ISSUE 20 / FEB – APR 2016
YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Drive Time
SUZUKI SX4 ALLGRIP SLEEP OVER
ANGAMA MARA Yoga in Kenya
IT’S A BETTER WAY TO GET AWAY
540 COMPETITION WIN A MEAL FOR TWO AT TALISMAN See Page 4 for details
KENYAN BOYS CHOIR FULFILMENT THROUGH HARMONY
ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: ENTERTAINMENT • NEWS • REVIEWS & MORE
CONTENTS
contents issue 20 REGULAR FEATURES 3 In this issue 4 ‘540’ news 36 SUPPER CLUB
38
Westgate’s top eateries
38 DRIVE TIME
Suzuki SX4 Allgrip
40 SLEEP OVER
Angama Mara
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42 GADGETS COVER STORY 24 Kenyan Boys Choir
Boys find fulfilment through harmony
Five tech releases to change your life
43 ENTERTAINMENT
Watch. Read. Listen.
48 Kids’ Corner
is published by Land & Marine Publications Ltd
SPECIAL FEATURES
1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park Colchester, Essex, UK, CO4 9RA Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com
9 World Travel Awards
on behalf of
42
Kenya voted world’s top safari destination
10 Solar Ice Rink
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The coolest sport in town
13 Nanyuki Fly540 Aviation Baycourt Upper Floor, Suite 3&4 The Watermark Business Park Ndege Rd, Karen PO Box 10293-00100 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 388 3060-2 Fax: +254 (0)20 3883063 Email: info@fly540.com www.fly540.com The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ©2016 Land & Marine Publications Ltd
View this issue online:
www.fly540.com/onboard
So much more than a pit stop…
17 Yoga in Kenya
It’s a better way to get away
How do you ID a zebra?
22 Mbagathi Ridge
There’s exclusive – and then there’s Mbagathi Ridge
28 Baraka Farm
Put this dairy in your diary
30 Tatu City
Welcome to Serenity City…
Connect with Fly540
32 Zanzibar
@fly540aviation
www.facebook.com/pages/Fly-540
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20 Great Grevy’s Rally
Beaches and spice and all things nice
USEFUL INFORMATION 44 The Fly540 Network 45 Fly540 Contacts 46 Travel Information 47 Fly540 Fleet
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IN THIS ISSUE
In this issue
Issue 20
LOOK OUT FOR
Welcome to the latest issue of ‘540’ magazine
W
elcome to the latest Sleep Over: Ultimate issue of ‘540’. For this safari luxury edition of the magaat Angama zine we turn the focus Mara. See on the fabulous and internationally Page 40 acclaimed Kenya Boys’ Choir. What a The Supper Club: On Page 36 truly heart-warming story this is and we head to newly reopened an inspiration for the underprivileged Westlands for supper who have had a chance to shine – and Gadgets: On even to sing for President Obama and Page 42 we test the First Lady. out five gadgets We drop in on Nanyuki, a destinawhich hope to tion served by sister carrier Fly-SAX and change your life one of my all all-time favourites places Watch. Read. Listen: to visit. We go ice-skating at the Panari on Nairobi’s Mombasa Road and profile an up-and-coming skater and an ice On Page 43 we review the latest blockbuster movies, ‘must read’ books and music releases
hockey player. Will there be a Kenyan skater at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang? Fingers crossed. Then we count zebra (do you fall asleep when doing so?) in northern Kenya – and not just any old zebra. These are Grevy’s, the rarest of all the
zebra subspecies. We take a look at burgeoning Tatu City in Kiambu. And, staying with property, we look at what Kenya’s billionaires are snapping up in Karen. We pop down to the coast (of course) to relax with some yoga in Lamu and to find the top five reasons for visiting Zanzibar, Lamu’s alter ego to the south. The Suzuki SX4 Allgrip gets reviewed. As does the Mara’s new lodge, Angama. This is the ultimate in safari luxury. We eat out at the newly rebuilt Westgate. Can the offerings really match the old place? The answer seems to be yes. If you would like to make a comment about the magazine, please contact me at the e-mail address below. Enjoy your flight today with Fly540. Gary Gimson Publisher publishing@landmarine.com
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FLY540 HELPS WITH MERCY MISSION
Issue 20
THE WINNER IS… Congratulations to Mr Mohammed Butt who won the ‘540’ Issue 19 competition for dinner for two at Tatu Restaurant at Fairmont The Norfolk in Nairobi. Now that’s what we call a ‘540’ face…
Fly540 and Fly-SAX held a celebratory event for their agents on 8 January to thank them for their hard work and to wish them all a Happy New Year. The event was held at the highly commended Carnivore Restaurant in Langata Road, Nairobi.
At the end of last year, Fly540 was honoured to assist the non-governmental organisation Action in Focus with its recent mission in Mombasa. Fly540 sponsored tickets to Mombasa for the NGO’s volunteers, who donated food supplies to Nuru Orphanage as well as setting up libraries for two local primary schools. Mary Thatcher from Action in Focus praised Fly540 for its assistance: “Dear Don Smith, God bless you. We wanted to thank you so much for your kind support and being a partner with us in making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. We really appreciate it very much. Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We know that you will be blessed for your kindness in making this Christmas a very special one for those in need. Thank you so much.”
COMPETITION
Win a great meal for two We know Fly540 passengers love a selfie, so we’re asking you to send us your best ‘540’ face with a copy of this magazine to win a sumptuous dinner for two at The Talisman Restaurant in Nairobi. The Talisman is an awardwinning gastrolounge that is consistently voted Kenya’s top restaurant on TripAdvisor. The Talisman blends fine dining with an eclectic ambience, and the menu features fresh local ingredients combined with exotic flavours to create standout dishes such as braised belly of pork, home-made gnocchi and the excellent sushi and sashimi platter.
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To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you have to do is grab your camera or smartphone and take a selfie with your copy of ‘540’ magazine, either on the plane or at a location of your choice, and email the image, your booking reference and your full name to: competition@landmarine.org. The winner will be picked at random by The Talisman and contacted on 16 May to receive a voucher for dinner for two at The Talisman. The winning picture will be featured in Issue 21 of ‘540’ and ‘Fly-SAX’ magazines.
Competition terms and conditions - Closing date is 15 April - Only one entry per person - Entrants must be 18 years or over - The prize is issued as a voucher for KES 10,000 for two people, to be used on food and drink - Voucher is valid until 16 October 2016 - Winner must contact The Talisman at least 48 hours in advance to book a table - In case of any allergies or diet restrictions, please advise at time of booking. - The decision of the organisers will be final. The competition is not open to employees and their relatives of The Talisman Restaurant, Fly540, Fly-SAX or Land & Marine Publications Ltd.
World Travel Awards
Kenya voted world’s top safari destination
K
enya was crowned the World’s Leading Safari Destination at the grand finale of the World Travel Awards, beating off stiff competition from seven other countries. The finale took place in mid December after a series of regional events throughout the year. In issue 18 of ‘540’ magazine we covered Kenya’s wins in the African and Indian Ocean Ceremony in June. This included wins for Nairobi Serena Hotel and Diani Beach, while Fly540 was named Kenya’s Leading Domestic Safari Carrier 2015. However, the World Winners 2015 event took into consideration entries from across the globe to
recognise the finest in travel and tourism, from the world’s leading ice hotel (ICEHOTEL, Sweden) to its leading tourist attraction (Las Vegas Strip, Nevada).
Boost This win is likely to be a huge boost to Kenya’s tourism industry, especially after it reclaimed the crown from last year’s winner, South Africa, also a hugely popular safari destination thanks to top venues such as Kruger National Park. The other finalists in the category were Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, so this was no mean accomplishment. It only serves to underline Kenya’s status as a world-leading
safari destination with so many wonderful safari venues, fabulous wildlife and a huge choice of accommodation. Despite recent concerns over security, 2015 has proved an uplifting year for tourism across Kenya, with travel restrictions being relaxed on the coast and visitor numbers starting to rise again. The safari sector was largely unaffected by these restrictions, and there is no doubt that it will draw ever larger numbers of visitors to such top venues as Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and Meru National Park to experience the magic that Kenya has to offer.
Despite recent concerns over security, 2015 proved an uplifting year for tourism across Kenya
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Solar Ice Rink
THE COOLEST sport in town Solar Ice Rink at Panari Hotel The Solar Ice Rink in Nairobi is more than just a novel attraction for children and adults looking to escape the city and practise their figure-eights. The rink also plays host to ice hockey teams – thus helping to boost the region-wide appeal of ice sports.
‘K
enya’ and ‘ice’ are words that you don’t often hear in the same sentence. For the past decade, however, the Panari Hotel on Mombasa Road in Nairobi has been challenging this notion with its amazing Solar Ice Rink at the Panari Sky Centre. As the first and only one of its kind in East and Central Africa, the Solar Ice Rink attracts people from all over the region. In addition to locals and visiting tourists, the rink draws in competitors and professionals from neighbouring countries, making it the ‘go to’ destination for ice sports enthusiasts in the region. Otherwise, the nearest ice rinks are in South Africa and Egypt. The phenomenon of ice sports is a relatively new idea in Africa, so there is a lot of potential for future growth in the industry. When outdoor temperatures are rising, 10
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indoor ice rinks offer a perfect escape the hustle and bustle of the city and an opportunity to try something new. While outdoor rinks are popular across Europe, where winter temperatures are cold enough for the ice to stay frozen, Africa’s indoor rinks can be used all year round and are suitable for skaters of every ability.
Skating With room for up to 200 skaters on the ice, the Solar Ice Rink is one of the largest in Africa, and holds weekly ice hockey tournaments in addition to casual skating sessions open to the public. For the little ones, there are skating aids available, including a penguinshaped stabiliser to help keep them upright on the ice. The rink has its own instructors on hand to help beginners learn the basics of ice skating, which can be quite a daunting activity.
FAMILY FUN Taking to the ice in Kenya’s capital
ICE HOCKEY A blossoming sport with a lot of potential
BENARD AZEGERE, SKATER
BRUCE STRACHAN, HOCKEY PLAYER
Q. When and why did you begin ice skating?
Q. How does ice hockey differ from standard hockey?
A. I started ice skating when I was 12 years old. I took it up because I enjoyed it. It’s a unique sport.
A. We play three on three with limited contact. We’re a ‘friendly’ group. In standard hockey each team has five skaters on the ice, but we play with three. In standard hockey there is a lot of physical contact. However, we don’t check or engage in deliberate physical contact.
Q. What makes the ice rink at Panari a good choice? A. It’s the only ice rink in East and Central Africa. It’s a good place to make new friends and stay fit while having fun. Q. Any advice for would-be skaters, either casual or professional? A. Discipline and practice are key. For people who want to be professionals, you need to work hard and train hard and you will achieve your goals. Q. How big is the ice skating scene in Kenya? A. A lot of people are now aware of ice skating and it is becoming more popular. In the next few years it will be bigger.
Q. How big is the ice hockey scene in Kenya? A. Small, but growing quite fast. Q. Could East Africa become a leader in ice hockey? A. Absolutely yes. We have enormous youth talent and limitless local potential here. Panari Solar Ice Rink has been supportive and generous in cultivating that potential. Q. How does it compare with other countries? A. Presently there are four national teams here in Africa: Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt and South Africa. We are taking steps towards having a Kenya national team, but we are still a few years away from that.
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Nanyuki
SO MUCH MORE than a pit stop…
CAPE CHESTNUT Classic food, friendly service and a relaxing atmosphere
Dining out
By Joan Wandegi
N © Rich Carey / Shutterstock.com
anyuki has been grossly underrated as a place to visit. For years, the town has had the reputation of playing host to the British Army as well being home to one of the largest bases for the Kenyan Air Force and the assumption was that no other activities were available. Tourists have often used Nanyuki as a pit stop. No sooner are they done with the emergency shopping than they jump back in their cars and head off to more ‘adventurous’ destinations. But Laikipians are now challenging this perceived image and inviting visitors into the county to spend more time discovering what makes Nanyuki a true gem.
NANYUKI
So much more than a pit stop and army base
Perhaps the most disheartening rumour about Nanyuki is that there are no decent places to eat. Residents are quick to dismiss this as hogwash. There is a variety of restaurants that know how to use the best local ingredients to provide an unforgettable dining experience. Take Cape Chestnut, for example. Located about 3 km from the town centre, in a cosy wooden building with a garden, Cape Chestnut offers well-known classics together with warm and friendly service. People come here to enjoy the signature coffees and teas as well as the food. Many have chosen Cape Chestnut as their favourite place to relax on a Friday night, a place where they can enjoy tapas as well as steaks and delicious curries.
There are plenty of nyama choma spots in Nanyuki, featuring arguably some of the best meat anywhere. Local eateries serve lamb, mutton, beef and goat, all barbecued to perfection and served with local accompaniments, while live bands play in the background. There are lots of great coffee houses in town, too. They include Dormans, a popular meeting place where local residents catch up on the latest gossip and where travellers can always find freshly ground Kenyan coffee and other delectables. The Coffee Shack, located right in the middle of Nanyuki, should also be on your ‘to do’ list. Serving fresh pies, cakes and sandwiches, this colourful café is a great place to take a break while exploring the locality. www.fly540.com
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Nanyuki
Just 25 km from the town is Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the largest black rhino sanctuary in East and Central Africa.
Evening adventures If you’re looking for a place to unwind and dance the night away, then the Casino is highly recommended. The resident DJ plays popular classics as well new tunes to keep the crowd on their feet, while friendly bar staff are on hand to serve colourful cocktails. If karaoke is your thing, visit Gerry’s Irish Pub on Wednesdays or Kongoni Camp on Fridays (best to confirm before heading out). Both are great venues that also serve meals to complete your fun night out.
KONGONI The best place for karaoke on a Friday
No 1 for conservation
Accommodation
Laikipia is renowned for being home to the largest number of endangered wildlife species in Kenya. These animals roam free in conservancies and other protected areas that can be reached with ease from Nanyuki. Just 25 km from the town is Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the largest black rhino sanctuary in East and Central Africa. The experience here is like no other. It’s ideal for day trippers as well as for resident guests who can stay in one of the five-star properties. The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club houses the Mount Kenya Game Ranch, an animal orphanage and home to the largest bongo breeding project in Africa. There’s nothing to beat a round of golf in the morning followed by an afternoon spent viewing some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. Meanwhile, the William Holden Foundation, also located in Nanyuki, has the largest South American llama-breeding programme in Kenya. In this haven, adults and children can learn about wildlife conservation as well as how to make homes environmentally friendly.
There are plenty of places to stay while visiting Nanyuki. They range from exclusive lodges and hotels to family-oriented camping spots for those who want to fully absorb the surrounding terrain. Hotels such as Falcon Heights and The Sportsman’s Arms Hotel are favourites among local tourists and offer great amenities at budget-friendly prices. For those seeking a more rugged experience, why not drive about 20 km out of town to one of the conservancies and ranches. Bookings can be made at: www.laikipiatourism.org
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Yoga in Kenya
With health and well-being tourism on a steady rise, more and more people are looking for a different kind of getaway, one that offers guaranteed relaxation as well as the promise of sunshine. The trend is towards a wellnessfocused getaway and Kenya looks to be the perfect candidate, with glorious weather, miles of beautiful beaches and welcoming communities.
O
ne of the most popular and highly regarded examples of wellness tourism in Kenya is the Lamu Yoga Festival, which has grown considerably since its debut in 2014 and has even been commended by ‘Elle’ magazine as one of the ‘hottest happenings in Africa’. Festival organisers Monika Fauth and Kelly Alomba tell ‘540’ why wellness tourism is on the rise, what makes Lamu the perfect place to relax – and what this year’s festival has in store. >>
It’s a better way to get away Lamu Yoga Festival returns for third year
By Kirsten Alexander
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Yoga in Kenya
Wellness tourism
© Eivind Høimyr
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developed in Kenya,” says Monika. “The Kenya Tourism Board have recognised this and are trying to push the country forward in this market as it has so much potential to be a world-recognised wellness destination.” © Eivind Høimyr
The conventional type of relaxing holiday – think beaches, sunshine and cocktails – has been popular for as long as anyone can remember. But today people are turning to more wellness-focused vacations to get a real break from their stressful modern lives. Today, the wellness tourism industry is said to be worth about US$ 500 billion worldwide and still growing. More and more people are taking their weekly wellness classes a step further and joining in this global trend. “In the 21st century, the big new trends for holidays are well-being and water,” says Monika. “People are looking for answers on how to live their life and how to handle the difficulties they face. Yoga is an aspect of wellness and well-being that can really help with this.” The Kenyan coast is home to some of the world’s best beaches, and the yoga community here is growing steadily, which makes it a unique and exciting destination for wellness retreats. “While wellness tourism is a growing market, it is not very
Yoga festival The launch of the Lamu Yoga Festival in 2014 was a vital step towards putting Kenya on the map as a major destination for wellness tourism. Having travelled around the world and arrived in Lamu nearly two decades ago, Monika was inspired by the island’s unique charms to settle there. She saw its potential as a paradise for the practising and teaching of yoga. With Lamu as its peaceful and picturesque setting, the yoga festival is spread across a variety of venues including hotels and Shela Beach, offering an idyllic
‘In the 21st century, the big new trends for holidays are well-being and water’
Yoga is a broad term for a physical, mental and spiritual practice that includes breath control, meditation, posture and relaxation. With its origins in India, yoga is now practised worldwide.
retreat for yogis of every ability. It offers the perfect antidote to the bustle of city life. In March each year, Lamu becomes a centre of activity – albeit calm, focused and relaxed activity – hosting teachers and participants from all over the world. The desire to take some time out from busy, stressful lives is one of the reasons Monika thinks the wellness getaway is taking off, especially on the Kenyan coast. “Lamu is the perfect place for wellness tourism,” she says. “There are no cars, no pollution and a welcoming community. It is the oldest settlement in East Africa and has always attracted people from all over the world. It is truly well-
© Eivind Høimyr
WHAT IS YOGA?
YOGA IN AFRICA Yoga is taking off in Africa at an impressive rate, thanks largely to the Africa Yoga Project, which was launched almost a decade ago with the aim of encouraging disadvantaged young people in Kenya to practise yoga and feel its beneficial effects. The result of this project was overwhelmingly positive and today there are over 6,000 people attending some 300 free classes in 80 locations. In addition, yoga provides employment for over 100 young people, who train to be teachers and in turn teach others, all while earning a living wage.
ness in its purest form.” Over the four days of the festival, teachers and participants engage in various yoga sessions at different venues in Lamu. There are meditation sessions, informative talks, star meditation and a closing ceremony to round off the weekend’s festivities. “Lamu Yoga Festival brings together people from all over the world,” says Monika. “This year, we have people travelling from Dubai, England and Mexico, as well as many local Kenyans, to experience the festival together.” Kelly, who is vice chair of the event, said the outlook was bright for the 2016 festival, with 75 classes
planned and a host of respected international teachers hitting the sands of Shela Beach to teach others. In addition to the classes, a menu of exciting activities is planned, including a Swahili dinner, a sunset dhow meditation and a beach party. What is the highlight of the festival for Kelly? “For me, the whole four days is my highlight,” he says. “Meeting people from all over the world and practising yoga together is what makes it so special for me.” The Lamu Yoga Festival takes place from 2 to 6 March 2016. For more information, including how to buy tickets, head to www. lamuyoga.org
BENEFITS OF YOGA It’s no surprise that yoga is so popular around the world, given the benefits that can be achieved by regular practice.
YOGA FESTIVAL Lamu hosts the annual wellbeing festival every March
© Eivind Høimyr
They include: - Improved flexibility
© Eivind Høimyr
- Increase in blood flow - Better balance - Releasing of tension - Weight loss - Greater self-esteem - Core strength.
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Great Grevy’s Rally
HOW DO YOU ID A ZEBRA?
Just read his ‘barcode’
Individual zebras can be identified by their unique patterns – which is why a new survey of Kenya’s endangered population of Grevy’s zebra – involving members of the public, digital cameras and stateof-the-art technology – is likely to produce highly accurate results
H GREVY’S ZEBRA Counting the numbers to help conservation
ave you ever wondered how wild animals are counted? It may seem an impossible feat to travel around Kenya’s many national parks and reserves and count every single member of a species in order to gather information about population numbers. There are many obstacles, not to mention the vast area that needs to be covered. And how do you make sure one animal isn’t counted twice? Well, the Great Grevy’s Rally may have found the ideal solution. Conceived in Kenya by the Grevy’s Zebra Technical Committee, the rally in January
GREVY’S ZEBRA FACTS Scientific name: Equus grevyi Weight: 350 to 450 kg Height: 1.4 m to 1.7 m at shoulder Lifespan: 20 years Habitat: Grasslands and savannahs of southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya Conservation status: Endangered All information provided by www.awf.org
encouraged the public to get involved in the first-ever national census of Grevy’s zebra in northern Kenya. The population of Grevy’s zebra has declined steeply in recent decades. An estimated 15,000 individuals were counted in the 1970s, but less than 40 years later the number had plummeted to around 2,800. Today it is more important than ever to keep track of the number of Grevy’s zebra, because the animals are now classified as ‘endangered’ by the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna, partly as a result of overgrazing and lack of access to water.
Rally In collaboration with scientists, landowners and conservancy managers, members of the public were invited to take part in the rally and to photograph the right side of each Grevy’s zebra they observed using a GPS-enabled digital camera. These images were then processed by the Image Based Ecological Information System (IBEIS), which can identify individual zebras by their unique patterns. As well as counting the number of zebra, it allowed the age and sex of each individual animal to be determined, thus providing
a picture of whether, and how, numbers are growing. For example, if there are more females than males, it could be a good sign of potential population growth in the near future. The two-day census took place across northern Kenya in Laikipia, Isiolo, Samburu and Marsabit, where the majority of these zebra are found. On the first day of the rally, 29 January, the teams made their way to the starting point of the survey via Nanyuki, where a welcome was held at Nanyuki Sports Club. On days two and three, the participants headed into their designated areas to collect and record zebra sightings. Overnight accommodation was provided by various top safari lodges including Sarova Shaba Game Lodge and The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille. As well as collecting vital information in support of zebra conservation, the event helped to raise public awareness of the declining number of these magnificent creatures and the problems they face. At the time of going to press, the results of the Great Grevy’s Rally were still being counted and verified. For results and other information about the event, please visit: www.greatgrevysrally.com www.fly540.com
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Mbagathi Ridge
THERE’S EXCLUSIVE – and then there’s Mbagathi Ridge By Gary Gimson
P
riced at a cool KES 125 million each and set in one-acre plots, is this collection of five mansions at Karen’s Mbagathi Ridge Nairobi’s most expensive ever property development? It seems so. And this guess was pretty much confirmed when I spoke to Property Link Africa’s head of sales and private portfolio, Moira Tremaine.
Expensive “Certainly, the development is one of the most expensive groups of homes ever brought to the property market in Kenya,” she said. “The combined guide price for the five properties amounts to KES 625 million.” Mbagathi Ridge is situated close to the Hemingways Nairobi boutique hotel and is undoubtedly one of Kenya’s most desirable addresses, in 22
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OPEN PLAN Luxury living and dining area of one of the properties
an area where houses are routinely priced at over KES 100 million. “This development of homes is in a particularly special setting on the ridge, bordering the Mbagathi River and facing a beautiful, protected indigenous forest,” said Moira. “We have clients looking for property who specify that they only want to buy on Mbagathi Ridge. It is a very quiet residential road at one of the highest points in Nairobi with fantastic views of the Ngong Hills, and is just five minutes’ drive or a 15-minute walk from Karen Country Club.” All five properties also overlook the 250 hectare Oloolua Forest, home of the Institute of Primate Research, with its own waterfall and nature trail. In effect, the protected status of the forest means there can be no development close to the rear of the properties.
But who has the money to buy such a house? “High net worth individuals of all nationalities – both Kenyans and expatriates – looking for a beautiful home or buy-to-let investment in a unique environment,” explained Moira. “With an anticipated annual rental yield of approximately five per cent, plus capital growth expected in the region of 15 to 20 per cent per annum based on current rates, these homes present an attractive investment proposition compared to other options.”
Income So, assuming it was occupied by tenants for a full 12 months, buyers would expect to generate a very healthy KES 12 million or so in yearly rental income. The house would have paid for itself in just over 10 years. Each home has 6,300 sq ft of
DESIRABLE On the market for KES 125 million
This development of homes is in a particularly special setting on the ridge, bordering the Mbagathi River and facing a beautiful, protected indigenous forest living space and features mahogany floors. There are five en-suite bedrooms (amazingly, the master bedroom even has its own fireplace), a sunken lounge (not always a good idea when you’ve had one too many) that opens onto a balcony, a separate dining area, fully fitted German-built kitchens, selfcontained staff accommodation for two (which matches the main house in quality), a laundry room, spacious verandas, back-up generator wiring,
fibre optic connection, solar energy, TV and telephone. Security consists of an electric perimeter fence with anti-dig concrete reinforcement, kei apple hedging and a wall plus a 24-hour guard patrol. So if you have funds to invest or you’re looking to buy a mansion to beat almost all other properties in Nairobi, then you could do worse than taking a look at luxurious Mbagathi Ridge.
CHALLENGING YEAR The introduction of Capital Gains Tax at the start of 2015, together with ongoing concerns over security, fluctuations in the Kenya shilling and high bank interest rates, have made it a challenging year for Nairobi’s property market. Nevertheless, there was a late flurry of activity from buyers in December, buoyed by stabilisation of the turbulence that was felt by the financial sector in October and November. Property Link Africa sold two of the five houses at Mbagathi Ridge development at the end of 2015. The agent expects the first half of 2016 to see this positive trend continue, but with a gradual slow-down from July owing to the start of the long holiday and continuing into the latter part of the year as the general election approaches in March 2017.
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Kenyan Boys Choir
By Kirsten Alexander
Boys find fulfilment through harmony 24
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On 20 January 2009 the Kenyan Boys Choir gained instant global fame when they were asked to perform at the inauguration of President Obama in Washington. By the time they got home, they had already been signed up by a record company. The choir had come a long way in five years from its origins in Nairobi, where it was originally set up to help boys from underprivileged backgrounds. Now the choir has plans for an arts and music education centre in Nairobi to give more young people an opportunity. The choir’s Kelvin Mahasi was interviewed by Kirsten Alexander.
© Vito Amati
The choir has plans for an arts and music education centre in Nairobi to give more young people an opportunity
© Isaac Maghanga
Q. How did the choir start?
GLOBAL
© Jodi York
The Kenyan Boys Choir have played worldwide
A. The choir was founded in 2004 at Aquinas High School in Nairobi under the auspices of the St Louis African Chorus (currently African Musical Arts) and the mentorship of Dr Fred Onovwerosuoke, a renowned musicologist and crosscultural educator. This idea was reached by the members of the high school choir, who wished to continue singing after they graduated. For the past 10 years the choir has been recruiting new members and nurturing their talent.
Q. How many members are there? A. Currently the choir is made up of 30 members. The management of the choir is drawn from members who manifest exemplary leadership and management skills.
Q. How can someone join the choir? A. Recruitment takes place every year through auditions in December. Additionally, scouting is done at the Kenya National Musical Festival, where talented young singers and
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© Scott Ramsay
Kenyan Boys Choir
dancers are recruited into the choir. The production department is in charge of the auditions and recruitment process. Members who are eligible for auditions must be 13 to 18 years old, must be in high school and must have a formal background in music and dance.
Q. Is this a full-time profession for everyone? A. Most members of the choir are drawn from high schools, universities and colleges around the country. Basically, the choir is an after-school programme.
Q. Your choir has now performed around the world. What have been the highlights?
© Angela Fox
TALENTED Members come from all over Kenya to join the choir
© Angela Fox
HOW IT STARTED The Kenyan Boys Choir was established in 2004 to help boys from underprivileged backgrounds to raise money for their school fees. It consists of 30 boys, aged between 13 and 25, drawn from high schools and colleges across Kenya. Now the choir has morphed and is dedicated to moulding a world-class choral outfit that offers a platform for boys to nurture their natural talents in music, dance and drama, while imparting life principles of discipline, hard work and determination. The choir sings both folk and arranged Kenyan cultural songs, as well as performing contemporary African and classical pieces from the rest of the world. For more information about the choir, visit: kenyanboyschoir.com or check out their social media: facebook.com/kenyanboyschoir and @boyschoirkenya on Twitter
A. In its 10 years of existence, the choir has gained tremendous exposure through numerous international performances. This has seen the brand, the choir and individual members grow in terms of music, communication skills, discipline and life-changing opportunities. The choir has been privileged to tour in China, the UK, Northern Ireland, the USA, Canada and the Netherlands among other places, interacting, recording and performing with artists such as Nelly Furtado, Joe Jonas, Kardinal Offishal, JRDN, Karl Wolf, Demi Lovato, Ellie Goulding, The Tenors and Tony Bennett. Highlights and successes include: • Being the only choir to perform at President Obama’s inauguration in Washington in 2009. • Having a Top Ten album in the UK charts for weeks after being signed to Universal Music in 2009. • Being the first African choir to appear at the International Beijing Music Festival. • Touring Canada and the USA in 2013 and 2015 and performing to over 120,000 people in a stadiumsized event called WE Day.
Q. What do you hope to achieve as a choir?
A. The main objective is to mould a world-class choral outfit that offers a platform for Kenyan boys to nurture their natural talents in music, dance and drama, while imparting life principles of discipline, hard work, perseverance, persistence and determination. The choir’s membership is drawn from different academic institutions in the country. It can be difficult to carry out the choir’s activities because of the different programmes and schedules that these institutions have. Having all our members under one roof that provides standardised education at all learning levels will be an indefinite remedy to the challenge that the choir faces in terms of its membership. The choir is looking to establish the Kenyan Boys Choir Centre, an arts and life skills centre that will be the epicentre of its operation. It will have a standardised choral programme including an elementary school, high school and a music and arts college.
Q. Advice for would-be choristers? A. Submit to God’s command, for he is the origin of the talent. Be true to yourself. Always keep the focus on the main goal. Be proud of your roots and always be original
Q. Does everyone get along well? A. Yes, all the members in the choir coexist in harmony and strive to portray a unifying image since they are from different ethnic groups in Kenya. The bond created among the members replicates a family bond.
Q. Where do you hope to be in five years’ time? A. We are looking to fulfil our dream of establishing the Kenyan Boys Choir Centre. We are looking to impact the lives of more boys in Kenya and all around the world. We also hope to spread our music to all corners of the world. www.fly540.com
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Baraka Farm
PUT THIS DAIRY
in your diary
I
f you love cheese – and especially the Dutch varieties – then Baraka Farm has got the perfect answer. This enterprising farm in Eldoret is literally churning out some of the tastiest Gouda you’ve ever tried and its name should be on the ‘must sample’ list of any connoisseur this side of Holland. Gouda, both young and aged, is the specialty of Baraka Farm, which even has its very own Dutch native as farm manager. The place has a special magic due as much to the way it operates as to the product it
markets both locally and nationally. Established by Phyllis Keino, a nurse and philanthropist, the farm combines philanthropic work through the Lewa Children’s Home, with sustainable food practices which the children enjoy – and there is also a business edge that allows the farm to thrive and make a profit.
Baraka Located just outside Eldoret town, Baraka Farm is built on a dream of looking after the less fortunate to build a stronger nation. The
GOUDA Baraka Farm specialises in Gouda cheese
farm is sustained by family ties that keep the business dynamic while producing top-notch dairy products. Its surroundings provide a perfect setting. As you drive into the farm, you can see dairy cows roaming the abundant lush fields.
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They give the rich milk that is used to make the Gouda, which is produced and aged on the farm. The whole place has a buttery smell. Farm manager Jos Creemers swears by the land, which he credits for the quality of the Gouda. The cheese has a distinctive character that is rarely encountered in supermarket varieties. When you visit the farm, don’t expect to see the kind of heavy machinery or equipment used by mass production dairies. Everything here is done the old-fashioned way, with an emphasis on quality at each stage, from the milking of the cows to the ageing of the cheese.
Mature The cheese is treated with great care. It is allowed to mature at just the right levels of temperature and humidity and only then is it deemed ready for market. The farm also makes other value-added products such as mala (fermented milk), popular with local communities. With over 60 cows producing 1,000 litres of milk per day, Baraka is one of the main local suppliers of dairy products. The farm, which is also associated with legendary athlete Kipchoge Keino, ensures that all
its processed products meet and surpass local quality. When the old Kenya Cooperative Creameries collapsed in 1998 due to mismanagement, the public knew exactly where to go to fill the gap in the market. “We were supplying milk to the company like most farmers in the region. But after the company collapsed, we found ourselves with milk that we did not know what to do with. We had to think outside the box.” says Jos. Today, Baraka Farm supplies cheese and other dairy products to top local restaurants in Eldoret and plans to diversify its market in 2016. If you can’t wait to sample the farm’s exceptional Gouda cheese, why not visit the speciality outlet next door to the local Nakumatt mall. Or, if you’re lucky, you may be invited to sample and purchase products directly from the farm – an unforgettable treat.
ELDORET Local supplier of cheese and other dairy products
Baraka Farm has a special magic due as much to the way it operates as to the product it markets
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Tatu City
Welcome to SERENITY CITY… Self-contained metropolis: great news for fed-up commuters
WHAT’S IN A NAME
TATU CITY
A new metropolis just outside Nairobi
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The development is called Tatu because the land on which the new city is being built was once a coffee farm called Tatu, which, of course, means ‘three’ in Kiswahili. Says Tim Beighton: “The name has been retained to preserve this coffee farming heritage. The design of the Tatu brand is derived from the ethos and fusion of three holistic areas: mind, body and spirit (live, work and play).”
A
burgeoning new metropolis is taking shape not far from Nairobi – a pleasant and congestion-free place in which to live and work and one where, it seems, jobs will be plentiful. This workers’ paradise is Tatu City. Comprising nearly 1,000 hectares of land in Kiambu, situated about 30 minutes (on a good day) from Nairobi’s central business district, Tatu City represents an impressive US$ 500 million investment by leading developer Rendeavour (see panel story), Says Tim Beighton, Head of Marketing and Communications at Rendeavour: “Tatu City has excellent access to Nairobi, being only 5 km from the Thika highway at Exit 11 and just 3 km from the northern and eastern bypass junction. These two road networks provide quick and easy access from many different parts of greater Nairobi.” One of the key aims of the development is to ease congestion in the city centre of Nairobi, but whether this laudable objective may be difficult to achieve. It certainly can’t make matters worse. And Tatu City does, in effect, create a new and much-needed selfcontained satellite neighbourhood.
Development So how will the development work and how will it interact with the surrounding area? Tim told ‘540’ magazine: “Around 100,000 people will reside within Tatu City alongside a large number of day visitors. Tatu City is designed as a ‘mixed use’ development, meaning that there is provision for people to work and live inside the project. Many recent buyers of industrial land have also reserved residential plots for their staff and we expect this to continue as the development progresses.” Tim is convinced that few Tatu dwellers will want to do otherwise: “While a number of residents may choose to commute to other
parts of Nairobi, we are confident that the majority would prefer to live and work within a serene and secure neighbourhood.” Marketing of the project is already well under way and, in terms of residential sales, Some 60 per cent of the released plots for the first residential development at Kijani Ridge have been sold. An additional 57 half acre plots will be released later in 2016.
Villas Buyers of plots are then free to build to their own requirements, but from 12 pre-approved designs ranging from three, four and five bedroom layouts and including both villas and bungalows. The first residents are expected during 2016 while work has started on roads, electricity and mains drainage. Kijani Ridge will have all the amenities of an upscale residential community such as a clubhouse, a communal swimming pool and restaurant, a school, a mini shopping centre and a jogging track. The new city also has industrial dimension. An area of 182 hectares has been set aside for development and big names such as Unilever, Dormans, Kim-Fay, Maxam, Cooper K-Brands and Kenya’s Bidco have already committed. Planned total investment by these and others at Tatu Industrial Park is put at around US$ 250 million. For those concerned about the environmental impact of such a mega scheme, Tim is quick to reassure: “Tatu City has a large proportion of its land dedicated to the provision of open green space alongside a well established tree
nursery with thousands of indigenous trees, shrubs and flowers.” He adds: “We will ensure that unique features of the landscape are retained for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. The beauty of Tatu City is in its planning. All devel-
One of the key aims of the development is to ease congestion in the city centre of Nairobi opments adhere to a strict code designed to ensure there will be none of the congestion occurring in similar areas across the region.” So if you’re fed up with fighting your way to work each day in Nairobi, there will soon be a viable alternative to the daily commute – and it’s Tatu City.
RENDEAVOUR Rendeavour is said to be Africa’s largest urban land developer with projects in Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The company specialises in transforming raw land, such as the area set aside for Tatu City, into areas for urban growth.
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Zanzibar
BEACHES AND SPICE and all things nice… Z
anzibar has it all: an exciting culture, miles of beautiful beaches, fabulous food and stunning scenery.
This enchanting island, known locally as Unguja, is a favourite destination for many. And with Fly540 operating regular flights to Zanzibar, why wouldn’t you want to visit East Africa’s spice island?
...Five reasons to visit Zanzibar
In case you need any more persuasion, here are our top five reasons for visiting Zanzibar.
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Brilliant beaches Zanzibar is lined with great beaches, and you won’t have to travel far to find one to suit you. Starting from the north, there is Nungwi, one of the most popular beaches on the island, and it’s not hard to see why. Although it is a popular tourist spot, with a number of hotels nearby, the beach remains in excellent condition, while the calm waters of the azure-coloured ocean are irresistibly enticing. A little way down the east coast is Matemwe. Until recently it was virtually unpopulated, but people are starting to discover the potential of this beautiful spot. Further south there is Pongwe, where the popular Pongwe Beach Hotel offers good accommodation next to the beach. In the south of the island, the sleepy fishing village of Kizimkazi is one of the best places if you’re looking for a secluded, untouched stretch of beach.
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laranik / Shutterstock.com
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Superb Stone Town
Explore the city and its winding alleys
LMspencer / Shutterstock.com
STONE TOWN
For a real taste of Zanzibar’s heritage, navigate your way through the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, the old part of Zanzibar City, which gives an insight into the lives of local people. You may well get lost (in a good way) among the narrow alleys with their fascinating architecture and intricately carved doors like no other. Guides are available for a small fee if you prefer. There are lots of things to see in Stone Town, including the Old Fort and the Palace Museum. The Anglican Cathedral, on the site of the old slave market, is a poignant reminder of an important part of the island’s history. The Darajani Bazaar is a large market frequented by local people and tourists alike, where you can find everything from fresh meat to clothing to fruit and vegetables. Our top tip is to buy some spices while you’re here, because they are often cheaper and of better quality than elsewhere on the island.
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Great hotels
From high-end splendour to backpacker retreats, Zanzibar offers an impressively wide range of accommodation. As a popular place for luxury getaways, it naturally offers a whole range of five-star beach resorts including the Zanzi Resort, The Palms and The Z Hotel. Many of the best resorts are on the coast, but there is also an impressive selection of lodgings in Stone Town. Check in at the Emerson Spice for a magical night in a boutique setting, or try the Jafferji House and Spa for elegant luxury and a fascinating heritage. For the more cash-conscious, Pumzika Beach Resort is a low-cost but highly praised lodging in Makunduchi, while the Warere Town House in Stone Town is a central hotel with budget-friendly prices.
Zanzibar
As an East African centre of culture, Zanzibar is home to one of the region’s largest cultural events, the Zanzibar International Film Festival. Attended by thousands of people from all over the world, this hugely popular event features screenings of the best local and international films as well as musical concerts, workshops and more. Now in its 19th year, the festival is expanding year on year to bring more and more people together to celebrate the arts. Zanzibar is also home to the Sauti za Busara music festival, which unfortunately did not go ahead in 2015 due to a shortage of funding. The event has proved so popular in recent years, with a large number of musical artists performing, that we hope it will be up and running again in 2016 as it is an unmissable experience for music fans everywhere.
Good food It’s no surprise that an island with such a name for spice production should have a reputation for excellent food. The combination of Zanzibar’s heritage and with the availability of excellent fresh ingredients has let to an exciting local cuisine. A firm favourite here is octopus, which you will find served in a curry, a salad or with cassava. The Zanzibar pizza is legendary, although not your typical pizza. You will find vendors at Forodhani Gardens offering this delicacy, made from fried dough and filled with basically anything you like – meat, vegetables, fish etc – then folded into a rectangle and served. Naturally, spices play a big part in Zanzibari cuisine. Dishes such as biryani and pilau are a ‘must try’ with authentic Indian-influenced flavours. For more formal dining, the famous Rock Restaurant has a unique location with unforgettable views.
TASTY TREATS
A visit to Zanzibar is not complete without some spice
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SUPPER CLUB
Westgate
EATING AT THE MALL has never been this yummy
A
n outstanding feature of Nairobi’s new Westgate Mall is the impressive range of additions to the food scene. Westgate has followed the trend of offering ‘close to fine dining’ experiences in a mall setting; and the current selection fits in well with the chic ambience created by the new designer outlets on all floors. Making a comeback to Westgate is the popular Urban Gourmet Burgers. Located on the second floor, this newly renovated restaurant offers a delectable menu. The venue is designed as a classic burger diner where customers can meet and relax. The proprietors have chosen a decor that creates just the right effect, with flat screens, mock graffiti on the walls, spacious booths and large order counters. These all contribute to the cosmopolitan feel of the establishment, while the wooden walls give it extra chic. The menu has been expanded to include burgers with flavours from the Caribbean and Asia, all made with 100 per cent prime beef and served with fresh vegetables. No one can resist the tasty side dishes that include chips straight from the fryer and home-made dips and sauces. And there’s more. Jumbo prawns, smoked meats, roast chicken and a scrumptious dessert menu will keep Urban fans coming back for more. As you would expect in any good burger
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joint, there is also a drinks menu featuring premium draught beer, cocktails and fresh juices. The Ohcha Noodle Bar on the ground floor offers fun dining with its ‘build your own soup’ experience, quite different from other Asian cuisine outlets around town. Sharing food is the keynote theme here. The idea is to put various ingredients together and share your meal with family and friends. Favourites include tom yum consommé, Pad Thai and tofuinspired dishes – all guaranteed to take your imagination straight to the river banks of Bangkok.
Westgate has followed the trend of offering ‘close to fine dining’ experiences in a mall setting
Tapas When tapas first came to Nairobi the concept, although well received, was simply unattainable by most people. All the more reason to welcome Tapas Ceviche Bar, which offers an authentic tapas experience that won’t break the bank. This beautifully accessorised restaurant is very faithful to the Spanish culinary experience. Meat and seafood dishes are the stars of the show, while vegetarian options include fresh tomato salsa. The ceviche here is second to none and highly recommended. There is a choice of fine wines as well as cocktails and tequilas. If you desire a faster food option, you won’t be disappointed by the representation in the food court, with Kentucky Fried Chicken, Subway, Pizza Hut and Haandi all on hand to serve you.
URBAN BURGER Westgate’s eateries include Urban Gourmet Burger
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DRIVE TIME
Suzuki SX4 Allgrip
S
uzuki may not be a brand at the top of everyone’s shopping list in Kenya. This is hardly surprising as Suzuki is very much a niche manufacturer, perhaps better known for its motorbikes than its cars. It’s fair to say that Suzuki produces mostly unremarkable yet reliable cars. And for some reason, ever since the late 1960s, the Japanese manufacturer has had a penchant for building small 4x4
vehicles much favoured, it is said and only half-jokingly, by hairdressers or, more generally, by female drivers.
Soft-roader Perhaps the apogee of the marque’s less than beefy soft-roaders was the Suzuki Vitara. But what the Vitara lacked in testosterone and all-terrain performance it certainly made up for in good looks. Hence its apparent desirability among female
drivers and crimpers. The SJ series jeep and the quirkily named but more prosaic Jimny have had a similar following. Now there’s a new Suzuki 4x4 with its sights set on stylish and imageconscious female drivers and, perhaps unintentionally, those in the tonsorial profession. It’s called the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Allgrip and it’s on sale in Kenya through CMC Motors. The Allgrip on-demand system is new
Hair today, off-road tomorrow… By Gary Gimson SUZUKI SX4 The new ‘softroader’ is stylish but practical
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to Suzuki and is lighter than the permanent 4x4 delivery fitted to the top-of-the-range Grand Vitara. Allgrip uses an electronically controlled magnetic dry clutch with ballbearings to manage torque distribution to the rear axle. Very clever. In Kenya, the SX4 S-Cross comes with a 1.6 petrol engine producing 118 bhp at 6,000 rpm to give a top speed of about 165 kph. Diesel variants are available in other markets. Fuel economy is 5.7 litres per 100 km.
The interior is nice enough, but won’t win any prizes. Suzuki prefers functionality over gimmicks and gizmos and opts for value for money rather than out-andout luxury – and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Capacity In terms of capacity, the SX4 S-Cross suffers from the same shortcoming as almost every small crossover – interior
dimensions that don’t quite match the exterior. So opening the rear door means being confronted with comparatively little in the way of luggage space for a car of this size. But for those who want something that will drive off-road, doesn’t cost the earth, is reasonably cheap to run, looks good and is Japanese without being a ubiquitous Toyota, then a Suzuki is worth considering – even if you don’t style hair for a living.
Now there’s a new Suzuki 4x4 with its sights set on stylish and imageconscious female drivers
FUNCTIONAL This off-roader trades in gimmicks for functionality
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SLEEP OVER
Angama Mara
Floating on air at Kenya’s snazziest safari lodge
H
igh up on the Great Rift Valley Escarpment, I’m floating peacefully above 300 miles of duskily filtered Masai Mara plains. In the skies around me, my companions are birds of prey, soaring gracefully in search of their next snack. It’s still early, and as I look down at the soft grassland below I see a large herd of elephants gently making their journey from the escarpment to
Angama is less ‘lodge’, more ‘work of art’, and the creative team behind it have pulled out all the stops
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the Mara River, a long stretch of water that dissects the landscape. Am I dreaming? Practically: I’m staying at Angama Mara. Swahili for ‘suspended in mid air’, Angama opened in July last year, 30 years after the iconic ‘Out of Africa’ film starring Meryl Streep (as Karen Blixen) and Robert Redford (as her lover Denys Finch Hatton) was released. The location was enough to bring owners Steve and Nicky Fitzgerald out of retirement; the third kopje of the site (Angama is built on the first two) was immortalised as the location of the picnic scene in the classic film. Angama represents a career’s worth of perfectionism bundled into one lodge. After more than 30 years spent creating spaces that guests would love for other companies – most notably, they ran the luxury travel company &Beyond until 2009 – Steve and Nicky finally decided to have a go at designing their own place from scratch.
By Harriet Constable
As you would expect from a property that has been created by hospitality experts, every last detail has been considered, from the personalised minibar (let the team know your favourite tipple in advance and it will be ready chilling in your tent on arrival) to the prestamped postcards on each desk. They even have jars of freshly baked Maasai cookies in every room; but, of course, if you’d prefer something different, they’ll change it for you.
Spectacular Angama is less ‘lodge’, more ‘work of art’, and the creative team behind it have pulled out all the stops to create a space that inspires and delights its visitors. Divided into two identical twin lodges, each site has 15 tents, its own spectacular view, an infinity pool, a gym and a firepit sunk into the decking. By day, there’s a wonderfully light, open-air feel to the guest area, with
fold-back glass walls opening out the whole suite to the panoramic view. By night, flickering copper lanterns adorn the dining tables and fires are lit to make the space feel romantic and cosy. Throughout the property there are further small, understated nods to the famous ‘Out of Africa’ story: the single red rose in the library window, for instance, is symbolic of a rose Blixen received each day for the last few years of her life from a literary admirer, wherever in the world she was. Then there are the bedrooms. They’re tents, but not like you’ve ever known them. Made from a combination of solid wood frame with canvas and glass wall inserts, topped with a canvas roof, each has a wooden veranda that entices the guest out towards the billowing Mara plains below. These spaces have been painstakingly thought out to feel funky and modern and yet to hark back to the golden age of safari. The layout is open plan: at one end, a deep rolltop bath with rustic gold taps is set against a statement woven screen, designed in the style of a Maasai shield. Bath, shower and lavatory are all posi-
tioned to provide leafy views from the hilltop perch down to the spanning plains below. In the centre of the room a pile of beautiful special-edition books – including, of course, ‘Out of Africa’ – is neatly stacked next to cut-glass decanters of whisky and gin. A solitary lime waits patiently next to a small, formidable knife to be scarified to the next sundowner cocktail. On the other side of the room, a heated blanket lines the giant bed – it’s turned on each evening by your personal butler to ensure one’s bottom is never too chilly.
feel both welcomed and part of the family as well as being free to do your own thing. With its own private airstrip just five minutes from the lodge, Angama guests can touch down on the copper Mara earth one minute, and be sipping a G&T on the veranda the next. Audley Travel offer tailor-made safaris to Angama Mara. For more information contact them at www.audleytravel.com
ANGAMA Take in the Mara scenery on a safari drive
Effective What is perhaps most impressive about Angama, though, is its effective management. The team – skilled professionals flown in from Nairobi, and many from the local community – are warm, friendly and competent at running a highend lodge. Milka, the operations manager, has a smile that seems to stretch from ear to ear with glee; the regional directors, Shannon and Tyler Davis, are a young, warm-humoured couple from the United States who somehow fit in perfectly with the feel of the brand. The team has a way of making you
Prices at Angama Mara start from US$825 per person sharing a tented suite including all meals, drinks and daily safari activities. Resident rates are available. Visit www.angama.com for more information.
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GADGETS
Five tech releases
TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE IPAD PRO
IPAD PRO Bigger, better and more powerful than before
The iPad Pro builds on Apple’s successful tablet series and features a larger 12.9 inch retina screen with a resolution of 2,732 x 2,048 pixels. While the A9X Chip delivers nearly twice the CPU performance of the standard iPad, it comes with many new features including the Apple Pen and an expanded range of apps that let you do just about anything. Prices start at US$ 799 for the 32 GB model rising to US$ 1,079 for the 128 GB model.
FLASHAIR
This wireless SD card makes streaming a dream
MOTO X FORCE In the ever-competitive smartphone market, the Moto X Force includes the Moto ShatterShield, described as the world’s first shatterproof display. It boasts up to 48 hours of battery life, TurboPower charging and a 21 MP camera. Its sleek design features a choice of premium materials such as genuine leather and ballistic nylon. Priced from US$ 700.
FLASHAIR
AMAZON ECHO
G BOARD
Turn your DSLR camera into a Wi-Fi enabled device with a Toshiba FlashAir III wireless SD card. It connects your camera with your tablet or smartphone through an easy to install and set up app and enables instant streaming of photos or videos from your camera to you device for emailing or using on social media. Priced at US$ 30 for the 16 GB version.
Just stick it on the shelf and the Amazon Echo recognises your voice and obeys your commands. It will play music on demand from various services, answer questions, read audio books and provide travel and local information. Described as the closest thing to a Star Trek computer in the home. Priced from US$ 180.
The G Board is a twowheeled self-balancing electric scooter. Using gyros, it reacts to body movements and tilts using two pressure pads to provide a smooth ride that is as intuitive as it is fun. Often referred to as a hoverboard, this item is popular with celebrities and is tipped as one of the biggest sellers of 2016. Priced at US$ 850.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Watch. Read. Listen. MOVIES ZOOLANDER 2
THE JUNGLE BOOK
Director: Ben Stiller Starring: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell Genre: Comedy
Director: Jon Favreau Starring: Neel Sethi, Scarlett Johansson, Lupita Nyong’o Genre: Family, Adventure. Drama
Famous fashion model Derek Zoolander (Stiller) returns to the big screen after a 15-year absence, complete with rival model turned friend Hansel (Wilson) and a star-studded supporting cast. The world’s most beautiful musicians, including Justin Bieber, Usher and Demi Lovato, are all being assassinated with Zoolander’s trademark ‘Blue Steel’ modelling look on their faces when they’re killed. Derek and Hansel must work together to figure out who’s behind the assassinations. Meanwhile, supervillain Mugatu (Ferrell) is back after being released from prison, ready to wreak havoc on fashion once more.
This reimagining of the classic Rudyard Kipling tale combines live action and CGI and features an all-star cast. Mowgli the man-cub is raised by his wolf mother Raksha (Nyong’o) in his jungle home. But when he is threatened by the evil tiger Shere Khan, Mowgli leaves to begin a journey of self-discovery. Guided by Bagheera the panther and Baloo the bear, Mowgli comes face to face with some of the jungle’s less friendly creatures, including Kaa the python (Johansson), who tries to hypnotise the man-cub, and King Louie, voiced by Christopher Walken, who tries to find the secret of the ‘red flower’ (fire).
STARS:3/5
STARS: 3/5
BOOKS THE BOOK OF MEMORY
THE FOX AND THE STAR
By Petina Gappah
By Coralie Bickford-Smith
Narrated by a Zimbabwean woman called Memory, this novel tackles just that. Writing from her cell in the notorious Chikurubi women’s prison, Memory tries to recall her own memories after being sentenced to death for the murder of her adoptive father, the American journalist Lloyd Hendricks. Memory was arrested after being seen shooting Hendricks, but protests her innocence, even after telling her baffling version of events to the police. She retells the events in a more believable fashion and ends up being arrested. How did she end up here?
The recently crowned Waterstones Book of the Year is not a novel or a work of non-fiction but a beautifully illustrated tale that appeals to all ages. ‘The Fox and the Star’ is an original fable about need and loss centred on a fox whose only friend is a star. One night, the star is not there, and the fox must face the forest alone. The book is wonderfully designed with a simple but meaningful tale that will resonate with children and adults alike.
STARS: 4/5
STARS: 5/5
MUSIC 25 – ADELE The hugely anticipated follow-up to her 2011 album ‘21’, Adele’s new album has broken records and sold more than a million copies worldwide. Beautiful melodies and soaring lyrics combine to offer a heartfelt, emotional album that has been years in the making. The first single, ‘Hello’, became an overnight sensation, proving that Adele is well and truly back. Other stand-out singles are the heartbreakingly honest ‘All I Ask’ and the timeless ‘When We Were Young’.
STARS: 5/5
A HEAD FULL OF DREAMS – COLDPLAY The seventh studio album by British rock band Coldplay is an uplifting departure from the band’s previous, slightly sombre offering, ‘Ghost Stories’. The album features the glittering first single ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’ and collaborations with two of the biggest names in music, Beyoncé and Noel Gallagher. Filled with happy beats and poppy melodies, ‘A Head Full of Dreams’ may be Coldplay’s last album, but they sure go out with a bang. STARS: 4/5 www.fly540.com
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Contacts
Contact Information
Fly540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS NAIROBI OFFICES HEAD OFFICE Baycourt Upper Floor, Suite 3&4 The Watermark Business Park Ndege Rd, Karen PO Box 10293-00100,Nairobi Tel: +254 (0)20 388 3060-2 Fax: +254 (0)20 388 3063
540 CALL CENTRE ABC Place, off Waiyaki Way Tel: +254 (0)20 445 3252/6 Cell: +254 (0)722 540 540; (0)733 540 540 Fax: +254 (0)20 445 3257
DONHOLM 1st floor, Greenspan Mall, Donholm Tel: +254 (0)704 540 540, 705 540 540, 708 305 305
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OFFICE Ground floor, International Life House, Mama Ngina Street Next to Hilton Hotel Tel: +254 (0)702 540 540
JOMO KENYATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Unit 3 (Domestic Departures) Tel: +254 (0)20 827 523 Tel: +254 (0)20 827 366 Cell: +254 (0)727 532 273 Unit 1 (International Departures) Tel: +254 (0)20 827 521
KAREN OFFICE Office number 10, Karen Connection Karen Road, Nairobi Tel: +254 (0)722 305 305; 735 305 305 Email: Karen.Sales@fly-sax.com
LAICO REGENCY HOTEL 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
Mezz. floor, Shopping Arcade Tel: +254 (0)20 224 3211/3/4 Cell: +254 727 540 540; (0)737 540 540 Fax: +254 (0)20 224 3219
SOUTH SUDAN NAIROBI CBD OFFICE
KITALE
Ground floor International House, Nairobi Tel: +254 (0)712 540 540; 0735 540 555; 0717 305 305; 0703 305 305 Email: bookings@fly540.com or bookings@fly-sax.com
JUBA
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Terminal Building, Kitale Airstrip Tel: +254 (0)770 639 429 Tel: +254 (0)724 457 374 Tel: +254 (0)735 540 547
Juba International Airport
LAMU – NORTH COAST TRAVEL SERVICES
REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES
NEW MUTHAIGA OFFICE 1st floor, Thigiri Mall, New Muthaiga Tel: +254 (0)703 540 540
WILSON AIRPORT 540 SAFARI CIRCUIT SALES
Ground floor, Langata House Tel: +254 (0)20 254 0206 Tel: +254 (0)729 540 540 Tel: +254 (0)735 540 540 Email: 540.safaris@fly540.com
Next to Catholic Church/Equity Bank
Tel: +254 (0)42 213 0312 Tel: +254 (0)42 463 2054 Tel: +254 (0)725 942 444 Email: nctslamu@swiftmalindi.com Email: nctsmalindi@swiftmalindi.com
MALINDI 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
KENYA OFFICES
Lamu Road, Malindi Tel: +254 (0)422 120 370
ELDORET
MOMBASA
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
1st floor, Veecam House Oloo Street Tel: +254 (0)53 203 3570/80
ELDORET INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Tel: +254 (0)53 203 0814 Tel: +254 (0)53 206 3823 ext 658
KAKAMEGA 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
Mezzanine floor, MegaMall Kisumu-Webuye Road Tel: +254 (0)701 305 305; 716 540 540; 728 305 305
KISUMU 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
Kisumu International Airport Tel: +254 (0)254 707 540 560 Tel: +254 (0)737 540 546 Mezz floor, Mega Plaza Tel: +254 (0)724 563 009; 734 540 550
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Ground Floor, Mombasa Trade Centre, Nkrumah Road Tel: +254 (0)41 231 9078/9 Cell: +254 (0)728 540 540; (0)710 540 540 Nyali Centre, next to Naivas, Links Road, Mombasa Tel: +254 (0)41 447 7540/2 Sales: +254 (0)41 540 540; 707 540 542
MOI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, MOMBASA Tel: +254 (0)41 343 4821 Tel: +254 (0)32 540 540; (0)722 555 730
UKUNDA 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
Ground floor, Bazaar Building Tel: +254 (0)732 540 559
Tel: +211 959 540540 Tel: +211 999 540540 Email: Sales.juba@fly540.com
GERMANY AVIAREPS AG Kaiserstrasse 77 60329 Frankfurt am Main RESERVATIONS
Tel: +49 (0)69 770 673 076 Fax: +49 (0)69 770 673 028 Email: Res540.FRA@aviareps.com SALES
Tel: +49 (0) 69 770 673 077 Fax: +49 (0)69 770 673 235 Email: sales540.FRA@aviareps.com
SOUTH AFRICA AVIAREPS (PTY) LTD 38 Wierda Road West Wierda Valley Sandton, Johannesburg RESERVATIONS
Tel: +27 (0) 11 722 0229 Fax: +27 (0) 11 783 8135 Email: Res540.JNB@aviareps.com SALES
Tel: +27 (0) 722 0229 Tel: +27 74 177 1596 Fax: +27 (0) 783 8135 Email: Sales540.JNB@aviareps.com
SWITZERLAND AIRLINE & TOURISM CENTER GMBH Badenerstr. 15, CH-8004 Zürich RESERVATIONS & SALES
TANZANIA ZANZIBAR AIRPORT 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Tel: +41 (0) 44 286 99 62 Fax: +41 (0) 44 286 99 63 Email: 540-Switzerland@aviareps.com
Tel: +255 762 540 540
www.fly540.com
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Travel Info
Travel Information VISA INFORMATION Most nationals require visas to enter East Africa. Citizens from the five East African states require no visas while those from the Common Market of East and Southern Africa (COMESA) member states have relaxed entry requirements into East Africa. However, East African member states have their own visa requirements for various nationals.
HEALTH Vaccination requirements for international travellers:
KENYAN VISAS Under new rules, all foreigners requiring a visa for entry into Kenya must apply for one in advance via www.ecitizen.go.ke. A visa is required by all visitors travelling to Kenya with the exception of those who are nationals of a number of countries, including – but not exclusive to – East African Community Partner States (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, United Republic of Tanzania and Uganda). • Multiple entry: US$100 • Single entry: US$50 • Transit Visa: US$20 For more information, please visit your relevant Kenya High Commission website.
SOUTH SUDAN VISAS
• Only valid yellow fever vaccination certificates are required of all travellers over one year old, arriving from yellow fever infected countries.
Any visitor going to South Sudan requires a valid visa. Visas are issued through the South Sudan Embassy.
• Vaccinations for international travellers are obtainable from all international air and sea ports, city and major municipal councils.
Immigration regulations stipulate that anyone going to South Sudan needs a travel permit from the Government of South Sudan. Those travelling to South Sudan from Kenya, should visit the South Sudan Embassy in Kenya. Fees:
GET ON BOARD PROMOTE YOUR BRAND TO AFRICA
• • • •
American Nationals: US$ 160 African and Asian Nationals: US$ 50 European Nationals: US$ 100 All other passports assessed accordingly
TANZANIAN VISAS All foreigners from non-Commonwealth countries are required to have a valid visa unless their countries have agreements with Tanzania under which the visa requirement is waived. Exemptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, India, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand or Australia.
For further information on advertising in 540/Fly-SAX magazine contact Land & Marine Publications: Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Email: advertising@landmarine.org
www.landmarine.org 46
Africa’s low cost airline
Tanzanian visas are issued at entry points to Tanzania, including ports and airports, and any other gazetted entry point, from the Tanzanian High Commissions or embassies abroad, from the office of the Director of Immigration services in Dar es Salaam and the office of the Principal Immigration Officer, Zanzibar. For more information visit: www.tanzania.go.tz/tanzaniaembassiesabroad.htm
Fleet
The Fly540 Aircraft Fleet
Fly540 operates modern aircraft and is constantly updating and modernising its fleet.
BOMBARDIER DASH 8 102 SERIES
The company uses aircraft such as the ATR 72-500, which burns only half as much fuel as some other aircraft and also emits less carbon into the atmosphere.
Number in service: Two
This underlines the fact that Fly540 is a ‘green airline’ that cares for the environment. The crew and engineering team are professionally trained and certified to ICAO standards.
Type: Twin-engined, medium-range, turboprop airliner Capacity per aircraft: 37 passengers
CANADAIR CL-600-2B19 REGIONAL JET Type: Twin-engine regional jet Number in service: Three Capacity per aircraft: 50 passengers
CESSNA CARAVAN C208 Type: Single turboprop engine, fixed-gear short-haul regional airliner Number in service: Two Capacity per aircraft: 10 passengers
DC-9 Type: Twin-engine, single-aisle jet airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 80 passengers
FOKKER F28 Type: Twin engined medium range jet airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 67 passengers
www.fly540.com
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Kids’ Corner
Kids’
CORNER SAFARI JOKES Q. What do you call an elephant in a phone box? A. Stuck.
Q. How does a lion greet other animals? A. Pleased to eat you.
Q. What animal is bad to play games with? A. A cheetah.
Q. What is the biggest ant in the world?
SAFARI
WORDSEARCH Can you find the animals listed here in the letter grid? Tip: Some words are going backwards!
ZEBR A RHINO EL AND GIR AFFE IMPAL A LION
A. An eleph-ant.
Q. How do you stop a rhino from charging? A. Take away his credit card.
Q. What did the grape say when the buffalo stood on it? A. Nothing, it just let out a little wine. 48
Africa’s low cost airline
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
I
I
L R A T S
N P A H K R U
R Q P P
I
C A N
A N O M N A R
D E B E E ST W I L LO F F A B U H A GWO RT PA L E O RD H E N YA L E AP H E N T
Answers: 1. Wildebeest 2. Buffalo 3. Warthog 4. Leopard 5. Hyena 6. Elephant
giraffic jam.
G N
F O Q F
I
I
D U
I
O J B F I
K E R
E L A N D J Z K
Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of the safari animals;
A. Because he tasted funny
A. He got caught in a
S H A H L W O
SAFARI-GRAMS!
Q. Why did the lion spit out the clown? Q. Why was the giraffe late?
DUIKER HIPPO JACK AL SUNI STARLING OWL
J
540 MAGAZINE / ISSUE 20 / FEBRUARY – APRIL 2016