ISSUE 22 / AUG – OCT 2016
YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY
SUPPER CLUB
BONHOMIE AT THE CONCORD DRIVE TIME
AUDI Q2
540 COMPETITION
MOMBASA
WIN US$ 2,000 OFF YOUR NEXT CAR See Page 4 for details
26 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT
ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: ENTERTAINMENT • NEWS • REVIEWS & MORE
CONTENTS
contents issue 22 REGULAR FEATURES 3 In this issue 4 540 News & Competition 44 SUPPER CLUB
46
Bonhomie at The Concord
46 DRIVE TIME
Audi Q2
48 SLEEP OVER
Panari Resort
48
50 GADGETS COVER STORY
22 Mombasa A-Z
26 great reasons to visit
Home is where the tech is
51 ENTERTAINMENT
Watch. Read. Listen.
56 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
7 Beach Party
on behalf of
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:
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Connect with Fly540 @fly540aviation www.facebook.com/pages/Fly-540
Step In to your dancing shoes
11 Big Daddy
17
The legend of Big Daddy
12 Juba
Fly540 Aviation
50
Places to stay in Juba
17 Mama Rocks
Fly540 Meets: Mama Rocks
28 Mount Kenya Safari Club
40
Fit for a movie star
30 Packing for beach
What to take for a day in the sun
35 Salsa Afrique
When Cuba met Kenya…
39 Wairema Foundation Trust
Shining a light on mental illness
40 Days out
Struggling for family days out? Think again!
43 Mzima Springs
If you go down to the springs today…
USEFUL INFORMATION 52 The Fly540 Network 53 Fly540 Contacts 54 Travel Information 55 Fly540 Fleet
www.fly540.com
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IN THIS ISSUE
In this issue
Issue 22
LOOK OUT FOR Sleep Over: We stay at the Panari Resort in Nyahururu. See Page 48 Supper Club: On Page 44 we dine at Bonhomie at The Concord Hotel & Suites Gadgets: On Page 50 we take a look at the new Google Home smart speaker, Asus ZenBook 3 and more... Watch. Read. Listen:
Welcome to issue 22 of 540 magazine
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ur cover story this issue focuses on Mombasa – Fly540’s busiest destination. And just to be a bit different we have compiled a just-forfun A-Z guide to our bustling port city. We hope you like it. Having arrived in Mombasa we pop over the Nyali Bridge to the Mamba Village crocodile farm and meet Big Daddy, the lucky croc set to marry two blushing brides. Weird, or what? Staying oceanside we fly in to Zanzibar to cover Unguja’s Step In Beach Party. And still at the coast, we also decide what’s best to pack for a day at the beach.
Juba On Page 51 we review the latest blockbuster movies, ‘must read’ books and music releases
For the first time, we take a look at where to stay in Juba and, somewhat subjectively, we choose our top five hotels in South Sudan’s capital city. Back at home base, we interview two entrepreneurial sisters who are behind Mama Rocks – Nairobi’s favourite food truck and makers of truly
scrumptious gourmet burgers. In terms of things to see and do, this magazine goes hippo watching at Mzima Springs, visits the worthy Wairema Trust (with which Fly540 has a close association), tries out salsa dancing (yes, it’s catching on) and we explore some ideas for days out with the kids. We sleep over at the recently opened Panari Resort close to Thomson Falls and stay at the unsurpassed Mount Kenya Safari Club (a real favourite), eat out at Nairobi’s brand new Bonhomie at The Concord – an eatery that gets top marks from us. Then to wrap up things, we drive Audi’s cracking Q2 compact SUV. We hope you enjoy your flight with Fly540 and I welcome any comments you may have about this magazine.
Gary Gimson Publisher publishing@landmarine.com
www.fly540.com
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Not flying? View 540 Magazine anytime, anywhere
Issue 22
www.fly540.com/onboard FLY540 DONATES TICKETS TO RHINO CHARGE Fly540 was pleased to donate two tickets to Malindi for a raffle in support of the Rhino Charge, an annual rally that raises funds for charity. The two tickets attracted much interest in the raffle and helped the Rhino Charge to raise KES 139,492,565 for the conservation of Kenya’s water towers. This beats the KES 108 million raised last year.
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COMPETITION
Win US$ 2,000 off your next car 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 be in with a chance of winning a fantastic voucher for US$ 2,000 off the price of a car, courtesy of Japan’s Trust Company Ltd. For the chance to win 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.
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Africa’s low cost airline
AND THE WINNER IS… Congratulations to Joan Akoth Ogutu who won a dinner for two at Thai Chi Restaurant at the Sarova Stanley Hotel in Nairobi in our Issue 21 competition. Now that’s what we call a ‘540’ face…
The winner will be picked at random by Trust Company Ltd and contacted on 18 October to receive the voucher to redeem in Kenya against the purchase of one of Trust Company’s cars. The winning picture will be featured in Issue 23 of ‘540’ and ‘FlySAX’ magazines. Competition terms and conditions - Closing date is 15 October - Only one entry per person - Entrants must be 18 years or over, and hold a valid driving license - The prize is issued as a voucher for US$ 2,000 off the price of a car, sold in Kenya by Trust Company Ltd. - Voucher is valid until 30 June 2017 - Voucher can be used online at www.japanesevehicles.com, or via Cheki Kenya
- To receive the voucher, the winner must contact Charlotte Flament by e-mail at: charlottef@japanesevehicles.com - Vehicles can be delivered to any city in Kenya - For more information, head to www.japanesevehicles.com - The decision of the organisers will be final. The competition is not open to employees and their relatives of The Thai Chi Restaurant, Fly540, Fly-SAX or Land & Marine Publications Ltd.
Beach Party
Step In to your dancing shoes Step In Beach Party introduces its first event By Kirsten Alexander STEP IN A weekend of fun in Zanzibar awaits
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ast Africa is proving to be a kind of musical powerhouse, with home-grown acts receiving international acclaim and a growing buzz around the expanding cultural scene. New events and festivals are beginning to emerge in honour of this excitement including the brand new Step In Beach Party, hosted by Matthew Swallow, a music and events maestro with a passion for East Africa. Born and raised in the northeast of England and now a resident of Nairobi, Matt is the brains behind Step In Festivals, a company that specialises in events and experi-
ences across East Africa. Music and events have been part of Matt’s life for many years after starting an events company while at university called ‘Raise the Roof’, he then spent five years with the Geneva Art Collective, before founding Kaya Kenya two years ago. “I have always been playing at, or organising, music events,” says Matt. “But really it was a desire to create experiences for people that eventually led me to where I am now.” Aside from Kaya Kenya and Step In Festivals, Matt also owns a recording studio, ADA creatives, based in Westlands, and is dedicated to promoting new and alternative music across the region. www.fly540.com
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Beach Party
TICKETS AND CONTACT Step In Beach Party is an exclusive event with limited tickets, so make sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets and hotel/flight packages are available courtesy of Bluebay Hotels Zanzibar and Fly540 and can be purchased by contacting: reservations@incrediblezanzibar.com. For more information, check out www.facebook.com/StepInFest
DJS Skilled DJs from around the world will be playing
The inspiration for starting Step In Festivals was easy, says Matt: “I wanted to open up the beautiful parts of East Africa to events and new experiences, but also to provide a platform for local artists to play alongside, and collaborate with, more international artists.”
Zanzibar The first event to come from Step In Festivals is the Step In Beach Party, scheduled for 14 to 16 October at the Sultan Sands Resort in Zanzibar. “The Beach Party is going to be an intimate, niche event, with DJs from Kenya, the UK, France and Germany playing techno, house and reggae all weekend.” Combined with the stunning Zanzibar location and a top hotel, guests are promised a memorable, exciting weekend, and hopefully the birth of East Africa’s best new music festival. Guests already got the chance to experience a taste of the Beach Party at the launch party, which took place in Nairobi earlier this year. “The launch was really
successful,” says Matt. “We had some great responses on social media and the event was electric. Unfortunately the Nairobi rainfall was crazy, so not everyone could make it, but the vibe was amazing and got everyone excited for the main event.” Among the performers at the launch event were Grammy winners and members of Morgan Heritage, aka the ‘Royal Family of Reggae’, Mojo and Peter Morgan. Hosted at the stunning Sultan Sands Hotel, Step In Beach Party will be the first of many events Matt hopes will be held across the region. “We hope to do a regular event at Sultans Sands, but our mission is to organise exciting parties in new locations around East Africa. We have big plans for December in the Nairobi region, then we will be hunting out locations and collaborations to make 2017 a real adventure to ’Step In’ to.”
Exciting So, what makes East Africa the best place for emerging musical talent? “The scene is exciting, as
There is a wealth of new, young and exciting talent waiting to be heard and given opportunities to shine it is just opening up to the world. There is a wealth of new, young and exciting talent waiting to be heard and given opportunities to shine. I predict that over the next five years, the most exciting sounds, genres and nu-culture will be emanating from Kenya and East Africa,” says Matt. If you needed any more persuasion, Matt gives us three reasons to head over to Zanzibar with Fly540 to experience the best new festival in East Africa: “Cracking music from international DJs, a stunning beachfront location and the chance to become part of the Step In family!” www.fly540.com
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Big Daddy
The legend of
Big Daddy Mombasa’s deadliest crocodile
M
amba Village in Mombasa is one of the coast’s most popular attractions, but the village itself has its own star attraction: Big Daddy. Weighing in at a whopping 800 kilos, and measuring five metres in length, Big Daddy is said to be one of the largest crocodiles in the world. The Guinness Book of Records is even hoping to visit Mombasa later in the year to see how he compares with other megacrocs. Of all the 12,000 crocodiles that live at Mamba Village, Big Daddy is perhaps the biggest celebrity, with a colourful history and tales of devouring both friend and foe. At an estimated 110 years old, Big Daddy is one of the oldest crocs in the world, and has spent much of his life residing in the River Tana. It was here that Big Daddy’s fearsome reputation was discovered; after he killed several people in the River Tana region, it was decided that he should be placed in captivity to avoid any further deaths. In 1986 he was moved from the River Tana to Mamba Village on Links Road in Nyali.
However, little did the staff at Mamba Village know, Big Daddy’s killing spree was not over and several of his scaly friends met an unfortunate end on the farm by Big Daddy’s claws. In order to protect the other crocs from such behaviour, Big Daddy was placed in solitary confinement. It seems the time away from the other residents at the farm did him good as several years later Big Daddy was allowed some company. Two female crocodiles called Sasha and Salma moved into Big Daddy’s enclosure and his behaviour dramatically changed, even allowing his new companions to share his food.
Wedding bells Due to Big Daddy’s new, kinder behaviour, the staff at Mamba Village are planning to hold a ‘wedding’ for the croc and his two lady friends in December. This unique event is hoping to draw many visitors to Mamba Village to witness the marriage between one of the world’s oldest and most deadly crocodiles and his two very lucky (and brave) ladies. www.fly540.com
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Juba
FIVE OF THE BEST:
Places to stay in Juba Juba is on the up. Since the signing of the historic peace accord between President Silva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar, business folk and NGOs have been flocking back to the South Sudanese capital – either to return to what they left in a hurry or to seek new opportunities in the world’s newest nation. Fly540 is also playing its part in this renaissance by serving Juba on a daily basis. As visitors come back, Juba’s hospitality sector has to up its game to woo generally high-rolling guests. As a result, this magazine thought it the right time to check out what hotels are on offer and to choose what we believe to be Juba’s top five properties. And here they are:
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Africa’s low cost airline
ACACIA VILLAGE
OASIS Acacia Village is one of our top picks in Juba
Acacia Village gets top spot and is a true oasis of calm in Juba, surrounded by lush greenery in a six-acre plot. Located in Gudele, this aparthotel is considered by many to be the country’s best. With a total of 39 rooms, consisting of apartments, villas and cottages, there are plenty of options for guests. On-site facilities are excellent, with a 12 metre swimming pool, tennis court (the only one in Juba), fitness room, bar and restaurant. The restaurant serves fresh, international cuisine, while the Acacia Tree bar is a great place to wind down and toast to the day’s activities. There are also excellent services including storage facilities, laundry, free Wi-Fi and more. Acacia Village is well equipped to host conferences and events, with projectors, screens, PA and audio equipment available to make sure the day runs smoothly.
Juba
GRAND Green lawns and great facilities
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JUBA GRAND HOTEL Located in the centre of Juba, and only 10 minutes from the airport, Juba Grand Hotel is a great place to stay for those who need to be close to the city centre. It’s named the Grand for a reason: there are 102 well-equipped rooms and suites, with king-sized or twin beds, and garden views. High-speed internet access and flatscreen TVs come as standard, in addition to a digital safe and a very welcome refrigerator. The Asmara and Adok restaurants offer international cuisine, while the main bar is the perfect place for a cold beer. The on-site facilities are good and include a gym, outdoor pool, spa and sauna as well as a barber shop. The hotel is also available for events and conferences, with banquet halls and gardens which can host up to 200 guests. The outdoor Africa Hut venue can also be hired for up to 500 attendees.
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Africa’s low cost airline
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BOUTIQUE The Tulip Inn is elegantly furnished
TULIP INN JUBA The first internationally branded hotel in South Sudan, the Tulip Inn Juba, is ideally located in the heart of the city. This three-star boutique hotel consists of standard, deluxe and executive rooms and even a presidential suite, all of which are equipped with good facilities, including satellite television, air conditioning, a mini fridge and more. The four-floor hotel is elegantly furnished in a European style. The 15-pax boardroom is perfect for small meetings and comes with modern technology including Wi-Fi with catering available on request. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. The Villa Marvella offers both à la carte and buffet meals and the pool bar is the place to relax throughout the day and into the evening. There is also a rooftop bar for a drink with a view.
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BEDOUIN LODGE Bedouin Lodge is one of the most popular places to stay in Juba and is well known for its legendary bar. Accommodation consists of 30 individual units, all self-contained with a veranda and furnished with a bed, wardrobe, desk, chair and that all-important air conditioning. Surrounded by some of the best gardens in Juba, and close to the White Nile, the lodge feels far away from the busy city, yet is just a stone’s throw from the central business district. The Bedouin bar and restaurant offers not only a fabulous setting for dinner and drinks, but also a very good selection of both, with an extensive à la carte menu and refreshing drinks. Conference facilities are available on-site as well as the option to rent offices if desired. The staff at Bedouin can also arrange excursions, including a Nile cruise and a trip to the fabulous Boma National Park. POPULAR Bedouin Lodge is a favourite for many in Juba
CROWN HOTEL
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Complete with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and more
CROWN HOTEL Another Juba favourite is the Crown Hotel – a stone’s throw from the airport with a wide selection of rooms. The Crown Hotel’s 120 rooms range from a single bedroom to a studio to a royal suite, so there is plenty of choice. The hotel has excellent facilities and amenities, including the Juba Ballroom, conference hall, VIP lounges, gym, swimming pool, Jacuzzi and more. For dining, the English resto-pub serves good food and hosts live entertainment, while Cedars Restaurant is the perfect place for serious foodies. Every Sunday there’s a pool party to entertain guests, or you can simply unwind on the terrace that surrounds the pool and soak up the sun. The Crown Hotel is a popular choice for VIPs. The friendliness of the staff makes anyone feel like they are an important and valuable guest.
www.fly540.com
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Mama Rocks
Fly540 Meets:
MAMA ROCKS All pictures courtesy of Harriet Constable
Fun fusions and brilliant burgers The food truck revolution has come to Kenya in the form of Mama Rocks. Fly540 reporter Harriet Constable met up with its creators – the dynamic sister duo Samantha and Natalie Mwedekeli – to hear more about their inventive menu, inspirations and big dreams for bringing African food to the masses, one burger at a time… >
FAMILY AFFAIR Samantha and Natalie created Mama Rocks
www.fly540.com
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Mama Rocks
Q: What is Mama Rocks all about?
BEST BURGERS The sisters are joined by food blogger Gareth Pon
Sam: Mama Rocks is a gourmet burger food truck based in Westlands, Nairobi. Each of the burgers we make are influenced by flavours from across Africa and represent African cuisine: north, south, east and west. Our ingredients are of the highest quality and we put a lot of love into the burgers.
Natalie: Mama Rocks as a brand is all about the mother being centre of the community. That’s what we want to be as a food truck – a place where friends come together. It’s also about being who you are: being independent and making your mark on the world.
Q: Tell us more about yourselves – who are you, where are you from? Sam: We were both born in London and lived there most of our lives. We’ve been in Kenya almost three years. In terms of who I am, I’m quite creative. I felt quite stifled in my role working in human relations in England. I wanted to have my own business and create my own path, rather than be defined by a 9 to 5 job. Natalie: Who am I? I’m one half of Mama Rocks! I enjoy the art, fashion, culture, tradition and modernity that have influenced our brand.
Q: Where do you get inspiration for your dishes? Natalie: Our mother is Nigerian and our father is Kenyan and we were very much brought up in a multicultural society. As we grew up, we travelled regularly to Nairobi and Nigeria, being influenced by various African cuisines and cultures along the way.
Q: How did you come up with the idea of a gourmet food truck? Sam: We wanted to start a brand that celebrated Africa – we hadn’t actually decided it would be about food. We were actually veering toward designing clothing from African materials. Then, every year we’d visit our parents in Kenya. We’d visit different restaurants, but we quickly got bored with the options, so we thought, why not do Western food with African flavours? It’s a fun fusion. www.fly540.com
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Mama Rocks
Q: What’s your favourite item on the menu? Natalie: My favourite item on the menu is a milkshake. Called Chop Chop Shake Shake, it has a whisky caramel sauce, almond biscuit crumbs, and it’s delicious. Sam: My favourite is the Nollywood burger. It’s got a honey nut mayo and a dash of hot sauce in a brioche bun with rocket. The hot sauce smells amazing.
Q: How is it working together as sisters? Sam: Most of the time we get on very well: we’re each other’s best friends. Obviously there are times when we bicker but we quickly get over it. It’s good to challenge one another. We’re really enjoying seeing our work come together and it’s great to be able to share that with a family member.
Q: When did you launch? How is business going so far? Sam: We launched officially in January 2016 but before that we did a pop-up. We weren’t expecting many people to attend
the pop-up, but nearly 100 people came throughout the day. We were surprised how quickly we could pull a crowd in. Our official launch in January went down really well too. Since we’ve set up at The Yard in Westlands people have really started to take notice. We’re actually beginning to outgrow our truck – we’re going to need something much bigger, like a restaurant, to keep up with demand. Mama Rocks is growing!
‘Mama Rocks’ longterm ambition is to be Africa’s answer to the Hard Rock Café’ to the Hard Rock Café – marrying music, fashion, art and culture with food. We’d like to launch flagship restaurants in Kenya, West Africa and South Africa. We’d also like to set up in our home town, London, and in the United States. We don’t want to create a huge franchise, but just a few really cool flagship restaurants. We want to have an influential brand that’s internationally recognised and known to be born and bred in Kenya.
Q: Why Kenya and Nairobi for the new business? Natalie: We’ve been visiting Kenya every year for the last 10 years. We’ve seen the growth and development: the rise of the middle class and an urban youth culture really coming to the forefront. London, where we’re from, is really saturated with new concepts like food trucks; we thought we could bring something different to the market here in Kenya.
Q: What can we expect to see from Mama Rocks in the future? MENU
Natalie: Mama Rocks’ long-term ambition is to be Africa’s answer
There’s something for everyone at Mama Rocks
Sam: We’d also love to expand our menu. Burgers will forever remain our core product, but we’d also like to offer more African food, packaged into something that’s accessible to everybody. Finally, we want ours to be a brand that celebrates Africa and puts it in a positive light. We hope Mama Rocks will bring awareness to others about what’s good in Africa.
www.fly540.com
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Mombasa A-Z
A-Z of Mombasa 26 great reasons to visit We love Mombasa, but then again, who doesn’t? The sandy shores mixed with the Swahili heritage, topped off with a gorgeous climate makes Mombasa one of the country’s top places to visit. In celebration of this wonderful city, Fly540 has compiled an A-Z of reasons to love Mombasa.
A is for Airport
D is for Dining
Mombasa’s Moi International Airport is the starting point for every Fly540 flight into the city. As soon as you land, you receive the warmest of welcomes from the people and hopefully an even warmer welcome from the weather. Then it’s time to grab your bags and head off to explore.
Mombasa has an excellent selection of restaurants spread across both the north and south coasts. One of our favourites is Shehnai, located in the CBD, which serves tasty, authentic Indian food. There is also the famous Tamarind Dhow, and its sister restaurant Tamarind Mombasa, both of which serve delicious seafood.
B is for Beaches Kenya has some of the best beaches in East Africa and you will find many of these in and around Mombasa. On the north coast, Nyali Beach boasts soft white sands and is surrounded by luxury resorts. Further up you will find Shanzu Beach, flanked by palm trees and offering an abundance of water sports.
C is for Central Business District The heart of the city, Mombasa’s central business district is a world away from the north coast’s resort haven. This busy hub has hotels, restaurants, shops and more and is the life and soul of Mombasa.
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Africa’s low cost airline
E is for EnglishPoint Marina This new luxury development is the first of its kind in East Africa, containing a hotel, apartments, spa, gym and of course, a marina. Looking out over to Fort Jesus, EnglishPoint is one of the most picturesque places in Mombasa and definitely worth a visit, even if you are not staying on site.
F is for Fort Jesus This Portuguese fort was built in 1593 and serves as a reminder of Mombasa’s colourful past. Wander around the grounds and learn about Fort Jesus’s history of battles, imprisonment, attacks and more. At the top of the fort you will find old cannons pointing out through cannon holes, which offer excellent views over Tudor Creek and of the north coast of Mombasa.
G is for Goats Goats are a staple feature of Mombasa and are surrounded by both legend and humorous tales. It is thought by some that goats are the spirits of the deceased, while others recount tales of the goats boarding the Likoni Ferry, only to return back to the island at the end of the day.
FORT JESUS A must-visit in Mombasa
HALLER PARK Pop in and see if you can spot Mzee the tortoise
H is for Haller Park
I is for Indian Ocean
One of Mombasa’s top attractions is Haller Park, a wasteland-turned-wildlife sanctuary on the north coast. Famed for being home to Owen and Mzee, a hippo and giant tortoise who formed an unlikely friendship, Haller Park also houses a variety of wildlife. While Owen and Mzee can still be found at the park, they now live separately.
Many tourists come to Mombasa to soak up the sun, enjoy the beaches and take a dip in the beautiful Indian Ocean. Up and down the coastline, the water sparkles against the sandy beaches and there’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained. It also makes Mombasa a key trading station which has influenced the city’s rich history. www.fly540.com
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Mombasa A-Z
J is for Jain Temple The first temple of its kind to be built outside of India, Mombasa’s Jain Temple is a beautiful place of worship built in the 1960s. The temple is an important place of worship, but also attracts visitors daily to take in the beauty and awe of the building.
K is for Kilifi About 55 km north-east of Mombasa is Kilifi, a small town with a selection of great hotels and resorts. The town is also wellknown for its pretty creek, lined with soft sand and vibrant green trees. The Mnarani Ruins, which date back to the 15th century, are popular too.
L is for Lunatic Line This infamous railway from Nairobi to Mombasa is – surprisingly – still in operation and will take you from the city to the coast or vice versa. It is notorious for taking a long time and is plagued by delays, but people still hop on board to experience the journey on the infamous Lunatic Line.
M is for Mombasa Marine National Park Located between Mtwapa and Tudor Creek, this marine park is a great place to go snorkelling or diving. The park offers visitors the opportunity to get close to some of the beautiful sea life of Kenya, including starfish, crabs and turtles.
TEMPLE Admire the beauty of the city’s only Jain Temple
N is for Nguuni Nature Sanctuary Located in the north-west of Mombasa, close to Bamburi, the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary is home to a variety of animals including giraffe, eland, oryx and ostrich. The sanctuary is a great place to visit in Mombasa if you want to get up-close to wildlife and enjoy a picnic or barbecue with scenic views.
O is for Old Town Next to Fort Jesus is the Unescolisted Old Town, where a blend of cultures come together to create an interesting site to wander around. The charm of Old Town is made up of Swahili architecture and crumbling buildings as well as cafés and curio shops.
SEA LIFE Get up close to some of Kenya’s best marine life
Q is for Quiet While the city centre is often busy and hectic, there are plenty of places in Mombasa to truly appreciate some peace and quiet. Whether it’s doing some yoga on Nyali beach or pausing for thought while taking in the views from Fort Jesus, there are many areas in Mombasa where you can escape from the bustle.
P is for Port The Port of Mombasa is the biggest port in East Africa and the only international seaport in the country. It is a key gateway for many landlocked East African countries and also includes a cruise port. www.fly540.com
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Mombasa A-Z SHIMBA HILLS A short drive from the coast
R is for Resorts Mombasa is home to some of Kenya’s best beach resorts, which make for the perfect retreat from the bustle of the city centre. There are many resorts to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget. With such a wide selection, it’s not hard to see why Mombasa is one of East Africa’s leading coastal resorts.
S is for Safari While Nairobi may be the more obvious choice for a city-based safari, those travelling to Mombasa can still enjoy the safari experience thanks to the city’s proximity to Shimba Hills National Reserve. This reserve has a good selection of animals including elephant, giraffe, and buffalo, and is less than two hours’ drive from the city centre.
U is for Ukunda
X is for (e)Xcursions
Once you arrive on the south coast from the Likoni Ferry, head straight down the A14 to Ukunda, a coastal town close to the famous Diani Beach. While Ukunda is a quiet town, it’s close to the Diani Beach area and it is served by Fly540’s sister airline FlySAX, which can fly you back to Nairobi when you’ve finished exploring.
Okay, so we cheated a bit with this one, but words beginning with ‘X’ are few and far between! There are some great options for day excursions with Mombasa as your base. Several companies offer great options for exploring, including trips to Wasini Island, safaris in Tsavo East National Park, visiting the Gedi Ruins near Malindi and more.
V is for Vision 2035
Y is for Yummy
There are big plans for the future of Mombasa thanks to the Vision 2035 initiative, which plans to develop the city. The initiative includes building new houses, boosting industry and transforming Mombasa into a commercial hub for the region.
Aside from fine dining, there are some must-try foodie treats in Mombasa. A popular option with residents and tourists alike is kashiri (cassava crisps), sprinkled with lime and chili, with the best ones found along Mama Ngina Drive. The markets are also a haven for fresh fruit and veg, and will have you coming back for more.
W is for Wild Waters
TWO TUSKS An iconic landmark in Mombasa
For a great day out for all the family, the Wild Waters Waterpark is the place to go. A combination of wet rides and dry rides means there is plenty to keep you entertained. The waterpark has a whole range of slides and activities, including a lazy river and water play station, while the dry rides include bumper cars and a merry-go-round.
Z is for Zanzibar Zanzibar is just a short flight away from Mombasa with Fly540, whether you are coming to Mombasa from the island, or hopping over to Zanzibar for the weekend. There are daily flights to and from Zanzibar, taking you from one paradise to another in less than an hour.
T is for Tusks No trip to Mombasa is complete without driving down Moi Avenue and under the famous giant tusks. Made out of metal – not real ivory – the elephant tusks form an ‘M’ shape over Moi Avenue and welcome visitors and residents into Mombasa town. www.fly540.com
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Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya Safari Club:
Fit for a movie star By Harriet Constable
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t was a boozy night, spent regaling friends with hopes, dreams and aspirations for the future, when 1950s Hollywood superstar William Holden decided to purchase the inn they were staying at in Kenya. Visiting in the middle of a hunting safari with billionaire developer Ray Ryan and Swiss banker Carl Hirschmann, the three hatched a plan to turn the charming place located at the foot of the snow-capped Mount Kenya into one of the most unusual and exclusive clubs in the world: The Mount Kenya Safari Club. Back then, it was simply known as Mawingo, a reference to the clouds that so often skirt the slopes of Mount Kenya nearby. Over the years, the club developed into something of a legendary retreat for the Who’s Who of the 28
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world: membership was by initiation only and members included Ernest Hemingway, Charlie Chaplin, Bing Crosby and Steve McQueen. With the income from its A-List visitors, the club blossomed. Luxurious new cottages were added to the grounds, a golf course was installed, and the local area became home to more than 800 wild animals. It isn’t difficult to see why this property, and its breathtaking location, won the heart of Holden and his friends all those years ago. As my other half and I drove up toward the jagged, snow-capped, towering peaks of Mount Kenya, it was impossible not to be swept up in the grandeur of the surroundings. Nowadays, the hotel is owned by the Fairmont group, and it is enticing in a stately, palatial sort of way. Efforts to hark back to
WILDLIFE An animal orphanage is close to the Safari Club
the golden age of safari exist throughout the property, adding to the overall appeal of the place. The bar was warm and welcoming, with an open fire, cosy couches and glass doors leading out onto the manicured grass lawns. And our suite looked fit for a queen: a huge room filled with a four-poster bed and accompanied by a seating area with multiple sofas, chairs and cushions buttoned in a gold fabric. Beyond the floor-to-ceiling glass
DID YOU KNOW? Mount Kenya Safari Club won the 2013 Travellers Choice Awards.
doors we found a balcony, which overlooked the pool and vividly green gardens.
Majestic Although a few muddles among the staff made me wonder if the hotel might have lost a little of its pizzazz since its celebrity heyday, I couldn’t deny the place was glamorous. I held out judgment until dinner – the real reason we were visiting. We wanted to dine at Tusks, the on-site restaurant which was rumoured to be one of the best in Nanyuki. Tusks occupies a unique position right on the equator, so that the waiters have to cross from the southern to northern hemisphere to retrieve your order. This is just the kind of ridiculous gimmicky trivia I come to places for. Given this, and
the fact that we’d just enjoyed a couple of gin and tonics at the bar (Holden style), I was very excited about the meal. Sadly, the food was a combination of expensive and unimpressive, but the service was wonderful. I enjoyed our waiters crossing the invisible line that divides our planet between north and south every time I asked for something. The food was the only downside of what was a great weekend. We made the most of the huge range of activities on offer throughout our stay: from mountain biking and getting lost in the on-site maze to swimming, tennis and even taking the two canine ambassadors, Tusker and Grammy, for a walk. When we weren’t trying out every possible activity on offer, we sat on the sloping grass hills, read books,
SPLENDOUR Enjoy the serenity of Mount Kenya Safari Club
drank wine and gazed at the huge array of birds that call the grounds home. My favourite feathered friends, the solemn storks, crept around the gardens like old men with their hands behind their backs. While Tusks might not have lived up to expectations, the truth is that the hotel still charmed us, just at it had Holden and his friends nearly 60 years ago.
It isn’t difficult to see why this property, and its breathtaking location, won the heart of Holden and his friends all those years ago www.fly540.com
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Packing for Beach
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With Fly540 flying to some of East Africa’s best beach destinations, there are more opportunities than ever to escape the cold weather and head to the idyllic shoreline of the Indian Ocean. You’ve decided on your destination and finalised your flights and, with mounting excitement, it’s time to pack your bags. It’s worth putting some thought into this. If you need some inspiration or tips for your beach-break packing, Fly540 is here to help.
BAG IT UP
FOR LITTLE ONES
FOR GROWN-UPS
Before you start putting everything into your beach bag, you first need to decide which bag to take. Choose one large enough for everything you need rather than taking several smaller ones. (This is bound to make things more difficult, especially if you also have children to look after.) A large, waterproof bag is ideal. The size depends on how many people are going, so measure up accordingly. While we all like to look good on the beach, it’s best to leave your favourite bag at home rather than allow it to get covered in sand (which, as we all know, is a pain to get out and will leave you finding grains of the stuff for months afterwards).
If you’re heading to the beach with little ones, you’ll need to pack a few extras to make sure they have a fun and relaxing day. While they will no doubt be excited about running into the sea and splashing around with siblings or friends, they’re bound to get bored (as children do with most things) and want some new entertainment. It’s always a wise idea to bring another activity to occupy them with. Whether it’s some plastic toys to play with in the sand or a Frisbee or even a fun book, it’s a good idea to have something to keep the kids occupied. A ball is a good and versatile option, as the children can play catchand-throw, football, beach volleyball and other games after they are bored of the sea.
Whether you’re embarking on a solo beach trip or a day out with family or friends, adults need entertaining, too. If joining in with the kids’ beach volleyball doesn’t float your boat, bring some magazines, a book or an e-reader with you so you can lie back, relax and soak up the sunshine. A pack of cards is a good addition to a day at the beach with friends. You can choose from any number of entertaining card games, either with adults or children, just as long as the ocean breeze isn’t strong enough to blow them away. A portable radio, or speakers that plug into your smartphone or MP3 player, are great both for relaxing days and for a more fun-filled party atmosphere.
BEACH FUN Pack some plastic toys for the kids
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Packing for Beach
STAY SAFE We all know that sunscreen is essential for a trip to the beach, even when the sun isn’t blazing hot, as it can still cause damage. Make sure you apply a high SPF sunscreen before you leave for the beach, as it usually takes some time to become fully effective, and reapply frequently throughout the day. Reapply more often, however, if you spend time in the ocean, as this affects how long the sun cream will keep you protected. It’s always a good idea to take insect repellent, too, even if it’s already in your sunscreen, to keep you protected from nasty bites. A multipack of plasters is a handy addition to any bag, especially a beach bag, and can provide relief and protection for anything from blisters to grazes to cuts. Sunglasses, too, are important for children and adults alike, as well as sun hats for everyone.
STAY SAFE Sunscreen is a must for a day at the beach
FOOD AND DRINK
HANDY EXTRAS
The beach is a great place to enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. Even if you’re going to a beach with vendors and restaurants close by, packing a picnic will save you time, effort and money and ensure that no one goes hungry or thirsty. To keep things cool and fresh, especially on a very hot day, a cool bag or box is a must to avoid things getting warm and potentially unpleasant. Sandwiches are a great picnic addition, but if you’re packing cheese or meat sandwiches, make sure these are kept cool. Snacks such as crisps and biscuits are good for grazing, but stay away from sticky foods and chocolate as these could be disastrous in hot weather. Be sure to pack plenty of water – more than you would usually drink during the day – to keep hydrated. Bottled water is ideal, too, for washing hands before and after eating.
To make your day that extra bit more enjoyable, there are a few items you can add to your beach bag. First up, a camera is a great way to capture memories of the fun you had at the beach. Just make sure you don’t lose or damage it. Towels are also handy, not just for drying off after splashing about but also to lie or sit on during the day. If you want to keep extra protected from the sun, consider bringing a parasol to stick in the sand so you can enjoy the day without worrying about too much exposure to the sun. Remember, it can cause sunburn and sunstroke.
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Salsa Afrique
When Cuba met Kenya… Salsa dancing takes to the floor
O
riginating in New York City, and heavily influenced by Latin American dance styles, salsa is now a dance that is loved worldwide and practised by hundreds of thousands of people both socially and competitively. Kirsten Alexander spoke to Tim Reynolds Muange from Salsa Afrique about the salsa revolution in Kenya. “Salsa started in around 1998 in Kenya,” says Tim, CEO of Salsa Afrique, an entertainment company based in Nairobi. “It has
become increasingly popular in East Africa thanks to its numerous benefits. It’s a good form of exercise, and it’s also a good way to socialise and meet new people in a fun and entertaining environment.”
Popular Across Kenya, salsa dancing is undergoing a surge in popularity, with Salsa Afrique offering classes and events in almost every town in the country. “The response has been great so far,” says Tim. “Salsa Afrique simply makes the dancing experience enjoyable and leaves
Across Kenya, salsa dancing is undergoing a surge in popularity, with Salsa Afrique offering classes and events in almost every town in the country
SALSA A great way to keep fit and have fun www.fly540.com
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Salsa Afrique
or parameters. “Salsa is something for you to enjoy. It allows you to do almost anything. You just need to know the basic steps and follow the music,” advises Tim.
Beginners
people yearning for more. We also took it a step further by organising the first-ever Kenya International Salsa Festival and Congress – an event that we hope will take place annually and attract international dancers to join in the fun.” Salsa is one of many dances that has deep origins in Cuba and a long history of evolution. “It originated in the ports of Cuba during the colonisation of the Spaniards, who imported slaves from Africa. Bringing with them their culture, they introduced their rhythmic dance styles to the Caribbean, giving birth to Afro-Latin dance hybrids. Some of these hybrids include mambo, cha cha cha, rumba and guaracha,” says Tim.
Steps So, what defines salsa? “The basic step of all styles of salsa involves three weight changes in each four-beat measure,” says Tim. “The fourth beat may contain a tap or kick, or weight transfer may simply continue, with the step itself not taking place until the next beat. Some people may insert an actual pause, too.” After six weight changes in eight beats, the basic salsa step cycle is complete and can
be built upon with different steps, moves and styles. “As a salsa dancer changes weight, the upper body remains level and almost unaffected by the weight changes. Caught in the middle are the hips which end up moving quite a bit – the famous Cuban hip movement.” A lot of steps used in salsa are similar to those of mambo, although there is one main difference that distinguishes the two Latin dances. “The salsa must break on the first or third count, whereas the mambo must break on the second count. The New York style of salsa, however, also breaks on the second count, so they can be quite similar,” says Tim. “Until you reach the postbeginner stage, both dances are similar, but it is after this point that they begin to look different. The mambo looks more like ballroom dancing, with codified patterns, whereas the salsa is more along the lines of street dancing, with more relaxed patterns.”
You also don’t have to have any prerequisites for learning salsa: “If you are new to dance or have been inactive, start with a beginner class, which will be easier to follow and reduce the risk of injury. As you build up skills and fitness, you can progress to more advanced classes”. Finally, are there are top tips for beginners? “Take regular classes, keep in touch with your teachers and ask questions, practise a lot and listen to salsa music,” says Tim. “These will help you on your way to becoming a great salsa dancer.”
BASIC STEPS Salsa is an easy dance to learn and modify
Tim Reynolds Muange is the CEO of Salsa Afrique, an award-winning entertainment company offering Latin dancing in Kenya. For more information, head to: www.facebook.com/ SalsaAfriqueEntertainment
Beginners Once you’ve mastered the basic steps, salsa is easy to pick up and modify as you go along, as there aren’t many constraints www.fly540.com
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Wairema Trust
The Wairema Foundation Trust
SUPPORT
Raising awareness of mental heatlh
Shining a light on mental illness
T
he Wairema Foundation Trust was founded by Julie Mumbi, the mother of a young woman called Wairema Mathenge, who died in August 2014. Since her daughter’s untimely death, Julie has made it her mission to try to help others who may be suffering, and also to ensure her daughter’s legacy lives on through the trust. Melissa Wairema Mathenge was born and raised in Nairobi by her mother Julie and went on to study psychology at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. In 2011 Wairema moved to Cape Town to continue her studies and dedicated her spare time to working in rehabilitation centres with resident counsellors. Wairema worked with many people suffering with depression and drug abuse, although she too was suffering with depression. In August 2014, Wairema sadly passed away. The Wairema Foundation Trust was set up by Julie to help raise awareness of mental health condi-
tions in Kenya and provide support for sufferers. The trust is mainly run by those closest to Wairema, driven by a need for improvement in mental health care, and as a way of paying tribute to their friend. By raising awareness and offering support, the trust hopes to make a positive difference to those affected by depression. This is largely done through education and outreach programmes based in local communities.
Visions The three main aims of the trust are: • To alleviate the burden of depression from society by destigmatising it through increased awareness; • To harness the power to give back to the community through various charitable initiatives;
GET IN TOUCH For more information or advice, contact The Wairema Foundation Trust: Tel: 0701 965 502; 0734 902 551 Email: wairemafoundationtrust@gmail.com Web: www.wairemafoundation.com Twitter: @wairema_ft
• To honour Wairema by exploring and sharing artistic enterprises in conjunction with storytellers, poets and musicians, just like she was.
Instagram: @wairema_ft Facebook: Wairema Foundation Trust
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Days out
©LMspencer / Shutterstock.com
Struggling for family days out? Think again!
From picnics and animals to cheese and movies, Nairobi has it all The weekend has only just arrived and you’re already hearing calls of ‘Mama! Nimeboeka!’ while you try to relax with a coffee and a good book. Your mind boggles with what you can do to entertain your little one for the day, but fear not: Fly540 is here to help with some great days out, no matter what your child is into. 40
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THE ANIMAL LOVER An afternoon at Nairobi Animal Orphanage Children and animals are a match made is heaven, so if your child is an avid animal fan, there are a whole host of places to go in Nairobi where they can learn about their favourite creatures. Our favourite place to go is the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, located inside the Nairobi National Park. The orphanage is home to various wild animals that have been rescued and looked after by the orphanage staff to ensure they grow up happy and healthy. Among the residents are lions, cheetahs, hyenas, warthogs, monkeys and buffalo, all of which children can get close to and hear stories of the animals’ lives before they moved to the orphanage.
THE MOVIE AFICIONADO 7D Cinema at Thika Road Mall For a cinema experience like no other, it has to be to 7D Cinema at Thika Road Mall, the only 7D screen in the country. Expanding on the popular 3D format, where images appear to leap off the screen, the 7D Cinema at TRM really brings the film to life, with moving chairs, smoke effects, scents, wind, rain and more. This experience is a winner with children, as they get to enjoy a big screen movie with effects that make them feel like they’re a part of the storyline. Despite each movie lasting just 15 minutes, there is plenty you can do afterwards in the mall, and no doubt your child will be raving about the experience for days to come.
THE OUTDOORSY TYPE Picnicking in Karura Forest Outdoor activities are a great way for kids to let off some energy and get some fresh air. Karura Forest is perhaps the best outdoor space in the city and there are many ways you can explore and enjoy the forest. On a nice sunny day, nothing beats a picnic, so why not pack up some lunch for you and your little ones and head to Karura. Some of the sites here include a waterfall, caves, marshlands and a host of wildlife and birdlife that your kids will have fun spotting along the way. There are designated picnic sites in the forest where you can enjoy a spot of lunch before carrying on the exploration of the forest, or head to the play area to wind down the day.
THE BUDDING CHEF Tour of Brown’s Cheese Factory and Farm
THE HISTORY BUFF Exploring the exhibits at Nairobi National Museum Whether your little one wants to learn more about the country’s history, find out about evolution or study the collection of taxidermy birds, Nairobi National Museum is a great way to spend a day together. Head to the section of the museum your child is most interested in, or simply work your way through the museum to experience all of the exhibits on offer. In addition to the permanent exhibits, there are often temporary ones available, so check out the website to see what’s on when you go. There’s a café on site for refreshments as well as a small shop. Combo tickets can also be purchased for the adjacent snake park.
If your children love getting messy in the kitchen, then why not take them to Brown’s Cheese Farm? This award-winning cheese producer offers tours and tasting sessions of its speciality cheeses which is fun for adults and children alike. An afternoon at the farm typically consists of a tour of the factory and overview of the making process, a three-course lunch and an opportunity for kids to milk the farm’s cows. This is a great way to inspire your little ones to get involved with cooking, and also help them to understand some food-making processes. The tours are offered in groups of six or more, so why not get together with some friends and their children so the adults can enjoy a glass of wine while the children play together.
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Mzima Springs
If you go down to the springs today… Hippo watching in Tsavo West National Park
HIPPO HAVEN Mzima Springs is home to many hippos and crocs
L
ocated in Tsavo West National Park, Mzima Springs is a small oasis of greenery which produces millions of litres of fresh water every day. The water mainly serves Mombasa, but is also pumped to other surrounding areas and is renowned for being notably clear and fresh. Although the springs are famous for their quality of water, they are also well known for their aquatic inhabitants, specifically the large numbers of hippo and crocodile that reside there. Mzima Springs is one of the best places in Kenya to see hippo up close in a natural environment.
It’s not known exactly how many hippo reside in Mzima Springs, after large numbers suffered during droughts in 2009, but the population is slowly increasing and even a small number of hippo prove to be quite a spectacle. These large creatures stick together, however, and cause little problems for visitors. It is highly recommended that you take a ranger from KWS with you, who can be found at the entrance to the springs, to not only keep you safe, but also provide you with some valuable information about the springs and their inhabitants. Alongside the hippos, large crocodiles
can be spotted waddling into the water from the bushes, and the occasional vervet monkey swinging from the trees, too. The springs have an underwater viewing chamber, which is the highlight of the trip as it provides a unique way to get up close to the hippos safely. The chamber sits at the end of a small pier and visitors can watch hippos, crocs and colourful fish swim past, and if you’re lucky, get within a few feet of these creatures without risking life and limb (they are both highly dangerous, after all). Catching a glimpse of a hippo or two tiptoeing through the water is an unforgettable and quite humorous sight. www.fly540.com
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SUPPER CLUB
Bonhomie at The Concord
By Lester Powell
Sampling the delights of Nairobi’s new favourite restaurant
N
ew kid on the block The Concord Hotel and Suites opened at the beginning of May to positive reviews from all around. One of the stars of this new hotel is Bonhomie, one of its many restaurants, which serves delicious international cuisine. I visited Bonhomie back in June and sampled some of the delights of Bonhomie’s fantastic Ramadan buffet. Bonhomie is the first of three planned restaurants and bars to open at The Concord Hotel and Suites, located in Nairobi’s Parklands district. Bonhomie is the hotel’s main international restaurant, serving an array of dishes and flavours from around the world. 44
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To commemorate the holy month of Ramadan, Bonhomie launched an exciting buffet dinner menu with international dishes and fresh ingredients for guests to help themselves to during the course of each evening.
Buffet The menu changed a couple of times during the holy month, so regular guests could enjoy a wide variety of tasty dishes over the weeks, or simply tuck into the buffet, like me, on the one night I was visiting. I have to admit that I wish I was in town for longer, as the buffet that was available during my visit was superb, and I would have loved to have enjoyed the others, too.
BRAND NEW Bonhomie opened to rave reviews
Beautifully laid out towards the back of the restaurant, the buffet was exciting and tasty, with something for every palate. To start, there were several dishes to choose from, including beef sheek kebab and chili fried fish, followed by an array of Indian and Asianstyle dishes including paneer burji curry. There were colourful salads,
‘The Bonhomie menu takes you through some of the world’s best destinations from the comfort of your seat’
rice dishes, soups, wraps, tasty mezze dishes and more to choose from. The beauty of the buffet meant I could enjoy as much of my favourite dishes as I wanted, which were the stir-fried beef chili, curried sweet potato with mint yoghurt and the delicious tabbouleh.
Chocolate fondant Then, for dessert, the bitesized pieces of each treat, including chocolate fondant and sticky toffee pudding, were the perfect way to finish the evening and also meant I didn’t overindulge, although it would have been very easy to do so with such moreish flavours. Having visited during
Ramadan, I was excited to see what would be on the menu after the holy month, so I spoke to The Concord’s sales and marketing consultant, Neelma Maru, about Bonhomie and what’s next for this wonderful restaurant. Neelma told me: “Bonhomie caters for foodies who have a taste for continental cuisine. During the Ramadan period, guests were treated to a spectacular Iftar menu with a Middle Eastern twist, and soon, Bonhomie will have a pairing of food and drinks at the bar, which will be an ideal place for sports lovers”. So, what’s in store for the menu in the future? “The Bonhomie menu takes you through some of the world’s best destinations from the comfort of
STYLISH Tasty food is complemented by appealing interiors
your seat. Some of the dishes we are most excited about are the fettuccine pasta, Swiss chicken steak burger and the roasted rack of lamb. There’s lots in store for Bonhomie, and we hope to launch theme nights soon, as well as lazy weekend brunches.
MEANING OF BONHOMIE English speakers borrowed ‘bonhomie’ from the French, where the word was created from ‘bonhomme’, which means ‘goodnatured man’ and is itself a composite of two other French words: bon, meaning ‘good’, and homme, meaning ‘man.’ According to online dictionary Merriam-Webster.
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DRIVE TIME
Audi Q2
By Gary Gimson
Style is back on the trail
I
’ve always been a fan of Audi. I had an A4 TDI for two years and was mightily impressed with both its understated looks and its faultless build quality. That’s not to say that Audi can do no wrong. I think the marque has made one or two styling errors in the past few years – the unattractive A7 (who really wants a five-door fastback?) and the misshapen Q3 come to mind. But these rare lapses have been more than offset by the gorgeous A5 and beefy Q7.
Even when Audi doesn’t quite get the styling spot-on, there is no doubt about the quality of the materials and the finish, which contributes to strong residuals and general second-hand desirability.
Head-on Now, having had hits and misses with off-road offerings, Audi comes up with a vehicle that most certainly joins the hits while moving well away from the indifferent looks of the Q3/Q5. Enter the new Q2 – a compact, high-riding car that competes head-on with others in the sector such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and even the MINI Countryman. I’m pleased to report that the Q2, which actually shares the A3’s underpinnings, is much more sharply styled than
HIGH RIDING Sporty looks
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the Q3/Q5 and is clearly a better option than the others in the mid-size SUV market sector. In terms of engine size, the 148 bhp, 1.4 litre petrol version would seem to be best suited to East Africa. But Audi will also be offering a frugal 1.0 litre petrol, a 1.6 eco-diesel and a 188 bhp 2.0 litre diesel. The smaller engines will only come with two-wheel drive whereas the bigger engines will provide four-wheel drive (which Audi markets under the Quattro brand) as standard.
Cabin In the cabin, the Q2 is all but indistinguishable from the A3, with only the odd switch that is different. I would say the Q2 is just that bit plusher inside than
Enter the new Q2 – a compact, high-riding car that competes head-on with others in the sector its rivals, many of which have veered towards SUV practicality and away from luxury. The only area where the Q2 fails to score is in terms of space. Rear legroom does not match some rivals and load space is not exactly generous. But if load lugging is an issue, it might be worth looking to the unlovely Q3 or the popular Nissan Qashqai. For the time being – and somewhat surprisingly – there is no official Kenyabased Audi dealership, although rumours suggest this may change in the near future. So any Q2 import would have to be a personal one.
CLASSY It’s an A3 inside
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SLEEP OVER
Panari Resort
Revamped hideaway in Nyahururu
L
ong before Kenya’s coastal line and savannah backdrop were penned into itineraries of explorers in search of holiday bliss, there was a destination revered for its accessibility and wonder. This, of course, was the small town of Nyahururu, sitting approximately 2,360 metres above sea level, and also home to the Thomson’s Falls. The Maasai, who earlier roamed the area, called it ‘naiurru-ur’ or Nyahururu – simply translated as ‘the waterfalls’. Experienced mostly by domestic travellers, the falls defined this magical place, where
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wishes were cast deep into the frothy waters and where mythical beings resided in the once dense forest surrounding the falls. T-Falls, as its fondly known, was named after Joseph Thomson in 1883 and was largely a settler town until the 1920s, when urbanisation saw the opening of the Angling Club. Here, members spent a great deal of time fishing for the newly introduced trout in the Ewaso Narok, Pesi and Equator rivers. Over the years, and as neighbouring destinations grew in popularity, especially because of their easier access to wildlife,
By Joan Wandegi Nyahururu began to fade away from popular travel discourse, resulting in the underdevelopment of facilities that are dotted throughout the town.
Nyahururu
THOMSON’S FALLS Panari Resort is close to the famous site
However, with the revamped Nyahururu-Nyeri Road, a new confidence from travellers – both domestic and international – has been gained and has allowed for the exploration of Kenya’s northern territories. In a heartbeat, Nyahururu has been flung back on the radar and with it comes a vibrant injection of tourist facilities,
one of which is Panari Resort. The resort promises a luxurious experience, whether visiting for business or pleasure. The reception and attention to detail on arrival is impeccable. RollsRoyce designer electric cars are used to transport guests to where they wish to go and add to the grandiose experience. The KES1.2 billion investment was evidently used to enhance guests’ comfort as well as to amplify the ambience of the surrounding forest. All 100 rooms that sit in 22 four-bedroom cottages have built-in fireplaces to enjoy Nyahururu’s famously chilly nights. With the clientele skewed towards business travellers, there are also two executive villas and four conference halls, all built on a 20-acre piece of land. Panari Resort does not enjoy views
of the T- Falls, but this is easily addressed as guests can travel a negligible distance to experience the wonder of the falls.
from the local talent while taking advantage of the chilly nights in front of the bonfire. Panari Resort also offers a number of outdoor activities, one of which is a hike through the surrounding Marmanet Forest. A well-informed forest ranger accompanies the guests, immersing them in an interactive lesson on the different species of plants and trees. Panari Resort works closely with the Kenya Forest Service because of its proximity to a protected natural resource.
Spa When not enjoying the spacious indoor pool, visitors can spoil themselves at the Eucalyptus Spa. There are some eight different types of body massage and exfoliating treatments available, as well as a fully-serviced salon and barber shop. And after these purely decadent experiences, guests can take advantage of the many shady areas that the indigenous trees provide, some as old as 200 years. Dining at the resort is simple but tasteful. The main eating area sits approximately 70 people comfortably, with buffets that serve meat and vegetarian favourites. At weekends, guests can enjoy live music
The resort promises a luxurious experience, whether visiting for business or pleasure
VIEWS Enjoy the scenery from your room
CONTACT Tel: +254 (0) 709070000 Email: info@panariresort.com www.panarihotels.com/resort-nyahururu
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GADGETS
HOME IS WHERE THE TECH IS GOOGLE HOME Released later this year, the Google Home is already causing a stir in the tech world. Set to rival the Amazon Echo, this smart speaker is run by Google Assistant, the inbuilt personal assistant that can check the weather for you, play your favourite songs and more. The device acts as a central hub for the home, allowing you to control a wide range of apps and features simply with your voice. The software is highly intelligent, and allows you to engage in a two-way conversation, an improvement on the one-way Google Now voice command software. The price is yet to be confirmed, but with the Amazon Echo retailing at US$ 180, it is suggested the Google Home will be competitively priced.
GOOGLE HOME This speaker is certainly smart
ZENBOOK 3 Sleek and stylish, but still powerful
SAMSUNG GALAXY S7 AND S7 EDGE The latest offering from tech giant Samsung is the first range of smartphones to have a camera with professional-grade Dual Pixel Sensor, allowing you to take crisp and clear photos in the dark. Available in both the standard S7 and the S7 Edge models, the Galaxy S7 promises longer battery life, 4GB RAM, the option for wireless charging and much more. The S7 Edge has a larger screen that ‘bleeds’ off the sides of the handset, offering a more streamlined look. Both models are water and dust resistant, too. Galaxy S7: US$ 670. Galaxy S7 Edge: US$ 780
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ASUS ZENBOOK 3 Weighing just 900 g and measuring 11.9 mm thick, the Asus ZenBook 3 is one of the lightest and sleekest highperformance laptops on the market. Available in a range of chic colours, the ZenBook 3 impresses in both style and performance. The 12.5 inch screen offers crisp colours, while the lightweight body has ditched multiple ports, opting for a simple headphone jack and USB Type-C charging port. Prices start from US$ 999 for the basic 4GB RAM model.
XBOX ONE S With a sleek new look and a host of new features, the Xbox One S is certainly an improvement on its predecessor (the Xbox One). Featuring a builtin 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player, an infrared blaster, up to 2TB hard drive and a wireless controller all included in the price, the Xbox One S is the most impressive Microsoft console around. Prices start at US$ 299.99 for the 500 GB model, increasing to US$399.99 for the 2 TB version.
ENTERTAINMENT
Watch. Read. Listen. MOVIES THE LEGEND OF TARZAN
BRIDGET JONES’S BABY
Director: David Yates Starring: Alexander Skarsgård, Margot Robbie, Christoph Waltz Genre: Action, Adventure
Director: Sharon Maguire Starring: Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Patrick Dempsey Genre: Comedy, Romance
Raised in the jungle by gorillas, Tarzan (Skarsgård) has had no ordinary childhood. After spending years in the jungle, he leaves Africa for London, becoming gentleman John Clayton III, Lord Greystroke. Married to his sweetheart Jane (Robbie), Tarzan soon finds himself drawn back to his childhood home on a British trade mission. He discovers a deadly plot by Belgian Captain Leon Rom (Waltz) and Tarzan finds he must tap into his inner hero to help save the jungle and its inhabitants.
After finding happiness at the end of ‘The Edge of Reason’ with Mark Darcy (Firth), things do not work out as Bridget (Zellweger) had hoped, and her happily ever after with Mr Darcy comes to an end. Bridget is now single again, and decides to focus on her career instead of finding love. That is, until she meets handsome Jack Qwant (Dempsey), an American who is everything that Mr Darcy isn’t. Bridget finds herself pregnant, but isn’t sure who the father is.
STARS: 3/5
STARS: 4/5
BOOKS AFTER YOU
IN MY KITCHEN
Following on from the incredibly successful novel-turned-film ‘Me Before You’, After You takes place 18 months after the end of its prequel. Lou Clark’s life isn’t going as well as she had hoped, and she has lots of questions that need answering: How did she end up in a dead-end job, working in an airport bar? Will her close-knit family forgive her for her actions 18 months ago? Will she ever get over the love of her life, Will Traynor? Lou feels like something must change, and one night, it does. A stranger knocks on her door. Does she have the answers Lou’s looking for – or just more questions?
The first cook book from award-winning food blogger Kaluhi Adagala, from www. kaluhiskitchen.com, is a celebration of great Kenyan food. Released exclusively as an e-book, available from Kaluhi’s blog, this colourful book offers guidance and advice on making some Kenyan favourites, as well as classics with a twist. The easy-to-follow recipes are illustrated with enticing photos, with some recipes available exclusively in the book, including the delicious orange zest and cardamom maandazi and hearty ndengu.
BY KALUHI ADAGALA
BY JOJO MOYES
STARS: 4/5
STARS: 5/5
MUSIC THE DREAMING ROOM
THE GETAWAY
RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS One of the world’s greatest-ever rock bands is back with its 11th studio album and first since 2011. ‘The Getaway’ is a typical Chili Peppers album, full of catchy hooks and thumping basslines. Lead singer Anthony Kiedis delivers polished vocals, while bass player extraordinaire Flea is as skilled as ever. The first single ‘I’m With You’ is slightly disappointing, but the album picks up again with ‘Go Robot’, ‘Dark Necessities’ and ‘Dreams of a Samurai’.
STARS: 3/5
LAURA MVULA
The second album from British soul singer Laura Mvula is even better than her first, ‘Sing to the Moon’, which was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize award in 2013. ‘The Dreaming Room’ features production by the London Symphony Orchestra, as well as an appearance from legendary guitarist Nile Rodgers on the lead single ‘Overcome’. Other stand-out tracks are ‘Phenomenal Woman’ and ‘People’, which features London rapper Wretch 32.
STARS: 5/5 www.fly540.com
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Contact Information
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53
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
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 • East Africa Visa: US$100 (for travel between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda) • Single entry: US$50 • Transit Visa: US$20
Vaccination requirements for international travellers:
Persons aged 16 years and below will require a visa to enter Kenya. Diplomatic, Official, Service and Courtesy visas will continue to be issued Gratis.
• Only valid yellow fever vaccination certificates are required of all travellers over one year old, arriving from yellow fever infected countries.
For more information, please visit your relevant Kenya High Commission website.
• Vaccinations for international travellers are obtainable from all international air and sea ports, city and major municipal councils.
Any visitor going to South Sudan requires a valid visa. Visas are issued through the South Sudan Embassy.
GET ON BOARD PROMOTE YOUR BRAND TO AFRICA
SOUTH SUDAN VISAS Immigration regulations stipulate that anyone going to South Sudan needs a travel permit from the Government of South Sudan. Those travelling to South Sudan from Kenya, should visit the South Sudan Embassy in Kenya. Fees: • American Nationals: US$ 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
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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
BOMBARDIER DASH 8 102 SERIES Type: Twin-engined, medium-range, turboprop airliner Number in service: Two Fly540 operates modern aircraft and is constantly updating and modernising its fleet.
Capacity per aircraft: 37 passengers
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.
CANADAIR CL-600-2B19 REGIONAL JET
This underlines the fact that Fly540 is a ‘green airline’ that cares for the environment.
Capacity per aircraft: 50 passengers
The crew and engineering team are professionally trained and certified to ICAO standards.
CESSNA CARAVAN C208
Type: Twin-engine regional jet Number in service: Three
Type: Single turboprop engine, fixed-gear short-haul regional airliner Number in service: Two Capacity per aircraft: 10 passengers
FOKKER F28 Type: Twin engined medium range jet airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 67 passengers
www.fly540.com
55
Kids’ Corner
Kids’
CORNER DANCING
WORDSEARCH
DANCE JOKES
Can you find the dances listed here in the letter grid? Tip: Some words are going backwards!
F A P O H P
I
H
O B O W A L
T Z
X M Z H S K R Z T U A S A L
S A I
SALSA
FOXTROT
R R F W E V
A. Soul music.
JAZZ
WALTZ
Q. What do cars do at the disco?
SWING
HIPHOP
O C S
DISCO
TAP
T Z A N P K Z A
JIVE
RUMBA
E L
Q. What do ghosts dance to?
A. Brake dance.
Q. How many dance instructors does it take to change a lightbulb?
I
D E R P
P G A C Z T
A. Five!…Six!…Seven!…Eight!
DANCERGRAMS
Q. What is a pig’s favourite ballet?
Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of the dances
A. Swine Lake.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
A. Tap dancing.
Q. What do you call a dancing lamb? A. A baa-lerina.
Q. Where do you go to dance in California? A. San Fran-disco.
56
Africa’s low cost airline
TABELL BAMMO MOORBALL MENFLACO GOTNA LESTARCHON
Answers: 1. Ballet, 2. Mambo, 3. Ballroom, 4. Flamenco, 5. Tango, 6. Charleston
Q. What kind of dancing would you do in a sink?
J
540 MAGAZINE / ISSUE 22 / AUGUST – OCTOBER 2016