Suzanne De Souza

Having been brought up in Kenya, there is no way l would go to Nairobi and not spend time at the Coast, as the locals call it. Mombasa, on the coast of East Africa is such a beautiful city.

l took the overnight train from Nairobi to Mombasa. l have travelled on the train many times in first class so l felt comfortable, l got to sleep and arrived early in the morning into downtown Mombasa. Upon arrival l took a taxi to a lovely 4.5* Lodge.

l spent two weeks in Mombasa and split my time between two hotels. The hotels are situated on vast acres of land along the Indian Ocean north coast. The cabana l stayed in was beautifully decorated with all amenities. Every morning my friends and l enjoy a lovely buffet breakfast, which offered a variety of fresh fruits and well prepared organic foods.

One of the properties, considered the finest on the north coast offers many ocean-front rooms. The rooms have beautiful glass sliding doors with either balconies or verandas. In addition to the beach and ocean swimming there a several swimming pools, and great restaurants.

During my stay, after breakfast l enjoyed lounging around at the beach taking in the warm sun with a mild breeze of fresh air. The hotels have several restaurants to dine at during the day. You can have a snack at the beach, go to one of the thatched area restaurants or join in at the main restaurants for a daily buffet. Afternoons are perfect for people watching, enjoying the many water sports, purchasing keepsake souvenirs or playing a game of beach volleyball. Every night had a different theme - my favourite was, "At The Movies".

After dinner many proceeded to an intimate outdoor area to watch the local entertainment. Local dancers performed and before long we were all dancing the night away on the local Folk music beat. The calmness of the ocean with the lanterns glowing while you dined and enjoy the entertainment made time seem as if it had stopped.

An opportunity to completely unwind, to be mesmorized by the rhythm of the warm Indian Ocean and the traditional music and culture of coastal Kenya is one few people can pass up. It is an ideal add-on to an unforgettable East Africa safari and I would be happy to tailor-make the perfect holiday for you. Call or email me to find out more about Kenya!