Lifestyle
Petals and Pistons SUBARU 2019 FORESTER 2.01 A Decade In The Making
TOP SPOTS For A Perfect Date Night
TECH SAVVY GIFT IDEAS For Your Loved One
editor’s Note
PUBLISHER: Savekubwa
Hiya!
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e are bringing you the 3rd issue of Vroom to kick start 2019! As we grow, we are also trying to bring you, our esteemed readers something new with every issue and this times no different, 3rd times always a charm they say! Before we go on, I would like to give a big shout out to all our advertisers who have chosen to come along this journey with us and made Vroom, a free take home magazine, available to all. Along with that we urge you please do go and try our advertisers’ products and services too and don’t forget to mention us if you were directed to them through our magazine! So, our focus this time around is all about Love! The month of love, February is about appreciating your loved one, your family and also don’t forget yourself! It’s the month to splurge on the chocolates, flowers and getaways and not have to give a single reason why! We have a great line up to celebrate you and your loved ones this season. Take a journey with us on the new Subaru 2019 as we test drive it for you or follow us to Amboseli to know how to plan a perfect weekend getaway. We have reviewed the best restaurants in town for your date night and don’t worry we have also picked out the gifts for you to give your partner, read all about it in our tech savvy section. This issue we take you through the trends that are setting in for 2019 and the health and fitness mantra to start you of on a new journey as we also start a new fitness section with Farah Esmail; who will take us through the elements of fitness as the year proceeds. So, don’t shy away from love, and hope you catch all the feels as you browse through our oh so love filled issue!
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Rutu Dhanani
DESIGN AND LAYOUT: Alexander Ngaira
WRITERS: A night in elephant country: Amaan Kassam Decor: Rutu Dhanani Restaurant Review: The Kenyan Nomad (Roshni Walia) And Cupcakes To Curry (Darshani Haria) Fitness: Farah Esmail Tech: Selipha Kihagi Love Shy: Felly Oyuga Owiro Cover Photograph By: Pareet Shah, Cheka Photography
DISTRIBUTORS Admag Distributors
We want your photographs and articles! Would you like to be published by Vroom? We are accepting submissions of both articles and photographs for our next issue. Email Vroom editor at sagarshah@savekubwa.com
Enjoy. Yours truly, Rutu Dhanani Editor-in-chief
Please write to us and stand a chance to win amazing prizes!
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
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table of contents
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8.
a night in elephant country
Weekend away in Elephant country, Amboseli
A DECADE IN THE MAKING SUBARU:
Come with us as we take the new Subaru Forester 2.01 out for a spin
12. DECOR
Find out the latest trends for 2019 in the world of Decor
14. RESTAURANT REVIEW
We have picked our top spots for a perfect date night
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HEALTH AND FITNESS
Start a health journey with USN ambassador Farah
18. TECH
20 22.
Perfect gift ideas for your Tech Savvy partner
How to Make Your Car Last Longer An holistic view to car maintenace
LOVE SHY
Let’s go on a heart felt drive with Felly
For Advertising Enquiries please contact: vroom@savekubwa.com • sagar@savekubwa.com Tel (+254) 0732641705 • Tel (+254) 0712248305 Save Kubwa Nairobi, Kenya Tel (+254) 0732641705 • Tel (+254) 0712248305 The cover and content of VROOM Magazine are fully protected by Savekubwa and cannot be reproduced in any form without written permission. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in these pages are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of VROOM Magazine, Savekubwa or any of its advertisers and collaborators.
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road trip
A night in
elephant country By Amaan Kassam
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
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road trip
Y
ou don’t sell your soul overnight. You lose it slowly, one day at a time. Sitting hunched over a laptop, typing out a report in a little cubicle, or sitting idle in traffic as your life ticks away. One draining, sterile day at a time. The only way to escape is to break free and live a little. For me, the best way to do this and to recharge my soul is through adventure. It had been ages since I smelt the smoke of a campfire, gazed up at the night sky in search of a shooting star, went to sleep when my body told me to and woke up when it was ready to, instead of being ordered about and ruled by some almighty alarm clock. Bearing in mind that Valentine’s day was fast approaching, thereby providing me with a good excuse to get away, I informed my wife that we would be going on a trip by asking her for her permission first (I pick my battles wisely). Having obtained said permission under the guise of a Valentine’s Day retreat, we decided that the Kimana Sanctuary in Amboseli would make a perfect weekend getaway. We planned our meals in advance, stocked up our cooler accordingly with snacks, food, drinks, and ice, and packed up the other essentials; a meko, a multi-purpose sufuria, cutlery, 2 plates, our tent, inflatable mattress, blanket, a foldable table and 2 camping chairs. Depending on the menu, (and location) the meko is sometimes exchanged for charcoal and a jiko. For this trip, since we would be purchasing lunch on the way there as well as on the way back, we only needed to pack 2 meals, dinner and breakfast. Dinner was to be spaghetti with mince (pre-cooked) and our breakfast is usually scrambled eggs, bread, sausages, and juice. My choice of car for this journey, (choice is a grand term given that I have only one car) is a 1993 Toyota Land Cruiser VX Sahara. It is powered by a 4.2 litre turbocharged 12 valve engine with an automatic transmission. An allegedly wise man from a place called YouTube in Australia informs me that the Sahara version is one that was exported mainly to Australia, and is distinguished by its factory winch, (a mechanism to pull your car out if your driving skills let you down in tricky terrain), triple differential lockers (front, centre, and rear - for optimal traction when needed) and a factory fridge and ice-maker in the centre console. It is lifted for optimal ground clearance and has a boot roomy enough for several children to have a sleepover in. The permanent residents of my boot include a HiLift jack, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit, an extensive socket set, an axe, a spare air filter, umbrella, and rubber gloves. I love things that are passionately purpose built. A lot of cars nowadays, in my opinion, are just built to be ‘cheap and cheerful,’ catering for as massive a market segment as necessary, with as many cost effective measures to be
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implemented along the way. I like to think that before the 80 series was designed, the Toyota design team paid very close attention to their customer, and the purpose that they intended to car to serve. The user needed a massive boot, high ground clearance for offroading, but a low centre of gravity for optimal handling and in the corners. The user needed to be able to chill his drinks, at least 4,200cc to give them the torque to conquer or tow almost anything, three electric lockers for the ultimate traction on any surface, and in case that doesn’t do the trick, a winch to be able to extricate themselves from any compromising situations. I love the mechanical feel as you drive the 80, you can almost feel the two propshafts below you driving their power through all three differentials to get your wheels moving. A fantastic, stock off roader. We left Nairobi at 5am, and by 7am we had reached Emali Town, where we stopped at a small café next to Nakumatt Emali to stretch our legs and let the car relax too. If one has time, or arrives there closer to lunch time then the ugali / nyama choma / kachumbari is highly recommended. If, like, us, one only has a few minutes, then their chips are delicious! We chatted with other patrons about Valentine’s day, with the best response coming from a lady who said ‘My Husband doesn’t keep any money. I am in charge of all that. Maybe if he is nice I will take him for lunch after church.’ We laughed, she didn’t. We were also shocked to find that the Nakumatt there is fully stocked! While all the ones here in Nairobi are floundering. Very odd. My wife filled up her thermos with chai and off we turned towards Amboseli. We reached the gate for Kimana Santuary at about 10am, with clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The road was straightforward and clearly marked, and google maps is on hand to assist if necessary. The roads within the Sanctuary are rough murram, and are passable for a saloon car with decent clearance. (Unless, of course, there is heavy rain) There are several campsites in the sanctuary. We stayed at the Elerai Campsite, which runs along the Kimana river. Facilities are decent, with a normal (but long drop) open air toilet and an open air, canvas-bag type shower, which you can fill with water and hoist up for your shower. Unfortunately, the murky river is your only source of water, which we heated over the meko and used to shower. If you are on your own, it will be a bit of a struggle to hoist the heavy bag of water up to a decent height for your shower. We pitched our tent, unloaded the contents of the boot, and went off for a game drive. (This, of course, is only advisable in areas with no monkeys) Kimana Sanctuary is a central part of a crucial corridor between the Amboseli National Park and Chyulu Hills / Tsavo. We spotted plenty of zebra and patiently drove through the dust
My choice of car for this journey, (choice is a grand term given that I have only one car) is a 1993 Toyota Land Cruiser VX Sahara. It is powered by a 4.2 litre turbocharged 12 valve engine with an automatic transmission.
road trip
till we spotted a lone elephant, minding his own business. We sat in silence and watched this graceful, gentle giant munching away at his buffet, silently thinking about how different their lives were 50 years ago without all the human encroachment and poaching. We headed back to camp with this sobering thought, and also slightly disappointed in not having seen more elephants. We drove into the camp and to our great surprise, saw a large herd of elephants, almost thirty in number, a few steps across the river from where we had pitched tent! We quietly snuck out of the car, afraid of alarming them, and sat on our chairs, watching them till they peacefully lumbered off to their next destination. By this time, we had opened up the awning, which was our latest must-have accessory for creating your own shade / shelter where there is none. My wife and I sat there for some time, grimly discussing the likelihood of our future children ever being able to see these magnificent beasts in the wild. We chatted animatedly till the sun set. We stargazed at night after dinner, and fell asleep with the sound of the wind rustling in the trees. I fell asleep with a broad smile plastered across my face, my soul at ease. After a filling breakfast, we went for one last game drive in the morning, hoping to catch a glimpse of Tim, a frequent sight in the Kimana Sanctuary, and one of the oldest, most iconic elephants in Kenya, nearing 50 years old. Alas, luck was not on our side and we did not spot him, which means that a return trip is on the cards. And as if to cement our return plans, the Ranger at the gate asked us if we spotted the leopard roaming a few kilometes from the campsite. See you soon, Mr. Ranger. See you soon.
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
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carMy review Toys
A decade in the making By Billwydad Wangai
We drive the entry level 2019 Subaru Forester 2.0i 8.
my toys
Performance
Specs Price: Ksh 5.3m (January 2019)8 Engine: 2.0-litre 4 cylinder Power: 115 kW @6000rpm Torque: 196Nm @4000rpm Transmission: CVT Fuel Economy: 7.6 L/100 km (claimed)
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here’s a chasm between Subaru models built in 2007 and those built in 2018. The years between were those of uncertainty marred by designs that seemed unsure of the future, desperately clinging on to what they had always known. Subaru wanted change, in pursuit of a wider market. They had a need to appeal to everybody. They tried, but their attempts with the hatchback Impreza in 2008 for example didn’t yield the expected results, eventually it had to be dropped for 2011 to focus resources on one body style. It somewhat worked. It took another two years for them to fully embrace a new chapter for the company. The 4th Generation Forester was different, it was Subaru being bold. It was Brilliant. This is the 5th generation Forester; Is it another step forward? The car looks good. It is not striking; you will not drive past one and think of taking a picture- It’s just good-looking but not in a supermodel type of way.
A while back, if you wanted a quick 2.0 L car, it had to be something German, probably quite pricey as well. I recently drove a 2010 Toyota Allion 2.0L, it’s not slow. We are at a very good place technologically, an age of efficiency. The 2.0 L in the Forester is a 7/10. It works very well in town. It sets off nicely from stops and when you open it up to about 100kph-120kph, it feels perfect, right at its happy place. When it gets consistently hilly though, you can feel a strain on the engine but not any more than the competition. While CVT gearboxes aren’t the best for highways, the linear acceleration you get has you thinking it’s a worthwhile tradeoff. Knowing you have Subaru Symmetrical All-wheel Drive is a good thing. The system has over the years substantiated why it’s among the best in the world. Developed in rallying and able to allow Subaru’s to go where others dare not tread, it’s even better in the 2019 Forester. Coming as standard is X-MODE, controlled using a knob on the centre console. You can select between MUDSAND/SNOWDIRT. This allows the car to set itself up for the coming terrain. You also get Hill Descent Control which even on slippery downhill will use the brakes, throttle and gearing to get you safely down with your only input being on the wheel. It has a 220mm minimum road clearance and a front bumper that won’t scrape anything short of 20 degrees of steepness, allowing you to really put that All-wheel drive system to the test.
Safety
The first thing you feel when you get on the driver’s seat is how in command you are; you can see three-quarters of the bonnet so you have a very good idea of where the car is on the road. The 2.0 L iL ES, ‘ES’ being for Eye Sight, a Subaru trademark, is a safety fest. A story for another day. The 2.0 L I here comes with side and curtain airbags for every occupant, dual front airbags and a knee airbag for the driver. A substantial sum of seven. VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) is standard as well, to keep you on the road in trick conditions and in the unfortunate case where you need to take evasive action. AVH(Auto Vehicle Hold) will hold the car in traffic as long as you have the system on. To engage, press the brake hard as soon as you’re at a standstill. The system will work like a handbrake, allowing you to rest
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
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My Toys
your foot. Once the traffic starts moving, simply step on the gas and off you are. The rear view camera has lanes that turn in the direction you’re reversing, invaluable for people who forget which way to turn the wheel when going backwards. Scratch that, we’ve all been there. The best feature comes as a traditional Subaru default safety advantage. The car’s boxer engine allows it to be placed lower under the bonnet, reducing the odds of the engine being pushed into the passenger compartment in case of a head-on collision. With the new car, the engine, gearbox and propeller shaft are designed to break up downwards and with a chassis that is now distributing the crash impact in three directions, the Forester cements its 5-star safety rating. The lower placement also allows the bonnet to cushion pedestrians in an accident, reducing the risk of head injuries. Safety is also part of the reason it’s so big. Crumple zones. You have a lot between you and what you’re about to hit. Sounds like adequate cause for being the size of our national debt.
The dash has a rubbery surface with a not-quite-premium-but-thebest-in-my-class feel. Sounds about right. There are four power outlets, split evenly between the front seats and rear. The rear seat passengers also enjoy air conditioning positioned between the front seats. The rear seats have slight give, helpful when putting up child seats with mounting points for three of these. They also fold flat employing a quick-release system to add on to the already impressive 520 litre boot space.
Interior
Great sitting position for the driver, I have to stress that. The steering wheel in proper Subaru tradition is a masterpiece. It’s a small, natural bit of the car with space for your thumbs. It’s so good in fact that if you find yourself holding the wheel in any other position other than ’9 to 3’, you probably wear your shoes left to right. The car has close to zero blind spots, creating a feeling of driving the car from the outside, a great experience especially considering how little VNH (Vibration, Noise and Harshness you experience) The visibility makes you feel a part of the environment you’re driving in. The dials on the car might seem many but in 2019, this is average. The steering has controls for cruise control, car info and radio, busy, but with ample time in the car, you’ll easily get the hang of it. The infotainment system is on a 6.5 inch touch screen display, easy to maneuver and well within reach even for people of below average height. The front seats are electronically powered, allowing precise seat position to your liking. It’s fabric for the this spec but leather for the premium model. Bummer. The headroom around the car is better that a lot of the cars out there, even bigger ones. You feel free to stretch, hard to appreciate until you stretch in some cars only to gorge your friend’s eyes out or worse, change the radio station.
Verdict
The car is exactly what a mid-size SUV should be, only more. With the AWD, ground clearance, great outside visibility and that steering wheel, you’ll enjoy this car more than you think. The chassis is impressive; it feels like driving a slower, bigger sports car. It’s so responsive that the lack of feedback from the electronic steering wheel doesn’t dampen the fun. The platform is what Subaru should have been in 2008. They really have found their footing. Bring on 2020. Too soon?
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my toys
decor
HOME DECOR
WHAT’S TRENDING IN
2019
By Rutu Dhanani
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ew year is here. The holiday feels, Christmas food and anticipation of New years eve came by quickly and swooped us into 2019 at the blink of an eye. As always January brings about the year of change, the betterment of self being and the start of dreaded diets and gym routines; which usually lasts till about Easter and then goes downhill for most of us! Change comes about in different ways and along with that it hits us with various emotions. To start fresh or to even just bring about a
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small change it can be done in various forms; from diets, workouts, perspectives or change in your personal space. Even before the year starts setting in and we get an idea of what to expect in the coming year. Trends change in every aspect, every year we see changes in food, fashion, fitness along with several others. Home décor isn’t left when it comes to change and trends! 2019 is all about the trends, what’s new? What’s In? What’s Not? Jump on the bandwagon of décor with us while we take you through the hottest and not so hot trends of 2019!
decor
DESIGNED CEILINGS, 2019 is the year to go eclectic with style. It’s time for a change and that too a bold one! Plain ceilings are so 2018 and the time has come where attention to detail on the ceiling is what’s in! We are going to be seeing a lot of ‘statement ceilings’; playfulness with texture and colour. There is a lot of emphasis on thick paint, bright pops of colour and abstract designs too. Next is the wooden beams, the emphasis on the attention to details on the beams, clads and incorporation of metal is what’s going to be seen around town; bringing in the industrial feel. Wall paper is now moving up to, quite literally. The incorporation of wall paper on ceilings is the trend to follow this year. Plain ceilings are definitely not so hot in 2019! MIX & MATCH! Move away from the usual furniture shopping of buying everything in sets. 5-seater sofa set, matching coffee table with a tv cabinet and a rug that follows the same pattern, umm disaster of 2018! Now we are not saying every piece should stand out, not follow a theme and make your room look bizarre. If you buy a 3-seater white couch from one furniture store, look for 2 vintage accent chairs. Add a touch of boho chic by adding a tapestry or an art piece from a local artisan. (support local art). Incorporating personal style is the way forward; maybe add a Lamu day bed to your sitting room and complete the look with bean bags. Mix, match, make, blend all to create your own space to be trendy in 2019! COLOUR ME IN. For years kitchens have been not a major part of décor. Yes, they are there to serve a purpose but in a very monochromatic boring way! It’s time to bring colour into those backsplashes, remove the bulky wooden cabinets and get with the new. We are going to be seeing more attention to detail in 2019 in regard to kitchens. Along
Gone are the days when you have more than enough seating in a room, figurine collection stacked in cabinets and pots and plants all cluttered so close that every step feels like going through an obstacle course!
with bright walls we will also be seeing more texture and play on designs. Heavy wooden cabinets are a thing of yesterday, invest in clear glass cabinets, brass, open space for storage! Add in art, quirky pieces from your travel, oh and having a magnet filled fridge is not a bad thing! Place a rug, add a lamp and make sure your kitchen is a must-see room in the house this year! KNOB KNOB? Let me tell you who’s definitely not there in 2019, metal knobs! Brass, rose gold, silver all things metal as knobs are heading out! Leather straps, refined jute and all things extra are coming in! You will be seeing different types, faux & real, different shapes and sizes replacing handles with straps! Well that’s right, straps are hot! Handles are too mainstream, they are being replaced from cabinets and drawers. Add a leather element to your fridge handle because as mentioned we are jumping on the bandwagon of trend this year. LESS IS DEFINITELY MORE, now we have all been hearing the terms de clutter, less is more, minimalism because these are the notions that are trending and are here to stay in 2019! Gone are the days when you have more than enough seating in a room, figurine collection stacked in cabinets and pots and plants all cluttered so close that every step feels like going through an obstacle course! One big couch, a trendy accent arm chair, a center coffee table and a painting that has put a hole in your pocket and you have no idea what its even meant to be (you bought it in the name of art ) is your answer to a trendy modern 2019 living room! It’s the age of quality over quantity, have one painting but invest in it! Take your time and do research before buying anything. Hoarding is not what’s going to make you trend savvy! BIOPHILIA, what does that even mean one may ask. Well Biophilia is the association between one and nature. This means from bringing in flowers to add a little colour into the room to moving towards organic furniture! Trend setters are all about the organic movement this year! From having rattan chairs to the warmth of wooden floors. This involves the use of stone in settings to clutter of plants so you bring the outside environment into your space inside. Having a small bamboo plantation in your living space is not over the top, you are just being a 2019 trend setter! (don’t forget to place the bamboo where it receives enough sunlight). Connect with nature, break down a wall and make your space an indoor – outdoor one. We live in a country which provides us with the best nature can, so let’s make it worth it!
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
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restaurant review
Top Spots for
Date Night
By The Kenyan Nomad (Roshni Walia) and Cupcakes to Curry (Darshani Haria)
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restaurant review
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his issue, we’re bringing you a roundup of our top date night (or date day!) spots around the city, ordered roughly by price range (least to most expensive). I chose these spots because of their lovely food (obviously) and ambiences (ditto), but also because of their versatility! Whether it means treating yourself, celebrating an occasion with a partner, meeting a friend, or catching up with your family, I can guarantee these spots will do the trick in every scenario.
Caffe Concerto
A hidden gem located in Kilimani, this unassuming spot is ideal for those secret admirers out there wanting to take their other halves to a more secluded spot. With only about 6 tables in the entire restaurant, there are no crowds to distract you from staring into each other’s eyes all night. The food is a wonder, with one of the best t-bone steaks in Nairobi and delicious beef carpaccio to share.
La Salumeria
I don’t know if you agree, but we think there’s something so romantic about a big bowl of spaghetti. It brings out all those Lady and the Tramp memories, where you could both be eating the same noodle and BAM! La Salumeria at the back of Valley Arcade in Lavington, plays into that romantic ideal wholeheartedly, with its candlelit interiors and rustic appeal. Although located in a block of apartments, you’d never be able to tell once you step inside as you’re immediately transported to a tavern in the heart of any Italian village. The food here is nothing short of excellent, especially their homemade pastas and delicious thin crust pizzas.
Fonda
A little off the beaten path, Fonda, located in the Rosslyn Riviera mall, has managed to do Mexican food right! Aside from superb food and amazing service, their ambience is great and well thought out, with amazing attention to detail, and most things being locally made or sourced. Stepping into Fonda, it may be easy to forget that you’re in Kenya (or even Africa), as the decor has been thoughtfully done to make one feel as though they could be in a marketplace, a veranda, or a cultural centre somewhere in Mexico. Every piece has a story, every space has a feeling, and every nook and corner has a touch of a cultural experience that you’ll be sure
to enjoy. The ambience has a strange way of making you feel like you’ve come home after a while - not sure I can do the feeling justice in words, so I may just have to convince you to visit! Their food is amazing and you’ll find a wide variety – from multiple salsas to multiple taco fillings to multiple margaritas! If you haven’t yet been to Fonda – well, I think today is a great day to start.
About Thyme
Unassumingly tucked away on the corner of Peponi Road and Eldama Ravine Drive, you may be forgiven for not having known about About Thyme, unless you’ve been here before or heard of it from someone you know. They have a lovely indoor and outdoor seating area, but what’ll draw you to them is their amazing menu and friendly service. Their culinary concoctions (including Morendat beef!) range from crepes to delicious grilled meats (their pepper steak is a huge favourite) to creative and fresh salads. About Thyme is also one of those places that has managed to not just create amazing entrees, but appetizers and desserts too (let’s not, of course, forget their drinks and cocktails). Give it a try, I’ll guarantee the only one happier than you will be your date!
The Bistro at Palacina
The Palacina hotel on Kitale Lane in Kilimani used to have a restaurant called The Moonflower which was the ideal romantic spot for Valentines. Unfortunately, it shut down a few years ago. Lucky for us though, the hotel decided to open a new restaurant with many of the old classics from the Moonflower menu and with the same low light, sexy interior. The red snapper was always a family favourite and the chocolate mousse is the ultimate romantic dessert to share.
45 Degree Kitchen
Runda seems to be the new favourite for fine dining and 45 Degree Kitchen is a delightful addition to the restaurants in the area. Although operating for a while now, this place seems to still be quite unknown – not for lack of unbelievably good food though! The chef is extremely skilled and they always have gorgeous 4/5 course meals for special occasions. Try anything seafood and be willing to splash the cash! All views expressed in this article are strictly our own and do not represent any entity or organisation unless explicitly stated.
Runda seems to be the new favourite for fine dining and 45 Degree Kitchen is a delightful addition to the restaurants in the area.
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
15.
health & fitness
THE HEALTH AND FITNESS EQUATION By Farah Esmail
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health & fitness
Farah Esmail Ultimate sports nutrition ambassador, international IFBB bikini fitness competitor, lawyer by day, bodybuilder by night. Fitness accolades include: 3x KBBF Ms. Kenya bikini fitness champion, 3x top 10 Arnold Classic South Africa finisher, Universal muscle and fitness Dubai IFBB amateur bodybuilding championship and bikini fitness masters champion.
W
hen approached to write this column about health and fitness, it required me to sit back and reflect on what this actually means to me, which in turn may have you reflect on what it means for you. I am on a path of continuous learning to improve myself and be more competitive in my current sport of choice, bodybuilding. Which requires me to constantly evaluate and work on the levers of the health and fitness equation, as will be discussed. And so, after doing this for myself and trying to understand all the different aspects that constitute health and fitness, this forum allows me to share some of what I have learned with others in an informal medium. Join me as I explore the larger picture and drill down to the levers that make up the health and fitness equation. As a lawyer, this is my first disclaimer, what I write here is based on my personal experience and learnings through many coaches I have sought out globally over the years, and not through some theoretical course on health and fitness. My second disclaimer is that everyone is different, different in mindset, motivation, likes, genetics, life routines, work activity, body types, stresses, support systems, food likes, income and so on. What works for me and motivates me and what my goals are and how I get there is not the same for you. However, it is first about deciding that health and fitness are indeed important, and to you, and then trying to figure out how to set the health and fitness equation for yourself. No matter how blue in the face one goes telling you the importance, it is only once you make a concerted effort to focus on this and change that you can.
For some it is easy, and maybe for me it was as I was exposed to fitness early on as a part of my lifestyle and I enjoy it, so it is less of a burden. For others it is less familiar, not as enjoyable as watching Netflix, and requires a lot of motivation and effort to work on. Sometimes one has fallen so far off that they just don’t know how to take back control and are looking to how to get back. You just must get back on the wagon. Blank slate and press restart. A simple definition of physical fitness is it is a state of “health and well-being and, more specifically, the ability to perform aspects of sports, occupations and daily activities. Physical fitness is generally achieved through proper nutrition, moderate-vigorous physical exercise, and sufficient rest.” The equation is broader: Health and Physical Fitness = • Nutrition + supplementing Nutrition (where applicable) • Weights • Cardio • Mental and Hormonal Health • Rest If any one of the above are off, you are going to put the equation out of equilibrium, and impact health and fitness. We will look into these elements and where and how to apply them; I have yet to do a better job of applying. For example, rest, which we will see the importance of, is one that has been a challenge for me, and I am still working to incorporate. Overall, you will know, and your body will tell you which pieces you are missing. Not everyone wants to be a competitive bodybuilder, and there are many aspects of the competitive sport that actually when prepping for a competition throw off the equation and equilibrium drastically to the hormonal level, and have to be reset, but the fundamentals need to be followed to be an athlete and knowing the levers of the equation one can work with, and reset if off balance for prep. While I write with the perspective of a bodybuilder where the aesthetics of the sport are what is more important than that of functional fitness, functional health and fitness is what this piece is about. The aesthetic fitness is indeed why many do exercise, and is the requirement for my sport, but the focus should be to keep perspective and do this while maintaining functional fitness. Way too many competitors and individuals with only an aesthetic goal will do this at a risk to functional fitness and therein lies the risk of the sport. This is about creating a lifestyle. You need to recognize the importance and then work on it. Treat this like any important appointment and aspect in your life. It may be that you are plugging away and just not seeing the results on you as you see them on others. Before you give up, consider the fact that you may just need a little motivation and inspiration. Strive for progress not perfection. This just takes time. Training gives us an outlet for suppressed energies created by stress and thus tones the spirit just as exercise conditions the body.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger Take some time to think about the health and fitness and how you are performing on each level. What does it mean for you? Assess where you are in each element of the equation. Are there some you know you need to work on? What is holding you back from starting to change? Do you need more information? Track a week of your routine and keep a record and you now need to start getting data on where you are out of equilibrium. And if you think you are doing great, are there areas you can do even better? There is always new research and new developments, new supplements, new science to help tip the equation even more in your favour. In each of the next pieces we will drill down on each of the levers of the equation and how to understand them so you can positively impact your health and fitness equilibrium. I look forward to your joining me as I document my thoughts over this next while. In the meantime, feel free to DM me with questions and specific areas or issues you want to have me address.
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
17.
fascination
Tech-Savvy Gifts for
Your Partner By Selipha Kihagi
Christmas celebrations came and went. And so did the New Year’s. If your gift didn’t match up to what your partner expected, and they’re now mad its time to step up. With the year just starting plan ahead for the birthdays, anniversary or ‘I am sorry’ (For some of us these are given out more often than they need to be, guilty!) presents for 2019.
In this tech-savvy section, we’re sharing with you 8 gift ideas for your tech-savvy partner. We hope you love our picks. And if you get one of these items, remember to show us some love.
Gift Ideas for Your Tech-Savvy Partner 1.Anker PowerCore Lite 20000
Is your partner’s phone always running low on battery? Do they forget to charge their phone or carry a phone charger when out and about? Or are they always using your portable charger (power bank) and inconveniencing you? If you answered Yes to any (or all) of these, a portable charger would be a great gift idea for your partner. And don’t get just any portable charger -- get her or him the “PowerCore Lite 20000” from Anker. It’s the latest in a series of portable chargers from Anker and also one of the fastest. It comes with dual charging ports, uses Anker’s PowerIQ high-speed charging technology and is designed with both USB-C and Micro USB ports. It also has the trickle-charging feature, which is amazing for anyone worried about overnight charging.
2.Heated Smart Travel Mug Does your partner love to take a hot beverage with them on the commute to work? Only to forget to drink it until the time they do and it’s already cold? And then complain about it every single day? If they do, get them a Smart Travel Mug. The mug comes with a charging plug that you can connect to the car charger and use it to heat your warm drink. You can also set a temperature for your drink to ensure it stays hot.
3.Lechal Smart Navigation and Fitness Tracking Insoles and Buckles This gift is for the partner who is a techie lover, an outdoors enthusiast and a fitness junkie all in one. Lechal insoles and buckles are designed to transform normal sports shoes into smart shoes. Fit the insoles into your shoes and the buckle onto your laces to measure the steps you take, calories you burn, distance you travel, and get hands-free route guidance.
18.
fascination
And the best part? Your partner doesn’t have to worry about the battery dying when on a hike or off-the-grid. These Lechal insoles and buckles last for about 15 days on one full charge.
4.Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless Headphones Does your partner need headphones for work? Has he or she been complaining about the current headphones not working as desired? Or are you just looking for a gift your partner will appreciate when you’re on travel? Whatever your reason, the latest Sony WH1000XM3 headphones are anyone’s go-to. They come in two colours – Black and Silver— and spot gold highlights. They’re wireless and feature the best noise cancellation technology among all Sony Headphones. And when it comes to battery life, 10 minutes of charging will give you up to 5 hours of use and a full charge can go 30 hours. So if your partner is a Sony lover and in great need of headphones, go for these WH1000XM3 headphones as they’re sure to impress.
5.Jabra Elite Active 65t Truly wireless ear-buds are becoming a favourite for many as they eliminate the tackiness and discomfort of wires. But there’s something edgy about the Jabra Elite Active 65t that any tech-savvy person will love. Not only are the ear-buds great for making and receiving calls as well as listening to music, but they also track your workout performance. The ear-buds come with an integrated motion sensor with a warranty against sweat and dust for up to 2 years. And because these truly wireless sports ear-buds are fitted with 3rd generation stability, the user will experience fewer dropouts in calls and music. Also, Jabra ear-buds allow you to personalize your music and give you one touch access to Google Now, Siri and Alexa.
6.GoPro HERO7 Black Is your partner a photo addict? Do they take a lot of photos on the go? Or are they just looking for an upgrade to their current GoPro? If yes, then the GoPro HERO7 Black is the perfect tech-savvy gift for them. With a rugged and waterproof without housing feature of up to 33ft (or 10m), this digital camera takes photos a smartphone can’t. It features Voice Control, Live Streaming to Facebook Live, 4K60 HD Video and 12MP photos, and Time Warp Video. It’s also the only GoPro that can handle the HyperSmooth video stabilization as it comes with a GPI processor.
7.SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD This tech-savvy gift is for anyone who’s looking for portable USB external storage that is also practical and fast. If that person
Whatever your reason, the latest Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones are anyone’s go-to. They come in two colours – Black and Silver— and spot gold highlights.
is your partner, then gifting them with this SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD will be highly appreciated. And we’re going to tell you why. While the SSD is a bit slower than the T5 from Samsung, its physical design wins in practicality and comfort during travel. It comes with rounded corners, a rough or textured exterior that provides a good grip and a pop up colour of orange that makes it lovable. It comes in variants of 2TB capacity, ITB and 250GB. You can pick one depending on the storage needs of your partner, but we’re thinking the 2TB will get you more appreciation. Don’t you think?
8.Wireless Mini Photo Printer A gadget that allows for printing of photos on-the-go can be an amazing gift for people who love to share memories. If you’re tired of seeing your partner take photos of people and then agonize later when sharing, get them a mini photo printer. Our best picks for this type of gift would be the Polaroid Zip, the HP Sprocket or the Latest Canon Ivy Mini Photo Printer. They all allow for printing through Bluetooth and without ink by using Zink Paper. You can print a photo in a matter of seconds and attach it to a wall or scrapbook using the sticky back. Any of these would make a perfect gift for a partner who loves to keep scrapbooks, leave memories where they go and create personalized gifts. And just any photo lover out there.
In Conclusion Here at Vroom Magazine, our tech-savvy team is already excited about the gadgets that are going to be gifted as the year goes on, during special occasions or just as appreciation for your loved one. From smart wearables, latest smartphones, on-the-go gadgets and smart travel bags, we want to hear it all. Our only hope is that you’ll get a little personal with your gift and go for a gadget with a special attachment.
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
19.
maintenance
Y
ou probably know somebody who has a high mileage vehicle – may be one that has gone past the 400,000km mark, and you’ve probably asked yourself “how does he/she do that?” Many car reliability/durability myths that have been told in recent times, but the simple secret to car longevity remains just good-old car maintenance. Thanks to the advancements in car design and technology that have been made over the last decade, most of today’s vehicles can achieve high mileages of even up to 400,000 kms if they are maintained well. Therefore, if you purpose to elevate the kind of care that you give to your car, you are sure to see greater longevity.
Become One with Your Car
For most people, car maintenance is left to their trusted auto mechanics. There is nothing wrong with that, but it is also important to get a sense of what the condition of your car is at any given time. Truth be told, car mechanics want to keep you coming to their auto shops and garages, so you shouldn’t fully count on them to alert you of all that may be going wrong in your car. You need to learn how to check your car for yourself, and you also need to understand the workings of all the key components in your car. For example, you need to learn how to check the oil level in your engine. Old engine oil or low engine oil levels can rapidly destroy your vehicle’s engine, so you need to know when this service needs to be done. Another thing that you need to learn how to do is how to inspect your car’s engine cooling system. When coolant fluid stays for too long, it breaks down, forms sludge deposits, and becomes corrosive. Therefore, to keep your cooling system clean and free of leaks, you need to familiarize yourself with the indications that point towards the fact that your coolant fluid has stayed too long. Reading your car’s owner’s manual is a great way to start this learning process. Also, because you drive your car regularly, you may have gotten used to certain things about it that ought not to be. Get someone else to drive it once in a while and get feedback from that person on what needs to be checked out. This can help you to identify problems early and nip them in the bud before they become bigger problems.
Be Faithful to Your Mileage Maintenance Schedule
For the most part, Kenyan car owners religiously take their cars for mileage maintenance services when the car is new or newly acquired, but most times, that commitment slowly wanes as the car gets older. Without a doubt, mileage maintenance schedules work, but only if they are followed faithfully. When they put together these schedules, car manufacturers do not include provisions for when you skip several services.
20.
How to Make Your Car
Last Longer
maintenance
Therefore, do your best to follow the schedule in your car’s manual if you want the car to last longer. Also, you need to trust the service recommendations that are given in these mileage maintenance services. Don’t give your mechanic a hard time asking him why he has to replacement certain components when they look fine (to you). Let them do their job, and in return, you’ll get a car that outlasts most other similar cars.
Clean Your Car Regularly
Another essential maintenance practice is keeping your car clean. How often you ought to clean your car depends on how much exposure your car has to dirt (murram) roads, to construction zones, and to other environments that expose your car to contaminants. We can all agree that the road systems in most of the estates in Nairobi are in appalling states. Many motorists have to drive through dust, debris, and sludge daily. That dirt takes a toll on a car’s paintwork; it slowly eats away the clear coat that protects your car’s paint. When the paint is exposed, rust soon follows. Therefore, cleaning your car every day ought to be a priority for you. Also, when cleaning your car, you should also hose down the underside of your car. When that dirt and sludge sticks to the undercarriage of a car, it hardens and blocks the holes in the undercarriage that are meant to drain water. When this happens, water can collect in the engine bay when it rains, causing various parts to start rusting. The caking up of dirt and grime on the undercarriage of a car can also cause the corrosion of the exposed undercarriage surfaces of those cars. The cement and sand particles that are found in construction zones are especially dangerous in this regard.
Shield Your Car from the Sun
Also, you need to trust the service recommendations that are given in these mileage maintenance services. Don’t give your mechanic a hard time asking him why he has to replacement certain components when they look fine (to you).
There is no denying the fact that excessive sunlight can damage a car’s paintwork. Excessive exposure to sunlight causes the paintwork of a car to fade or lose color over time. Cars with darker colors like black or blue are more susceptible to this kind of damage because they absorb more heat. That’s probably the reason why more and more Nairobians are buying white cars. To help protect your car’s paintwork, invest in a good quality car cover, preferably the waterresistant types that have layers of UV coating. If you are not able to get a car cover, you can at least get a window deflector screen to help to keep the interior materials of your car from fading and drying out. There are many more things that you can do to prolong the life of your car. It just depends on how committed you are to it. Do your research and find out what other people who own a car like yours are doing to extend the lives of their cars. You should also take advantage of car clinics that educate car owners on maintenance.
magazine issue 3 feb 2019
21.
light note
love SHY
By: Felly Oyuga Owiro
I
do my best thinking and talking while driving. Sometimes good company, an open road and a fast car are all you need to help you get things in perspective. I drive a Peugeot 207. Black and shiny, just the way I like most things. My friends call it my ‘Ka baby’. I love that its small without being tiny. It’s fast and powerful enough without the bulk. I like to travel light. (When I grow up, I still want a V8 though!) So, I picked my friend Pete. He is one of those people I can tell literally everything and he will not judge me but he will call me out when I am out of order (Which really pisses me off sometimes!). I needed to talk to my friend and I needed the openness of a road to nowhere specific. ‘Omera, what is!’ Pete’s standard greeting as he jumps in and fastens his seatbelt. I do not think I have ever seen this guy upset. I have decided the only way he can always be this happy is that he is high on drugs and no one knows. Seriously, you just cannot be this unfazed by life. With some Rumba playing softly, off we went. Towards the end of last year, I met a man. A nice man. Intelligent and kind plus we have a lot in common. He texts daily and calls, you guys! Daily. He takes me out on coffee dates and we talk. He listens to things that are important to me. “So, what’s the problem?” Pete asked. How can one not see that this is a set up? He is probably hiding a whole wife somewhere, a baby mama and two or three girlfriends. Maybe even a crocodile. “Woman those are your fairy tales. What is the problem?” I do not even know what the problem is. I just have the urge to keep driving and not turn back. I should have carried my kids. Ok I know I am being dramatic. “Why are you so scared of love?” Pete asks quietly as he opens a drink. Me? Scared? I only fear God and hunger! I put my hand out the window and let the wind pass through my fingers. I am just hitting 100KPH and my ‘Ka baby’ is stable. No cars on the road. Just tarmac
22.
and the horizon. “This guy really has you spooked eh? We were supposed to be going on a leisurely drive, but you are driving like we stole something!” Sheesh! I slow down, to be honest though, I am scared out of my mind of being vulnerable. I am scared of trusting. I am scared of heartbreak. The last one nearly killed me. I am too old for such rubbish. Will I be crying over a man and my seventeen-year-old is also crying over some man? “Kwani you will harass us throughout with your age? And why do you think you will be crying? You can’t go about life with a chip on your shoulder. You need to let go of the past.” I just turned forty (no, you will not breathe, I am milking forty till it is dry!) I have never really considered a serious relationship. I am of the school of once bitten, beat it, stomp on it and run in the opposite direction the second time. This guy though will not give up. “Why are you torturing yourself over an imagined eventuality? Maybe nothing happens beyond this first stage, maybe something happens and you live happily ever after, maybe something happens and then it does not work out. Maybe, maybe, maybe! You can honestly tell me you are scared of maybe. Just maybe!” Man, this guy can be annoying. The way he unpacks life. I take a sip of my soda. I really should stop drinking these sugary things. Now that I am forty and all. I slow down and turn right. I step sharply on the breaks, put the gear in reverse. Move back, put the gear in drive and start heading back to the city. This is ridiculous! I cannot run away, I left my kids and my shoes! Mental note: Make sure to have kids with me if I feel like running away to complete process of getting away! The drive back is slow, not because we want to count trees, but because I am approaching with caution. After all, it is the month of love, Cupid is on my side. At the very least I am sure of chocolate on Valentine’s day!
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