Nairobi is the capital and the largest city in Kenya with about 3.5 million inhabitants. It is referred to as the hub of Africa, as many African countries connect through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to or from other global cities. Nairobi is popularly known as the Green City in the Sun, and is surrounded by several expanding villa suburbs.
It is also known as a home to thousands of Kenyan businesses and over 100 major international companies and organisations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON).
According to the JLL 2017 City Momentum Index (CMI), Nairobi was rated as the most dynamic city in Africa and number ten in the globe, beating other big cities such as Dubai, New York, Paris, and Stockholm. It is known for its strong multicultural vibe, big global businesses — and yet you can still feed giraffes and elephants within the city limits. It is famous for having the Nairobi National Park, the world’s only game reserve found within a major city.
Climate
Nairobi is cooler than most cities with the temperatures ranging from 10 degree Celsius during cold seasons (mostly between April and July) to 24 degree Celsius during hot seasons (mostly between December and March).
Local Business Etiquette and Customs
Decent dress is expected – skirts above the knee but not mini, and if mini have tights on. Trousers are more than welcome.
Being a cosmopolitan city politeness is key to your good and safe stay. Bargaining too much in the market is not accepted by the culture and therefore when one asks for a discount the seller gives the final price.
- No smoking in the city unless in designated areas
- Prostitution is not legalized
- Homosexuality is not accepted by the society and therefore practiced cautiously
- No special restrictions for women but care has to be taken as there are many bylaws which could land one into problems e.g. no talking on phone while crossing the road, no sitting on flower beds, no littering etc.
Travel and Transport
The public transport is a bit confusing to foreigners and therefore taxi services are preferred. Favour Tours offers transport and ensure professionalism and safety to my fellow ladies. Contact info@favourwildlifesafaris.com for any transport needs both within and without the city.
Dining and Bars
Nairobi as a world class city has lots of bars and dining places. Depending on where you are lodging, you can either walk or take a taxi to the bars and dining places. The clientele differs from one to the other. Liaise with your tour operator (info@favourwildlifesafaris.com) to advise based on your accommodation.
Many malls have food-courts where you can get various joints at the same place and can order from different menus. Other chains of food outlets that you can get into includes Java and Savannah
Women’s Network and Events
There are many women networks and events in Nairobi. Depending on your taste, there are many networks available for ladies. These include: Women on Boards Network, Women in Business Network, Young Women Leaders and SheTrades. I am personally a member of Young Women Leaders and SheTrades.
Beauty and Fitness
Most of the hotels have gym and salon services. They also have yoga sessions, swimming pools (some heated) and spa services. Most hotels are also fitted with blow-dry machine to facilitate your own hair-do.
Safety and Emergency Services
- Ensure you book your logistics with a recognized tour operator like Favour Tours (or preferably a KATO member – Kenya Association for Tour Operator member)
- Ensure you are booked in well recognized accommodation
- Always ask the operator to give you emergency numbers to call 24/7 for hospitals, ambulance, police etc.
- Always keep your valuables safe and avoid displaying them while walking on some streets.
- Take a quick note of exit doors in a hotel incase of emergency.
