ISSUE 30 / AUG – OCT 2018
YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY
COMPETITION
WIN A DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE AT SERENITY SPA
SUPPER CLUB
COFFEE CASA
DOHA
SLEEP OVER
HILTON GARDEN INN
QATAR’S DYNAMIC CAPITAL ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: ENTERTAINMENT • NEWS • GADGETS • REVIEWS & MORE
CONTENTS
contents issue 30 REGULAR FEATURES 3 In this issue 5 540 news 28 SUPPER CLUB
28
Coffee Casa
30 DRIVE TIME
Hyundai Nexo
32 SLEEP OVER
Hilton Garden Inn
COVER STORY 14 GUIDE TO DOHA
34 GADGETS
Dynamic capital is paradise for tourists
35 ENTERTAINMENT
is published by Land & Marine Publications Ltd 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 Advertising: Catherine O’Callaghan, Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Cell: +44 (0)7769 110343 (WhatsApp) Email: 540@landmarine.org
on behalf of
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Stylish traveller must-haves
Watch. Read. Listen.
40 Kids’ Corner
32
SPECIAL FEATURES 6 Five of the best:
Bars in Mombasa
10 Q&A with James Wakibia
6
Less plastic is so fantastic
18 Marine Big Five 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. ©2018 Land & Marine Publications Ltd
View this issue online:
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Connect with Fly540 @fly540aviation
Ocean's star performers
20 Takwa Ruins
A rugged link with ancient times
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24 Top shopping malls
Splash your cash with a bit of style
26 Rhino charge
‘Wild’ drivers raise millions for wildlife 20
USEFUL INFORMATION 36 Fly540 Network 37 Fly540 Contacts 38 Travel Information 39 Fly540 Fleet
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IN THIS ISSUE
In this issue
Issue 30
LOOK OUT FOR
From beach bars to brunch to the ocean’s Big Five Welcome to the latest issue of Fly540’s in-flight magazine, 540.
Sleep Over: Hilton Garden Inn, Page 32 Watch. Read. Listen:
On Page 35 we review the latest blockbuster movies, ‘must read’ books and music releases Gadgets: We checkout the Noke Smart Padlock and more on page 34
To kick off this issue, we list five of the best bars along the coast of Mombasa where you can you party the evening away. From cosy bars serving refreshing fruit cocktails to lively beach clubs, there’s guaranteed fun here for everyone. While we’re off exploring the country, we visit Lamu Island to see the Old Town, a World Heritage Site that is full of history. On a nearby island are the fascinating Takwa Ruins, the ancient remains of a Swahili settlement. Back on the mainland, we spend a morning chatting to local Nairobians over a delicious brunch at Coffee Casa, the city’s newest coffee joint, where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served alongside a fantastic selection of fresh brews and smoothies. While in Nairobi, we check out one of the very newest hotels, the Hilton Garden Inn Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which got off to a great start after it opened earlier this year. Check out our feature on Pages 32 and 33 for a look inside this stylish new hotel. This issue also looks at the importance of giving back to the community as
we meet Kenya’s Marine Big Five: the billfish, dolphin, turtle, whale and whale shark. It’s part of a marketing effort by the Watamu Marine Association to make people aware of the urgent need to protect the marine environment and to encourage them to visit Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve. We also talk to the man of the hour James Wakibia about his campaign for a plastics ban in Kenya and about how the community can reduce plastic waste. Over in Narok County, we take a look at the annual Rhino Charge event, which this year raised a whopping KES 181.4 million in aid of the Rhino Ark Charitable Trust, which raises funds to conserve and protect the Aberdare ecosystem. For our regular Drive Time feature, we test out the Hyundai Nexo. As always, we check out the latest gadgets, movies, albums and books to see you through the next few months. I hope you enjoy this issue. If you have any comments, please feel free to contact me at the email address below.
Amy Laubach Editor amylaubach@landmarine.org
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Issue 30
HAPPY CUSTOMERS
It was great to see so many happy faces waiting to board their Fly540 flight last month!
COMPETITION
Win a deep tissue massage at Serenity Spa We know that 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 deep tissue massage worth KES 5,500 at Serenity Spa in Nairobi. Founded in 2013, Serenity Spa takes pride in offering customers hair and spa services that leave them feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and rebalanced. Its highly trained, professional staff members are devoted to providing great service in a friendly atmosphere while using premium products. This deep tissue massage is aimed at releasing chronic muscle tension, leading to a reduction in toxins, stress and pain. To be in with a chance of winning, grab your camera or smartphone and take a selfie with this copy of 540 magazine, either on the plane or at a location of your choice, and email the image, along with your full name and booking reference, to: competition@landmarine.org.
FLY540 OFFERS Visit www.fly540.com and sign up to our mailing list to receive special offers and news regarding new flight routes
The winner will be picked at random after the competition closes on 15 October. The winning image will be featured in Issue 31 of 540 and Fly-SAX magazines.
Competition terms and conditions – Closing date is 15 October 2018 – One entry per person – Entrants must be aged 18 or over – Prize is issued as a voucher worth KES 5,500 to be spent on a deep tissue massage only – The organiser’s decision will be final – This competition is not open to employees or their relatives of Serenity Spa, Fly540, Fly-SAX or Land & Marine Publications Ltd.
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Five of the best
FIVE OF THE BEST:
Bars in Mombasa
W
hether you fancy a quiet glass of wine with your family on a Sunday afternoon or you’re ready to party all night with friends and favourite tunes, Mombasa has enough bars to guarantee a great time. To help you find the best bars on Kenya’s popular coast, 540 has handpicked the five hottest spots to unwind and have fun.
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MOONSHINE BEACH BAR
This lively bar on Nyali Beach is owned by The Reef Hotel in Mombasa. Open seven days a week from 11 am until the early hours, Moonshine is the place to go for great cocktails and an opportunity to dance the night away with friends on the beach. This beachfront bar has wonderful ocean views that add to the chilled-out vibe. There is live entertainment at Moonshine on Wednesdays and Sundays as well as regular theme nights and ‘glow in the dark’ parties, so be sure to look out for the latest schedule when you’re in the area. The bar serves a wide range of cocktails, spirits, wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks and there’s a happy hour special throughout the week.
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ZENIX LOUNGE
Also known as the Z Lounge, this bar is one of Mombasa’s newest additions. Located on the rooftop of The Avenue Building in the Bamburi area, the Zenix is an exclusive and chic venue with an indoor space, a large open-air bar and a spacious seating area. Its sleek and stylish decor, together with modern lighting, gives a sophisticated feel to the Z Lounge. The friendly staff will greet you on arrival and provide good service. As well as cocktails and other alcoholic drinks, the Zenix offers delicious food including lamb dishes, seafood platters and chicken and potatoes. The menu is good value, with frequent deals on both food and drinks. There are themed DJ events such as Old School Fridays, Jus’ Got Paid Saturdays and Soulful Tuesdays with special offers on cocktails, shots and wine.
MOONSHINE The buzzing beach bar in Mombasa
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COCOS BEACH BAR
With breathtaking views of the ocean, the Cocos Beach Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind after work or during a busy stay away from home. The venue is owned by Sarova Hotels as an extension to its Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa. This beach bar serves tasty bar snacks and beverages daily from 10 am to midnight, with a happy hour each evening from 6 pm to 7 pm. There is no lack of comfortable outdoor furniture, with cushions, throws and umbrellas to keep guests shaded on sunny days and cosy on cooler evenings. A DJ is present each night, sometimes accompanied by live dancing and acrobats. Friday evenings are dedicated to salsa, while Saturday is karaoke night.
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Five of the best SHEBA Putting smiles on everyone's faces
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SHEBA LOUNGE & RESTAURANT
Customers can choose from over 100 cocktails at this rooftop venue with its vibrant atmosphere at City Mall in Bamburi. With its Ethiopian theme, the venue is a distinctive spot in which to enjoy a drink and a meal with friends. Food is served in a relaxed Ethiopian style, with guests being invited to share food from a common plate. The breaking of the injera – a sourdough flatbread with which the diner scoops up the food – is a symbol of friendship. The venue is open daily from 6 pm to 6 am and features live band and DJ evenings such as Therapy Tuesday with Mombasa Roots Band and the Weekend Chronicles with DJ Static. There’s an opportunity for guests to experience the Bunna coffee ceremony, in which the coffee is taken through its life cycle from preparation to roasting and biting and is finally served with popcorn or roasted barley seeds.
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PIRATES BEACH BAR
Located along Jomo Kenyatta Beach, this cool, laid-back venue serves flavourful drinks while offering a magnificent ocean view. There are two well-stocked bars with spacious dancing areas as well as a children’s zone with a pool to keep the younger ones entertained. Drinks are on special offer from 10 am to 6 pm each Saturday and Sunday along with good service and great music to guarantee fond memories of Mombasa. Local dishes like kuku choma, nama choma and tilapia are on the menu, served with rice, potatoes and vegetables. There is a family fun day each Sunday from 2 pm until late with a range of activities that include group dance competitions and face painting.
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James Wakibia JAMES WAKIBIA
Less plastic is so fantastic We meet the man behind the plastic bag ban
I
t was a social media campaign led by environmental activist James Wakibia from Nakuru that ultimately led to Kenya’s groundbreaking ban on plastic bags. Here, he speaks to 540 about his work, his plans to further reduce plastic waste – and how elated he felt when the ban was announced.
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Environmental activist
Q. What were your ambitions growing up?
PROBLEM The effects of plastic waste
A. I wanted to be a doctor, but changed my mind after my mother was treated in a way I did not like – may she rest in peace. I also wanted to become a photographer, so I went to university to study for a degree in communication and media. I never imagined that I would one day become [an environmental activist]; it never crossed my mind.
Q. What prompted your social media campaign? A. I was extremely angry about bad solid waste management in Nakuru’s main dumpsite, Gioto, but it never started as a call for the ban of plastic bags; it started as a campaign to demand the relocation and closure of the dumpsite, which was an eyesore. So in 2013 my friends and I started to collect signatures. We managed to get around 5,000. I organised a protest to deliver the petition to the County Government of Nakuru offices on 18 July 2013. I was made aware that the government had
I became almost obsessed with talking about this issue, because everywhere I went I was greeted by an environment polluted by plastic bags. It was terrible.
Q. How did you feel when your campaign won the support of the Secretary for Environment and Natural Resources, Judi Wakhungu? A. It was interesting at first, since it was a hashtag trending on Twitter in 2015 that she responded to. Back then, the campaign went by the name #BanPlasticsKE, but when she said that she would support the campaign and was in talks with industry players, the hashtag changed to #IsupportBanPlasticsKE. Judi was the inspiration behind #IsupportBanPlasticsKE, which gave me some hope that it was not all in vain. I had no clue that the ban was going to happen soon, since several other bans had failed to see the light of day, but I was hopeful. I continued lobbying with everything I had and it became my duty to campaign and convince people why
"I started taking photographs of polluted places, writing opinion articles and letters to newspaper editors about the need to phase out plastic bags" no alternative land to relocate the dumpsite to, but they did clean up the trash scattered in the road and areas away from the dumpsite. This was fine, but the problem of trash, mainly plastic bags, carried away by wind persisted. From then on I started lobbying for the banning of single-use plastic bags. In 2013 I started taking photographs of polluted places, writing opinion articles and letters to newspaper editors about the need to phase out plastic bags. I became very active on Facebook and Twitter, where I shared lots of content.
it was necessary. Eventually, when the ban was announced in 2017, I was happy and delighted that my campaign was not in vain. I always thank all the friends that helped me run a successful campaign, especially a WhatsApp group called InTheStreetsofNakuru.
Q. How did your photography help the campaign? A. A picture is worth a thousand words. I used images to tell the story of a polluted environment and I wanted my pictures to make as many people as possible www.fly540.com
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James Wakibia
aware of the situation and at the same time incite them to demand change. Were it not for photography, my campaign may not have been so powerful. In the street campaign I talked to random people, trying to convince them why the ban was important. If they accepted, they took a picture with a placard with #IsupportBanPlasticsKE. I took hundreds of photos of people holding that placard and would share those pictures online. The placard travelled to Earth University in Costa Rica, where students took pictures in support of the campaign thanks to my friend Epuri Lebasha. But the message really was to ask other nations to take that message seriously, since plastic is a world problem. As a photographer, I travel a lot, and every time I was in a different town I would take pictures and my friends from other areas shared their pictures with me. I use pictures in almost all of my communications on social media.
Q. What kind of response was there to your photos of plastic waste? A. Most people were appalled by what they saw and many wanted something to be done.
Q. How did you feel when you heard that the ban was going ahead? A. I was elated – I could not believe it! It was amazing news, first broken to me by Sakhile Mthembu, a South African friend working in Kenya. 12
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We had met previously in Nairobi to discuss the FlipFlopi Boat, a boat made from recycled plastic waste*. I still feel proud that I did my part.
Q. What particular problems does Kenya have with plastic? A. The main problems are the lack of recycling facilities and greedy manufacturers whose only interest is the big profits they make without regard for the environment. I wish manufacturing companies did not need to be compelled by law to ensure they invest their resources in environmental clean-ups. They should be responsible because they too are stakeholders in this environment. They should have bottle deposit schemes in place as well as recycling centres. The citizen also needs to be informed and kept aware of environmental conservation so they can stop littering and treat the environment as they do their homes.
Q. Why do you think the first three attempts to introduce a ban failed? A. I think because of sabotage from businessmen and politically connected people who might themselves have been shareholders in those businesses. Banning plastic bags was not an easy thing to do because it interfered with so many people’s businesses and jobs. I must say it was a daring and courageous move by the former Cabinet Secretary of Environment, Professor Judy Wakhungu. I think
"The main problems are the lack of recycling facilities and greedy manufacturers whose only interest is the big profits they make without regard for the environment" she did what many failed to do. I congratulate her for standing her ground and making Kenya proud.
Q. Have you had a role in plastic clean-ups across Kenya? CAMPAIGN Using a hash tag on social media
A. Yes, my friends and I have organised a few clean-ups in Nakuru town and also Lake Nakuru. I have also actively been involved in cleanups organised by Nakuru County Government and my role there, besides collecting trash, is to create and share awareness on plastic pollution, in Kenya and beyond, using social media. Basically, my message is to educate people to stop littering and the sustainable use of plastics. I am still lobbying for the banning of other single-use plastic items such as straws, disposable cups, knives and plates.
Q. What things have changed in Kenya since the ban? A. Changes are evident. The onceclogged drains are now clear, the
WILDLIFE Plastic affects the wildlife too
streets are without plastic bags, the trees once covered with plastic bags can now breathe. The whole country looks different – it’s much cleaner. I’m happy to say that the plastic bag ban has worked wonders in Kenya.
write petitions, run social media campaigns like I did, and any other thing to preach the gospel. I like what my friend Stella Witt is doing with ‘plastic attacks’ in Austria and Australia’s #TrashYourSelfie by Cameron Kite.
Q. Any tips on how people can use less plastic and also get involved in the campaign?
Q. Are you working on any new campaigns?
A. At a personal level, people should refuse using unnecessary single-use plastics such as straws and plastic bags. Always carry a reusable shopping bag if you are in a country that has not banned plastic bags, and buy reusable water bottles instead of plastic ones. People should also stop littering and become environment ambassadors by organising litter clean-ups in their neighbourhoods, beaches and streets, and educate their children to conserve the environment. To campaign against plastic pollution, I urge people to
JAMES WAKIBIA Visit James' social media to find out more
the oceans and in rivers? Let the manufacturers work on a plastic bottle deposit scheme as well as recycling centres. Besides that, they should promise to swap virgin plastics for recycled plastics. Plastic, if well managed, can be a source of employment. And finally, a message to the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources: kindly ban these single-use plastic items destroying our environment. Start by phasing out plastic bread wrapping (since there is an alternative available) and then straws. Let’s embrace ‘Recycle, Reuse, Reduce for a better, cleaner Kenya’.
A. Yes, I am still lobbying for the banning of more single-use plastic items in Kenya. I also want companies to be more responsible for their plastic water, yoghurt and soda bottles and cups.
Q. Any final words to plastic manufacturers? A. Manufacturers should be more responsible for the environment. They do not need to be pushed to ensure that their products are not polluting the environment – it’s not all about profits. Let’s care about this environment that we call home. Don’t you feel sad seeing plastic bottles in
FOR MORE INFORMATION Email: jameswakibia@gmail.com Facebook: jameswakibia Twitter: @jameswakibia * Read more about the FlipFlopi Dhow in Issue 27 of 540
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Doha
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Guide to Doha Dynamic capital is a paradise for tourists Doha, a six-hour flight from Nairobi, is the capital and most populous city of the State of Qatar. With its scenic location on the Persian Gulf and its rich blend of exquisite palaces, heritage attractions and vibrant cuisine, Doha is a city that truly captures Middle Eastern culture and is home to a range of fine architecture, from traditional souks to stylish modern shopping centres. Today, it contends with Abu Dhabi for the title of the Gulf’s most dynamic city.
NextNewMedia / Shutterstock.com
540 offers this easy-to-follow guide to Doha’s top visitor attractions and most delectable eateries, while also sharpening your knowledge of the city and explaining Fly540’s international interline agreement with Qatar Airways.
DINING Traditionally, Qatari cuisine is made up of traditional Arab dishes. The national dish is kabsa, a mixture of rice, meat and vegetables originating from Saudi Arabia. Seafood and dates are staple items, too, in Qatar. Among the top restaurants where you can sample these traditional foods is Al Sufra, in The Pearl district, which serves delicious high-end dishes featuring a blend of traditional recipes and flavours; and Bandar Aden Restaurant, close to Souq Waqif, which specialises in authentic Yemeni food at reasonable prices with the option of sitting in a traditional room on the
floor. Doha offers plenty of Asian, Italian and Indian cuisine, too, from inexpensive eateries like Bread and Bagels in the Diplomatic District and the Three Peppers, serving Chinese food, to fine dining at Teatro and the French-style restaurant Idam. DISHES Doha offers plenty of international cuisine
AGREEMENT WITH QATAR AIRWAYS Since 2013 there has been an international interline agreement between Fly540 and the award-winning airline Qatar Airways, based in Doha. Currently, Fly540 offers an inbound interline service for passengers arriving in Kenya. This allows Qatar Airways passengers to connect with Fly540 services at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and fly to destinations within the Fly540 network using one itinerary.
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Doha
Venetian-style
THE TORCH The property is 300 metres tall
THINGS TO DO
If you fancy a spot of shopping while in Doha, you’ll be spoilt for choice by an abundance of malls. The Villaggio Mall on Al Waab Street in the west end of the city receives an average of some 50,000 visitors each day. In addition to its breathtaking Venetian-style interior, the mall features an array of designer boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues. There’s a theme park, an ice rink and even the chance to ride a gondola around the mall.
Philip Lange / Shutterstock.com
The number one item on everyone’s itinerary should be a visit to the centuries-old Souq Waqif, the social hub of Doha. In days gone by, the Bedouin would bring sheep, goats and wool to trade for everyday essentials. Today, the souk is more targeted at tourists, selling traditional spices, craftwork and other souvenirs. The Pearl, an artificial island in the West Bay Lagoon, features Mediterraneanstyle marinas lined with lavish yachts, luxury residences and elegant boutiques and restaurants. Be sure to set aside an evening during your stay in Doha to visit the marina and enjoy dinner with splendid waterfront views. The Dafna Park on Al Corniche Street is one of the best places to watch the sun go down behind the city and take an evening stroll after the heat of the day has died down. The park is close to the City Centre Mall, a venue for exhibitions and festivals. For those interested in the history and culture of Doha and Qatar, the city has a choice of museums. One of the most popular is the Museum of Islamic Art in Corniche, with its remarkable architecture and masterpieces of Islamic metalwork, ceramics and jewellery dating back to the seventh century. Admission is free and the museum is so huge it never gets crowded. Alternatively, the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum has a large and eclectic range of artefacts from the Jurassic Period to the present day.
ibrar.kunri / Shutterstock.com
ibrar.kunri / Shutterstock.com
VILLAGGIO MALL
eFesenko / Shutterstock.com
Accommodation in Doha comprises both luxury and budget properties from international companies like Marriott, Hilton and Radisson Blu as well as individual properties such as La Villa Hotel and Asherij Hotel, both offering a luxury stay at affordable prices. The Torch Doha is a landmark in its own right, a cylindrical 300-metre tower hotel with panoramic views of the city and a connecting walkway to the Villaggio Mall. The hotel has 163 luxury rooms on 51 floors along with eight awardwinning dining venues, including a revolving restaurant. Doha can also offer a wide range of beach hotel and resorts including the Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas, a chic upmarket hotel with its own private beach, as well as the Banana Island Resort by Anantara, said to be the region’s first wellness retreat within a resort setting. In addition to the city’s top hotels and resorts, travellers can choose from a range of budget hotels and inns, particularly near the airport and close to Souq Waqif.
eFesenko / Shutterstock.com
ACCOMMODATION
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Marine big five
By John Tavner Images courtesy of Watamu Marine Association
Meet Kenya’s Marine
BIG FIVE
Ocean’s star performers play key role in conservation effort
E
very safari enthusiast will have heard of the famous Big Five game animals to be found in Kenya – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino – but what of the Marine Big Five? In their own way, these creatures are every bit as fascinating as their land equivalents – and there is every chance of spotting all five on a visit to Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve. It’s part of a marketing effort by the Watamu Marine Association (WMA), which wants to encourage more people to visit Watamu and become aware of the urgent need to protect the marine environment so that these wonderful creatures will continue to thrive in Kenyan waters.
Natural asset The WMA is a voluntary, not-forprofit organisation formed in 2007 with a view to working with other groups and organisations to secure the future of Watamu as a natural asset. Its key aims are to benefit the community, to protect the environment and to promote quality tourism. Since 2011 the WMA has been studying dolphins and whales in association with the Kenya Wildlife Service and supported by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. So great was the fascination for these and other ocean 18
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BILLFISH Billfish consist of marlin (blue or striped) and sailfish. Both are popular with sport fishermen. There is a ‘tag and release’ programme to provide information about these migratory species.
creatures that the WMA felt it was time to launch its own bid for the Marine Big Five. Although there is no formal recognition of a Marine Big Five of Kenya, the WMA has chosen the billfish, dolphin, sea turtle, whale and whale shark to head its campaign.
Eco-tourism The WMA believes the economic potential for Kenya in terms of ecotourism has still to be fully realised. Its marine conservation adviser, Jane Spilsbury, told 540: “Marine mammals can make a considerable contribution to the sustainable growth of coastal tourism.” Working with the Kenya Wildlife Service, the WMA has been organising special events. At Easter it launched ‘Tracking the Marine Big Five’ in which adults and children were encouraged to report Big Five sightings along the Kenyan coast with Oceans Alive and the Lamu Conservation Trust. JANE SPILSBURY Member of the Watamu Marine Association
DOLPHINS Visitors can go on boat excursions to see the resident dolphins of Watamu. Those popular acrobats the spinner dolphins can be seen offshore in pods of over 1,000. The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin is most commonly found near the shore. A family of over 140 of these dolphins has been identified in Watamu and a family of nearly 170 in Kisite Mpunguti. The rare and endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphin is also found near the shore.
A TROPICAL PARADISE Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, about 90 miles north of Mombasa, was one of Kenya’s first marine parks, established in 1968. Watamu receives thousands of visitors each year. Its coral gardens, only 300 metres offshore, are home to some 400 species of fish, 110 species of coral and countless invertebrates, crustaceans and molluscs. The park was designated a biosphere reserve in 1979. The Watamu beaches have been voted the second best in Africa for three years in a row since 2014 by CNN Travel.
TURTLES There are five species of sea turtle in Kenya: green sea turtle, hawksbill, olive ridley, loggerhead and leatherback. The first three species nest in Kenya; the others are in the area feeding, but offshore. There are protected nests along the Kenyan coast and turtles can often be seen mating on the surface of the water.
WHALES The migratory humpback whale is commonly seen in Kenyan waters between July and September. A regionwide Welcome the Whales event is being organised in August as the humpbacks make their way along the East African coast, with South Africa, Mozambique, Reunion, Madagascar and Tanzania also taking part. Kenya also receives the occasional family of killer whales, pilot whales and false killer whales, while in Lamu there have even been sightings of blue whale, the largest mammal on earth. Picture courtesy of Hemingways Watamu
WHALE SHARKS Often described as ‘gentle giants’ and popular with divers, whale sharks are actually harmless filter feeders. These are the largest fish at 12 metres long. Identified by their unique spot patterns, they can be seen from October to January. www.fly540.com
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Takwa Ruins
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Africa’s low cost airline
A rugged link with ancient times By Harriet James Images courtesy of Harriet James
Island ruins make a fascinating visit by boat from Lamu
TAKWA RUINS A two-hour trip by boat
“It will take us two hours to get there since there is low tide,” said Captain Farry as I boarded the speedboat that was to take me to the ancient Takwa Ruins in Lamu County. The Lamu archipelago is a fascinating group of islands that include Lamu, Manda, Pate and the smaller islands of Kiwayu (in the Kiunga Marine National Reserve) and Manda Toto. In addition to Lamu Town, which is on the World Heritage list, the archipelago contains a number of significant historical sites – and one of them is the Takwa Ruins, which I was on my way to visit. Lamu Old Town is well worth a visit in its own right. Although the
town is small, everything is within easy reach and it has ancient buildings that make it attractive. Walking through the town takes you aback if you are used to Nairobi; and you won’t fail to notice the hospitality of the Lamu people, who are always ready to assist whenever you get lost. Donkeys are the mode of transport in this town with its narrow lanes. They make a wonderful sight as they walk, alone or in pairs, in this relaxed town where traffic congestion is rarely a problem. Apart from donkeys, the other principal mode of transport is motor boats for when you want to cross over to the other islands.
Highlight Another highlight of my visit to Lamu was its beaches. Not only are they clean, but you can also walk without fear of meeting persistent beach boys begging you to buy their merchandise. After looking round the Old
Town, I boarded a speedboat to take me to the Takwa Ruins. We had to wait for the tide to rise so that our boat could take us safely to the ruins. What could have taken 45 minutes took us nearly three hours. Captain Farry, a tall, well-built Barjoni man, gave up his whole afternoon to do this, which just goes to show how warmhearted the people of Lamu are.
Manda island The ruins are on the island of Manda, renowned for its prosperous ninth-century port towns of Takwa and Manda. Records indicate that both towns were abandoned in the first half of the 19th century as a result of lack of fresh water. As we waited for the tide, Captain Farry spoke of his life as a Bajuni in Lamu. “We call ourselves Wabajuni and we speak Kibajuni,” he said as he checked the ocean level. “We practise mostly Islam and are mostly fishermen.”
ANCIENT RUINS Just one of the historical sites www.fly540.com
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Takwa Ruins
'The walls served to ward off enemy and intruder threats of the Pate tribes' Historically, the Bajunis mainly inhabited the small island of Bajuni. They trace their origin to groups such as the Khoisanoid and the coastal Bantu people and, later, Arab and Somali immigrants. The tide rose and a 15-minute walk took us to a sturdy raised walkway above the mangroves. I was mesmerised by the idea of visiting an ancient city just like in the movies. We walked through another section featuring a slightly higher bridge constructed of slender sticks tied with rope above a waterlogged area. The Takwa Ruins are the remains of a small Swahili settlement. Waiting for us was Ali, a charming old man who has taken care of the ruins for the past 20 years. Escorted by Ali, we entered the ruins after paying an entrance fee of KES 100.
Swahili settlement Our guide told us about this oncethriving Swahili settlement. The Takwa Ruins were first excavated in 1951 by James Kirkman. In 1972, under the supervision of James de Vere Allen, curator of the Lamu Museum, the site was cleared again. Today, signs and recreational
infrastructure have been installed so that visitors can tour the site with ease. The now-protected ruins still have an abandoned and weather-beaten look that tells of the passage of time. We walked past the giant baobab trees and arrived at coral structures that look like protection walls. “The walls served to ward off enemy and intruder threats of the Pate tribes,” explained Ali. “Salinity and tribal skirmishes between the Takwa and Pate people resulted in the decline of this ancient town.” One of Takwa’s best-preserved buildings is the Friday mosque known as Jamaa. It’s located near the centre of the ruins and has a large pillar atop the north wall. Ali told us it was believed to have been the burial place of a sheikh. In the north wall is the mihrab, a semicircular niche that indicates the qibla or the direction of Mecca that Muslims should face towards when they pray. It is one of the surviving structures at Takwa, which has all its doors facing north – another reminder that this was once an ancient city. Historically, the inhabitants of Takwa settled just across the bay
REMAINS First excavated in 1951
at Shela on Lamu Island. Although this ancient mosque is no longer used, the people from Shela visit twice a year to pray for rain.
Rock art I noticed what looked like rock art on the northern wall with depictions of daggers, dhows and sailing ships. “The Arab traders used to come to this place to trade with the inhabitants of this place,” Ali told us. The ruins were declared a National Monument in 1982. They are now a popular site with visitors for picnics as well as for overnight camping. Despite their age and condition, the Takwa Ruins have a special atmosphere that tells of their fascinating history.
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Top shopping malls
Splash your cash with a bit of style Nairobi, home to over 3.5 million people, is one of the largest and best developed cities in Africa. So it comes as no surprise that it’s also home to some of Africa’s favourite shopping malls. As in many other growing cities, developers are keen to expand shopping complexes while corporations are willing to invest big money in malls. In turn, this brings more business, money and people to Nairobi, carrying huge benefits for the Kenyan capital.
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Africa’s low cost airline
Chris Allan Photography
THE HUB KAREN This premier lifestyle shopping mall opened in February 2016 with over 35,000 square metres of space. It is located in the leafy southwestern suburb of Karen, bordering the Ngong Forest. Set on a 20-acre plot with a unique open air architectural design lies a piazza creating a central point of convergence with vibrant activities and eateries. Shoppers can find a great selection of gifts in stores such as Banana Box, Rift Valley Leather and Sandstorm, and even in the souvenir section of Carrefour, The Hub’s main anchor tenant.
TWO RIVERS Opened in February 2017 and located north on Limuru Road, north of the city, Two Rivers Mall is the largest shopping complex in east and central Africa, with 65,000 square metres of retail, entertainment and office space. It is owned by Old Mutual Properties and Centum Investment and consists of a shopping centre, office blocks and the City Lodge Hotel as well as residential properties. The biggest business at Two Rivers is Carrefour, one of the largest hypermarket chains in the world. Other tenants include LC Waikiki, Magic Planet, Nike and Woolworths. The mall is also home to numerous restaurants serving Chinese, Italian and Mexican food as well as coffee shops and snack bars for those who want a quick break from shopping.
THE JUNCTION MALL With its strategic location along Ngong Road, The Junction Mall is one of the city’s best-known malls and is popular with tourists. The complex, which made its debut at the end 2004, comprises a number of restaurants, a gym, cafés and a cinema. The gym is open from 5.30 am and stores from 9.30 am, with restaurants and the cinema remaining open until 11 pm. The Junction Mall is home to over 115 stores featuring both international and local brands and offering a wide variety of goods and services. Leading brands include Accessorize, Apple, Converse, Levis and Carrefour and there is a wide range of Kenyan businesses such as Nywele Nzuri spa and Zucchini Greengrocers.
The mall features over 85 stores including fashion brands like LC Waikiki, Woolworth and F&F, and beauty brands M.A.C and Divine Essential. The Hub Karen also comprises a family entertainment centre for young ones, banks, medical services and a health and wellness centre.
VILLAGE MARKET Village Market is situated in Gigiri, a residential estate six miles from the city centre. This shopping, recreation and entertainment complex is a favourite with local people and has been designed to resemble an open-air African market, featuring a waterfall, plants and gardens. Village Market will soon open an indoor play area, trampoline park, laser tag, 11-pin bowling alley and a gym. Also located in the mall is a food market that sits in a beautifully designed modern space. Brands at Village Market include African designers such as Adele Dejak, Designing Africa Collective and Made in Africa as well as international companies like Foschini and Woolworths. There is a Maasai Market each Friday from 8 am to 6.30 pm at Village Market Rooftop. Named after one of the nation’s best-known tribes, the Maasai Market offers visitors a wide choice of Kenyan artefacts and curios. The 215-room luxury Trademark Hotel is attached to the mall while the 142-room Tribe Hotel is located next to the mall. www.fly540.com
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Rhino charge All images courtesy of Eric Kihiu and Joost Hoedjes
‘Wild’ drivers raise millions for wildlife
I
t may come as a surprise that the Rhino Charge doesn’t actually involve any rhinos. Instead, this annual event is an off-road 4x4 motor sport competition that has raised millions of shillings for wildlife conservation over the past 29 years. Each year, the event draws in more contestants and raises more money than ever. The Rhino Charge is an adrenalin-pumping contest that requires a lot of courage and skill in terms of navigation and off-road driving. It has been held in Kenya each year since 1989 by the Rhino Ark Charitable Trust, an organisation set up to raise funds to conserve and protect the Aberdare ecosystem and its water towers. In the course of the Rhino Charge, competitors aim to visit each of 13 checkpoints scattered over 1,000 sq km of rough terrain in a 10-hour period. On the eve of the event, each contestant is supplied with a map of the course, co-ordinates for the 13 checkpoints and their starting positions. Each competitor must then plot
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Africa’s low cost airline
the checkpoints on the map and make a decision on the route. Navigation can be done with the aid of a compass or GPS and the winner is the competitor who visits the most checkpoints within the shortest distance as measured by GPS. In order to compete, each contestant must raise a minimum amount set by the organising committee. Most competitors, however, raise considerably more. In 2011, for example, Alan McKittrick raised over KES 11 million.
Winners
TOUGH ROUTE Challenging event
Money raised Funds raised by Rhino Ark have been used for various projects including building and maintaining an electric fence, nearly 400 km long, which encircles the whole Aberdare ecosystem. This fence is a vital element in the management of the region’s ecosystems. This year’s Rhino Charge, held on 2 June at the remote location of Elangata Enterit Enkutoto in Narok County, raised a record KES 181 million, beating last year’s figure
by KES 28 million. The largest funding amount was achieved by Peter Kinyua, in Car 23, who raised about KES 25 million, the largest amount of funding attained by a single competitor in one year since the Rhino Charge began. Alan McKittrick, in Car 5, raised KES 21 million while Adil Khawaja, in Car 44, raised KES 16 million.
OFF-ROAD The annual motor sport competition
The event was won by Mark Glen, in Car 48, who managed to visit all 13 points while travelling the shortest distance, with Sean Avery of Team Bundu Fundi in second position and Alan McKittrick third. The Rhino Charge organising committee is committed to the conservation ideals of the late Ken Kuhle, founder of Rhino Ark. As the event grows bigger, the organisers of Rhino Charge are seeking to minimise its ecological footprint. In addition to the money raised by competitors, the total amount achieved by this year’s Rhino Charge was boosted by camping and venue entry fees.
The Rhino Charge is an adrenalin-pumping contest that requires a lot of courage and skill in terms of navigation and off-road driving
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SUPPER CLUB
Coffee Casa
Feel right at home in this friendly venue
A
nhar Essajee and her family dreamed of owning a home away from home. So when she opened Coffee Casa, as owner and manager, in the Parklands district of Nairobi earlier this year, Anhar borrowed the word ‘casa’ from the Spanish phrase ‘Mi casa es su casa’ meaning literally ‘My home is your home’ or in other words ‘Make yourself at home’. Nestling in Doctors Park, this popular coffee venue is a social hub full of homely charm. Coffee Casa has an overwhelmingly green feel, with numerous plants dotted around the café while open spaces make optimum use of natural light.
You’ll also find quirky inspirational quotes on the walls and unusual art on the tables to make you smile while enjoying your coffee. In addition, there is a separate bar serving fresh juices and smoothies. The café is open Monday to Sunday from 7 am to 11 pm with friendly staff on hand to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Coffee Casa is said to be different from the usual high street café because it places importance on neighbourhood values by connecting people and making everyone feel at home. That’s why Anhar chose to open her café inside a medical building at the heart of the community.
COCKTAILS Delicious drinks at Coffee casa
Coffee Casa serves freshly brewed coffee and tea, accompanied by freshly baked cakes and doughnuts for a mid-morning snack. The full menu includes a range of delicious meals, from a light, healthy breakfast to a juicy burger and chips. Start your day off with a wellness smoothie bowl or choose from a range of waffle and pancake combinations such as Peanut Caramel Crunch (waffles topped with sweet homemade caramel and salted peanuts).
Lunch menu The lunch menu includes avocado and cream cheese bagels, steak and cheese sandwiches and chicken salads, while vegetarian options are available such as the paneer and roasted summer vegetable sandwich. If you fancy a larger meal, the appetising Casa signature dishes include stuffed chicken with spinach and mushroom, grilled lemon and 28
Africa’s low cost airline
By Amy Laubach Images courtesy of Coffee Casa
SMOOTHIE BOWL A healthy breakfast option at Coffee Casa
basil snapper and creamy mushroom garlic pasta. The café also serves refreshing fruit cocktails, smoothies and old-fashioned milk shakes as well as ice cream made daily using fresh ingredients.
This happy and homely venue is a welcome addition to Nairobi’s culinary and social space offering.
Friendly staff
Nestling in Doctors Park, this popular coffee venue is a social hub full of homely charm
The friendly staff aim to provide really good service and Anhar has adopted a very hands-on approach as she believes her presence within the café is important to establish a good relationship with customers, making them feel at home and part of the family. Staff members run a blog on their website to keep customers up to date with all the happenings at Coffee Casa including special deals at times of celebration such as Mother’s Day and the Madaraka weekend. Since it opened in March this year, Coffee Casa has done extremely well to create such a popular social spot in so little time.
www.coffeecasa.co.ke
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DRIVE TIME
Hyundai Nexo
Putting the gasp into gas power
I
have resisted the temptation to review electric-powered and plug-in hybrid cars here for the simple reason that the charging infrastructure in East Africa is totally non-existent at the present time. What’s more, there is little prospect of common-user power points being installed in the near future. As a result, to the best of my knowledge, there are no new electric-powered vehicles on sale in East Africa or being
HYDROGENPOWERED A first of its kind
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imported second-hand directly from Japan or South Korea by buyers eager to get their hands on this type of technology. But now we have something similar but different. Hyundai has launched its first ‘mass-produced’ hydrogen-powered car; and, over time, this zero emission type of power train could be better suited to local conditions. Nevertheless, hydrogen faces many of the same infrastructure constraints
that bedevil electric-powered cars. Yet hydrogen scores over electric power so that the new Hyundai Nexo – an SUV with a range of nearly 800 km – can be refuelled in minutes. So there is no range anxiety and no spending hours hanging around waiting for the batteries to recharge.
A key role Unfortunately, the pioneering Nexo is unlikely to ever go on sale in East Africa and I am reviewing this car only to flag up this particular technology. Ten years down the line, hydrogen power could have a key role here – especially when the cost of these cars is set to fall significantly.
By Sam Gimson All images courtesy of Hyundai
For the time being, however, the big minus point for the Nexo (and those hydrogen-powered cars that are soon to follow) is its mega price tag – probably well over US$ 100,000 if it were to be sold in East Africa. That’s a lot of money for a Hyundai. Of course, there’s a big saving on fuel costs – but nothing like enough to offset the purchase price. As to the car itself, the Nexo is surprisingly spacious and certainly larger than the marque’s highly popular Tucson. In fact, it’s a serious load lugger with ample rear leg room for even the tallest passenger. It’s not particular quick, however, and feels heavy to drive. The Nexo scores over the Tucson and big brother Santa Fe in the cabin, with
Hydrogen faces many of the same infrastructure constraints that bedevil electric-powered cars a futuristic dashboard and a mesmerising array of buttons and switches that extends to an elongated centre console.
Zero emissions In any case, if zero emissions rock your boat, there are better options such as the new Jaguar I-Pace, which is faster and much better to drive – and also comes with a premium badge.
As it is, most of us in East Africa will make do with keenly priced secondhand imports. These provide buyers with the simple and straightforward option of petrol or, very occasionally, diesel. Electric and hydrogen-powered cars will remain quirky and overpriced and made for daft folk elsewhere. So thanks, Hyundai, but we’ll stick to what we know – at least for the time being.
NEXO The SUV with a range of nearly 800 km
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SLEEP OVER
Hilton Garden Inn
You don’t have to venture far to escape
W
hile the Hilton Garden Inn makes much of the convenience of its proximity to Jomo Kenyatta Airport – just over two miles of the Mombasa Road separate them – it feels like a remote sanctuary of peace and pampering a million miles from the bustle of the airport’s arrivals area once you check in. Features such as the rooftop infinity pool, the modern gym with its panoramic views, the smooth lounge bar and the stylish and spacious rooms soon envelop visitors in luxurious tranquillity. The hotel was opened only in February this year so, of course, it should look immaculate; but there is a sense of style and space to the hotel’s layout that transcends mere newness. The lobby, with its striking wildlife murals and constellation of pendulous spotlights that drip from its high ceilings, allows you to bask in this calmness upon your arrival.
You’ll find equally striking design touches among the 175 rooms. All are air conditioned and soundproofed with double glazing to ensure relaxation and a restful night’s sleep. Other features include a 40-inch smart TV with satellite stations, free Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge and tea and coffee facilities.
Accessible Couples on romantic breaks, families and single travellers on business trips are all catered for with room options including kingsized beds, twin beds and deluxe suites (with king-sized and twin beds and a separate living area). There are also accessible rooms featuring roll-in bathrooms with a raised toilet seat, panic cord and lowered sink. Whichever room they choose, business travellers will appreciate the standard features of an ergonomic chair and spacious work desk. With the airport on its doorstep, the Hilton Garden Inn is an ideal venue for business men and
STYLISH Rooftop infinity pool
There is a sense of style and space to the hotel’s layout that transcends mere newness 32
Africa’s low cost airline
women to convene. It has a dedicated area for conferences, events and meetings and can lay on staff as required. Its Pavilion Suite can accommodate 220 delegates and can be laid out for banquets. There are six smaller rooms, too, for more intimate meetings.
Around the clock If jet lag has left you wide awake in the wee hours or you’re just trying to keep pace with bustling Nairobi, a city said never to sleep, the Hilton Garden Inn is there for you. For guests, the 20-metre heated pool is open around the clock, as is the gym, which offers the latest cardio and weight training equipment. If hunger strikes during the night, the hotel’s Pavilion Pantry offers hot drinks, snacks and ready meals 24/7. It might be worth trying to hold out for the complimentary break-
By Mark Edwards Images courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn
The Hilton Garden Inn is part of the Hilton Honors programme. Members receive air miles and hotel points for their stay accepted at more than 3,800 hotels worldwide. Hilton Garden Inn Jomo Kenyatta Airport Mobasa Road, Nairobi Tel: +254 20 407 5000 www.hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
fast, though. The hotel chefs lay on a sumptuous continental buffet to set you up for the day. There is a huge range of fruit, cereals and pastries to choose from as well as hot dishes. Lunch and dinner are available at the hotel’s Garden Grille restaurant, which serves international cuisine and also offers halal, gluten-free and dairy-free options. There is the opportunity to enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace, or you can have your meal brought to your room if you prefer. Convenience is paramount at the Hilton Garden Inn and the staff make every effort to ensure your stay is as stress-free as possible. This begins when your flight touches down, with a 24-hour shuttle service operating between the Hilton Garden Inn and Jomo Kenyatta Airport. Let the hotel
know ahead of your stay and a representative will be waiting for you in arrivals to pick you up.
Attractions The hotel’s location on the Mombasa Road main highway means it is only 15 km from the commercial centre of downtown Nairobi and Kenyatta International Convention Centre. It also provides easy access via the Southern Bypass to attractions such as the Karen Blixen Museum, The Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Bomas of Kenya, the National Museum of Kenya and Nairobi National Park. You may, however, prefer just to unwind within the welcoming environs of the hotel itself. It is rare to find such a replenishing hideaway that is so easy to get to.
DOUBLE ROOM Striking design touches
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GADGETS
STYLISH TRAVELLER MUST-HAVES
NOKE SMART PADLOCK
ANKER POWERCORE 20100 The popular and reasonably priced technology brand Anker has produced one of the best power banks to date. This clever piece of tech (among other devices), is able to fully charge an iPhone up to seven times, a Galaxy S6 five times or an iPad Mini four times, so it can take care of all your charging needs while travelling. The PowerCore 20100 offers PowerIQ and VoltageBoost to enhance high-speed charging and can recharge itself in just 10 hours. Safety features include short circuit protection. This ultralightweight device fits easily into a typical travel bag. It’s available in white or black with a matte finish to enhance grip and prevent smudges.
Price: US$ 49.99
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SAMSONITE FLUX SPINNER SUITCASES These sleek suitcases will help you get your trip off to a good start. The Samsonite Flux Spinner is a range of expandable suitcases made of solid and durable plastic. Each case is designed for plane journeys and long-haul trips, with a polypropylene shell and a TSA-ready combination lock to keep your possessions safe and undamaged. Unlike most hard-shell cases, this one is expandable on all sides, providing that extra bit of room. There are four wheels as well as a double tube handle for easy manoeuvrability and padded divider compartments so the user can conveniently section off clothes, shoes and toiletries. The Spinner cases are available in six colours – black, white, red, navy, Ocean Blue and Tangerine Red – and in four sizes: 55 cm (for carry-on luggage), 68 cm, 75 cm and 81 cm. Prices: From around US$ 120 to US$ 175
Noke is the world’s first padlock activated using Bluetooth as opposed to a key or number code combination. The savvy lock is a simple electronic device that cleverly finds and connects to your Bluetooth smartphone automatically without you even having to remove your phone from your pocket. Users can download the Noke app to their phone if they would like to manage multiple locks from a single device, share access with another user or revoke access to the locked items. In addition, users can name their locks and create custom settings specific to each lock, including the day, time, location and duration of access. The Noke Smart Padlock is ideal for keeping your possessions safe while travelling. It has a GPS location so you can track and view its ‘history’, monitoring where, when and by whom the locks were accessed for added security. The padlock has a long-lasting battery and is weather resistant. The device incorporates the latest in anti-shim technology to keep your possessions safe from thieves. Price: US$ 69.99
RIF6 MOBILE PICO PROJECTOR This tiny projector by RIF6 works with your device to turn any surface into a 120-inch screen display and is compatible with smartphones, laptops, tablets and game consoles. The compact, palm-sized device is lightweight and comes with a built-in rechargeable battery lasting up to 90 minutes for both home and outdoor entertainment. The wireless mobile projector is compatible with HMDI streaming devices to mirror the high-definition quality of your mobile or tablet. Unlike other projectors of its kind, the RIF6 Mobile Pico Projector has a full LED display and can be powered by a number of inputs where the user can play high quality videos, films, slideshows, music and more directly from a USB flash drive or micro SD card. The RIF6 Mobile Pico Projector is ideal for those who don’t want to miss out on video games or TV shows while travelling. Price: US$ 199
ENTERTAINMENT
Watch. Read. Listen. MOVIES ANT-MAN AND THE WASP
JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM
Director: Peyton Reed Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Peña Genre: Superhero adventure sequel
Director: J.A. Bayona Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Rafe Spall Genre: Sci-fi adventure sequel
In the aftermath of ‘Captain America: Civil War’, Scott Lang (Rudd) grapples with the consequences of his choices as both a superhero and a father. As he struggles to rebalance his home life with his responsibilities as Ant-Man, he is confronted by Hope van Dyne (Lilly) and Dr Hank Pym (Douglas) with an urgent new mission. Scott must once again put on the suit and learn to fight alongside The Wasp as the team works together to uncover secrets from their past.
It’s been three years since the Jurassic World theme park was destroyed by dinosaurs out of containment. When the island’s dormant volcano becomes active, Owen (Chris Pratt) and Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) mount a campaign to rescue the remaining dinosaurs. Owen is driven to find Blue, his lead raptor, who’s still missing in the wild. Arriving on the unstable island, they uncover a conspiracy that could return our whole planet to a perilous order. This adventure sees the return of favourite characters and dinosaurs—along with terrifying new breeds.
STARS: 4/5
STARS: 3/5
BOOKS WIZARD OF THE CROW
GIFTS: A NOVEL BY NURUDDIN FARAH
BY NGUGI WA THIONG’O ‘Wizard of the Crow’ is a major comic novel by the acclaimed Kenyan novelist, playwright, poet and critic. Set in the fictional Free Republic of Aburiria, it dramatises a battle for the souls of the Aburirian people between a megalomaniac dictator and an unemployed young man who embraces the mantle of a magician. The writer uses his corrosive humour and keen observation to produce a work of magical realism that reveals humanity in all its endlessly surprising complexity.
‘Gifts’, by the Somali novelist and playwright Naruddin Farah, is a beguiling tale of a Somali family, its strong matriarch, Duniya, and its past wounds that refuse to heal. As the story unfolds, Somalia is ravaged by war, drought, disease and famine, prompting industrialised nations to offer monetary aid – the ‘gifts’ of the novel’s title – to the so-called Third World. Farah weaves these threads together into a tapestry of dreams, memories, family lore, folktales and journalistic accounts.
STARS: 4/5
STARS: 4/5
MUSIC LOVE MONSTER
LAMP LIT PROSE
AMY SHARK
DIRTY PROJECTORS
‘Love Monster’, the debut album by Australia’s sweetheart, Queensland-bred singer/songwriter Amy Shark, is due out in July 2018. This new album features the single ‘I Said Hi’, about her previous struggles in music and life in general. Amy Shark has always had high expectations placed upon her since her breakout single ‘Adore’. She begins with a stripped-back intro, reminiscent of ‘Adore’ and previous single ‘Weekends’, but this is not the happy-go-lucky Amy Shark we know from previous releases. We see a darker, more mature side of her that hasn’t been encountered since ‘Golden Fleece’ and ‘Spits On Girls’.
After a five-year absence, the American indie rock band Dirty Projectors returned last year with a self-titled album full of the heartbreak of singer/songwriter and lead guitarist David Longstreth. A year on, he and the band are back with this new record and a revitalised attitude. Due out in July via Domino, it’s described as the ‘yang to the yin’ of ‘Dirty Projectors’. Where that album found Longstreth expressing his loneliness through glitchy dance songs, this new record brings back bright guitars and intricate vocal harmonies. This is a clear return to new wave style indie music.
STARS: 5/5
STARS: 4/5 www.fly540.com
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Network Map
The Fly540 Network
SOUTH SUDAN
Kisumu
LINE AIR
Lodwar
S LOW COS A IC
T
AF R
Juba
BO
wwwOK ONLINE .fly54 AT: 0.co m
Eldoret
KENYA Nairobi
Lamu Malindi
Mombasa
Zanzibar Dar es Salaam
TANZANIA
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Contacts
Contact Information
Fly540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS NAIROBI OFFICES
WILSON AIRPORT
MALINDI
540 SAFARI CIRCUIT SALES
HEAD OFFICE
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
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
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 Ground Floor, Western Heights, Karuna Road PO Box 10293 Tel: +254 (0)722 540 540; 733 540 540; 710 540 540
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
KENYA OFFICES ELDORET 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
1st Floor, Metro Towers Building Next to Safaricom Customer Care Oginga Odinga Street Eldoret Sales: +254 (0)736 540 540 Tel: +254 (0)53 203 3570/80; +254 (0)735 540 547
ELDORET INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Oasis Mall, Next to Mario's Restaurant, Lamu Road, Malindi Tel: +254 (0)422 120 370
MOMBASA 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)53 203 0814 Tel: +254 (0)53 206 3823 ext 658
Tel: +254 (0)41 343 4821 Tel: +254 (0)32 540 540; (0)722 555 730
Unit 3 (Domestic Departures) Tel: +254 (0)20 827 523; +254 (0)20 827 366 Cell: +254 (0)727 532 273 Unit 1 (International Departures) Tel: +254 (0)20 827 521
KISUMU
UKUNDA
Kisumu International Airport Tel: +254 (0)254 707 540 560 Tel: +254 (0)737 540 546
Ground Floor, Bazaar Building Tel: +254 (0)732 540 559
LAICO REGENCY HOTEL
1st Floor, West End Mall Next to Uchumi Supermarket Achieng Aneko Road Tel: +254 (0)704 540 540; +254 (0)724 563 009; +254 (0)734 540 550
TANZANIA
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
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
NAIROBI CBD OFFICE
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
KITALE 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
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
Terminal Building, Kitale Airstrip Tel: +254 (0)770 639 429 Tel: +254 (0)724 457 374 Tel: +254 (0)735 540 547
NEW MUTHAIGA OFFICE
Seafront House Kenyatta Road Next to KPLC Tel: +254 (0)742 540 540; +254 (0)742 305 305
1st Floor, Thigiri Mall, New Muthaiga Tel: +254 (0)703 540 540
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
DAR ES SALAAM IT Plaza, Mezzanine Floor Ohio Street/Garden Avenue PO Box 8606 Tel: +255 (0)222 110 601; +255 (0)759 306 306; +255 (0)765 306 306
ZANZIBAR AIRPORT
SOUTH SUDAN JUBA 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE Juba International Airport
Tel: +211 959 540540 Tel: +211 999 540540 Email: Sales.juba@fly540.com
REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES 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
540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE
Tel: +255 762 540 540
LAMU 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS
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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: • Only valid yellow fever vaccination certificates are required of all travellers over one year old, arriving from yellow fever infected countries. • Vaccinations for international travellers are obtainable from all international air and sea ports, city and major municipal councils.
INSPIRING CAPTIVATING INFORMATIVE Multi-platform publishing and design services
For further information please contact:
Land & Marine Publications Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Email: info@landmarine.org
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Africa’s low cost airline
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$20 Persons aged 16 years and below will require a visa to enter Kenya. Diplomatic, Official, Service and Courtesy visas will continue to be issued Gratis. For more information, please visit your relevant Kenya High Commission website.
SOUTH SUDAN VISAS Any visitor going to South Sudan requires a valid visa. Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Botswana can get visas upon arrival. Diplomats and officials with special passports are also given visas on arrival, and UN staff are given visas on arrival providing that they have an approval letter from the South Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Other nationalities must acquire referred visas or process for an entry permit in order to enter South Sudan. Fees: • American Nationals: US$ 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. 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
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Kids’ Corner
Kids’
CORNER SPACE
JOKES Q: What is a spaceman’s favourite chocolate? A: A Mars Bar.
Q: What do you call a tick on the moon? A: A luna-tick.
Q: Why did the cow go to outer space?
A: To visit the Milky Way.
Q: Where would an astronaut park his spaceship? A: A parking meteor.
Q: What star wears sunglasses?
SPACE
WORDSEARCH Can you find the words listed below in the letter grid?
Tip: Some words are going backwards!
SATURN COMET MOON GALAXY ROCKET
STAR MISSION METEOR SUN ORBIT
N R U T A S M D S T
P M L
S T A R T
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Africa’s low cost airline
A
I
N A
SPACE
ANAGRAMS
2. ETNUEPN 3. REAHT 4. SMRA 5. YRREUCM 6. IPUEJTR
Answers: 1.Pluto, 2.Neptune, 3.Earth, 4.Mars, 5.Mercury, 6.Jupiter
A: It had no atmosphere.
I
V X E O S T H G
1. TLOPU
Q: Why didn’t the people like the new restaurant on the moon?
G
U C M Z E B O L
Q: How do astronauts serve dinner?
A: At launch time.
I
E C O S X
N O O M K R
A: A movie star.
Q: When do astronauts eat their lunch?
Y R Q
M E T E O R S Y
Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of the planets
A: On flying saucers.
F
540 MAGAZINE / ISSUE 30 / AUG – OCT 2018