EE Abroad: Kenya (Part II) – Nairobi
Photo Credits: 1 – Elisabeth Events, 2 – Fan Shen, 3 – Fan Shen
PART II: NAIROBI
Nairobi is Kenya’s capital and largest city, and one of Africa’s political and financial centers. Before this trip, to be honest, I knew very little about the differences between various African countries… and learned that Kenya is one of the more stable and developed countries in Africa.
The bulk of my time in Nairobi was spent working on the consulting project for DK Grand Safaris, but my team was lucky in that working in the hospitality industry meant that visiting hotels and popular tourist attractions was part of our “job”! This is why I looove the hospitality industry. 
Outside of the office, we spent one day visiting the Giraffe Center and The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (aka Elephant Orphanage). It was so much fun!
Feed the giraffes food.. and they will “kiss” you! [Photo Credit: Megan Bordi]
At the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, they rescue orphaned elephants and rhinos whose parents were hunted by poachers for ivory or abandoned after being lost from falling into water wells. The Trust raises the orphans and rehabilitates them for eventual return to their home in Tsavo National Park. They allow visitors once per day to educate visitors about their mission while limiting exposure to humans. THESE BABY ELEPHANTS ARE SOO CUTE!
They come running out to their feeding stations and get fed by their keepers, play with each other in the water and mud… sometimes it’s almost as if they are actually smiling!
Check out this cutie!
Ahhh.. mud bath [Photo Credit: Megan Bordi]
A baby rhino! [Photo Credit: Fan Shen]
After a morning of hanging out with adorable animals, we embarked on a tour of hotels that our client frequently uses for clients. When travelers or honeymooners decide to go on safari in Kenya, they often have to spend a day in transit in Nairobi. Here is an overview of some of the top lodging options for your stay:
The Norfolk (a Fairmont property)
[Photo Credit: Fairmont.com]
The Norfolk is the most historic hotel in Nairobi, marked by the faded black and white photographs of previous visitors in its newly renovated hallways. The lobby evokes a strong colonial feel, with marble floors and white columns… and guests adorned in khaki safari outfits. The courtyard retains a tropical feeling since the hotel still maintains its private tropical garden. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the suites were gorgeous! This hotel is a top choice for luxury safari outfitters, with rates around US$280/double.
[Photo Credit: Serenahotels.com]
Another popular choice for visitors, this hotel caters more towards business professionals. The lobby is adorned with African decor and lush greens. The uber-luxurious State Suite, which housed President Obama, is seriously amaaaazing! The hotel also has a great spa and several top restaurants, and is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Rates begin around US$400/double.
We were only in Nairobi for a couple of days before heading out on safari… which was by far the most exciting part of the trip! The last and final post of the Kenya series will be full of animal sightings!
Additional resources:
- Lonely Planet – Nairobi
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