EXPERIENCE QUA

QUA

LIT Y S E RVIC E

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 5


6 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Wine & Dine at your favourite Chefs Delight participating restaurant

After your dining experience leave your true opinion of your experience (Your feedback will help the restaurant to continually improve and provide better service every time)

Leaving a feedback will get you an entry into the monthly Vote & Win with Chefs Delight draw to get a chance to win fabulous prizes (Leave your feedback everytime you wine & dine to increase your chances of winning)

This year’s programme has a lot in store for you and could get you invited to many of these exciting events with your participation. • • •

Bar & Mixology Experience Dessert & High Tea Experience Awards Gala Night Ceremony Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 7


WELCOME YOUR NEW YEAR WITH A BLAST

Visual Experience Specialists

Kenya’s No.1 Consumer & Display Fireworks Company Since 1998

Professional & Consumer Fireworks, 3D Projection Mapping, Holograms, Lasers, Special & Visual Effects

Tel: +254 726 532299 / +254 733 520 759 Email: info@jayspyrotechnics.com 8 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


J O U R N E Y

T O

THE NEW HOME OF TURKISH AIRLINES THE AIRLINE THAT FLIES TO MORE COUNTRIES THAN ANY OTHER AWAITS YOU IN THE WORLD’S NEW AVIATION CENTER

I S TA N B U L A I R P O R T

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 9


Bring Your Experiences to Life, with Our Stunning Imagery!

Hotline: +254 700 718 553 Enquiries: eyecontentke@gmail.com Every Experience is a Story... Just Waiting to be Told! 10 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


FOREWORD The Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife developed the National Tourism Blueprint (NTB) 2030 to guide and accelerate development of the tourism sector in the country. Its strategic objective is to enhance our visitors’ experience, as well as increasing their stay in the country, as the current traveller is keen on more experiences and options for choice. Domestic tours arrivals in Kenya increased by 65% in July 2018. In 2017, international tourist arrivals grew by a new record 7% of compared to 2016. Similarly, international tourist arrivals to Africa grew by 8% in 2016 compared to 2017. We are hoping for a continued increase in the number of arrivals, hotel bookings, tours and travel, including multiple culinary experiences in Kenya in 2019 and onward. History was made as Kenya Airways started direct flights to the US. The direct flights will open up Kenya to the rest of the world. This is a clear proof that we must be innovative and strategic in ways we can develop Africa as a destination, tapping into the various attractions across the continent without creating unfair competition. Mombasa County was privileged to host the 79 Skål Congress that attracted over 500 delegates from across the world. The four-day global event that took place from 17 to 21 October, 2018, was dubbed “Congress on the Beach,” and was held at Pride Inn Paradise Hotel in Shanzu. Owners and top management in the hotels, airlines, tour operators and travel agents as well as influencers of the travel and tourism industry graced the event. th

I want to take this opportunity to give special thanks to H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta, my cabinet colleagues and all Kenyans of good will for their support to the Ministry’s Projects and activities. For example, the Kenya Tourism Festival (KTF) 2018, that aimed at increasing duration of time spent by tourists in the country Kicked off successfully in September 2018. The festival was a combination of World Tourism Celebrations, The Africa Hotel Investment Forum, MKTE 2018 and the African Union Ministerial SubCommittee on Tourism.

countries. Recently Go PlacesTM Africa DMC was awarded as one of the Top 100 hundred Tour operators in Africa. We appreciate their efforts in organising the annual Chef’s Delights AwardsTM, which profiles Kenya as not only a top leading destination in the world, but a top multi-national culinary destination. As this is the bumper issue for the festivities 2018/2019, I understand that over 100 hotels and restaurants are taking part and I emphasise to our readers to support the participants and give their timely feedback. Finally, on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife, I wish all readers a special holiday season in December-January 2019. I also encourage each of you to explore all the incredible sites that Magical Kenya has to offer, even as you gear up for another hopefully wonderful New Year! HON. NAJIB BALALA, EGH, CABINET SECRETARY MINISTRY FOR TOURISM & WILDLIFE

The festival created a great impact on the growth of tourist arrivals by the end of the year. We expect about 20% growth in tourist arrivals in 2018 and even further in 2019. The potential of economic growth and development related to the tourism industry are fully-recognized at both the continental and international levels. I am proud to be associated with Go PlacesTM, which has been in existence for almost 27 years and is one of the top leading digital and publishing, PR and marketing brands in the travel, hospitality, tourism, lifestyle industries. They have been recognised globally and have received several awards like the International Quality Crown Awards, voted by 19

REPUBLIC OF KENYA

MINISTRY OF TOURISM & WILDLIFE

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 11


CONTENTS NEWS & LIFESTYLE 3 6 8

Turkish Airlines – 85 Years of Excellence Chefs Delight™ Awards Jays Pyrotechnics – Welcome the New Year With A Blast

10 21 23

Eye Content Photography

24

Dr Mattress – For All Your Individual &

32

Papyrus – You Dream It, We Make It

P8

KWS The Worlds Wildlife Capital National Museums of Kenya – The Louis Leakey Auditorium Hotel Pillow Needs Happen

Turkish Airlines – 85 Years of Excellence

34

Sarova Hotel Tribute – A Legacy of

35 36

Skywards Express – Experience the Best

84

Book Review – The Deal of A Lifetime By

85

Golf For Beginners – Is Lifting Your Heel In

86

National Museums of Kenya – Discover

92

Skål Nairobi Cocktail Flamingo Casino/

Excellences Ethiopian Airlines – Hop On Our Flights and Explore 4 New Destinations Fredrik Backman the Backswing Wrong? Gedi Ruins

P 24 Dr Mattress – For All Your Individual &

Hotel Pillow Needs 12 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

P 32 Papyrus – You Dream It, We Make It


Trademark

93

Skål Nairobi Luncheon Nyama Mama

94 96 98

Sharing Moments Travel – AHIF

100 102

Sharing Moments Travel – S!Te 2018

104

Sharing Moment Travel – Inaugural Flight

P 35

Capital Centre Sharing Moments Travel – MKTE 2018 Sharing Moments Travel – Eco Warrior Awards Sharing Moment Travel – Zanzibar Tourism Show 2018 To New York

Skywards Express - Skywards Express – Experience the Best

P 36

105

Sharing Moment Travel – Ihti Graduation/

106

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Chefs Delight™

108

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Sarova Stanley

109

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Lord Erroll

110 112 131

Go Movies Dec/Jan 2019

Utalii College Awards At MKTE Cake Mixing/ Sarova Panafric Cake Mixing Champagne Breakfast Sports Events Dec/Jan 2019 Atta – Promoting Africa Tourism

Ethiopian Airlines – Hop On Our Flights and Explore 4 New Destinations

P 131 Atta - Promoting Africa Tourism

TRAVEL 38

Silverstone Air – Direct Flights Wilson-

39

Sarova Whitesands - Festive Beach

40

Skywards Fly Mombasa – Lamu As Low

41

Sarova Woodlands – Festive Getaway in

42

Fairview Hotel – Tranquillity, Serenity &

44

Tamarind Tree Hotel – Christmas and New

Mombasa Twice Daily Getaway as… Nakuru Peace in the Heart of Nairobi Year and the Tamarind Hotel

46

Sun Africa Hotels – Unique Experiences at

48

Mara Engai Lodge – Resident Christmas

49

TEKWA Cultural Enterprises – Explore

52 53

Sarova Hotels – Festive Safari Getaway

54 56 58

Go PlacesTM Travel Packages

Unique Properties Specials Western Kenya with TEKWA Ethiopian Airlines – Our New Mobile Application – Destination at Your Fingertips 48 Hours in – Da Nang Vietnam 24 Hours in – Antwerp Belgium Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 13


TRAVEL 60

62

Gamewatchers - Lake Nakuru National Park

P 42 Fairview Hotel - Tranquillity, Serenity &

Peace in the Heart of Nairobi

P 58

24 Hours in - Antwerp Belgium

Seychelles - Discover Why Seychelles Beach are Voted the World’s Finest

P 46 Sun Africa Hotels – Unique Experiences at Unique Properties

P 62 Gamewatchers - Lake Nakuru

National Park

P 52

Sarova Hotels - Festive Safari Getaway

P 62 Seychelles - Discover Why Seychelles

Beach’s are Voted the World’s Finest

WINE & DINE 64

Recipe of the Month – Wild Salmon with

65

Cocktail of the Month – Perpermint

66 68

Sarova Stanley – Festive Celebration

Pepper Salsa Salad Espresso Martini MovenPick – Here’s an Idea, New year’s

Eve Dinner 14 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

69

Eka Hotel – Celebrate Christmas & New Year

70 71 72

Fairview Hotel – Christmas Lunch

at the only one... Hilton Nairobi – Hilton Festive Program The Corncord Hotel – End Year Party Packages


WINE & DINE 73

Park Inn by Raddison – Colorful Festive

74

Kunduchi Beach Hotel & Resort –

Season Christmas & New Year Eve Package

75

Villa Rosa Kempinski – Festive Season

76

Southern Sun – Christmas Buffet Lunch

Programme

P 65

Cocktail of the Month – Perpermint Esapresso Martini

P 77

Hilton Garden Inn - lavish Christmas day lunch

77 78

79 80 81

Hilton Garden Inn – A Lavish Christmas Day Lunch Tamarind Tree Hotel – Christmas Eve Dinner & Day Lunch Tamarind Nairobi/Tamambo Carnivore Restaurant Sovereign Suites – Festive Season Rates

P 66 Sarova Stanley - Festive Celebration

P 71 Hilton Nairobi - Hilton Festive Program

P 78

P 81 Sun Africa Sovereign Suites - Festive

Tamarind Tree Hotel - Christmas Eve Dinner & Day Lunch

Season Rates

VISITORS GUIDE 114 126

Visitors Guide Cover Maps National Parks

128 130

Maps National Museum Heritage Maps Museums Across Kenya

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 15


FOREWORD GREETINGS TO ALL READERS. This has been a remarkable year for Kenya’s tourism industry. The destination continued to shine at the prestigious 25th annual World Travel Awards (WTM) held in Durban South Africa, by scooping top honors in several categories. Diani’s White Sandy Beach’s, strategic location and the unique blend of flora and fauna has seen the South Coast, was voted the best beach destination in Africa for the forth year in a row. This award confirms Kenya’s position as the “Beach and Safari Capital of Africa.” Kenya Airways emerged as the continent’s leading business and economy airline category while fast jet Airline was voted the best low-cost airline. Other Kenyan establishments that topped their respective categories include Pollmans Tours & Safaris, Bonfire Adventures, Heritage Hotels, Diani Reef Beach Resort and Spa, Ol Pajeta Conservancy, Aberdare Country Club, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mount Kenya Safari Club, Sarova Stanley and Villa Rosa Kempinski. Congratulations to all the winners. These awards truly attest to the fact that Kenya offers a matchless beach and safari experience that is second to none in Africa. The year 2018 will go down memory lane as a historic year. Our national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ), launched the direct non-stop flight from Nairobi to New York City. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner Aircraft named “MagicalKenya” touched down at John F Kennedy International Airport on Monday 29th Oct 2018, a fifteen-hour flight, shaving off up to seven hours on a journey that usually involves long layovers in Europe or the Middle East. The plane touched down back at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Tuesday 30th Oct 2018 morning with 234 passengers on board. Indeed a great achievement for KQ and for Kenya. The 8 edition of the 2018 Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE), an initiative of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) was another great success. The event was held from 3-5 October at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) Nairobi. We were very happy to host buyers and media from our key source markets as well as continue to receive great support from the exhibitors who participated in the event. We were honoured by the presence at the expo of the Secretary General of the United Nations World th

16 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Mr Zurab Pololikashvili and also the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilton Worldwide, Mr Chris Nassetta. Tourist Arrivals in Kenya increased to 126,797 in July 2018 from 76,608 in June 2018, a 65% growth. In terms of the primary objective of travel, holiday remained a leading reason for travel into Kenya, taking a share of over 65% of the total arrivals. North America remains the leading source market over the period followed by the United Kingdom (UK) and India. As we near the close of this wonderful year, Kenya’s tourism industry gleams with tremendous hope, especially for 2019. I wish to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts and contribution of the tourism sector stakeholders, including our industry partners. Go PlacesTM is a proud partner, who has shown a strong commitment in complementing the marketing efforts that go a long way towards fostering a positive promotion of the industry. Finally, I invite you to an informative yet entertaining read of this issue of Go PlacesTM Magazine. I also take this early opportunity to wish you a happy 2018 festive season and a prosperous 2019. I urge you to sample a lot of what MagicalKenya has in store for you this great season. Karibu! Jimi Kariuki Chairman, Kenyan Tourism Board


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 17


FOREWORD

KENYA’S TOURISM INDUSTRY ON THE RISE

As we approach the end of the year 2018, I am pleased to note that Kenya’s tourism industry is firmly on the growth path. The numbers for the nine months of the year prove it. Between January and September this year , total international arrivals by air and sea to Kenya 2018 grew by 7.6% to close at 777,791 up from 723,174 the same period in 2017. 87.7% of the visitors who toured Kenya during the first nine months of the year arrived through Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Arrivals at JKIA closed at 682,446 up from 655,569 translating a growth of 4.1%. The entry of new airlines and resumption of flights by airlines such as Air France, has asserted Kenya as the preferred tourist destination. Kenya’s coastal region saw a double-digit growth in international arrivals. Between January and September this year, Moi International Airport, Mombasa recorded 84,286 arrivals for the period, denoting a massive growth of 46% from 57,588 during the same period in 2017. The successful implementation of the Charter Incentive Programme at the Coast has greatly contributed to the continued growth in the performance of Kenya’s tourism sector, particularly at the Coast. Mombasa is currently receiving 15 charter flights every week, compared to 9 last year. Mombasa received three weekly charter flights from Poland, Belgium and the Netherlands between the last week of October and early November. Qatar Airways is set to commence a direct flight to Mombasa in December. Cruise ship arrivals at the Port City of Mombasa grew by 84.4% to top 1,671 compared to 906 in 2017. It is noteworthy that the City of Mombasa hosted the 79th Skal International World Congress in the City of Mombasa from 17th to 21st October 2018. The Conference dubbed “Congress on the Beach” brought together over 500 delegates from all over the world. Kenya’s world class stature as a tourist destination received yet another major endorsement as Maasai Mara National Reserve and Diani Beach were named Africa’s Leading National Park and Leading Beach Destination respectively during the 25th Africa edition of the World Travel Awards (WTA) ceremony that was held in Durban, South Africa on 7th October 2018. Maasai Mara National Reserve was crowned as Africa’s Leading National Park for the sixth time, having beaten five other national parks across Africa. Diani Beach has received the award for five consecutive years, having outmatched five other beach destinations. Nanyuki-based Ol Pejeta Conservancy - home to the world’s two remaining northern white rhinos - was named Africa’s leading Conservation Company while national carrier, Kenya Airways was named Africa’s Leading Airline in the Business Class for the sixth year in a row and in the Economy Class for a second time. Overall, continued confidence in the destination, improved security, as well as the establishment of modern transport infrastructure such as the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway have supported the continued growth in the

18 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

performance of Kenya’s tourism sector. The United States of America remains Kenya’s number one tourism source market, with number of arrivals from the U.S. market growing by 6% to 95,234 arrivals up from 89,866 arrivals during the first nine months of 2017. The U.S. market contributed 12.2% of total international arrivals. With the recent commencement of Kenya Airways’ direct flights between the U.S. and Kenya, Kenya will be repositioned as a more accessible destination for travelers from the U.S. and Europe. We anticipate that there will be a marked increase in the attractiveness of Kenya as a holiday destination due to Kenya being much closer to the US. Tourists will be able to spend more time on their holiday experience which enables Kenya to develop more diverse product and experiences. This will translate into a significant increase in tourism arrivals to Kenya. We are proud to announce that the 8th edition of Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) - which took place from 3rd to 5th October, gave us a great opportunity to expand our scope of tourism across Africa and the rest of the world. We appreciate the hosted buyers and media representatives and visitors who attended the expo and hope that they will sell Kenya with greater vigour. The Kenya Tourism Board urges our dedicated partners to take advantage of the emerging opportunities to continue pitching for more business in the global events, conferences, expos and business forums. We also encourage our Kenyan trade partners to continue innovating new approaches to grow the current and emerging tourism markets. As the country’s destination marketing agency, KTB will continue to lead the way in rolling out marketing programs across the country’s various source markets. We will do so in partnership with key industry players such as Go PlacesTM, partners and tour organizers with the sole objective of boosting demand for Kenya’s tourism products in both local and international market. I encourage you to read through this magazine and book your opportunity to travel through Magical Kenya this festive season. Finally, we are optimistic that the year 2019 will be even more promising, as we build on the progress made so far. DR . BETTY RADIER CEO - KENYA TOURISM BOARD (KTB)


FOREWORD KQ DIRECT FLIGHT - A TIMELY BLESSING TO KENYA’S ECONOMY Kenya Airways recent launch of the Direct flight to New York is a welcome move. The KQ direct flights is not only a mark of approval on the country, but also a big leap forward in enhancing Kenya’s attractiveness as a trade, investment and tourist destination. Kenya attained Category 1 status from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 23rd February 2017, after complying with international safety standards under the Agency’s International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) programme. The successful touch down by Kenya Airways’ Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in New York’s JF Kennedy International airport and later back to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was a historic moment for Kenya. These direct flights, will shave up to seven hours off the tortuous journey that usually involves long layovers in Europe or the Middle East. It will now be possible to have dinner in Nairobi and breakfast in Newyork. Kenya strategically stands to gain economically from these direct flights in several ways. First, Kenya must now leverage on the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) to improve our balance of trade with the US. AGOA allows for duty-free export of over 6,000 products, but a recent study shows that Kenyan exporters have not fully taken advantage of this platform.

This is why Brand Kenya recently launched a spirited campaign dubbed the County Branding Initiative. Each of the 47 counties has a unique selling point. Our commitment as Brand Kenya is to transform counties into marketable brands. Lastly, Kenya stands to gain in terms of investment and trade. The KQ direct flight will have a direct impact on the Kenyan economy as it is expected to generate jobs by boosting trade between Kenya and the US, both in terms of goods and services. Kenya is open for business to well-positioned US companies with strategic objectives of tapping into the growing potential of emerging markets in East and Central Africa. Business trips no longer have to take a whole week because of long hours of travel. Counties must also position themselves strategically for investment and trade. The recent ease of doing business report by the World Bank 2019 indicated that Kenya had greatly improved in the ease of doing business.

This may be as a result of various reasons, including trade financing, non-tariff barriers, and climate change among others. Brand Kenya is commited to work with all relevant state agencies and the private sector to ensure that Kenyan exporters and traders are well equipped to compete at the international markets.

Last year, Kenya moved 12 places in the ease of doing business. This year, Kenya moved 19 places to 61 out of 190 countries that were ranked. These reforms in Kenya’s business sector are a great boost in how investors view and interact with Kenya.

The launch of the Made In Kenya Brand Mark is one such initiative that will help promote Kenya as a significant country of origin.

Kenya continues to position herself as a competitive and transformative brand. We welcome and urge all investors, traders and tourists to Make It Kenya. Our promise to you, is that the experience will be rewarding beyond imagination.

Further, Kenya stands to attract tourists from the US. Kenya receives about 120,000 visitors from the US every year, making it the 2nd biggest tourism source market after United Kingdom. With increased accessibility through the KQ direct flights, US can easily become Kenya’s No. 1 tourist source.

Ag. CEO, Brand Kenya Board Ms Floice Mukabana

The tourism sector total contribution to employment in 2016 was more than 1m jobs, which includes those “employed through the supply chain and induced investment impact. With increased and constant growth of the tourism sector, the potential for job creation is enormous.

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 19


FOREWORD www.kws.go.ke www.kws.go.ke

Ranger Diaries: “I walk the talk. The talk that is wildlife conservation and protection. Most times, the road is tough and the task challenging. Other times, the walk is sloppy and steep. It’s a journey of resilience and a myriad of sacrifices. Under horrendous weather and difficult terrains, I ranger on. My salary is paid through taxes but I pay it with my life on the line just so our wildlife can thrive in a world full of societal misfits, who hunt down and maim our national treasures and pride for selfish gain. My beret fits different feathers for different terrains; I’m a ranger, a son, a daughter, a brother, a sister, a friend, a husband, a wife, a father, a mother, a colleague and a wildlife warrior. I’m the unshaken, still, shrill voice of the voiceless in the world of the wild, and through me, the wildlife and its habitats shall speak. I will stand for them even if I limp in my gait. I answered God’s call to tend and nurture His creation. I’m not backing out”. – These are possible words from a Kenya Wildlife Service Ranger in the line of active duty. The 16th day of December each year since 2005, Kenya Wildlife Service has honored her living and departed heroes and heroines of wildlife conservation. KWS staff, families of the departed and the general public gather near the heroes’ monument that was erected in honor of the heroes to be celebrated posthumously. The concept of the KWS Heroes Day was borne out of necessity when the management realized that in the line of duty, the organization has since its inception in 1989 lost a lot men and women while they were undertaking their mandate as espoused in Cap 376 of the Wildlife Act. We are forever indebted to the heroic men and valiant women in the active duty of wildlife protection and conservation. Let us as a country never forget the sacrifices that these patriotic Kenyans made when duty called even when they are long departed. Right at the entrance of the KWS Hqs complex stands a statue of a wildlife ranger armed to the teeth for the battle field. Any keen eye will be quick to realize that the statue is not under any form of shade. This quite paints the picture on the ground. A ranger’s duty is all weather, rain or shine, hell or high water, the battle gear is intact, from the beret to the jungle boots. The statue stands tall, not cowed by the harsh weather or horrendous terrains. It’s a sign of dedication and

20 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

allegiance. The monumental statue stands to remember, honor and celebrate, the brave and gallant Kenya Wildlife Service serving rangers in their commitment to the management and protection of our precious wildlife. As the wildlife and conservation baton is passed on to us by the departed, we must work progressively to lift our beloved nation to a higher destiny and new plateau of compassion and love for nature and our precious heritage through noble expression of care while protecting wildlife posterity. The task ahead of us is enormous, and it is for us the living to dedicate this statue to the great task remaining before us and to those who continue to fight for conservation courageously. Courage faces fear and thereby masters it. We must constantly build dykes of courage to hold back the flood of fear. Let our success be judged by the quality of our service and relationship to our fragile planet as we serve our country. Let us arise today with greater readiness. Let us stand with more determination and resolve. Let us move on in the days ahead to make conservation in Kenya what it ought to be. We have an opportunity to make a difference, let us arise to it and fulfill this great God’s calling. Follow us on Facebook: Kenya Wildlife Service Twitter:@kwskenya Instagram:@kenyawildlifeservice Website: http://www.kws.go.ke/ Charles Musyoki, Ag. Director General Kenya Wildlife Service


The World’s

WILDLIFE Capital NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK A short drive out of Nairobi’s central business district is the Nairobi National Park. Wide open grass plains and backdrop of the city scrapers, scattered acacia bush play host to a wide variety of wildlife including the endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded. Visitors can enjoy the park’s picnic sites, historical monuments like the ivory burning sites as well hold corporate events, bush dinners/breakfast, weddings, team building sessions, video and film production. “Come discover the quickest safari experience in the World “

www.kws.go.ke Toll Free No: 0800-597-000

Kenya Wildlife Service

@kwskenya Kenyawildlifeservice Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 21


www.museums.or.ke

FOREWORD

The holiday season is once again upon us, as we close this year. The National Museums of Kenya have had a tremendous year of achievements and thanks to our visitors we have been able to receive contributions towards heritage conservation through our admission charges that go a long way in helping us keep afloat and for that on behalf of NMK I say Ahsante.

We are working closely with the KENGEN foundation on the decommissioned Ndula power plant in Thika to turn it into a museum. The power plant has two horizontal trancis turbines with twin runners each, driving two generators. The machines were commissioned in 1924, with an installed capacity of 2.0mw. The station draws water, for generation Thika River.

At the Nairobi National Museum, we are excited to be hosting a new exhibition that will be with us for a long time- Karanja. And what’s that? You understand it as a Kikuyu name who was Karanja? Karanja was a 43 year old black rhino bejeweled with a five kilogram and three and a half kilogram horn. The Italian embassy and the Italian Institute of Culture worked with the National Museums of Kenya to mount his bones for a period of three years as a reminder of our commitment towards conserving Kenya’s natural heritage. Visitors can now be treated to view his skeleton at the Nairobi National Museum.

Finally, the Kenyan and Ethiopian governments are in talks to develop a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) study to establish mitigation and impact of different activities affecting Lake Turkana. The NMK will offer an oversight role in the exercise in order to come up with a workable plan for both countries to conserve the lake. Wherever this holiday finds you, pencil a visit to a museum or historical site near you. I take this opportunity to wish all our readers and indeed visitor Happy Holidays. Karibuni!

On matters World Heritage, following the successful listing of Thimlich Ohinga as a World heritage Site, we have embarked on the nomination of Gedi ruins to join this prestigious World Heritage list . Gedi remains the first intensively studied site on the coast. It was first visited by Sir John Kirk, a British resident of Zanzibar in 1884. Over forty years later in 1927, it was gazetted as a Historical Monument. Two years later in 1929, it was declared a “protected monument” and in the late thirties, the Public Works Department carried out work on preservation of its crumbling walls. Gedi, was soon after repairs in 1948, declared a National park and an Archaeologist appointed as warden. Thus, the first archaeological work at Gedi began under the direction of James Kirkman followed by the first publication of the site. In 1969, Gedi’s administration was taken over by the Museum Trustees.

22 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

KIBUNJIA, NYAGA MZALENDO, Ph.D., EBS. Director General, National Museums of Kenya

ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 23


www.drmattress.co.ke

FOR ALL YOUR INDIVIDUAL & HOTEL

PILLOW NEEDS With over 70+ years in the manufacture and supply of the highest-quality international standard sleep solutions in East Africa, Dr. Mattress offers a spectacular range of products & services that perfectly cater for any and all of your indiviudal or hospitality project needs. Their consultancy based approach not only educates customers on the importance of a good nights’ sleep (and the impact it has on ones health), but more importantly guides customers to find the right solutions to meet their specific requirments. Everytime! Correct spinal alignment is essential. We are all prone to rolling over in bed, hence it is great a time to ask yourself whether you really get a comfortable nights’ sleep. In general we all either sleep on our front, back or sides; and the posture we adopt in bed is the most important factor when choosing the right pillow.

FRONT SLEEPERS If you prefer to sleep on your front, your head should ideally be almost level with the mattress - but not quite. That's why we recommend a softer pillow that provides comfort as well as gentle support.

BACK SLEEPERS However good your posture may be whilst standing up, your head still needs to be slightly raised and properly supported when you lie down on your back in bed. For this reason we recommend a medium-to-firm pillow for back sleepers, with a medium to deep profile.

24 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

SIDE SLEEPERS The distance from your head to the mattress is going to be far greater than if you sleep on your back or your front. This distance depends on the width of your shoulders, and your neck is always in a more comfortable state when kept fairly straight. For side sleepers start by using two pillows: a deeper-to-firmer one on the bed, and a softer-to-slimmer below your head.


- PILLOW TYPES FOAM CHIP PILLOWS The Classic Foam Chip Pillow provides a medium-to-firm support. These pillows are also compact and ideal for travelling with and camping too.

SIZES: 600 gsm 500gsm

SILICON FIBRE PILLOWS Silicon Fibre Pillows offer superior support and comfort, with an added advantage of being easy to maintain with washable covers. These premium pillows keep shape (no need to worry about lumping) featuring the high-levels of comfort & luxury.

SIZES: 1100 gsm 900 gsm 500gsm

BALL FIBRE PILLOWS

MEMORY FOAM PILLOWS

Ball Fibre is a great synthetic pillow filling, its mechanical crimp gives excellent loft and resilience. Suitable for both front and back sleepers.

When choosing a pillow, men tend to have wider shoulders than women and so may be more suited to the Contour XL. A woman's neck curvature tends to be shallower so medium may be more appropriate. In the end it is all down to personal preference and what you feel most comfortable with.

SIZES: 1000 gsm 650gsm Anti-Snore

SIZES: Contour XL Contour Classic Back Seat

ADVANTAGES OF MEMORY FOAM PILLOWS

• Pain & Pressure Relief: The closely contoured-fit and memory foam tends to reduce pain and alleviate pressure on the head, neck and shoulders more than other pillow types. • Support: Memory foam generally provides enough support for most sleepers due to its conforming and shape-retaining properties. • Noise: Memory foam pillows are virtually silent when compressed, making them a great option for individuals who easily awaken during the night.

MEMORY FOAM PILLOWS ARE GENERALLY SUITABLE FOR THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF SLEEPERS: • People who sleep on their side, since this position requires added support for spinal alignment and targeted pressure relief. • People who prefer to sleep on pillows that have a relatively high-loft, and/or pillows rated between Medium and Firm. • People who sleep with a pillow between their knees in addition to their primary head pillow due to back or leg pain. FOR MORE INFO VISIT: WWW.DRMATTRESS.CO.KE FIND A DR. MATTRESS NEAR YOU: Ruiru HQ / Factory Outlet | +254 (715) 30 30 30 | Thika Superhighway | Nairobi Yaya Centre | +254 (791) 183 606 |Argwings Kodhek Rd. | Nairobi Westlands | +254 (795) 749 375 | ABC Place, Waiyaki Way | Nairobi Parklands | +254 (725) 886 766 | Park Place, Limuru Rd. | Nairobi Mombasa Rd | +254 (702) 163 705 | Sameer Business Park | Southfield Mall, Embakasi Showroom: +254 (701) 500 163 | Nairobi Mombasa | +254 (795) 749 376 | Epic Business Park, Links Rd. Malindi | +254 (702) 500 166 | Lamu Rd. Eldoret | +254 (795) 749 381 | Siddai House Next to Poa Place, Uganda Rd. | Rupas Mall: +254 (740) 050 007

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 25


NEWS BITS DR. MATTRESS – A GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PARTNER FOR ‘BETTER SLEEP, BETTER HEALTH AND THE MOST COMFORTABLE BEDS IN THE WORLD With over 70+ years in the manufacture and supply of the highest-quality international standard sleep solutions in East Africa, Dr. Mattress offers a spectacular range of products & services that perfectly cater for any and all of your individual or hospitality project needs. Their consultancy based approach not only educates customers on the importance of a good nights’ sleep (and the impact it has on one’s health), but more importantly guides customers to find the right solutions to meet their specific requirements. Every time! Correct spinal alignment is essential. We are all prone to rolling over in bed, hence it is great a time to ask yourself whether you really get a comfortable nights’ sleep. In general we all either sleep on our front, back or sides; and the posture we adopt in bed is the most important factor when choosing the right pillow. We recommend a softer pillow that provides comfort as well as gentle support for front sleepers and medium-to-firm pillow for back sleepers, with a medium to deep profile and ultimately for side sleepers, we recommend two pillows: a deeper-to-firmer one on the bed, and a softer-to-slimmer below your head. Dr. Mattress!! HOTLINE: +254715303030, SHOWROOMS IN NAIROBI:+254725886766 (Parklands Park Place Limuru Rd. NAIROBI), +254702163705 (Semco Industrial Park, Mombasa Rd. NAIROBI). SHOWROOMS IN MALINDI: +254701500166 (Lamu Rd. Malindi) OR VISIT WWW.DRMATTRESSES.CO.KE

TURKISH AIRLINES, 85 YEARS, ALWAYS IN STYLE - GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TRAVEL PARTNER OF THE SEASON Turkish Airlines brings a new elegant style to the skies with its new cabin crew uniforms. Celebrating its 85th anniversary, Turkish Airlines renewed its brand uniforms by collaborating with famous fashion designer Ettore Bilotta for two years. After moving to Istanbul New Airport, the entire crew will be wearing its new uniforms that blend style and functionality. Now is the time for a new change for Turkish Airlines which improves its services with new technologies and welcomes you with pleasant surprises, extensive innovations, and changes. The global carrier will continue to carry you around the world with a series of changes which was initiated as of 29th October 2018, when it moved to Istanbul New Airport. The most striking of these changes is the unification of uniforms for cabin, cockpit, ground services personnel, and in-flight chef under one design to present a more holistic brand experience. The preparation of the new uniforms began in 2016 when Turkish Airlines started to seek a new uniform with an elegant and modern design and colours which will be comfortable to wear for the cabin crew. Turkish Airlines is always in style, for the last 85 years, which gives the Go PlacesTM highly recommended travel partner an upper hand across the world. TO BOOK A FLIGHT VISIT WWW.TURKISHAIRLINES.COM 26 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


NEWS BITS UNIQUE HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES WITH SUN AFRICA HOTELS – GRAND, SOPHISTICATED GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED HOTEL GROUP AND ACCOMODATION PARTNER OF THE SEASON Enjoy your holidays experience like no other with Sun Africa Hotels this season and have every moment etched in your mind for a lifetime. Sun Africa Hotels offers the perfect combination of bush and scenic safari holidays with varied choices and the presence of hotels that makes it simple for business and leisure travellers to a fast choice. Our aim is to offer the highest standards of hospitality and service at all of our hotels and lodges located at the most idyllic locations in Kenya. This allows travellers see the best that Kenya has to offer. Sun Africa Hotels is an expanding chain of some of the finest hotels and lodges in East Africa. It is one of the fastest emerging hotel chains in Kenya. From the best bars, unique game drives and exquisite spa’s to breath-taking balloon safaris, Sun Africa Hotels give you the best mix of holiday experience you’ll ever encounter. TO BOOK YOUR HIGHLY UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES TODAY, CALL (+254) 703 048 000 OR VISIT WWW.SUNAFRICAHOTELS.COM... ENJOY!

SKYWARD EXPRESS EXPANDS ITS ROUTE BASE TO UKUNDA - GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED CONVENIENT, AFFORDABLE & RELIABLE AIRLINE OF THE SEASON Skyward Express expands its flight route base to Ukunda, which gives travellers a chance to enjoy the famous and exotic powdery beaches and wildlife safaris including business adventures at Ukunda. Skyward Express is a choice carrier serving four emerging key tourist destinations for both business & leisure travellers namely: Eldoret, Lodwar, Mombasa, Lamu and now Lamu. Skyward Express serves these destinations from their customer’s preferred airport in Nairobi, Wilson Airport. At the wake of increased competition, Skyward Express is determined to become the market leader in the region by enhancing its products and services to ensure that they stay ahead of the competition. As we enjoy the current high season we recognize that we would never have been where we are without your support. With this in mind, and taking cognizance of the fact that our other routes are well served, Skyward Express is pleased to announce that it will be flying to the coastal city of Ukunda every Friday and Sunday from 16th November 2018. TO FLY HIGHER SKIES FOR EVEN LOWER RATES CALL+254709786000/0740410700 OR EMAIL: reservations@skywardexpress.co.ke OR VISIT WWW.SKYWARDEXPRESS.CO.KE Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 27


NEWS BITS SAROVA® RESORTS & GAME LODGES – GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TRAVEL EXPERIENCE OF THE SEASON For the past 44 years, our drive and commitment has been and continues to be the ability to offer exquisite African hospitality. This has largely informed our strategy for customer retention and acquisition through new product development, innovation and guest recognition. Our joy is in our guests enjoying a wonderful experience that will forever be etched in their memories. As an award winning group hotelier and the leading luxury brand in the world, Sarova® Resorts & Game Lodges is therefore delighted to announce the introduction of our new upscale brand ‘Sarova Signature Collection’. This brand extension gives us an opportunity to offer our guests an unparalleled and unforgettable luxury experience in exclusive and serene locations. According to Sarova Hotels’ Managing Director, Jimi Kariuki, “Today’s customers are looking for different and positively memorable experiences when they stay in a hotel or in a lodge. Our focus as a business will be to continue to understand these changing trends and new market segments better and to become more customer-centric in our service delivery. Sarova Signature Collection is the beginning of this journey.” FOR RESERVATIONS AT THE AWARD-WINNING SAROVA HOTELS CALL:+254 20 276 7000/+254 709 111 000 OR LOG ONTO WWW.SAROVAHOTELS.COM

TAMARIND TREE HOTEL - GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED DINING PARTNERS OF THE SEASON Make this festive season a holiday of a lifetime with Tamarind Tree Hotel. Enjoy sumptuous meals with family and friends during these special holidays and have every moment etched in your memories. From Christmas office parties, Christmas Eve lunch & dinner to new year’s eve party at The Carnivore with fabulous dinner served in deluxe settings, its truly an exciting holiday here at Tamarind Tree Hotel. Tamarind Tree Hotel is ideally located just 5 kms to the southwest of Nairobi within the spacious Carnivore grounds and its iconic Carnivore Restaurant. The hotel offers easy access to all parts of the city, its national park, as well as to the country’s many diverse attractions via the neighbouring Wilson Airport and Southern Bypass. The nearby Langata and Karen suburbs are among the liveliest and most popular in Nairobi with world-class shopping malls and excellent restaurants. Tamarind Tree Hotel is perfect for both the business and leisure traveller. Our world-class amenities will ensure your meetings are effortless and successful, whilst our outstanding leisure facilities and genuine service ensures that all our guests experience the very best of Tamarind hospitality. TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS AT THE TAMARIND VILLAGE, SIMPLY CALL (+254) 733 623 583/722205160 EMAIL: RESERVATIONS.VILLAGE@TAMARIND.CO.KE OR VISIT WWW.TAMARIND.CO.KE 28 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


NEWS BITS MARA ENGAI WILDERNESS LODGE – GO PLACES™ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED MASAI MARA UNIQUE PROPERTY We present you to one of the Go Places™ highly recommended partners Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge. This unique lodge is nestled amongst pristine Kenyan Ravine forest on the Oloololo (Siria) Escarpment. Mara Engai overlooks the amazing Masai Mara National Reserve and Wildebeest Migration Route, with around 120km of unbroken views across the vast savannah of the Masai Mara. In Maasai belief, Mara means the spotted Land, whilst Engai is the Maasai God who created what has been labelled as the 7th Wonder of the World. Welcome to this new and distinctly– it is simply breath-taking. Wonder at the most amazing views over the Masai Mara and Great Migration route from your own private veranda. Indulge in fine dining, with delicious treats made from fresh produce from the lodge’s organic gardens. Get back to nature with thrilling game drives and experience thousands of years of Maasai tradition. It’s Safari time and they have put together some exciting flying packages that include Game Drives, Bush Breakfast and Dinner as well as their signature Sundowner. TO BOOK YOUR UNFORGETTABLE SAFARI SIMPLY CALL: UK and International +447779110662 Kenya +254726091330 or VISIT WWW.MARAENGAI.INFO

‘ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES ALLOWS YOU TO BOOK FLIGHT WITH A PREMIUM APP’ - A GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TRAVEL PARTNER OF THE SEASON Go PlacesTM highly recommended travel partner Ethiopian Airlines has now redefined the way you travel. Renovate your travel experience with the brand-new Ethiopian Airlines Mobile App and enjoy exclusive discounts. Get a chance to make your booking to more than 115 Ethiopian destinations and mark your journey with the latest fleet using Ethiopian Mobile App by following simple steps. Check in is now a click away using this new mobile app. You can easily check-in by selecting your booking from the trip summary and also download your boarding pass with the Mobile App. Manage your trip and see the summary of your past and upcoming trips on the mobile application. Select your preferred seat and amend your travel documents; it is only a tap away. Enjoy the modern design of the new Ethiopian Mobile App that is designed to make your next travel easy and more fun. Get connected to the Go PlacesTM highly recommended travel partner Ethiopian Airlines from wherever you are on the premium mobile app. This exceptional App is developed by Ethiopian Airlines’ team of expertise who have spent days and nights to give you the best digital experience. TO BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH OUR AIRLINE PARTNER TODAY, DOWNLOAD THE APP FROM GOOGLE PLAY STORE OR APPLE STORE OR VISIT WWW. ETHIOPIANAIRLINES.COM Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 29


NEWS BITS FAIRVIEW HOTEL - GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED DINING PARTNERS OF THE SEASON Wine and dine this Christmas only with the luxurious with Fairview Hotel - Go PlacesTM highly recommended dining partners of the season. Enjoy excellent dishes this festive season, sourced and prepared from only the freshest locally available ingredients, a well curated wine list and unparalleled cocktails. A corner of Italy In the heart of Upper Hill Nairobi, Fairview Hotel, gives you a chance to experience authentic Italian cuisine that will have you saying delizioso augmented by a live piano player, at our Giuseppe restaurant right next door – all while enjoying a stay at Town Lodge Upper Hill. Simply Delizioso! Topping up the fine dining experience, get a unusual chance to enjoy the unique blend of Kenya’s charming colonial past and all the needs and wants of today’s modern traveller. Experience the matchless serenity and tranquility that no one else can promise in the city. With a strategic location allowing for easy access to and from any part of the city, this Go PlacesTM recommended luxury hotel provides the perfect venue for holding virtually any type of corporate, business or leisure event. TO ENJOY A FIRST-RATE SERVICE AT THE MOST-LUXURIOUS FAIRVIEW HOTEL, Call: +254202881574 OR EMAIL: fbanqueting@ clhg.com

SILVERSTONE AIR SERVICES LIMITED – GO PLACESTM RECOMMENDED BUDGE AIRLINE NOW FLYING DIRECT WILSON TO MOMBASA TWICE DAILY Silverstone Air Services limited is a domestic airline providing you with the finest flight experiences across the Kenyan skies, for exceptionally affordable flights daily from Wilson Nairobi to Lodwar, Ukunda, Mombasa, Malindi, Kisumu and Lamu. Silverstone Air also provides complete private travel and chartered cargo solutions on a full range of exceptional aircraft. Silverstone is committed to providing quality services, premium value to customer working with relevant industry stakeholders and an outstanding teamwork ethic. The airline works towards propelling itself to become one of the very best local and eventually regional and international flight companies, bringing brining to the skies a wealth of world-class expertise. We provide you with an unparalleled ability to source any aircraft, when and where you need it. Our flight services offer you great value for your money in terms of afford ability, safety and convenience. Tembea Kenya with Go PlacesTM highly recommended airlines and enjoy the best rates and convenience this season! Fly Silverstone Air… TO MAKE YOUR FLIGHT RESERVATION ON ONE OF THE KENYA’S BEST AIRLINES, SIMPLY CALL +254 733870871/777 710 700 OR VISIT WWW.SILVERSTONEAIR.COM

30 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


NEWS BITS EXPLORE WESTERN KENYA WITH TEKWA - GO PLACESTM HIGHLY RECOMMENDED INTERNATIONAL TOUR COMPANY Take this holiday season as a great opportunity to explore the gems and sprawling jewels of western Kenya. Familiarize with the Western Circuit which was launched colourfully by the Kenyan Government in 2002. The large varieties of the sites around Lake Victoria, including limitless beauty of nature and the interest of local people to preserve as well as to advance, will marvel you. An 8-day-tour through Kakamega, Vihiga, Nyanza and Siaya takes you comfortably by van on good roads to Kakamega Forest, to spectaculars traditional sacred sites (Crying Stone of Ilesi, Munguma Caves, Kit Mikayi, Lake Simbi, Tiriki Forests), some of which are also breath-taking geological phenomenon, to a bustling modern city (Kisumu), to a World Heritage Site (Thimlich Ohinga) and to two modern institutions set up and run by local people with a strong aim to improve the quality of life of their own people (Rusinga Island Trust, Auma Obama Foundation. Get up close and personal with the rich history of Thimlich Ohinga, a World Heritage Site built over 600 years ago, which will make you envisage a mini version of the Great Ruins of ancient Zimbabwe. Enjoy your stay in one of the modern and comfortable 3 to 4 star hotels. Tekwa Cultural Enterprises PHONE: +254 715 806 620 | +254 733 822 754 | E-Mail: info@tekwa.co.ke Website: www.tekwa.co.ke

AMREF – GO PLACESTM RECOMMENDED WORLD-CLASS AMBULANCE SERVICE AT YOUR DOORSTEP AMREF Flying Doctors, the leading award winning air ambulance service provider in East Africa launched Cessna Citation XLS jet. “This is a great progress that brings to an end to the years of depending on a thirdparty aircraft provider for the long-haul evacuation and repatriation flights,” says Dr Bettina Vadera, Chief Executive & Medical Director, AMREF Flying Doctors. On 23rd November, AMREF Flying Doctors launched the first of our two fully-owned, dedicated jet air ambulance, Cessna Citation XLS (christened, Sir Archie) and the new Operations and Emergency Control Centre. AMREF Flying Doctors is a company limited wholly owned by AMREF Health Africa, which is the leading international health development non-governmental organization based in Africa, headquartered in Nairobi. The acquisition of the two jets is one of the biggest milestones in AMREF Flying Doctors since transformation from a programme within the AMREF Health Africa, to a company limited by guarantee. With these acquisitions, AFD has made a leap from being a medical evacuation service operating a fleet of turboprop aircraft locally and regionally to an internationally recognised and accredited air ambulance provider that owns and operates a modern fleet of aircraft including two jets. Ensure that, even as you travel around East Africa during this special h=oliday season with your family when fully-covered by our highly recommended Go PlacesTM partner AMREF and award-winning world-class ambulance services at your call. FOR FURTHER INFO & TO SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PRESTIGIOUS SERVICE CALL: +254706 811 811/ +254 733 811 811 OR SIMPLY VISIT: WWW.FLYINGDOC.COM Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 31


DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

Whether it is a kitchen upgrade, a whole interior design, we produce the foremost spectacular, timeless, solution - oriented designs within the market today, thereby providing a more productive work enviroment and contributing to back-of-house profitability.

CONSULTATION AND SITE SURVEY

We offer professional site survey and consultation through our experienced specialists, we conduct a full site survey with accurate measurements of the exisiting site. Then we will advise you on the project, its potential with steps and procudures concerned. Kitchen and Laundry fitouts are customized to ensure a project is built according to architectural and engineering design plans. We take pride in our work and working with us means a quality job, every time.

CHOICE OF EQUIPMENT

We offer experienced advice on choices of equipment for all operations in the food service industry. By making the right choice and investment on equipment, you will be able to experience the benefits over the long-term.

32 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

SITE INSTALLATION AND TRAINING At Papyrus Africa Limited our experienced technicians ensure proper and timely site installations. It is vital that all food processing equipement are well installed. As it ensures correct operations, avoid excessive damages to equipment and maintain safety of those handling the equipment. Upon installation and prior to handover, your staff will be trained on equipment functions.

SPARE AND MAINTENANCE Papyrus Africa Limited maintains stock of spare parts. We aim at ensuring proper functioning of all equipement we supply and offer Annual Maintenance Contracts to our customers.


MEDICAL

Tanita precision weighing and body equipment worldwide products are widely used within the scientific research, healthcare fitness industries and most recently experiencing rapid growth within the slimming, pharmacy and occupational health markets. Tanita is the only manufacturer producing precision weighing and body composition devices for both professional/ mediacl field as for home usage

RETAIL

Dibal products cover all the weighing and labelind needs in small family concerns as well as in large grocery retail stores. Compact weighing scales, counting scales and precision scales, suitable for use in logistic and production enviroments. Weighing for all logistic needs: from reception, storage and movement within the warehouse, to the dispatch of all kinds of goods.

SUPERMARKET

INTRAC operates in the field of shopping and services the small, medium and large scale distribution. Production includes shelving and check-out counters for any commercial purpose, from specialised to non-specialised stores. Metal processing plants are of advanced conception, moulding and folding lines are among the most modern in the market, and complies with the more rigid safety and enviromental standards.

HOSPITALITY (Coffee Equipment)

A perfect cup of coffee can make almost any moment more wonderful. Learning from restaurant operators, coffee lovers has helped us find the best brands. Whether it’s traditional café company cafeteria or top-end hotel: our wonderful product range from all over the world innovative and efficient products for you, your employee and your customers. That’s the passion that inspires and pushes us to Make It Happen.

CATERING

(Commercial Kitchen Equipment)

OLIS has been a well-known company name in the catering industry for its innovative approach focused mainly on technology and design. OLIS has developed a new concept of space, fuction, attention to detail and materials which is well expressed in the new Diamante Line. Just as the best recipes can be invented anew , we aim to continue satisfying and surprising you.

FALCON ROAD, NAIROBI, KENYA INFO@PAPYRUS.CO.KE | WWW.PAPYRUS.CO.KE Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 33


In Tribute to CHAIRMAN OF SAROVA HOTELS, WIFE, DAUGHTER & DAUGHTER-IN-LAW

The Go Places™ Team would like to express sincere condolences to the family, friends, and relatives of the late Sarova Hotels Chairman Mohinder Singh Vohra, his wife Swarna Devi Vohra, their daughter Reena Kaur Vohra and daughter-in-law Atu Vohra. We wish their son, Saveer Vohra a quick recovery. This is a deep loss that is felt by the tourism and hospitality fraternity. The chairman, together with the family, leaves behind a legacy of passion that was sincerely felt on a county, national and international level.

A legacy of Excellence…

Mohinder Singh Vohra was a cofounder of Kenya’s hotels chain, the Sarova Group. The Vohra family has been instrumental in the growth of Kenya’s tourism and hospitality industry. In 1974, the Vohra’s acquired the Ambassadeur Hotel on Moi Avenue, Nairobi, in partnership with the family of Mr Kariuki, former Kirinyaga Central MP. The partnership led to the birth of Sarova Group, starting off with a single property in Nairobi to having one of the largest collections of properties in the country. The hotels, resorts and game lodges under the group include Sarova Stanley and the Sarova Panafric, in Nairobi and Sarova Woodlands in Nakuru, The Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge, Spirit of the Masai Mara and Sarova Mara Game Camp in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Sarova Hotels, Resorts & Game Lodges currently has over a thousand rooms across ten hotels in East Africa, with a staff complement of over one thousand people.

#SarovaHotels 34 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Tel: 0709 786 000 | Email: reservations@skywardexpress.co.ke | Web: www.skywardexpress.co.ke

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 35


Hop on our flights and explore our

4 New Destinations December 2018

Moscow

Istanbul

Best Airline in Africa

36 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Manchester

Amman


NEWS BITS

TRAVEL

Section

FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS... 38

Silverstone Air – Direct Flights Wilson-

39

Sarova Whitesands - Festive Beach

40

Skywards Fly Mombasa – Lamu As Low

41

Sarova Woodlands – Festive Getaway in

42

Fairview Hotel – Tranquillity, Serenity &

44

Tamarind Tree Hotel – Christmas and New

46

Sun Africa Hotels – Unique Experiences at

Mombasa Twice Daily Getaway as… Nakuru Peace in the Heart of Nairobi Year and the Tamarind Hotel Unique Properties

48

Mara Engai Lodge – Resident Christmas

49

TEKWA Cultural Enterprises – Explore

52 53

Sarova Hotels – Festive Safari Getaway

54 56 58 60

Go PlacesTM Travel Packages

62

Seychelles - Discover Why Seychelles

Specials Western Kenya with TEKWA Ethiopian Airlines – Our New Mobile Application – Destination at Your Fingertips 48 Hours in - Da Nang Vietnam 24 Hours in - Antwerp Belgium Gamewatchers - Lake Nakuru National Park Beach are Voted the World’s Finest

Go Places™ travel BOOKING & recommendation desks: Tel: +254 719 764000, +254 786 974634 | web: www.goplacesdigital.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 37


FLY DIRECT

WILSON-MOMBASA Daily Flight X2

BOOK NOW Kenrail Towers, Mezzanine 3 Msa Town Office: Mezz.Floor, Ambalal House

0740 300 300 | 0791 300 300 | 0740 100 100 reservations@silverstoneair.co.ke | sales@silverstoneair.co.ke www.silverstoneair.com 38 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 39


Fly Mombasa - Lamu from as low as

3,500kshs

one way

Convenient . Aordable . Reliable

Email: reservations@skywardexpress.co.ke Tel: 0709 786 000 Emergency Number: 0740 410 700 Web: www.skywardexpress.co.ke 40 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 41


Tranquility, Serenity & Peace IN THE HEART OF NAIROBI

Fairview Hotel is owned and operated by the City Lodge Hotel Group. It is Nairobi's most popular four star hotel with 127 exquisite accommodation rooms dotted with beautiful antiques. The hotel caters for dedicated business and leisure travellers with various room categories set in five acres of beautiful convivial gardens. All room rates include bed, breakfast, Wi-Fi and all taxes. Service is obliging and unobtrusive that unravels an unusual feel of elegance. The dĂŠcor of the rooms is plush and quietly ritzy. We are situated 2 kilometres out of the Nairobi central business district in the Upper Hill area.

MEETINGS & CONFERENCES There are various conference facilities which offer different packages to your requirements. The packages include an international buffet lunch, coffee/tea breaks and state of the art equipment including projectors, PA systems and stationery to ensure seamless connectivity and hassle-free presentations. Free Wi-Fi is also available to each participant. Elevate your meetings, conferences, presentations and events into the professional realm and leave behind an impression that lasts. 42 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


WINE & DINE

Our award winning restaurants are host to in-house as well as external guests. The restaurants cater for our international audience as well as for local guests by offering a variety of cuisines. All ingredients are sourced locally to ensure we only provide the freshest meals to all our guests. Our beverage menu offers exquisite cocktails, local draft beers as well as wines from around the world.

The variety of cuisines that all our restaurants offer has played an important role in ensuring ultimate guest satisfaction. Pango Gourmet Brasserie is always offering a distinguished class, which sets it far above competing restaurants. Pwani Pool Restaurant has focused on delivering quality meals in a relaxed environment, which is a perfect place for guests to unwind after a day in the office. Guiseppe Restaurant utilizes original Italian recipes in order to offer authentic Italian cuisine. We have a well-stocked wine cellar that holds a wide array of international wines.

MUKUTAN GARDEN CAFÉ Enjoy our delicious and fresh food at the lovely, shady and pristine courtyard. This is a great place for a business lunch which offers a grab and go selection. Get a chance to savour the Makutan deli styled café served in a relaxed atmosphere. Bring your beloved family and friends to the Makutan Garden Café this season and sample our special offers of the season in a fantastic outdoor setting. You will also get a rare chance to enjoy impressively towering sandwiches and freshly-baked pastries.

Fairview Hotel, Bishops Road, P.O Box 40842, 00100, Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: (254-20) 2881000 | Fax: (254-20) 2721320 Email: fbook@clhg.com | www.clhg.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 43


CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR AT

Celebrated for its iconic restaurants, landmark locations and exceptional service, The Tamarind Group has consistently set the bar for quintessential Kenyan hospitality. The Tamarind Group’s wealth of history is known from signature dishes at Tamambo and Carnivore Restaurants, to the modern day chic cuisine introduced to us by The Roast, and the warm familiarity felt at the Tamarind Village. It is from this iconic precedence that the Tamarind Tree Hotel grows. The Hotel is perfect for both the business and leisure traveller, especially during this festive season. With world class amenities, local art adorning the walls and creative modern interior design in addition to exceptional staff, there’s no better spot to feel the pulse of Nairobi.

ACCOMMODATION The comfort of our guests is of paramount importance and Tamarind Tree Hotel’s commitment is reflected in the quality and finishing of every room. Each of the 160 guest rooms and suites has been exquisitely designed using modern fittings whilst expressing an authentic earthy feel for a dedicated traveller on holiday this festive season. All rooms are air conditioned, have complimentary WIFI; a 43-inch flat-screen television with international satellite channels; complimentary in-room tea and coffee facilities and double-glazed windows to ensure each guest a peaceful night’s sleep. Additionally there are 4 rooms for the physically challenged. The Standard Rooms are an impressive 32m² making them the largest hotel rooms in Nairobi.

44 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


WINE & DINE The Tamarind Tree Hotel offers a variety of wining and dining venues this festive season, where you can enjoy your Christmas & New Years Brunch , lunch and Dinner. Whether relaxing over afternoon tea in the Dawa Lounge, sipping your favourite cocktail by the pool, or dining at the iconic Tamambo Restaurant, there are endless opportunities to indulge your every taste. Sample light bites at the 24-hour Duka Coffee Shop with an impressive selection of fresh and healthy snacks, or take a short nature walk from the hotel to visit Tamarind Group’s world famous Carnivore Restaurant, renowned for its “Beast of a Feast” all-you-can-eat meat experience and entertainment.

MEETINGS & EVENTS Tree Hotel will take care of all your business needs during your stay in Nairobi. The hotel is equipped with modern conference facilities, which can accommodate small groups in a boardroom setting, such as end of year office party and up to 250 people in a magnificent ballroom. Meeting facilities are backed by the latest modern audio-visual equipment including: high speed Internet access, inbuilt LCD projector, inbuilt projection screen with laser pointer, inbuilt PA system, bespoke dining arrangements etc. All your events can be organised by a highly experienced event management team. The adjacent grounds are the perfect venue for al-fresco meetings and team-building activities.

OTHER FACILITIES • Swimming Pool • Fitness Center • 24 Hrs Concierge Service Nearby: • Karen Golf Country Club • Nairobi National Park • Karen Blixen Museum • Shopping

Call Us Today! +254 709 240 000 Email: central.reservations@tamarind.co.ke www.tamarindtree-hotels.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 45


UNIQUE EXPERIENCES AT UNIQUE PROPERTIES www.sunafricahotels.com

+254 703 048 000

epic . refined . confident

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Hotel

Certificate of Excellence Winner 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017

. Keekorok Lodge, Masai Mara . Kiboko Luxury Camp, Naivasha . Kiboko Luxury Camp, Masai Mara . Lake Naivasha County Club . Lake Baringo Club Sovereign Suites, Nairobi . Sun Africa Hotels Nairobi, . Sun Africa Beach Resort, Mombasa . Ballon Adventure, Masai Mara . Nyali Sun Africa Beach Hotel & Spa, Mombasa

46 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

- WINNE R -


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 47


Ch Merr ris y tm as 15/12/2018 tO 3/1/2019 2-night flying package kSh 81,600

game package

kSh 27,000

per person for a 2-night stay, based on 2 sharing

per person per night

extra nights: KSh 27,000 per person per night Single Occupant: KSh 91,100 2-night stay package 3rd person: KSh 81,600 2-night stay package

Single Occupant: KSh 35,000 per person per night 3rd person: KSh 18,900 per night

Package includes:

• Bed, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • WiFi in public areas, Water, Soft Drinks, Tea & Coffee • Transfers to/from Serena Airstrip

ReTuRn FlighTs:

• Wilson-Serena-Wilson • Return transfers to/from Serena Airstrip

exPeRiences included (WeaTheR PeRMiTTing):

• Two shared scheduled safari game drives per day • 1 Bush Dinner, 1 Bush Breakfast, 1 Sundowner (per stay)

Package includes:

• Bed, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • WiFi in public areas, Water, Soft Drinks, Tea & Coffee • Transfers to/from Serena Airstrip

exPeRiences included (WeaTheR PeRMiTTing):

• Two shared scheduled safari game drives per day • 1 Bush Dinner, 1 Bush Breakfast, 1 Sundowner (per stay)

child 0-12 yeaRs:

• Under 2 years: First child free, 2nd child 50% • 2-12 years: KSh 13,500 per child per night.

child 0-11 yeaRs (PeR sTay):

• Under 2 years: free • 2-11 years: KSh 50,500 for 2-nights • Extra Night from 2 years upwards: KSh 13,500 per child per night

Flying Package TeRMs & condiTions:

Package rate may change due to changes in fuel taxes, amendments within 4 days of travel will attract a surcharge of USD. 50 per ticket, cancellations within 5 days of travel will attract a 100% cancellation fees, proof of residency required. Masai Mara park fees are excluded and payable locally, please visit www.maratriangle.org/visit/ conservationfees for details. 5% credit card charge applicable on all bookings when paying by Visa or Mastercard. Please see www. maraengai.com for accommodation terms and conditions. **One of each experience stated per confirmed guest including children, conditions permitting, cannot be exchanged for monetary value.

fUll-BOaRD package

kSh 20,000

per person per night Single Occupant: KSh 28,000 per person per night 3rd person: KSh 14,000 per person per night

Package includes:

• Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, WiFi in public areas

child 0-12 yeaRs:

• Under 2 years: First child free, 2nd child 50% • 2-12 years: KSh 10,000 per child per night

MaRa engai TeRMs & condiTions:

Each tent can accommodate a second bed with one additional adult sharing, maximum three adults per tent or two children and two adults per tent. Minimum of one adult per tent with children. Infants Policy 0 - 12 years; 1st child sharing with 1 or 2 adults – FOC (excluding park fees). 2nd child sharing with 1 or 2 adults – 50% of adult sharing rate (excluding park fees). Child Policy 12 years and above; Adult rates to apply 2 children sharing own room – 75% of adult (excluding park fees). 3rd Adult rate is 70% of per person sharing rate. Each tent can accommodate a second bed with one additional adult sharing, maximum three adults per tent or two children and two adults per tent.

48 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

BOOk nOw call +254 (0)726 091 330 / +44 (0)7779 110 662 email info@maraengai.com visit maraengai.com Offer subject to availability. E&OE. © 2018, Virpra Limited. RES.PACKAGES/07.18


Explore

WESTERN KENYA WITH TEKWA TEKWA is an international Tour Company stationed in Nairobi/Kenya. We specialise in Cultural Tours through Northern, Western and Coastal Kenya. We operate outside Kenya’s mainstream tourism, have ventured into a niche and offer alternatives to wildlife tourism.

Today, we would like to familiarize you with the Western Circuit which was launched by the Kenyan Government in 2002 but has not received much response so far. When TEKWA explored the potentials of Cultural Tours around Lake Victoria we were intrigued by the richness and the large variety of sites, the beauty of nature and the interest of local people to preserve as well as to advance.

CONTACT US

Tekwa Cultural Enterprises PHONE: +254 715 806 620 | +254 733 822 754 | E-Mail: info@tekwa.co.ke Website: www.tekwa.co.ke Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 49


Our 8-day-tour through Kakamega, Vihiga, Nyanza and Siaya takes you comfortably by van on good roads to Kakamega Forest, to traditional sacred sites (Crying Stone of Ilesi, Munguma Caves, Kit Mikayi, Lake Simbi, Tiriki Forests), some of which are also breath-taking geological phenomenon, to a bustling modern city (Kisumu), to a World Heritage Site (Thimlich Ohinga) and to two modern institutions set up and run by local people with a strong aim to improve the quality of life of their own people (Rusinga Island Trust, Auma Obama Foundation).

50 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Why do you want to travel to ZIM to admire the Great Ruins of ancient Zimbabwe when you have a mini version of the same kind of stone wall fortification in your own country? Yes, that is what Thimlich Ohinga represents. It was built over 600 years ago, probably by a Bantu people as a protection against Nilotic intruders. And it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in March 2018, the only such site in Western Kenya. Its walls are up to 4 metres high and 3 metres thick built with undressed rocks and without any mortar, using an interlocking technique, which allowed these walls to survive for centuries.

We will spend one full day at Alego/Kogelo at Dr. Auma Obama’s Foundation “SAUTI KUU” (Strong voices), which assists local children, adolescents and their families to discover and develop their own resources and potentials. You will visit the homestead of a local farm woman and experience her economic improvements, thanks to a beautiful “kitchen garden”, where she plants edible vegetables to feed her family and to sell on the market. In the afternoon you will have a chance to participate in the various vivacious activities of the youth groups (sports, theatre, arts, and music).

On this tour you will stay in modern and comfortable 3 to 4 star hotels and you will always be in company of a guide who has lived in Kenya for the last 30 years, who is a professional historian and a distinguished anthropologist, who can give you detailed explanations not only in English but also in German, French and Spanish.

BOOK WITH US NOW

CONTACT US

Tekwa Cultural Enterprises PHONE: +254 715 806 620 | +254 733 822 754 E-Mail: info@tekwa.co.ke Website: www.tekwa.co.ke

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 51


52 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 53


54 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 55


48

HOURS IN ĐÀ NẴNG,VIETNAM

Đà Nẵng is the 3rd largest city in Vietnam, located on the Eastern Sea Coast, midway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Stroll by the Han riverfront and catch a glimpse of glimmering futuristic hotels, restaurants and astronomical apartments emerging. Stunning and iconic bridges currently span the river and to the northern side of the city, a landmark, the new D-city is rising almost literally from the flatlands. Explore the southern side of the city and begin to marvel to the Đà Nẵng Beach Strip that is thriving with the most luxurious hotels and resorts in Vietnam. Where to Stay? For a whimsical and unforgettable experience take a look at Go PlacesTM, Recommended Hotels in Đà Nẵng,Vietnam. Green Plaza is a stylish hotel with a serene ambiance and traditional experience, and luxurious accommodation for its guests. Located strategically at the banks of the charming Han River, the “balcony of “Da Nang City House” – Green Plaza, gives you an easy access as you enjoy a bountiful of exquisite sites and breath-taking attractions of the city. Samdi Hotel that is well located in the heart of Đà Nẵng, is simply 10 minutes away from the Đà Nẵng beach, making it the most convenient choice for business and leisure travellers. Their food is so sumptuous that you will never forget your first bite. They boast of posh accommodations, swish shopping and an immeasurable pool. You cannot stop enjoying the panoramic views of the gleaming bridges and the majestic mountains form the rooftop pool at Samdi Hotel. For this and more fantastic options visit www.goplacesholidays.com and make your pick. What to Do? My Khe Beach, also referred to as China Beach, is a haven for people hoping to adventure and savour tasty seafood. If you love souvenirs, Han Market is the ideal place to be. Take about an hour to learn more about the exceedingly interesting cultural heritage of the city in the Museum of Cham Sculpture that is a short walking distance from the Dragon Bridge. Spot the 67 metre tall statue of Lady Budha as it stands at Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula and get up close and personal with the statue to experience a sensational touch of religious uplifting. The Cau Rong Dragon Bridge is a must-see at night, before you end your day tour, when the 666-

foot bridge is lit up in luminous yet colourful lights. If you are lucky to be there over the weekend, you will catch a spectacular scene of the dragon on the bridge breathing fire while spraying water out over the river. Where To Wine & Dine? Waterfront Restaurant Da Nang gives you an exceptional chance to sample both Vietnamese cuisine and international dishes that will whet your appetite. Make your morning extra special at Lotus Wine & Dine Restaurant with a mouth-watering buffet-breakfast and sample some of the most delicious local and international cuisines, prepared by award-winning chefs. Allow professionally-admired French chefs at Le Rendez Vous to take you through a profound gastronomy journey by enjoying their thoughtfully prepared French dishes. Taste the wine and food parings prepared with sheer mastery and prowess that come with peerless years of practice. Time’s Running Out… Wrap-up your 48 hours tour in Đà Nẵng,Vietnam by taking to the waters of Non Nuoc Beach and find planetary pleasure in the exhilarating surfing experience, one of the most stirring tourism activities in Đà Nẵng. Exchange gentle touches with the rising waves as you manoeuvre the stylishly-designed surfboard. It’s not yet over until you get a deluxe pampering spa treatment at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort and Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa, making Đà Nẵng,Vietnam the best destination for this season.

Go PlacesTM Travel tip: Ensure that you carry your credit card and some cash as some outlets prefer cash for payments. 56 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Book yourself into Đà Nẵng,Vietnam Best Hotels (best guaranteed prices) & Restaurants Today by calling the Go Places™ Travel Desks on +254 719 764 000 / 786 974 634 or Log onto www.goplacesholidays.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 57


Antwerp, the Diamond Capital of the World, is the second largest city in Belgium that has, for a long time now, been a strong magnet for fashion moguls, club queens, and art lovers. Antwerp holds on to a fascinating medieval heart, with plenty of unmatched sites to visit including the ever-busy Antwerp Central Station, the picturesque Cathedral of Our Lady, the monumental MAS Museum and the Grote Markt that is a jewel to compulsive shoppers. The topmost draw cards of Antwerp are the vivacious fashion and cultural scene and staggering architecture.

0700HRS

ANTWERP CENTRAL STATION

The stone turrets visible before you enter the iron-and-glass shed of the grand complex are a prelude of the lavishness that follows. In creating the white marbled ticket-hall, architect Louis Delacenserie took tremendous inspiration from Antwerp’s Renaissance, Rome’s Pantheon and international railway stations, built around this time, giving you an exceptional idea of the splendour of this building.

0930HRS

THE BELGIUM BREAKFAST

Breakfast is not Antwerp’s forte, but there is a major exception: foodie-friendly hotel U Eat & Sleep, which opened in 2017 with innovative quality for a cosmological experience. Its three-tiered breakfasts (served 7.30 - 10.30 hrs daily) come with artisanal charcuterie, salted green tomatoes and farm-fresh eggs – plus a beautiful decor and serene views of the marina’s bobbing yachts.

0830HRS

SAUNTER THROUGH THE HISTORIC HUB

From the station, it is simply a five-minute stroll to Antwerp’s largest promenade. You must walk with your eyes darting from side to side to avoid missing out on the marvellous sites. Follow the Meir to its end, where the Boerentoren (‘Farmer’s Tower’) rises up. This Art Deco giant was Europe’s very first skyscraper, and kicks off a whole series of stunning architecture in the old town core.

1130HRS

CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY

Around the block, the lace-like stone spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady is unveiled. The tallest church in Antwerp houses four medieval works by the most eminent Antwerpenaar of all times – Peter Paul Rubens. Its soaring white arches and vaults make it a magnificent example of the Brabant Gothic style. Other surviving incarnations of the ancient movement are the red-bricked Butchers’ Hall, and the statue-rich St. Paul’s Church.

Go Places™ Travel Tip: Antwerp Central Station is a safe, comfortable and convenient means of transportation for travelling around Antwerp, Belgium but also you can use the public buses. 58 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


1330HRS

THE NEW PORT HOUSE

Next, hop and make your way swiftly over to the new Port House in Antwerp, bringing together the port’s 500 staff that previously worked in separate buildings around the city. With 12 km of docks, Antwerp is Europe’s second largest shipping port, serving 15,000 sea trade ships and 60,000 inland barges each year. Antwerp handles 26% of Europe’s container shipping, transporting more than 200 million tonnes

1630HRS

DISCOVER ANTWERP ZOO

Antwerp Zoo, also known in Dutch as “Zoo Antwerpen,” Zoological Garden in Antwerp, Belgium, has one of the largest and most diversified animal collections in Europe. Learn about more than 6,000 specimens, 300 exotic reptiles and 1,700 fish, which represent more than 1,160 different species. One of the most notable specimens of the mammals is the rare Père David’s deer.

2100HRS

WINE AND DINE

For a diversity of culinary influences, the Pazzo is your haven. Taste the flavoursome Italian and Japanese cuisines and get an incredible dining experience in Antwerp. The Pazzo are the masters of culinary innovation, but at the same time they respect pristine traditional values. That’s why you will find preparations with butter and olive oil.

1430HRS

MAS MUSEUM A PIECE OF HISTORYSE

MAS, which represents “Museum on the River”, stands in a large water basin that reflects its remarkable sandstone exterior. The stunning building symbolizes containers placed on top of each other, hosting irreplaceable works from the former Archaeology and Maritime Museums (and occasionally the Fine Arts Museum). Through these, globetrotters can delve into the inspiring history of the city.

1730HRS

SHOP AT THE GROTE MARKT

Grote Markt is one of the most imposing shopping areas in the centre of Antwerp. You can shop seven days a week, as the stores here are open every day. It fills with ever-busy stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, spices, nuts and readyto-eat Dutch and international snacks, as well as vintage and classy clothes. Catch a breather at café-restaurant Rootz or on the tranquil terrace at Grote Markt.

2400HRS

NIGHTLIFE

Remarkably, Antwerp and nightlife tag along dramatically. From hundreds of undersized, and all the rage clubs to internationally-rated discos, Antwerp has it all. Long nights of vivacious dancing, fun and lively atmosphere guaranteed! Ampère, located under Antwerp’s train tracks is set with latest music. You cannot leave Antwerp without enjoying two or three concerts at the bubbly TRIX.

To Book yourself into Antwerp Best Hotels (Best Guaranteed Rates) & Restaurants Today by calling Go Places™ Travel Desks on +254 719 764000, +254 786 974634 or Log onto www.goplacesholidays.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 59


Game Watch Safari at

Lake Nakuru National Kenya

Take a trip to the scenic Lake Nakuru National Park during this season and enjoy the stunning yet breath-taking views of the Great Rift Valley on your way to the park and head on a game watching drive at the incredible Lake Nakuru. Be on the lookout for the region’s outstanding species of wild birds and spectacular game.

60 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Make your safari memorable by watching millions of enthralling flamingos as they flock the lake waters. You will be fascinated by their peculiar feeding habit that involves staggering around, as if in a dance of some sort, with their heads fully-immersed in the shallow warm waters. Lake Nakuru National Park will, beyond doubt, open a new chapter to your game watching experience by presenting you with faultless views of some of the most remarkable birdlife and wildlife. Keep your eyes wide-open to catch all the action of the giraffes as they browse quietly on the thorny acacia trees. You will not miss to see the striking zebras grazing gingerly on the fields. Moreover, the enormous Cape buffalo will leave you thrilled, bearing in mind their unpredictable and defensive nature. Be lucky to spot the majestic African Lion, known best as the ‘King of the Jungle,’ going surreptitiously after prey. Find time to enjoy a sumptuous lunch after the trip, in one of the most-luxurious lodges in Nakuru. Bookings can be done with Go PlacesTM Tours & Travel.

Quick highlights Where to stay

What to carry

• Up-close and personal with wildlife • Find pleasure in the fantastic aerial views • Watch the majestic wildlife in their natural habitat • Have a quality family time

• Camera (video or image) • Binoculars • Bottled water

• • • • • • • •

Sarova Lion Hill Mbweha Camp The Cliff Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge Lake Nakuru Lodge Ziwa Lodge Punda Milia Lodge Sarova Woodlands

Share your Game Watcher photos with us on our digital platforms (Go Places Digital) and you could win a trip to one of our partner properties! Enjoy! (Courtesy of Go Places™)

To book your experience, Call the Go Places Travel Desk on: +254 719 764 000 / 786 974 634 / 20 231 9134/43, Log onto goplacesholidays.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 61


SeeSeychellesSA

62 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

SeeSeychellesSA

seychellestourismsa


WINE & NEWS BITS

Dine

One source to selected wine & dine experiences throughout Kenya 64

Recipe of the Month – Wild Salmon with

65

Cocktail of the Month – Perpermint

66

Sarova Stanley - Festive

68

MovenPick - Here’s an Idea, New year’s

69

Eka Hotel - Celebrate Christmas & New

70 71 72

Fairview Hotel - Christmas Lunch

Pepper Salsa Salad Espresso Martini Celebration Eve Dinner Year at the only one... Hilton Nairobi - Hilton Festive Program The Corncord Hotel – End Year Party Packages

73

Park Inn by Raddison - Colorful Festive

74

Kunduchi Beach Hotel & Resort -

75

Villa Rosa Kempinski - Festive Season

76 77

Southern Sun - Christmas Buffet Lunch

78

79 80 81

Season Christmas & New Year Eve Package Programme Hilton Garden Inn - A Lavish Christmas Day Lunch Tamarind Tree Hotel - Christmas Eve Dinner & Day Lunch Tamarind Nairobi/Tamambo Carnivore Restaurant Sovereign Suites - Festive Season Rates

Go Places™ Wine & Dine BOOKING & recommendation desks: Tel: +254 719 764000, +254 786 974634 | web: www.goplacesdigital.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 63


Wild Salmon

WITH PEPPER SALSA SALAD

Marinate heart-healthy fish with spices and serve with colourful sweetcorn and avocado - vegetarians can use halloumi instead

Ingredients

For the spicy salmon

1 garlic clove ½ tsp mild chilli powder ½ tsp ground coriander ¼ tsp ground cumin 1 lime, grated zest and juice, plus wedges to serve (optional) 2 tsp rapeseed oil 2 wild salmon fillets

For the salsa salad

1 corn on the cob, husk removed if attached 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 avocado, stoned, peeled and finely chopped 1 red pepper, deseeded and finely chopped 1 red chilli, halved, deseeded and chopped ½ pack coriander, finely chopped 64 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Directions

1.

Finely grate the garlic into a bowl for the spice rub. Boil the corn for the salsa salad for 6-8 mins until tender, then drain and cut off the kernels with a sharp knife.

2.

Stir the spices, 1 tbsp lime juice and the oil into the garlic to make a spice rub, then use to coat the salmon.

3.

Mix the remaining lime zest and juice into the corn and stir in all the remaining ingredients. Heat a frying pan and cook the salmon for 2 mins each side so that it is still a little pink in the centre. Serve with the salsa salad with extra lime wedges, if you like, for squeezing over.

Serves 2


Peppermint

Espresso Martini It is the time of the season when you share family love with sparkling, non-alcoholic twists. Have all the fun flavours and holiday cheer. The recipe is easy, delightful and a sure hit at your family gathering.

Ingredients:

1.5 parts KahlĂşa Peppermint Mocha 1 part vodka 1 freshly brewed espresso Splash of cream, optional Ice Crushed peppermint candy cane (or peppermint hard candy) and honey to garnish

Recipe:

1. Start by rimming your martini glass in honey. Let any excess drip off. Then, dip into the crushed peppermint pieces. 2. In a cocktail shaker with ice, add the KahlĂşa, vodka, espresso, and cream. Shake vigorously until combined and cold. 3. Pour the cocktail into the prepared martini glass and enjoy!

Makes 1 drink

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 65


66 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


www.sarovahotels.com

Experience an enchanting festive season by the beach with our lineup of award winning artistes and delightful culinary experience. DEC 24TH 2018

DEC 25TH 2018

DEC 31ST 2018

► GILAD & MERCY MASIKA

► MERCY MASIKA

► SAUTI SOL & GILAD

FOR RESERVATIONS OR ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Tel: +254 719 022 000 | Email: reservations4@sarovahotels.com

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa

@SarovaWhitesand

SarovaWhitesands

www.sarovahotels.com

New Year’s Eve Beach Party USHER IN THE NEW YEAR WITH SAUTI SOL. ► STAR PERFORMANCE BY GILAD. I ► GALA DINNER ► TIME: 1800HRS

DEC 31ST 2018

► FIREWORKS DISPLAY ► KIDS FUN ZONE

FOR RESERVATIONS OR ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Tel: +254 719 022 000 | Email: reservations4@sarovahotels.com

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa

@SarovaWhitesand

SarovaWhitesands

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 67


68 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


CELEBRATE

Christmas & New Year at ...the Only One!

Treat your friends and loved ones this festive period to a memorable experience at Eka Hotel. Whether you are looking to celebrate Christmas or usher in the New Year 2019 in style, we have special menus crafted by our culinary experts to indulge your senses. CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER KSHS. 3,200 PP BOXING DAY LUNCH KSHS. 2,800 PP

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER KSHS. 3,500 PP NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH KSHS. 3,200 PP

Visit our website for more details. Advance Booking Recommended

SPECIAL SUPERIOR ROOM RATES KSH. 13,000 Single & KSH. 15,000 Double Bed & breakfast, taxes included valid until 10th January 2019

Happy Holidays Contact us for more information: Along Mombasa Road | Tel: +254 719 045 000 | +254 732 105 000 www.ekahotel.com | reservations@ekahotel.com

#EkaHotel Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 69


F A I R V I E W

H O T E L

C H R I S T M A S I C E

L U N C H

S T A T I O N

Prawns, lobster, mussels, mussel and scallop salad and a baby squid Asian style salad G R A V L A X Smoked salmon, ginger and beetroot gravlax salmon and an orange and dill gravlax salmon S A L A D S Thai prawn and mango with sweet chili and wakame Tree tomato with bocconcini Beetroot with salmon and edible herbs Brussel sprout salad with boiled eggs and a Hollandaise sauce A selection of salad condiments

C O L D

C U T S

Crusted rosemary roast lamb, smoked duck, terrines, smoked chicken, parma ham, cooked ham, beef bresola and salami’s: Napoli, Milano C H E E S E S Brie, camembert, grana padano, parmesan, cheddar, gouda formaggio, blue cheese

gorgonzola, goats cheese and taleggio S O U P S

&

B R E A D

Soups: French onion soup and cold cucumber soup

Bread: Black olives and sundried tomato focaccia, onion focaccia, rosemary focaccia Grissini bread with parmesan cheese C A R V I N G

S T A T I O N

Roast turkey roulade with fresh herb and nut stuffing served with a cranberry jelly and a rosemary turkey gravy  Crispy roast suckling pig with a port wine jus Glazed Christmas gammon with a honey and cloves brandy sauce and a honey mustard sauce

M A I N

C O U R S E

Margret duck leg confit with Puy lentils Lamb shank osso buco Beef stroganoff served with sour cream Coq au vin Potatoes dauphinois Vegetable fried rice Glazed brussel sprouts and bacon Roasted pumpkin with pine nuts and feta cheese

D E S S E R T Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter sauce or vanilla custard Yule logs Rhubarb mini crumbles Mince pies Mixed berry half moons Miniature fruit tartlets Croque en bouche Opera slice Orange grandmanier squares White chocolate and amarula mousse Fresh seasonal fruits

Adult: KES 4500 per person Children under 12: KES 3000 per person Tel: (+254) 20 288 1000 Email: fbanqueting@clhg.com 70 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 71


72 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 73


74 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


NEW YEAR’S BALL MONDAY, 31 DECEMBER, 2018

A Night With Bond… Wrap up the year in grand style! Be at the heart of the much-anticipated James Bond themed New Year’s Eve celebrations at our glamorous ballroom. PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Shaken…not Stirred Martini Welcome Cocktail • An International cuisine experience featuring Live Food Stations from our expert Italian, German, Chinese and Arabic chefs. • Free flow of Wines, Spirits and Beers • DJ & Band Entertainment. • Champagne toast at midnight to usher in the New Year • A raffle chance to win three nights accommodation at either: • Kempinski Hotel Mall of The Emirates, Dubai • Kempinski Royal Maxim Palace Cairo • Kempinski Seychelles Resort, Mahe Island • Two Nights for Two at the luxurious Olare Mara Kempinski, Masai Mara

KSH 12,000 PER PERSON. STARTS AT 8:00PM DRESS CODE: STRICTLY A BOW TIE EVENT

NEW YEARS EVE ACCOMMODATION SPECIAL Take a lift home to our elegant and sophisticated rooms after an unforgettable New Year’s Eve Ball. Ksh 12,000 Bed & Breakfast inclusive taxes per single/ double superior room per night Offer is applicable to guests attending the New Years Eve Ball

RESERVATIONS.NAIROBI@KEMPINSKI.COM +254 703 049 000

*TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 75


76 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Celebrate the season.

T’s & C’s apply

Bookings essential.

25 December 2018 from 12h30-16h00

Drinks served from the bar (at an additional cost). Live band during lunch.

Half price for kids 6 -12 years Free for kids under 6

per person

Kshs 3,800

Christmas Day Buffet Lunch

t: +254 20 3688000 | e: admin@southernsun.co.ke Parklands Road, Parklands, Nairobi, Kenya

Chocolate and Nutella yule log Rhubarb crème caramel Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Pistachio financier Red velvet cake Apple crumble pie Gingerbread cookies and macaroon towers Lemon grass crème brûlée Fresh fruit cuts Tiramisu Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce

Desserts

Roasted gammon glazed with apricot and apple Traditional roasted turkey with giblet gravy

Carvery

Christmas lamb stew Thyme marinated Norwegian salmon with a lemon, garlic reduction Roasted sirloin of beef, marchand de vin Butternut squash and sage risotto Seafood stew in saffron broth with vegetables Sautéed brussel sprouts, baby carrots and pearl onions Boulangere potatoes with rosemary Steamed white rice Grilled barbeque pork ribs Butter chicken Coke infused rice with dry fruits and nuts Breaded red snapper infused with lemon and garlic Sautéed traditional Christmas vegetables Red kidney bean masala Fusilli pasta with grilled vegetables and mushrooms in Italian sauce

Mains

Turmeric roasted sweet potato soup with spiced walnuts

Soup

Tomato, basil and onion curry slaw Baby coz lettuce, marinated anchovies, croutons and parmesan cheese Tasmanian smoked salmon with capers and horseradish Rocket, beetroot and crumbled feta salad Middle Eastern tabouleh salad with cucumber, mint, tomato, lemon and extra virgin olive oil Greek salad, feta cheese, black olives, cucumber, tomato, mint and yoghurt dressing Tomato and bocconcini salad with pesto dressing Antipasto platter Mediterranean marinated mixed vegetable salad Garden salad with red onion, cherry tomato, grated carrot and cucumber Selection of fresh grain bread, sourdough garlic butter, sundried tomato dip, olive tapenade and pesto

Starters


25

DEC

12.00pm - 4.00pm

Join us for a lavish Christmas day lunch with a complimentary glass Mulled wine and a live Carvery Isle.

Merry Christmas Tel: (+254) 20 4075000 reservations@hginairobi.co.ke * Groups 10 pax and above must reserve. Terms &Conditions Apply

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 77


78 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 79


80 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Festive Season Rates For The Period 22nd Dec' 2017 - 2nd Jan' 2018

Keekorok Lodge, Masai Mara

FB

Single

Kes 24,500.00

Double

Kes 34,500.00

Kiboko Luxury Camp, Naivasha

FB

Single

Kes 29,000.00

Double

Kes 36,000.00

Lake Naivasha Country Club

FB

Single

Kes 17,500.00

Double

Kes 24,500.00

Sovereign Suites, Nairobi

BB

Single

Kes 14,500.00

Double

Kes 18,500.00 23rd Dec - 2nd Jan

Sun Africa Beach Resort, Mombasa

HB

Single

Kes 25,500.00

Double

Kes 35,500.00

Nyali Sun Africa Beach Hotel & Spa, Mombasa

HB

Single

Kes 21,600.00

Double

Kes 27,000.00

Terms and Conditions

• Free for 1 Child Below 7 years sharing the adult room. • Rates are applicable to residents of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Sudan, Ethopia and Eritrea. • Rates are subject to change without prior notice and subject to availability.

Book and Enjoy

• 10% o Spa Treatments. • 10% o Guided Nature Walks. (Where applicable) (Easter & Christmas Suppliment Applicable)

Rates indicated above are for the base category room at each hotel, higher category room would attract additional supplement.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Hotel

Certificate of Excellence Winner 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016

- W I NN E R -

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 81


82 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


NEWS BITS

CONFERENCING & Events Venues YOUR ONLY GUIDE TO EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 92

Skål Nairobi Cocktail Flamingo Casino/

93

Skål Nairobi Luncheon Nyama Mama

94 96 98

Sharing Moments Travel - AHIF

100 102

Sharing Moments Travel – S!Te 2018

Trademark Capital Centre Sharing Moments Travel – MKTE 2018 Sharing Moments Travel – Eco Warrior Awards Sharing Moment Travel - Zanzibar Tourism Show 2018

104

Sharing Moment Travel – Inaugural

105

Sharing Moment Travel – Ihti

106

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Chefs

108

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Sarova

109

Sharing Moment Lifestyle – Lord Erroll

Flight To New York Graduation/Utalii College Delight™ Awards At MKTE Stanley Cake Mixing/ Sarova Panafric Cake Mixing Champagne Breakfast

Go Places™ CONFERENCE BOOKING & recommendation desks: Tel: +254 719 764000, +254 786 974634 | web: www.goplacesdigital.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 83


BOOK REVIEW

The Deal of a Lifetime GENRE: HOLIDAY FICTION In this insightful and poignant holiday novella from the New York Times bestselling author of A Man Called Ove and Beartown, a man who sacrificed his family in pursuit of success encounters a courageous little girl with an uncertain future— and finds he has been given the unexpected opportunity to make his life mean something. This is a short story about what you would be prepared to sacrifice in order to save a life. “If it was not only your future on the line, but also your past. Not only the places you are going, but the footprints you have left behind. If it was all of it, all of you, who would you give yourself up for?” A father and a son are seeing each other for the first time in years. The father has a story to share before it’s too late. He tells his son about a courageous little girl lying in a hospital bed a few miles away. She is a smart kid—smart enough to know that she won’t beat cancer by drawing with crayons all day, but it seems to make the adults happy, so she keeps doing it. As he talks about this plucky little girl, the father also reveals more about himself: his triumphs in business, his failures as a parent, his past regrets, and his hopes for the future.

Fredrik Backman, a blogger and columnist, is the New York Times bestselling author of A Man Called Ove and My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She’s Sorry. Both were number one bestsellers in his native Sweden and around the world, are being published in more than thirty-five territories. His other novels are Every Morning The Way Home Gets Longer and Longer, Beartown, And Britt-Marie Was Here. He lives in Stockholm with his wife and two children.

84 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


For

BEGINNERS T

“IS LIFTING YOUR HEEL IN THE BACKSWING WRONG?�

he Golf Swing has evolved over time but remember that the mechanics will never change. There are many styles you see on TV with the Tour Pros, but they all follow certain laws/fundamentals as the basis for their swing. Players today have access to more information and technology and are much fitter and more flexible, therefore it would be difficult to compare yourself exactly to the likes of Tiger Woods or Michelle Wei. For instance, no longer a core component of the modern swing, lifting the left heel from the ground was encouraged and practiced by previous generations of great golfers in Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and others. This movement can still be highly beneficial to golfers who may lack the general flexibility required for a full backswing rotation. Furthermore, when the heel is off the ground at the the top of the backswing, anchoring it down into the ground can constitute a helpful downswing trigger, helping the golfer get their timing right. Modern Pros, appear not to lift their left heel off the ground in the back swing as they work tirelessly in the gym to improve the upper body/lower body separation for a more centered rotation to increase clubhead speed and power.

My theory on the comparison above is that Nicklaus needed to rotate more of his lower body to help him get a full shoulder turn, therefore his left heel would lift. Rory on the other hand may be a little more flexible and can rotate his upper body with less lower body rotation. Both swings follow the law of rotation but done differently. Neither style is wrong or right.

Visit our website www.rcgolfacademy.com and Facebook page for more information.

Tel: +254 (0)714 782949 Email: info@rcgolfacademy.com Website: www.rcgolfacademy.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 85


Discover

GEDI RUINS

Gedi ruins are the remains of a Swahili town, typical of most towns along the East African Coast. It traces its origin in the twelfth century but was rebuilt with new town walls in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. This rebuilding is connected with the emigration of many citizens of Kilwa to Mombasa, Malindi and other places along the coast. With its numerous inhabitants, the town became wealthy and it reached its peak in the fifteenth century. This

enormous wealth is evidenced by the presence of numerous ruins, comprising of a conglomeration of mosques; a magnificent palace and houses all nestled in 45 acres of primeval forest. But in the first half of the seventeenth century the last families left the town. Gedi’s eventual abandonment to nature is believed to be as a result of a number of factors. Namely, the Wazimba raid along the East African coast in 1589, the removal of the Sheikh of

www.museums.or.ke 86 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Malindi and the Portuguese to Mombasa in 1593. The falling water table as shown by the deepening of the well outside the Great Mosque and finally the overhanging menace of the Galla, a hostile nomadic ethnic group from Somalia. Gedi remains the first intensively studied site on the coast. It was first visited by Sir John Kirk, a British resident of Zanzibar in 1884. Over forty years later in 1927, it was gazetted as a Historical Monument. Two years later in


1929, it was declared a “protected monument” and in the late thirties, the Public Works Department carried out work on preservation of its crumbling walls. Gedi was soon after the repairs in 1948 declared a National park and an Archaeologist appointed as warden. Thus, the first archaeological work at Gedi began under the direction of James Kirkman followed by the first publication of the site. In 1969, Gedi’s administration was taken over by the Museum Trustees. Left standing today are numerous coral-brick houses, a palace as well as an impressive mosque. However, it is not only the quality of the ruins that amazes visitors but the advanced nature of the settlement. Gedi was in many ways, a very advanced city with streets, running water and flushing toilets. Correcting the assumption that Africa was far behind the rest of the world before colonialism, Gedi was a cosmopolitan urban setting, and archaeologists have found Ming Chinese vases, Venetian glass as well as other artefacts from all over the world. This potpourri of history is clear evidence that the Muslim inhabitants of the coastal Kenyan town traded heavily with cultures outside their own, and developed an incredible world. Currently the Monument is under the care of the National Museums of Kenya and in addition to being a very important archaeological site; Gedi indigenous forest is a sacred site for traditional rituals and sacrifices for the surrounding community.

Attractions at a glance: • • • • •

Gedi Ruins Numerous ruins Great Mosque Numerous coral-brick houses Gedi indigenous forest

Open to Public Daily from 7am to 6pm

Article by Ms. Sharon Mwelu Kyungu PR Manager, National Museums of Kenya Email: skyungu@museums.or.ke

www.museums.or.ke Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 87


In BUSINESS you only get

ONE CHANCE to make a LASTING IMPRESSION...

So make it count! www.goplacesbooking.com m.goplacesbookings.com m.goplacesbooking.s.com Go Placesâ„¢ Free Reservations Desks: +254 719 764 000 / 786 974 634 88 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


LIFESTYLE NEWS BITS

Section

One source to the latest lifestyle trends, product & services 3 6 8

Turkish Airlines – 85 Years of Excellence Chefs Delight™ Awards Jays Pyrotechnics – Welcome the New Year With A Blast

10 21 23

Eye Content Photography

24

Dr Mattress – For All Your Individual &

32

Papyrus – You Dream It, We Make It

34

Sarova Hotel Tribute – A Legacy of

KWS The Worlds Wildlife Capital National Museums of Kenya – The Louis Leakey Auditorium Hotel Pillow Needs Happen Excellences

35

Skywards Express – Experience the

36

Ethiopian Airlines – Hop On Our Flights

84

Book Review - The Deal of A Lifetime

85

Golf For Beginners – Is Lifting Your Heel

86

National Museums of Kenya – Discover

110 112 131

Go Movies Dec/Jan 2019

Best and Explore 4 New Destinations By Fredrik Backman In the Backswing Wrong? Gedi Ruins Sports Events Dec/Jan 2019 Atta - Promoting Africa Tourism

Go Places™ travel BOOKING & recommendation desks: Tel: +254 719 764000, +254 786 974634 | web: www.goplacesdigital.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 89


DEC 2018 / JAN 2019 ENDURANCE CHALLENGE Date: 11th Dec 2018 Time: Starts: Tue 11th Dec, 9:00am Ends: Tue 11th Dec, 3:00pm Location: Venue TBA

The biggest race of the season. If this doesn’t give you more shivers than the first time you met your high school crush, we definitely don’t know what will.

Restaurant Tickets: http://gardenofhopecdc. org/ A charity event hosted by the Matu Maganjo Foundation RUSINGA CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2018 Date: 20th Dec 2018 Time: Starts: Thu 20th Dec, 9:00am Ends: Fri 21st Dec, 7:00pm Location: Rusinga Island Lodge Tickets: chulaculturalfoundation@gmail. com http://https://rusingafestival. wordpress.com/

A POWER YOGA RETREAT Date: 13th Dec 2018 Time: Starts: Thu 13th Dec, 7:00am Ends: Sun 16th Dec, 6:00pm Location: Watamu Tree House,

Your Home for Wellness Tickets: 0724 223678 This retreat is suitable for all levels. You have an open invitation to experiment with and deepen your practice. THE GARDEN OF HOPE GALA Date: Sat 15th Dec 2018 Time: 6:00pm Ends: Sat 15th Dec, 2018 11:00pm Location: The Lord Erroll

Taking place in Rusinga Island one of Kenya’s hidden gems on Lake Victoria - the festival offers two days of family fun within the picturesque environs of the island. Its two days of nothing but music, fashion, film, food, artistry, literature, sports and conversations that take you back in time into the wealth of the Suba culture. CAPITAL TO COAST CHARITY CYCLE – 2018-2019 Date: Wed 26th Dec, 2018 Time: 6:30am Ends: Thu 3rd Jan, 2019 6:00pm Location: Multiple Venues Tickets: 0799 396513 / 0717 681649 or ask@ baiskeliadventures.com Capital to Coast Charity Cycle (C2C) is an annual Charity Bicycle Ride from Nairobi to

90 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Mombasa that takes adventurous riders on approximately 600 km mixed terrain cycling trip from the Capital of Kenya, Nairobi, to the East Coast of Kenya, Mombasa, in only 6 days crossing through 8 counties and 2 countries. Through the Charity Cycle, we aim to better the lives of orphans living in Child of Mercy Orphanage Centre (COMOC) by contributing towards their upkeep and the structural improvements of the buildings within the home among several critical needs of the 36 children. RENEW BIBLE CONFERENCE Date: 28th Dec 2018 Time: Starts: Fri 28th Dec, 6:00pm Ends: Tue 1st Jan, 12:00am Location: Brackenhurst Hotel and Conferences Centre Tickets: http://www.renewconf. org/

Join us for the 32nd New Year’s Bible Conference at leafy Brackenhurst. GUSA Christmas Charity Date: Sat 29 December 2018


DEC / JAN 2018/2019 Time: 07:00 – 18:00 EAT Ends: Sat 29 December 2018 – 18:00 EAT Location: Gatundu Town – Gatundu Children`s Home Tickets: Email: info@ gusagatundu.org Contact: 0707873265, Dr. Heho Joseph We shall bring together kids

from all children`s homes in Gatundu South as well as members, partners, youths, volunteers, churches, leaders, and guests(you). We have 13kids awaiting to join secondary school. Our primary goal shall be to raise funds towards: school fees and school amenities. VIRTUAL ULTRA MARATHON 2019 Date: Tue 1st Jan 2019 Time: 7:00am Ends: Thu 31st Jan, 2019 6:00pm Location: Ol Pejeta Conservancy Tickets: virtualultra@ olpejetaconservancy.org

This is such a creative (and healthy) way for you to support

the crucial work that rangers do from anywhere in the world while keeping fit. NAIROBI FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP Date: 5th Jan 2019 Time: Starts: Sat 5th Jan, 9:00am Ends: Sat 23rd Mar, 12:00pm Location: Young Women’s Christian Association - YWCA Kenya

from deforestation, illegal water catchment, wildlife poaching to population pressure, she would like this trip to also be useful for its protection. ADVENTURE IN PARADISE Date: 21st Jan 2019 Time: Starts: Fri 18th Jan, 7:00am Ends: Mon 21st Jan, 6:00pm Location: Watamu Tree House, Your Home for Wellness 2 nights Tickets: 0712 810055, Price: Ksh: 34,0003 nights: Ksh 49,000 watamutreehouse@gmail.com Experience freedom, vitality and excitement while you let nature

Register before the 15th of December for a chance to attend this course every Saturday. MOUNT KENYA 60+ CLIMB 2019 Date: 16th Jan 2019 Time: Starts: Wed 16th Jan, 9:00am Ends: Tue 22nd Jan, 12:00pm Location: Chogoria, Mt Kenya Forest Tickets: 0722 436641 Anne Tissier, the MKT Festival organiser has taken upon herself to climb Mt Kenya before her

next 60+1 birthday... Now or never! But knowing all the problems the mountain is facing

recharge and relax you. KAREN RESOLUTION TRAIL RUN Date: 27th Jan 2019 Time: Starts: Sun 27th Jan, 7:00am Ends: Sun 27th Jan, 10:00am Location: Karen Country Club The course runs through beautiful Karen End Forest; one of Karen’s favourite horse-riding and

running destinations. The start is conveniently located about 3km from The Hub, on the KarenDagoretti Road. There will be custom finishers medals for every finisher.

Please note that the event dates are subject to change. If you would like to feature your event(s) in the Go Places™ Magazine please contact the editor through sales@goplacesonline.com Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 91


SKÅL NAIROBI COCKTAIL AT TRADEMARK HOTEL ON 5TH OCTOBER 2018 Skål International Nairobi hosted their monthly cocktail on 5th October 2018 at the Trademark Hotel. The 215room urban business hotel is inspired by the cultural and creative renaissance in Nairobi, reflecting the city’s industrious and innovative nature in its design. The #Skalleagues were offered a chance to experience the magic of Swiss hospitality where they were treated to a wide selection of signature cocktails, delicious dishes and numerous prizes to be won. The main sponsors were Safaricom and Turkish Airlines. Here’s a Go Places Exclusive of the Cocktail...

SKÅL INTERNATIONAL MOMBASA HOSTS THE 79TH SKÅL CONGRESS Mombasa County was privileged to host the 79th Skål Congress that attracted over 500 delegates from many parts of the world. The four-day global event that took place from 17th to 21st October, 2018, was christened “Congress on the Beach,” and was held at the posh Pride Inn Paradise Hotel in Shanzu. Owners and top management in the hotels, airlines, tour operators and travel agents as well as notable influencers of the travel and tourism industry graced the event. Here’s exclusive sharing moments…

To see who attended visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 92 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


THE NAIROBI SKÅL NOVEMBER LUNCHEON AT NYAMA MAMA CAPITAL CENTRE, NAIROBI Skål International Nairobi hosted their monthly cocktail on 14th November 2018 at Nyama Mama Capital Centre. The Skålleagues gathered on this day for their monthly meet-up over a sumptuously, deliciously and impeccably prepared luncheon. They were, in particular, treated to a wide selection of signature cocktails, and delicious dishes. SKÅL November proved to be a bountiful of great networking opportunities for Kenya’s tourism fraternity, where invited guests seized the opportunity to create new business relationships. SKÅL members, the industry’s managers and executives, meet at local, national, regional and international levels to “Do Business Among Friends”. The Good Earth Group invites guests to celebrate the pleasures of society, under the coolness of its roof. Check out the Go Places™ media insight.

To see who attended visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 93


Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF)2018 The Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), the most influential tourism investment conference in Africa, took place at Radisson Blu Hotel, Upper Hill in Nairobi, on 2nd – 4th October. The forum was attended by the highest calibre international hotel investment decision-makers of conferences in Africa. It is the leading hotel investment conference that connects business leaders from the international and local markets, driving investment into tourism projects, infrastructure and hotel development across Africa. AHIF is organised by Bench Events, who has a long track record of delivering multiple premium hotel investment conferences and forums across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America. “While AHIF is known as the top gathering of the hospitality industry in Africa, as it’s the first time so many chief executives of the world’s biggest brands have appeared in Africa at the same time,” said Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of Bench Events, which organises AHIF. “The presence of so many of the world’s top hoteliers sends a signal that Africa is open for business and is viewed as a strategic growth market for the industry.” . There is a great deal of evidence to support the idea that Africa has become a key centre of growth for the hospitality industry. Daniel Silke, director of the Political Futures Consultancy and AHIF keynote speaker, said: “In the coming decade, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few African countries, potentially Ethiopia, Cote D’Ivoire and Ghana, in the top ten list of the world’s fastest growing economies.” Here is the insight…

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 94 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF)2018

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 95


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

MAGICAL KENYA TRAVEL EXPO (MKTE) 2018 The 8th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel; Expo (MKTE) 2018 held during 3rd to 5th October 2018 at KICC, Nairobi, Kenya in the pavilion space, attracted Kenya’s and East African tourism players (with more focus on Africa), invited hosted buyers as well as the leading international media. The Go PlacesTM Hospitality and Tourism Media team were privileged to be pronounced as the main media coverage partner of this highlycelebrated event, an extension of the cordial relationship and partnership with KTB, where the two companies share similar goals and have worked mutually for over 25 years to take Kenya and the first-rate tourism and hospitality industry to a whole new level. The expo attracted over185 buyers and 30 countries that included renowned international Media that interacted and connected with the Kenya’s and over 100 exhibitors from EA and the most endeared tourism and hospitality players and service providers. Magical Kenya Travel Expo can be defined as the high profile international tourism exhibition hosted by the Kenya Tourism Board. The international buyers as well as local and regional exhibitors alike took this golden opportunity to target the interested candidates and build their brand names even further. The primary objective of this event is to raise the profile of destinations in Africa and Kenya in particular, which made it an important and influential platform for tourism networking and business transactions. Kenya was once again put on the African and even global map, something that uplifts the Kenyan tourism industry to stellar levels. Here is an exclusive coverage of the event...

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 96 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 97


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

ECO WARRIOR AWARDS 2018 Eco tourism Kenya awarded the winners of the contestants of the Eco Warrior Awards in 27th September 2018 at Crowne Plaza Hotel Nairobi. The theme of the year was “Tourism: Protecting Culture and Heritage.” The Eco Warrior Award presented an opportunity to showcase the role of tourism in creating awareness, offering necessary tools, enhancing public opinion and support in the conservation and preservation of natural and cultural heritage in Kenya. The Eco-Warrior Award is a Kenyan tourism award that recognizes and celebrates outstanding contributions to Eco tourism practice in Kenya. It is aimed at motivating winning ventures/ operations and industry at large to embrace practices that are ecologically and ethically sustainable in order to compete with the best in the world. Check the following insightful winners moments…

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 98 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 99


2018 The Swahili International Tourism Expo commenced on 12th October 2018 at the Julius Nyerere International Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The expo’s main theme was inbound and outbound travel business across the African continent. It was characterised by a set of cultural performances from renowned and celebrated African artists who helped fan the theme of the expo even further. The fashion experience was limitless, leaving the invited guests, buyers and exhibitors practically amazed. On top of it, the live cooking contest by National College of Tourism introduced a whole new culinary experience. The second day of the expo, 13th October 2018, rolled out with buyers and exhibitors enjoying a speed network moment and the Arusha Fashion Experience created a new chapter in the ever-evolving tourism sectors, which entailed creative tourism, cultural tourism and shopping tourism. The third day, 14th October 2018, brought together the entire destination marketing organizations, travel buyers, digital influencers, trade associations, tourism suppliers, and host communities in the speed networking to sell their businesses, meet and network with other tourism stakeholders. Here is the insight‌

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 100 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SWAHILI INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO (S!TE 2018)

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 101


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

ZANZIBAR TOURISM SHOW 2018 The Zanzibar Tourism Show, which hosted 150+ exhibitors from East Africa and mainly Tanzania, started 16th October 2018 with a colourful pre-opening cocktail party by the Guest of Honour, Hon. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, the Minister of Information, Tourism and Heritage at Madinat Al Bahir Business and Spa Hotel. The 1st edition of the show bought together international and inbound tour operators from East Africa plus approximately 3000+ visitors to learn what’s new in the market with like-minded tourism and travel professionals. Day 2 of the Show was a delightful session for the hosted buyers, exhibitors, business travellers, media representatives and trade visitors to network and explore business opportunities at the leading tourism show in Africa. Day 3 of the Zanzibar Tourism Show 2018 was a public day for the hosted buyers, exhibitors, media sponsors, and trade visitors, which implied a special moment for generating sales leads, raising brand awareness, sizing up competition, commanding press attention and developing as well as maintaining relationships. Here is the insight‌

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 102 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SHARING

TRAVEL

Moments ZANZIBAR TOURISM SHOW 2018

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 103


SHARING

Moments

TRAVEL

KQ INAUGURAL FLIGHT TO NEW YORK The inaugural flight from Nairobi to New York departed at approximately 10:45 pm of 28th October 2018. By 7:45 pm in the evening, guests had started trickling in for the flight that was expected to 234 passengers among them CNN journalist Richard Quest. Thirty passengers travelled in Business Class. The plane touched down at the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York at shortly after 2:00 pm, 29th October 2018. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner Aircraft christened “Magical Kenya” departed JFK Airport at 12:25 pm on Monday and touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 9:07 am – nearly an hour and a half ahead of schedule. The Deputy President William Samoei Ruto welcomed the KQ Flight in a colourful ceremony marked with a police band and energetic traditional dancers. Check out the insightful moments…

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 104 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SHARING

Moments

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

43RD GRADUATION CEREMONY AT KENYA UTALII COLLEGE Kenya Utalii College held their 43rd Graduation Ceremony in October 24th 2018 with a celebration of their academic success and progress. This is a great achievement as the institution continues to train highlyqualified personnel for the local and international Hospitality and Tourism Industry. Kenya Utalii College (KUC) is a leading African hospitality and tourism training institution that has trained over 60,000 graduates from around the world who serve in the local and international hospitality and tourism industry. Here is the exclusive insight‌

INTERNATIONAL HOTEL & TOURISM INSTITUTE (IHTI) GRADUATION 2018 On 11th October 2018 the 9th graduation ceremony for International Hotel & Tourism Institute (ihti) took place at the Nairobi Convention Centre within Nairobi Hospital Grounds. It was a day filled with pomp and colour as the graduates transitioned to young professionals. ihti seeks to provide hospitality and tourism training that meets the highest international standards. ihti strives to mould its students into credible and respected professionals and place them in highly rewarding and progressive career paths. Sharing moments at a glance...

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 105


CHEFS DELIGHT CORNER AT MAGICAL KENYA 2018 The Chef’s Delight AwardsTM Nairobi Chapter @ MKTE2018, showcased a new side of tourism to the world with our partners, Chef’s Delight AwardsTM unveiling our Nairobi region’s world-class Wine & Dine experiences and culinary prowess… Go Places™ is proud to be associated with Chef’s Delight and Bar & Mixology Awards™ who gives all culinary enthusiasts a chance to grade the “quality of experience” and “quality of services” they receive when they step into a restaurant. Chef’s Delight™ Awards, the top culinary awards in the country, celebrates and rewards culinary brilliance in Kenya by offering an opportunity to showcase the best that the Kenyan hospitality industry offers. The awards is organized by the International Quality Awards Ltd, and works in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, in organising annual tourism festivals, a celebration of the country’s best chef and restaurant teams before an international forum. The competition starts off with a 3-month voting exercise, coupled with several promotional activities. Your everyday customers vote using the Chef’s Delight web-based technology, and provide true opinion on their experience at your establishment, while earning a chance to win prizes in our Vote & Win™ initiative. Here is the Go PlacesTM media insight…

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 106 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 107


SHARING

Moments

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

SAROVA STANLEY CAKE MIXING Sarova Stanley on 16th November, 2018 launched its Annual Christmas Cake Mixing ceremony in readiness for the festive season. Led by Executive Chef Godfrey Ouda, guests freely mixed the ingredients laid out on the table, with their hands as they sang Christmas carols together. The cake which will be allowed to ferment slowly will be baked in time and guests can enjoy the cake throughout the holiday season. Colombian Saxophonist, Dumbra Lippez, entertained the crowd with Christmas carols through the night. Here’s the insight..

SAROVA PANAFRIC CAKE MIXING Every year, Sarova Panafric Hotel prepares a whopping 100 kilos of the most flavourful Christmas cake. To have a sensational experience, guests are invited to join in the fun and the exciting annual cake mixing ceremony to bond and make merry. Cake Mixing involves tray decoration and fruits soaking as Christmas decorations and playing of sweet Christmas carols throughout. The sooner you start soaking your fruit mixture in brandy, whiskey, rum and other liquors – the tastier the cake! Here’s 2018’s Cake Mixing Moments…

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album 108 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SHARING

Moments

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

TRUE LOVE MAGAZINE’S CHAMPAGNE BREAKFAST AT LORD ERROLL True Love (East Africa) Magazine hosted Champagne Breakfast themed “Sex And The City” on 24th November 2018 at The Award Winning The Lord Erroll. It’s the time women get to enjoy copious amounts of champagne, indulge in savoury food and network with fabulous women. The Event attracted many influential women who showed up and showed out including Women Rep Esther M. Passaris, OGW and great speakers including Mary Waceke, Leadership and Business Life Coach who touched on topics like: Why You Keep Attracting the Same Type of Men and How To Break The Cycle! and Sally Mahihu, Founder of The Seasoned Woman. Indeed, it’s admirable when women come together with a common call! Here’s Yet Another Exclusive...

To see who attended, visit our Facebook Page @goplacesdigital and view the album Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 109


DR. SEUSS’ THE GRINCH Genre: Comedy | Family | Fantasy Actors: Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Kelley Synopsis: Inside a snowflake exists the magical land of Whoville. In Whoville, live the Whos, an almost mutated sort of munchkinlike people. All the Whos love festive seasons, yet just outside of their beloved Whoville lives the Grinch. The Grinch is a nasty creature that hates festivities, and plots to steal it away from the Whos which he equally abhors. Yet a small child, Cindy Lou Who, decides to try befriending the Grinch

THE DELINQUENT SEASON Genre: Action | Horror | Thriller Actors: Deborah Ann Woll, Tyler Labine, Taylor Russell Synopsis: The movie takes centre stage with six strangers who find themselves in circumstances beyond their control and must use their wits to survive. The film has left movie lovers waiting for its release, with the date changing over and over again. However, it is set to be released in the United States on January 4, 2019.

110 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

TRUST MACHINE: THE STORY OF BLOCKCHAIN THE OTHER SIDE OF Genre: Documentary HEAVEN 2: FIRE OF Actors: Rosario Dawson, FAITH Imogen Heap, Tim Draper

Synopsis: This is the first blockchain-funded, distributed, and focused documentary, from entertainment tech company SingularDTV and Futurism Studios. The feature documentary explores the evolution of crypto currency, blockchain and decentralization, including the technology’s role in addressing important real-world problems, such as world hunger and income inequality. The Story of Blockchain is not always a model of clarity, but it does a decent job of explaining the basic concept.

Genre: Drama Actors: Christopher Gorham, Natalie Medlock, Russell Dixon Synopsis: The Other Side of Heaven is an American adventure drama film, written and directed by Mitch Davis, based on John H. Groberg’s non-fiction book In the Eye of the Storm. The film is about Groberg’s experiences as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in the Tongan islands in the 1950s and is based on the book that he wrote about his real experiences.

CENTURY CINEMAX IMAX GARDEN CITY: 0796 299 992 / 0789 042 901 CENTURY CINEMAX JUNCTION / NGONG ROAD: 0700-326726 / 0739-173643 For Trailers, Show Times and Exclusive Special Offers be sure to sign-up for the weekly E-Newsletter by Simply Loging Onto digital.goplacesdigital.com


THE PRODIGY Genre: Horror | Thriller Actors: Taylor Schilling, Brittany Allen, Colm Feore Synopsis: Taylor Schilling stars as Sarah, a mother whose young son Miles’ disturbing behaviour signals that an evil, possibly supernatural force has overtaken him. Fearing for her family’s safety, Sarah must grapple with her maternal instinct to love and protect Miles in favor of investigating what - or who - is causing his dark turn. She is forced to look for answers in the past, taking the audience on a wild ride; one where the line between perception and reality remains blurry. The Prodigy first emerged in the underground rave scene in the early 1990s and have since achieved popularity and worldwide recognition.

BEN IS BACK HAPPY DEATH DAY 2U Genre: Horror | Mystery | Thriller Actors: Jessica Rothe, Ruby Modine Synopsis: This film is an upcoming American slasher written and directed by Christopher B. Landon. A college student Tree Gelbman gets stuck in a time loop after getting killed, and must continue to kill herself in order to find her killer. It is a sequel to 2017’s Happy Death Day, with Jason Blum again serving as a producer. The film is scheduled to be released on February 14, 2019, by Universal Pictures.

Genre: Drama Actors: Julia Roberts, Lucas Hedges, Courtney B. Vance Synopsis: Follows the charming yet troubled Ben Burns (Hedges), who returns home to his unsuspecting family one fateful Christmas Eve. Ben’s wary mother Holly Burns (Roberts) welcomes her beloved son’s return, but soon learns he is still very much in harm’s way. During the 24 hours that may change their lives forever, Holly must do everything in her power to avoid the family’s downfall. The project was announced in October 2017, with Lucas Hedges and Julia Roberts set to star. Filming began on December 5, with Courtney B. Vance joining the cast as Ben’s stepfather.

THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA Genre: Horror | Mystery | Thriller Actors: Linda Cardellini, Patricia Velasquez, Raymond Cruz Synopsis: Ignoring the eerie warning of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment, a social worker and her own small kids are soon drawn into a frightening supernatural realm. Their only hope to survive La Llorona’s deadly wrath may be a disillusioned priest and the mysticism he practices to keep evil at bay, on the fringes where fear and faith collide.

Planet Media Cinemas Prestige Plaza: 0706- 777 303 / 0732- 777 303 For Trailers, Show Times and Exclusive Special Offers be sure to sign-up for the weekly E-Newsletter by Simply Loging Onto digital.goplacesdigital.com

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 111


SPORTS NEWS SPANISH LALIGA Replacing Ronaldo has proved tougher for Real Madrid. When Real Madrid sold Cristiano Ronaldo in July 2018, fans and local media alike all asked the same question: how do you replace him? Ronaldo was Real’s all-time top scorer, notching up 451 goals in 438 games in all competitions. He led the club to four Champions League titles from the last five available and was invariably the man who dug his side out of a hole with a goal from nothing just when they most needed a hero. The message from inside the club, however, was that they did not need to make a ‘Galactico’ splash in the transfer market, and that the answer lay within the team already. Gareth Bale, signed in 2013 for a then world-record £85.3 million from Tottenham Hotspur following an extended public courting, had long been marked out by Real president Florentino Perez as the man to take over from Ronaldo.

ROGER FEDERER BEATS GILLES SIMON Roger Federer has reached his 12th straight Swiss Indoors semi-final after beating France’s Gilles Simon in three sets in Basel. The home favourite and eight-time champion won 7-6 (7-1) 4-6 6-4 in just over two and a half hours. World number three, Federer, 37, saved a set point and then dominated the tie-break as he took the first set. There were five breaks of serve in the second as Simon levelled, before Federer won the decider. Apart from 2016 when he was absent from the tournament, Federer has reached every final since 2006. His last quarter-final defeat was 19 years ago, as an 18-year-old against Britain’s Tim Henman, and he has only lost once in 14 previous semi-finals appearances. The 20-time Grand Slam winner will play either Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas or Russian Daniil Medvedev in the last four. 112 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


SPORTS NEWS WORLD GOLF CHAMPOINSHIPS Brooks Koepka: US golfer named PGA Tour player of the year. The American, won the US PGA Championship and became the first golfer since 1989 to clinch back-to-back US Open titles. Koepka, 28, won the award ahead of Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Open champion Francesco Molinari, Justin Rose and Justin Thomas. PGA Tour members who have played in at least 15 FedEx Cup events in the 2017-18 season were eligible to vote. Rumours of an argument between Koepka and world number one Johnson at the Ryder Cup, which were denied at the time, have since been confirmed by US captain Jim Furyk. “Whatever altercation started, or what happened, it was very brief,” Furyk said. “They’re like brothers. Brothers may argue, brothers get into it. But they’re as close as they’ve ever been, and it really had no effect on either one of them.”

AUSTRALIAN 2019 GRAND PRIX The Formula 1 season is set to start a week earlier next year, with the Australian Grand Prix announcing a provisional midMarch date for 2019. Having run on the fourth weekend of March for the past two years, Melbourne race organisers have locked down the March 14-17 slot for next year - subject to ratification by the World Motor Sport Council. It will be the earliest start to the F1 season since the 2015 campaign kicked off with a March 15 race in Melbourne. The March 16-17 weekend slot for 2019 would give the Albert Park race some clean air in what is the busy month for Melbourne, sitting in between the popular Moomba Festival the weekend before and the start of the Australian Football League season the week afterwards. Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 113


GOPLACESDIGITAL.COM 114 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA

VISA Travelers from any country can now obtain a multiple entry visa that will allow entry to the Republic of Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism over a period of 90 days. This visa is the result of a joint initiative made by the Heads of States of these respective partner countries to boost regional travel and create opportunities for tourists to explore the diversity of East Africa.

ATTRACTIONS Historical Sites and Museums Nairobi

Kenya conjures all the romance and adventure of its colorful colonial days. Its rich history and tribal culture is brought to life by its excellent museums and historical sites. Nairobi National Museum - The museum houses celebrated collections of Kenya’s History, Nature, Culture and Contemporary Art. The Nairobi Snake Park is located within the museum compound.

About Nairobi

Nairobi is a charming, cosmopolitan city, and the only city in the world with a National Park within its precincts. Known as the ‘ Green City in the Sun’, Nairobi is the largest city as well as the capital city of Kenya. Nairobi is the main commercial center of Kenya and has a welldeveloped infrastructure with modern facilities to match.

About Mombasa

Mombasa is Kenya’s principal port and the country’s second largest city. It is a colourful island town with a picturesque blend of ancient and modern buildings. The old town and its labyrinth of narrow twisting allies display beautifully carved doors and Arab verandas, bazaars with curios and antique shops. The coastal city of Mombasa is one of Africa’s major tourist destinations, with some of the best beaches in the world

Kenya National Archives - Situated at the edge of the central business district in downtown Nairobi, along Moi Avenue. The Kenya National Archives is a reservoir and a living example of historic and ethnographic knowledge. Bomas of Kenya - The Bomas of Kenya is a cultural centre located in Langata Nairobi. Bomas (homesteads) displays traditional villages belonging to several Kenyan tribes.

The Railway Museum - The museum exhibits 10 old steam engines built between 1923 and 1955, as well as other materials that portray the country’s history and role played by the railway in growing some of Kenya’s major towns and cities.

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 115


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA Mombasa

Fort Jesus - This is Mombasa’s monumental piece of architecture that was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The fort has a museum that displays various artifacts from the era where Mombasa served as a transit point for slave trade.

Mountain Climbing And Trekking Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa is popular for trekking safaris, so are the Ngong hills close to the capital city of Nairobi. The scenic view is bound to be a moving experience for any visitor to the country. Balloon Safari A balloon safari over the vast savanna plains of Kenya Maasai Mara complete with a view of the animals in their natural habitat is an experience that will never leave you.

Old Town - Old Town is a part of Mombasa that is reminiscent of the days when the Arabs exerted a heavy influence on the town and its culture, and especially in the architecture and language. It is well known for its ancient buildings, extravagant art designs and curio shops. Gede Ruins - The Gede Ruins are located in Gede off the Malindi-Mombasa Road along the road to Watamu. It dates back to the late 13th century and was abandoned in the early 17th century. Vasco Da Gama Pillar - The pillar is situated on the seafront road in Malindi and is one of the oldest remaining monuments in Africa. Vasco Da Gama pillar was built in 1498 by the great Portuguese explorer as a sign of appreciation for the welcome he was given by the Sultan of Malindi.

Fishing There are exceptional opportunities for trout fishing, especially in the Mount Kenya and Aberdare regions in the central parts of the country. Nile Perch fishing takes place in Lake Victoria and the Lake Turkana regions. River Rafting / White-water Rafting The best times for rafting in Kenya are late October to mid-January, and from early April to late July. There are plenty of rapids, waterfalls and chutes on the Athi/Galana and Tana Rivers as well as on the Ewaso Nyiro river near Isiolo.

Adventure & Activities

Kenya offers an unparalleled combination of landscapes and unique cultural experiences that will make any tourist want to come back for a second and third trip. Diving At The Coast The best places for diving in Kenya will be found in the numerous marine reserves. From Malindi to Shimoni, scuba diving and snorkeling is the norm in the midst of some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Watamu and Wasini island have some of the most spectacular snorkeling experiences.

116 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Cycling / Mountain Biking Mountain biking and cycling trips at the Hell’s gate National Park around the great Rift Valley region are great breathtaking experiences.


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA Bird watching Take a breathtaking view of a variety of birds at Rusinga Island, Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria.

Horse riding - You can catch some horse-riding and horse racing action at the Ngong Race Course or at the Thigiri Riding School.

Daphne Sheldrick - The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is located at the Nairobi National Park and serves as an orphanage for baby elephants as well as some rhinos.

Water-slides - Slide, spin, soar and plunge into the water. Enjoy water slide at Splash Waterworld Lanagata, Nairobi; or Wild Waters Nyali, Mombasa

Giraffe Center - The Giraffe Center is an amazing place to visit. The center was built initially as a rehabilitation project to rescue the Rothschild Giraffe. It is home to a number of endangered species and a unique ecosystem.

Quad bike - You can drive down to Lukenya Motorcross on the outskirts of Nairobi for Quad biking, or head out further to the Hells Gate National Park in Naivasha about an hours drive from Nairobi. Ice Skating - The Panari Hotel along Mombasa Road has an ice-skating rink for ice skating lovers or get to even learn how to play Ice Hockey. Go Karting - Experience the rush of adrenaline as you take sharp corners in a kart at high speeds around the track at GP - Karting at Splash Langata or at Go Kart, Mombasa.

Mamba Village - Nairobi Mamba Village is located in Nairobi’s leafy Karen suburb, about 13 kilometers away from the city center. Mamba Village is famous for its Crocodile Farm. Paint Balling - Paintballing is a warlike game where guns are substituted with air pressure driven paintballs, which burst on impact! Enjoy some paintballing action at Paintball Fury- Karen, Jungle Paintball Kenya - City Park or at Kitengela Paintball Polo. Archery - Kenya Archery Association is the official national Archery association. Archery training grounds include: Twiga Centre- Parklands Sports Club, Strathmore Univesity Grounds and East Africa Bow Sports Ltd

Safari

Kenya is globally known as the original land of Safari. It is in this country where the big five; elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard can all be found roaming free in their natural habitats alongside other wild animals such as cheetah, wildebeest, eland, zebra, gazelle, giraffe, Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 117


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA waterbuck, impala and more. You will also come across brilliant butterflies, and rare exotic birds in every conceivable shape, size and color. With over 20 national parks, and game reserves, which have been set aside for the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats this is a Kenya safari enthusiast’s dream. About 8% of the Kenya’s land mass is protected area for wildlife conservation. Protected areas are gazetted landscapes/seascapes that have been surveyed, demarcated and gazetted either as National Parks and/or National Reserves. Aberdare National Park The park is located about 100 km north of Nairobi and stretches over wide terrains. The Park covers the higher areas of the Aberdare Mountain Ranges of central Kenya. Animals easily observed in the park include; the Black Rhino, Leopard, Baboon, Black and White Colobus monkey and Sykes monkey. Amboseli National Park Amboseli National Park is located in Loitoktok District within the Great Rift Valley; 269 Km

from Nairobi. The park is famous for being the best place in Africa to get close to free-ranging elephants, meet the Maasai and get spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in the Africa). Hell’s Gate National Park Hell’s Gate National Park lies to the south of Lake Naivasha in Kenya, Northwest of Nairobi. Some of the frequently observed animal species include lions, leopards, and cheetahs. There are over 100 species of birds in the park, including African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest and Thomson’s gazelle.

118 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Lake Nakuru National Park

The park lies 140km Northwest of Nairobi. Its ecosystem is surrounded by mainly wooded and bushy grasslands. The park supports a wide ecological diversity with Flamingos and other water birds being the major attractions of the area and 56 different species of mammals including the white rhino and buffaloes. Maasai Mara National Park The Maasai Mara National Park covers 1530km and lies southwest of the country. It borders the Serengeti Park to the south, the Siria escarpment to the west and Maasai pastoral ranches to the North and East. It is famous for its exceptional population of Big Cats and the annual migration of wildebeest and other grazers from the Serengeti every year from July to October.

Meru National Park Meru National Park is located in the east of Meru 350 km from Nairobi. Covering an area of 87,044 hectares, it has abundant rainfall and a wide range of wildlife such as elephants, hippos, lion, cheetah leopard, black rhinos, some rare antelopes and more than 300 species of birds. Mt. Kenya National Park Mt. Kenya National Park is located to the east of the Great Rift Valley, about 175km North-East of Nairobi. At 5,199m Mt. Kenya is the second highest


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA peak in Africa. It is also an important water tower in the country. The park supports wildlife such as elephants, tree hyrax, white tailed mongoose, suni, black fronted duiker, mole rat, bushbucks, waterbuck and Elands. Samburu National Reserve The Samburu National Reserve is located on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It was one of the two areas in which conservationists George Adamson and Joy Adamson raised Elsa the Lioness made famous in the best selling book and award winning movie ‘Born Free’. All three big cats, Lion, Cheetah and Leopard as well as elephants, buffalos and hippos are found here.

Malindi Marine National Park & Reserves Malindi Marine National Park & Reserves is located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Kenya. The park’s attractions include coral reefs, turtles and dolphins and over 300 species of fish including the Barracuda, Sharks, Angel Fish, Surgeon Fish Lobsters, Crabs, Clams, Octopus and Star Fish.

Beaches North Coast Mombasa

Tsavo East National Park Tsavo East National Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Kenya at 11,747 square kilometers. The park lies to the east of the Nairobi - Mombasa road, offering a vast and untapped arena of arid bush, which is washed by the azure and emerald meandering of Galana River. Guarded by the limitless lava reaches of Yatt a plateau and patrolled by some of the largest elephant herds in Kenya. Tsavo West National Park Tsavo West covers an area of 9,065 square kilometers and is generally referred to as the “Land of lava Springs and Man-eaters”. It is located on Southeast of Kenya, 240km from Nairobi along the western side of the MombasaNairobi highway. Major wildlife attractions include Elephants, Rhinos, Hippos, Lions, Cheetah, Leopards, Buffalos, diverse plant and bird species including the threatened corncrake and the threatened Basra Reed Warbler.

Bamburi Beach Bamburi Beach offers a picteresque stretch of sandy beach with a good number of top class hotels and resorts lined up facing the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The beach is located in close proximity several town attractions. Nyali Beach Nyali Beach offers long miles of white sandy beach, backed by private villas, hotels and gardens. They are suitable for those seeking a beach holiday with the convenience of Mombasa’s urban attractions close at hand.

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 119


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA Shanzu Beach Shanzu Located about 20 kilometers from Mombasa city along the Indian Coast, is a town, a lovely spot, with superb beaches and many beautiful and interesting places to visit. There is a holiday market in Shanzu with lots of small shops and a Bazaar offering a large collection of local crafts at very good prices. South Coast Mombasa Diani Beach Along the beaches are hotels catering to all tastes; from small boutique properties for the discerning traveller to larger family hotels. There are also self-catering properties where you can enjoy privacy and informality. Here guests can enjoy water-sports such as windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, water-skiing and scuba diving. Diani Beach lies 35km south of Mombasa city. The beach covers the shores for about 25km.

its appearance and character over the centuries. The town has narrow streets, no cars and the only means of transport are donkeys, or by sea on dhow or motor boats. The Lamu area contains wildlife and wide beaches. The beauty of this ancient world is celebrated daily, however, every year during the annual Lamu festival all are welcome to experience the marvel of this coastal gem. Malindi

Tiwi Beach Tiwi is a beautiful beach located north of Diani Beach. Tiwi Beach is much quiter compared to Diani and is a more preferable spot for a romantic beach getaway. At tiwi you can also enjoy a number of water sports and five star accommodation at several hotels and resorts. Galu Beach If you are seeking even more serenity along the South Coast, then Galu Beach would be your destination of choice. Galu Beach expands it’s white sandy beach as far as the eye can see, with palm trees fringing over the tropical coastline and turquoise clear water is sheltered by a coral reef which makes it a safe swimming lagoon, perfect for a beach vacation or holiday. Lamu Going to the remote archipelago of Lamu is like traveling back in time. As Kenya’s oldest town, Lamu has retained

120 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Malindi is a place full of history dating back to the 15th Century when the Portuguese visited our shores, making it a prime trading post. Sometimes referred to as Little Italy, Malindi is located at the centre of a strip of idyllic tropical beaches offering the visitor a range of world class resorts and quiet relaxing hideaways. The Vasco Da Game Pilar in Malindi stands just south of the town at Vasco Dagama Point. The pillar marks the last stop in Africa before Vasco Dagama sailed across the Indian Ocean to India in 1498. Watamu Watamu offers wide white sandy beaches fronts. This tranquil haven is home to several wellestablished resorts such as Turtle Bay Beach Hotel, Blue Bay Village, Watamu Beach Hotel, Temple Point Resort, Hemingways Resort, and many private guest-houses scattered through the forest along the shore. In this area, Watamu Marine National park is the ideal spot for divers and snorkellers alike. The Marine Park boasts over 600 species of fish in just 10 square kilometers.


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA

MONEY ATMS Can be found throughout Kenya in major Urban centers. Credit cards such as VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted. American Express and JBC are accepted only at certain establishments Forex Bureuas Forex Bureaus are the easiest way to convert currency and are found at airports, hotels and at all major towns centers and cities in Kenya. Forex Bureaus operate for longer hours compared to banks. Among other major currencies that can be exchanged with the Kenyan Shilling are: • • • • • • • • • • •

US Dollar Sterling Pound Euro South Africa Rand French Franc Australian Dollar Indian Rupee Japanese Yen Chinese Yuan Swiss Franc Saudi Riyal

Banks In Kenya banks are found in major towns and shopping malls. Banking hours vary from bank to bank but generally they open from 9.00am – 4: 00pm and run from Monday through Friday and some even operate on Saturdays.

COMMUNICATION

Phone and internet are the most common means of communication for tourists visiting the cities of Nairobi and Mombasa. Kenya uses GSM network for mobile phones and 3G internet connectivity. Major Mobile Service Providers are Safaricom, Airtel and Orange. These networks are also among the major internet service providers, with Orange having an unlimited monthly or weekly internet offer. Most hotels provide Wireless or wired internet either as a complimentary to guests or at a nominal fee.

TRANSPORT

The best mode of road transport available for tourists moving around towns is by taxi. Car rentals are a convenient option for people who prefer self drive. Tours and travel companies

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 121


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA such as Go Places Tours and Travel offer experienced chauffeur driven tour guides for best tours and travel experiences to all the major national parks and game reserves across the country. Some hotels and lodges may also offer their own transport to the national parks either as a complimentary or at a nominal fee to guests. Taxi companies include: Delight Cabs Ltd Tel: (+254 20) 2305697 Kenatco Taxi Service Tel: (+254 20) 2506790 Virgin Tours Tel:(+ 254 20) 2720952 Jatco Tel: (+254 20) 4446096 Pewin Cabs Tel: (+254) 798 01000 Tours & Travel Companies Go Places Tours & Travel Tel: (+254 20) 2338685, 786 974634, 719 764000 Car Hire Avis Car Rental Kenya Tel: (+254 20) 2213330/1, 316061

122 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Taxi Apps With advanced technology, one can now get a taxi by using mobile applications such as: Easy Taxi, Uber, Taxify and Little Cab which connects taxi drivers and passengers. The application is available for Android, iOS, Blackberry, and Windows Phone devices, as well as for B2B clients through EasyTaxi Pro and Easy Taxi Corporate solutions. Connecting Airlines There are several airlines that offer scheduled charter flight services to major national parks and towns around Kenya. These include: Airkenya, Safarilink, SAX, Kenya Airways and Jambo jet.

WHERE TO STAY Kenya offers a wide range of accommodation facilities for business and leisure travellers. The diversity is impressive and encompasses big and small city hotels, lodges and beach resorts among others. Check the NEXT PAGE for a comprehensive list of Go Places Recommended Hotels and Lodges. These pages also include special packages for the bi- month or season


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 123


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA

HEALTH & FITNESS Today’s society puts Health and fitness at the forefront, this means there is demand for highly trained professionals well conversed within these areas. Hence keep-up a healthy body or take time off from your busy every day life to switch off, relax, recharge, detox and experience rejuvenation of body and soul in some of the best health and fitness centers in Kenya offering a number of programs in health, wellness and fitness completed by beauty facilities to help improve individual health and lifestyle. Spas Maisha Health Club - Nairobi Serena Hotel

Nightlife Enjoy a vibrant nightlife at all major towns and cities in Kenya with exclusive clubs, casinos and lounges to dazzle different tastes. Nairobi Clubs Gypsy Bar- Westlands, Tree House Club Nairobi, Simba Saloon - Carnivore, Ebony Lounge - Westlands Klub House - Westlands Gallelio - Westlands Venom Lounge & Bar - Westlands Aqua Blu - Westlands Level 8 - Best Western Que Pasa - Karen Casablanca - Lenana Rd Kenya Coast Clubs Forty Thieves - Diani Il Covo - Bamburi Mombasa Pirates - Bamburi Stardust - Malindi Billionaire Club - Malindi Patapata - Malindi

Zoezi Spa - The Boma Nairobi Kaya Spa - The Tribe Hotel Sovereign Suites Spa Revive Health Club and Spa - Heron Portico Hotel Kempinski The Spa -Villa Rosa Kempinski Tulia- Sarova Whitesands Maya Spa - Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa Uzuri Spa - Leopard Beach Resort Swahili Beach Spa - Swahili Beach Resort Titanium Fitness Centre - Victoria Courts Westlands

ENTERTAINMENT

Movies Watch the latest movies in some of the best cinema auditoriums in Africa. Century Cinemax - Junction, Ngong Road Fox Cineplex - Sarit Centre IMAX 20th Century - Mama Ngina Street, Nairobi Nyali Cinemax - Nyali Planet Media Kisumu - Kisumu Planet Media Prestige Plaza - Nairobi Westgate - Nairobi

124 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

Nairobi Casinos Babylon Casino - Sentrim 680 Hotel Nairobi CBD Bollywood Casino - Royal Orchid Hotel Westlands Captain’s Club Casino - Mombasa Road Nairobi Joker’s Wild Casino - Nairobi CBD Paradise Casino - Safari Park Hotel Casino Flamingo - Fortis Tower Westlands Mayfair Casino - Westlands Las Vegas Casino - Westlands Palm Regency - Laico Regency Mombasa Casinos Casino Rocco Casino Max - Nyali Golden Key Casino Nyali Casino - Nyali International Beach Resort


VISITORS GUIDE - KENYA Malindi Casinos Casino Malindi

SHOPPING Curio Shopping Those looking for souvenirs or African artifacts, Maasai Market is the place to visit. This vibrant market is a true festival of color and form, and

offers shoppers an opportunity to buy some of the rich collections of African arts and crafts. The market’s venue rotates between different shopping centres and other locations, and is open from 8am to 6pm. On Wednesday, the market is at Capital Centre on Mombasa Road. On Thursday, at the Junction Shopping Mall, third floor parking, Village Market on Fridays and on Saturday and Sunday, at the Supreme Court parking. On Sundays, you can find some of the traders at the Yaya Centre parking lot. Malls and Supermarkets If you enjoy shopping then you will be spoilt for choice. There are many shopping venues in Nairobi and Mombasa. These state-of-the-

art shopping malls boast leading retail stores and ancillary services, ample parking, one-stop shop experiences stocked with both local and international brands, numerous wine & dine outlets, clothing stores and much more. Below are some of the major shopping malls and supermarkets. Shopping Malls ABC Place, Westlands, Waiyaki Way The Sarit Centre, Westlands, off Waiyaki Way​ Yaya Centre, Hurlingham, Arwings Kodhek Road​ Village Market, Gigiri, Limuru Road ​ The Junction Mall, Ngong Road Two Rivers Mall South Field Mall Rosslyn Riviera Mall The Galleria Shopping Mall Junction of Magadi and Langata Road​ Crossroads Shopping Mall, Karen, Langata Road The Mall, Westlands, Waiyaki Way Thika Road Mall, Roysambu, Thika Superhighway Ukay Centre, Westlands Nairobi The Oval, Westlands Nairobi Nakumatt Nyali, Malindi Road, Mombasa City Mall Nyali, Malindi Road, Mombasa The Diani Beach Shopping Centre, Mombasa, Kenya Westgate Mall, Mwanzi Road, Westlands, Nairobi The Hub, Dagoretti Road, Karen, Nairobi Garden City, Thika Superhighway, Nairobi Supermarkets Nakumatt, Uchumi, Tuskys, Naivas and Ukwala

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 125


126 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com

• • • • • • • • • • •

Lake Lake

NASOLOT NASOLOT NATIONAL NATIONAL RESERVE RESERVE

Kakamega A104 A104 Kisumu Kisumu

WESTERN Eldoret WESTERN Kakamega

Eldoret

Kitale Kitale

L.Bogoria L.Bogoria

L.Turkana L.Turkana

Nanyuki Nanyuki

RAHOLE RAHOLE NAT. RES. NAT. RES. KORA

BISAHINDI BISAHINDI NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

SHABA SHABA NAT. RES NAT. RES

LOSOI LOSOI NAT.RES NAT.RES

MARSABIT MARSABIT NATIONAL NATIONAL RESERVE RESERVE

El El Waka Waka

• • • • •

Abardare Country Club Fishing Lodge (KWS) Fishing Lodge (KWS) The Ark Hotel The Ark Hotel

Ashnil Samburu Lodge Ashnil Samburu Lodge Elephants Watch Safari Camp Elephants Watch Safari Camp Samburu Simba Lodge Samburu Simba Lodge Samburu Serena Lodge Samburu Serena Lodge Samburu Game Lodge Samburu Game Lodge Samburu Intrepids Samburu Intrepids Sarova Shaba Lodge Sarova Shaba Lodge Sentrim Samburu Lodge Sentrim Samburu Lodge

ABERDARES ABERDARES NAT. NAT. PARK PARK • Abardare Country Club

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mandera MALKA MALKA MARI MARI Mandera NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

NORTH NORTH EASTERN EASTERN

ETHIOPIA ETHIOPIA EASTERN EASTERN

MERU MERU NATIONAL NATIONAL PARK PARK

SAMBURU SAMBURU NAT. RES. NAT. RES. BUFFALO BUFFALO SPRINGS SPRINGS NAT. RES NAT. RES

MARALAL MARALAL NATIONAL NATIONAL SANCTUARY SANCTUARY

RIFT VALLEY VALLEY RIFT

Lake Lake Turkana Turkana

SIBILOI SIBILOI NATIONAL NATIONAL PARK PARK

MT. KENYA MT. KENYA NAT. PARK Nakuru NAT. PARK Nakuru

SOUTH SOUTH TURKANA TURKANA NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

Lodwar Lodwar

SAIWA SWAMP SAIWA SWAMP NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

MT. ELGON MT. ELGON NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

NDERE I. NDERE I. NAT. PARK

Enasoit Kicheche Laikipia Camp Kicheche Laikipia Camp Lemartis Camp Lemartis Camp Makena Hills Makena Hills Ol Pejeta Bush camp Ol Pejeta Bush camp Sweet Waters Tented Camp Sweet Waters Tented Camp

LAIKIPIA NAT.PARK NAT.PARK LAIKIPIA • Enasoit

N AN A D UD SSU

NATIONAL, MARINE PARKS, GAME RESERVES & MAJOR TOWNS

Kenya


Victoria Victoria

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

kericho kericho

Acacia Camp Acacia Camp Acacia House Acacia House Acaluma Camp Acaluma Camp Amani Mara Amani Mara Ashnil Mara Ashnil Mara Aruba Mara Camp Aruba Mara Camp Basecamp Explorer Basecamp Explorer Basecamp Naboisho Camp Basecamp Naboisho Camp Basecamp Wilderness Basecamp Wilderness Bateleur Camp Bateleur Camp Cottars 1920’s Camp Cottars 1920’s Camp David Livingstone Safari Lodge David Livingstone Safari Lodge Duma Camp Duma Camp Elephant Pepper Camp Elephant Pepper Camp Enchoro Wildlife Camp Enchoro Wildlife Camp Encounter Mara Encounter Mara Entim Safari Camp Entim Safari Camp Entomoto Camp Entomoto Camp Farmont Mara Safari Club Farmont Mara Safari Club Fig Tree Camp Fig Tree Camp Governors Camp Governors Camp Governor’s Ii Moran Camp Governor’s Ii Moran Camp Governor’s Private Camp Governor’s Private Camp House in the Wild House in the Wild Ilkeliani Camp Ilkeliani Camp Jk Mara Camp Jk Mara Camp Karen Blixen Camp Karen Blixen Camp Keekorok Lodge Keekorok Lodge Kicheche Bush Camp Kicheche Bush Camp Kicheche Mara Camp Kicheche Mara Camp Kicheche Naboisho Camp Kicheche Naboisho Camp Kichwa Tembo Camp Kichwa Tembo Camp Kilima Camp Kilima Camp Kimama Camp Kimama Camp Leleshwa Camp Leleshwa Camp Little Governpr’s Camp Little Governpr’s Camp Maji Moto Eco Camp Maji Moto Eco Camp Mara Buffalo Camp Mara Buffalo Camp Mara Bush Camp Mara Bush Camp Mara Bushtops Mara Bushtops Mara Enkipai Mara Enkipai Mara Explorer Camp Mara Explorer Camp Mara House Mara House Mara Intreprid Lodge Mara Intreprid Lodge Mara Leisure Camp Mara Leisure Camp Mara Ngeche Camp Mara Ngeche Camp Mara Plains Camp Mara Plains Camp Mara Porini Camp Mara Porini Camp Mara Serena Lodge Mara Serena Lodge Mara Simba Lodge Mara Simba Lodge Mara Sopa Lodge Mara Sopa Lodge Mra Timbo Lodge Mra Timbo Lodge Mara West Camp Mara West Camp Masai Mara Manyatta Camp Masai Mara Manyatta Camp Mpata Safari Club Mpata Safari Club Muthaiga Safari Camp Muthaiga Safari Camp

• • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Amboseli Serena Lodge Amboseli Sopa Lodge Amboseli Sopa Lodge Amboseli Porini Camp Amboseli Porini Camp Kibo Guest House(KWS) Kibo Guest House(KWS) Kibo Safari Camp Kibo Safari Camp Kilima Safari Camp (Mada) Kilima Safari Camp (Mada) Kilimanjaro Guest House Kilimanjaro Guest House Nyati Bandas (KWS) Nyati Bandas (KWS) Ol Tukai Lodge Ol Tukai Lodge Satao Elerai Camp Satao Elerai Camp Sentrim Amboseli Sentrim Amboseli Simba and Chui Bandas (KWS) Simba and Chui Bandas (KWS) Tawi Lodge Tawi Lodge Tortilis Tented Camp Tortilis Tented Camp

A104 A104

Nairobi

CENTRAL CENTRAL Nairobi

AMBOSELI

A109 A109

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Aruba Ashnil Epiya Chapeya Tented Camp Epiya Chapeya Tented Camp Galdessa Camp Galdessa Camp Kilalinda Lodge Kilalinda Lodge Kingfisher Tented Camp Kingfisher Tented Camp Ndololo Tented Camp Ndololo Tented Camp Ngutini Lodge Ngutini Lodge Pattersons Safari Camp Pattersons Safari Camp Satao Camp Satao Camp Tarhi Eco Camp Tarhi Eco Camp Voi Safari Lodge Voi Safari Lodge Voi Wildlife Lodge Voi Wildlife Lodge

TSAVO EAST EAST NAT.PARK NAT.PARK TSAVO • Aruba Ashnil

Finch Hatton Tented Camp Kamboyo Guest ouse(KWS) Kamboyo Guest ouse(KWS) Kilaguni Safari Serena Lodge Kilaguni Safari Serena Lodge Lake Jipe Bandas(KWS) Lake Jipe Bandas(KWS) Lions Bluff Lodge Lions Bluff Lodge Ngulia safari Lodge Ngulia safari Lodge Salt Lick Lodge(Taita Hills) Salt Lick Lodge(Taita Hills) Severin Kitani Safari Lodge/Camp Severin Kitani Safari Lodge/Camp Taita Hills Safari Lodge Taita Hills Safari Lodge Voyager ziwani Tented Camp Voyager ziwani Tented Camp

TSAVO WEST WEST NAT.PARK NAT.PARK TSAVO • Finch Hatton Tented Camp

TSAVO EAST TSAVO EAST NATIONAL NATIONAL PARK PARK

Malindi Malindi

WATAMU/MALINDI WATAMU/MALINDI MARINE NAT. RES. MARINE NAT. RES.

Lamu Lamu

KIUNGA MARINE KIUNGA MARINE NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

BONI BONI NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

• Treetops Hotel • Treetops Hotel • Tusk Camp Banda (KWS) • Tusk Camp Banda (KWS)

Mombasa Mombasa

INDIAN INDIAN OCEAN OCEAN

MALINDI MARINE NAT. PARK MALINDI MARINE NAT. PARK

KISHA MARINE KISHA MARINE PARK PARK

Shimoni Shimoni

SHIMBA HILLS SHIMBA HILLS NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

A23 A23

ARABUKO ARABUKO SOKOKE SOKOKE NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

WATAMU WATAMU MARINE PARK MARINE PARK

Athi river TSAVO WEST Athi river TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL PARK

AMBOSELI NAT.PARK TA NAT.PARK T AN NZ NGAI NDETHYA ZA NGAI NDETHYA AN NAT. RES. NAT. RES. NIIA A

TANA RIVER TANA RIVER PRIMATE PRIMATE NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

ARE WALA ARE WALA NAT. RES. NAT. RES. DODORI DODORI NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

Garissa Garissa

COAST COAST

KORA NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

SOUTH SOUTH KITUI KITUI NATIONAL RES. NATIONAL RES.

NORTH NORTH KITUI KITUI NAT. RES. NAT. RES.

FOURTEEN FOURTEEN FALLS FALLS NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

MWEA NAT. MWEA NAT. ABARDARES RES. ABARDARES NATIONAL PARK RES. NATIONAL PARK OL DONYO OL DONYO L.Naivasha SABUK L.Naivasha SABUK NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

NAIROBI NAIROBI NAT. PARK NAT. PARK L. Magadi L. Magadi

LONGONOT LONGONOT NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

HELLS GATE HELLS GATE NAT. PARK NAT. PARK

AMBOSELI NAT. NAT. PARK PARK AMBOSELI • Amboseli Serena Lodge

Naboisho Camp Naboisho Camp Naibor Camp Naibor Camp Ngerende Island Lodge Ngerende Island Lodge Nyumbu Camp Nyumbu Camp Offbeat Mara Camp Offbeat Mara Camp Ol Seki Camp Ol Seki Camp Olarro Lodge Olarro Lodge Olmoran Tented Camp Olmoran Tented Camp Oltome Mara Magic Oltome Mara Magic Olumara Camp Olumara Camp Porini Lion Camp Porini Lion Camp Porini Naboisho Camp Porini Naboisho Camp Rekero Camp Rekero Camp Richards Camp Richards Camp Royal Mara Safari Camp Royal Mara Safari Camp Sala’s Camp Sala’s Camp Sanctuary Olonana Sanctuary Olonana Sarova Mara Game Camp Sarova Mara Game Camp Saruni Saruni Sekenani Camp Sekenani Camp Sentrim Mara Sentrim Mara Serian Camp Serian Camp Siana Springs Intrepid Siana Springs Intrepid Camp Camp Tawi Lodge Tawi Lodge Tipilikwani Camp Tipilikwani Camp Topi House Topi House

MASAI MARA MASAI MARA NATIONAL RES. NATIONAL RES.

RUMA NAT. PARK RUMA NAT. PARK

NYANZA NYANZA

NAT. PARK

MASAI MARA NATIONAL RES. MASAI MARA NATIONAL RES.

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 127


Fairmont Fairmont the the Norfolk Norfolk

Nairobi Nairobi SafariSafari Club Club

MadaMada HotelsHotels

(0akwood (0akwood Hotel) Hotel)

Sa

Sa ro a S va S ta ta nl nl ey ey

ro v

Laico Laico Regency Regency

Nair HiltonHilton Nairobi Sentrim Sentrim 680 680

Intercontinental Intercontinental Nairobi Nairobi

Country Country

128 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


robi

Tamarid Tamarid Restaurant Restaurant

NN

HotelsHotels

Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 129


MUSEUMS ACROSS KENYA

ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED

130 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com | 131


Digital Marketing We Focus on Increasing The Reach & Visibility of Your Business

Weekly E-newsletter Reaching Over 244,000 Subscribers and Growing... Ultimate Online Advertising Platform for Your: • • • •

Hotel, Lodges, Safari Camp - Active Travellers & Travel Buyers Restaurant - Active Diners Conference Venues - Active Corporates Lifestyle Products And Service - Active Lifestyle Buyers

To Advertise and be part of the Go Places Digital, Contact: Tel: +254 724 740527 +254 719 764000 +254 724 786999 Email: groupsales@goplacesonline.com | www.goplacesdigital.com 132 | Go Places www.goplacesdigital.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.