Transportation in Nairobi

  Here is another article I have written earlier for an expat website. Hope you will find it useful.

TRANSPORTATION IN NAIROBI 

Nairobi is a very busy city, therefore getting around can be a challenge due to limited information on the existing public transport system, and even though there are public transportations operate in the city due to  insufficient traffic lights and no traffic rules are in place it can get very hectic sometimes chaotic.

The Nairobi City Centre, which is about a square kilometer, is mostly reserved for commercial and government activities, there is also an Industrial Area from the Nairobi Railway Station in a southeastern direction, covers roughly about 20 square kilometers. There are Residential areas spreads round these two hubs. The existing public transport serves all these destinations, therefore enabling commuters, mostly locals, get to their work places in the city centre and Industrial Area.

There are few typed of transport in the city,  matatus (shared mini-bus taxis), buses, trains, and regular taxis. Except for train services provided by the government-owned Kenya Railways Corporation, rest is operated by private sector.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Matatus: they are used predominantly by locals as well as expats in and around Nairobi, since they cover nearly most of the parts of the greater Nairobi and its suburbs. They are 14-seater shared mini-bus taxis are easily recognizable from the yellow stripe painted front to back on their sides. When using matatus be aware of unruly and chaotic conduct of the drivers, and make sure about the destination, since it can change while you are riding in it. Fare wise, it constantly changes, it is always recommended to check the fare before the ride.

Bus: A number of bus companies serves in the city, providing an alternative to the matatus.  Bus routes also converge at the city center, there are also terminals in the city, serves  as drop off and pickup points for passengers. Beware, some of the bus companies 'in the city are sometimes unreliable, with their crew openly disregarding traffic laws and becomes dangerous for their passengers, and constantly varying their fares. An exception to purple-colored Double M buses. Double M buses are generally clean and well-driven, run professionally, and their fares are mostly displayed in the bus.

Train: Commuter train service in Nairobi was introduced to address the high cost of travelling by matatus and buses for the urban poor. It is so far most cost-effective public transportation in the city, and available on four lines. They operate on weekdays during rush hours, and can get quite crowded.

Taxis: If you are visiting Nairobi for a short period of time and do not have company assigned car available, taxis are most convenient and safest way to travel around Nairobi. You can find them near international hotels, most tourist sites, in city center, shopping malls, and they are usually marked with a yellow line on the side of the car. Attention: There is no meter, and you have to agree upon the fare in advance, otherwise expect to be charged over-price.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have a company car service or cannot afford to hire a good driver (which quite a few expats do), you have to venture on the roads yourself. You are allowed to use an international driving permit or a foreign license from a Commonwealth country for up to three months. Then you should get in touch with the Road Transport Department or the Kenyan Automobile Association and ask if/how you can exchange your foreign license for a Kenyan permit. Always remember to use the left-side of the road and to drive as defensively and risk-aware as possible.

Polio in Kenya

Currently, there is a polio outbreak in Kenya, and it goes few months back. There are many articles on newspapers these days. Unfortunatelly, per WHO the illness started at the refugee camps boardering Somalia.  Sadly none of the children in these camps have immunizations neither adaquate health checks or doctor visits. So it spreaded pretty quickly in the country. Neverless, majority of Kenyan kids do not have immunizations for their age group. Even the schools are very large (careless) about this sensitive and life threatening subject, for example when I registered my kids into their current school, the school did not require their immunization card. And this school is so called! one of the good schools' in Nairobi...Anyway, finally, last week I had a call from my children's school and told Kenyan government started immunization process for all the children in Kenya, which I believe should have been done earlier. But still is a great news, because polio is a horrible illness especially for new borns and toddlers and it is fatal, the good thing is it can easily be stopped and prevented with immunization. So hoping we will stop hearing polio cases soon.

Cost of Living in Nairobi-food, internet, housing,taxi,

Cost of living in Kenya price chart

 Through my own living experience, friends and researches I have put together a list for you. Hope this will help:)

Accommodation
Furnished two bedroom house	KSH 180,000-200,000
Unfurnished two bedroom house	KSH 150,000-180,000
Furnished two bedroom apartment	KSH 120,000 – 180,000
Unfurnished two bedroom apartment	KSH 90,000-150,000
Grocery Shopping
Dozen eggs	KSH 110
Milk (1 litre)	KSH 100
Rice (1kg)	KSH 200
Loaf of white bread	KSH 65
Whole chicken	KSH 250
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro)	KSH 150
Eating out
Big Mac meal	KSH 850
Coca Cola (500ml)	KSH 300
Cappuccino	KSH 550
Bottle of beer (local)	KSH 350
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant	KSH 3500
Utilities/Household (monthly)
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile)	KSH 30
Internet (Uncapped ADSL or Cable – average per month) when we first moved to Nairobi we had lots of cut offs during the day, after two years it has improved so much.	KSH 10,000
Monthly rate for a live-in domestic cleaner. Make sure to ask for referral or use word of mouth through friends and school bulleting board.	KSH 20,000
Electricity (average per month for standard household) ok there are few power cuts during the day, you must have a generator or an inverter. or you should expect to have your candles ready especially during the rainy season!	KSH 10,000
Transportation
Taxi rate per km	KSH 285
City centre bus fare/train fare	KSH 60
Petrol/Gasolene (per litre)	KSH 105.5

More

Cost of Living in Nairobi-- food, hosing, rent, security, transportation

An expat’s cost of living in Kenya will certainly be less than they would be paying in Europe or North America, but is still higher in some respects than many would expect. It is important to remember that certain amenities expats will need access to – such as private healthcare, international schools and comfortable homes with security – can inflate the cost of living in Kenya tremendously.

Furthermore, expats will find themselves having to account for additional living expenses that they wouldn’t incur back home, such as the cost of drinking water and a security guard or driver.

However, depending on an expat's contract of employment, many find that some of the most expensive costs of living Kenya are covered by their employers. In many cases, the company will provide an allowance for accommodation, transportation and international school fees. Expats should try their best to negotiate these allowances into their expat packages.

Cost of accommodation in Kenya

Expats living in Kenya will find that accommodation will be their biggest expense. Luckily, for some, this will be taken care of by the employer.

The majority of expats opt to rent property in Kenya as they tend to have a fixed-term contract and don’t plan on settling in the country for the long-term. Naturally, rent in cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa will be higher than in more rural locations. Rent varies between KSH 90,000 per month and KSH 200,000 depending on the size of the property.

It is important to note that security needs to be in the forefront of one’s mind when choosing where to live and this needs to be factored into the cost of accommodation. Most expats opt to live in a secure gated community for peace of mind and this type of accommodation can cost as much as property in Europe would. Furthermore, rent in "safe expat areas" such as Rosslyn, Spring Valley and Wetlands in Nairobi, are much higher.

Younger expats, who move to Kenya to spend a year volunteering, often find cheaper, shared accommodation. The standard of this type of accommodation will, however, be very basic.
 

Cost of groceries in Kenya

It often comes as a surprise to new arrivals that the cost of food, basic housing products and electrical appliances in Kenya is fairly high. It is important to note that most of these goods are imported and therefore highly taxed.

There are a number of supermarket chains in Kenya, such as Nakumat, Uchimu and Chandara, where shoppers can buy anything from dairy products to mattresses, furniture, alcohol and electronics.  Many imported food produce such as cheeses, jams, chocolate, oils and pasta can also be found.

The best way to save money on groceries in Kenya is by buying local produce. Because of its wonderful climate, expats will find that fruit and vegetables sold at local markets are always good quality, and far cheaper than what one would pay at a supermarket.

The cost of transportation in Kenya

Although public transport in Kenya, such as matatus, buses and trains are incredibly cheap to use, the fact is that most expats do not utilise these modes of transport which are usually uncomfortable and inefficient. Furthermore, while the cost of transport is cheap in relation to expat wages, prices fluctuate all the time as there are no government regulations.

When it comes to getting around Kenya, the majority of expats will either hire or buy a car and find a local driver to take them around. However, buying a car can be expensive, as almost all cars in Kenya are imported and heavily taxed. In addition, for those wanting to travel nationally in Kenya, a four-by-four is the best option but will be more expensive than a regular vehicle.

Having a local driver is an asset. They tend to have better knowledge of the roads and driving conditions, and effectively save expats from having to contend with the tough driving conditions in Kenya. The fee for a driver is relatively minimal.

The cost of eating out and entertainment in Kenya

There is no shortage of options when it comes to eating out in Kenyan cities. Most Western restaurants are located in expat areas and tend to serve dishes made with imported ingredients, so prices are higher. For expats who are keen to try local Kenyan foods, plenty of establishments can be found selling healthy portions for next to nothing.

The nightlife and entertainment scene in Kenya’s big cities is growing with modern clubs and bars popping up all the time. However, entrance and drink costs at these type of places can be fairly expensive, keeping them out of reach from most average Kenyans. However, for those looking to enjoy a local beer, there are plenty of small bars in every Kenyan town where one can have a drink while watching the sunset without paying a fortune.
 

 

Dining Out-Restaurants in Nairobi

Restaurants in Nairobi

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New arrivals to Nairobi are often surprised to find that this African city can stand shoulder to shoulder with many of the world’s best culinary destinations. There are plenty of restaurants in Nairobi to choose from, so it is simply a case of knowing where to dine.

Because Nairobi is a popular expat destination, its multicultural foundations make for a gastronomic scene that is interesting, unexpected and aromatic. Foodies in Nairobi will find that there is always something fresh and tempting on local menus.

The typical Kenyan diet is heavy on rice, beans and ugali, which is a local mashed cornmeal dish. However, both expats and frequent travellers need not despair as Nairobi has a large Indian community, who contribute to significantly spicing up the city’s culinary scene. There is also a large variety of restaurants in Nairobi which offer a wide range of fine international cuisine.

Expats who get the chance to go on safari and stay at upmarket lodges and campsites will find that these experiences come complete with food prepared by gourmet chefs who redefine the concept of dining. Expats should also take the opportunity to try fresh seafood from the coast which comes infused with Swahili spices. Furthermore, for the health-conscious, there is an abundance of tropical fresh fruits available such as coconuts, mangos and papayas, all grown in the region.

In terms of local food, those who are brave enough should sample the nyama choma – or grilled meat - that can be found barbecued all around Nairobi at small local restaurants. On the menu at these places expats will find hunks of goat meat and beef as well as crocodile and ostrich, sold by the kilogram.

Another great thing about Nairobi’s restaurant scene is the satisfaction one gets in discovering hidden gems all over the city. Furthermore, thanks to the great Kenyan hospitality, the service at restaurants in Nairobi is generally excellent as waiting staff are polite, smiling and attentive.

Recommended areas of Nairobi for restaurants include Runda, Gigiri, Karen and Westlands.

Recommended restaurants in Nairobi

Art Caffe
Art Caffe is a great restaurant chain which has branches at Junction Mall, Westgate Shopping Centre and the Village Market. It is popular among expats as the menu serves continental food. Art Caffe gets busy during lunchtime and at weekends. On a Friday night, it is a great venue to catch some live music. It’s a great spot to grab a bite and is reasonably priced. One downside is that service can be slow, especially on weekends.

Osteria
This family-run Italian eatery, has one branch in Karen and another one at the Village Market, Runda. Karen Osteria is situated in a leafy and quiet part of Karen. This quaint restaurant serves good food with an authentic Italian touch. The manager takes pride in talking to all the patrons and making diners feel welcomed. On Sundays Osteria offers a great family brunch where the kids can have fun by the pool while their parents relax and enjoy a hearty meal. Village Market Osteria is located on the upper level of this shopping complex. It has a nice atmosphere with live music on Friday nights. Prices are reasonable and the service is great. Reservations are recommended for Sunday brunch.

Talisman
Talisman is a popular expat spot in Karen which gets very busy on a Friday night. Talisman serves both local and international cuisine. Like many restaurants in Nairobi, Talisman offers both indoor and outdoor seating and also has a nice fireplace. The restaurant has great live music on Friday nights.

Brew Bistro and Lounge
Brew Bistro is famous for its delicious steaks and unique homemade beer. It is also very hip with the local young crowd as well as the city’s expat community. The bar section is always packed, and plays popular  music. The dining area is located on the other side, away from all that noise. Food is tasty and well presented. Brew Bistro is at the luxury end of the food spectrum so expect the pay more than usual.

Karen Blixen Restaurant
This popular expat spot in located in Karen and is also known as Tamambo. Diners have the opportunity to admire the beautifully maintained garden while enjoying a hearty meal. Karen Blixen Restaurant serves great burgers as well as some delicious local treats. There is also a separate sports bar area where people can watch rugby, baseball and soccer.

Mediterraeno Italian Restaurant
Mediterraeno may look like just another Italian chain, but the lovely thing about it is that branches are run like a family restaurant. The dining experience is very sophisticated with dim lighting and candles at every table. This is a firm favourite amongst Nairobi residents and is busy most nights, but not overly crowded. Mediterraneo serves delicious pizzas along with a range of scrumptious homemade pastas.

Phoenician Restaurant
Phoenician serves both Lebanese and Japanese food. Although this might sound like an odd combination of cuisines, diners are always in for a treat at Phoenician. The restaurant is located on the top floor of Junction Mall and hasa small outdoor dining area.

Seven Seafood and Grill
Seven is one of the few seafood restaurants in Nairobi and is located on Waiyaki Way, under ABC Place. The décor of the restaurant is very chic and Seven is a very popular spot. It can get crowded so a reservation is highly recommended for Friday and Saturday nights. In the separate lounge area people can enjoy drinks while hip music is played in the background. The dining area at Seven serves a delicious selection of seafood dishes with a local touch. Service is very good, attentive and friendly, but prices are a little steep.

Le Rustique
Le Rustique is a popular eatery amongst expats in Nairobi. It’s a family-friendly restaurant with a lovely play area for the little ones. Le Rustique serves wonderful crepes, salads, sandwiches, meat and pastas at reasonable prices. Diners have the option of sitting indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. A reservation is recommended for weekends.  

Education and Schools in Nairobi

Here is the other article, I think you might be interested. Not sure if I mentioned earlier in my blog, I have two kids who are now 7 and 3, and because of that I can comment about most of these schools, there are two in the list attended by my 7yrs old girl, and through my 3yrs old son I got some ideas about early years as well. So again, feel free to drop an email or comment.

International Schools in Nairobi                                                                                      

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Nairobi is home to a diverse mix of expats and as such has a wide range of international schools to serve the needs of the city's large expat population. There are international schools in Nairobi which follow the national curriculums of the UK, USA, Sweden, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany and France.

Expats who want their children's education to incorporate some religious teachings will find that there are a number of Christian international schools in Nairobi as well.

Here is a list of the most popular international schools in Nairobi. Be aware that most of the schools are oversubscribed and operate using waiting lists for admissions. Expat parents are therefore advised to apply well in advance to secure their child a position at their desired school.

List of international schools in Nairobi

Banda School
Ages: 1-13
Curriculum: British
Website: www.bandaschool.com 

Braeburn Schools 
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: British
Website: www.braeburn.com

Brookhouse School
Ages: 2-19
Curriculum: British
Website: www.brookhouse.ac.ke 

Deutsche Schule Nairobi
Ages: 4-18
Curriculum: German
Website: www.dsnairobi.de

GEMS Cambridge International School
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: British / IGCSE
Website: www.gemscambridgeinternationalschool-nairobi.com

Hillcrest International School
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: British
Website: www.hillcrest.ac.ke

International Schools of Kenya (ISK)
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
Website: www.isk.ac.ke

Lycée Denis Diderot
Ages: 4-18
Curriculum: French
Website: www.diderot.ac.ke

The Netherlands School
Ages: 5-12
Curriculum: Dutch
Website: www.netherlandsschool.com

Swedish School of Nairobi
Ages: 4-18
Curriculum: Swedish
Website: www.ssn.or.ke

Christian international schools in Nairobi

Rosslyn Academy
Ages: 4-18
Curriculum: American
Website: www.rosslynacademy.org

Rusinga School
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: British
Website: www.rusinga.ac.ke

West Nairobi School
Ages: 3-18
Curriculum: American
Website: www.westnairobischool.org

Healthcare in Nairobi

Here is the article about healthcare in Nairobi. This is one of the subject everybody is highly interested, especially if you plan to move to Nairobi. As a person who had significant amount of personal experience in this area:), I am more than happy to answer any question you might have.

you can also access this article
http://www.expatarrivals.com/kenya/nairobi/healthcare-in-Nairobi

Healthcare in Nairobi                                                                     

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As is the case throughout Kenya, the standard of healthcare in Nairobi varies considerably depending on the type of treatment needed and the type of hospital one can afford.

Unfortunately, life expectancy is just 63 years for the average Kenyan citizen. The major factors contributing to this include a high rate of maternal and infant mortality, the fact that 1.5 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, poor sanitation standards, and very few doctors to support the country’s rapidly growing population.

Expats will find the standard of healthcare throughout Kenya to be below par. Foreigners are advised to look at private healthcare options and to also look into the specialty areas of each hospital. Despite the fact that Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and a hub for Africa, due to financial and organisational discrepencies, the city's hospitals fall short when compared to international standards.

However, in most instances wealthy Kenyans and expats will never notice any problems related to healthcare in Nairobi, as there are a wide variety of private medical facilities in the city, which provide a good standard of healthcare and are continually improving.

Furthermore, the living conditions among expats is far higher than that of most locals and they therefore experience fewer health issues. As long as expats follow some basic health recommendations and ensure they are in possession of a comprehensive health insurance policy they are likely to be fine during their stay in Nairobi.

While both public and private healthcare services are available in Nairobi, the overwhelming majority of expats tend to go with the private option.

As is the case elsewhere in the world, private healthcare in Nairobi is considerably more expensive than the public healthcare services available. Most expats are willing to pay a higher price in exchange for better quality, trustworthy healthcare where they will receive treatment from well-educated and experienced doctors. Furthermore, the laboratory services and waiting times for medical test results tend to be more favourable at the private establishments.

At both private and public hospitals in Nairobi, doctors and medical staff are almost always proficient in English. However, the conditions in public hospitals tend to be very poor. There are many instances where public hospitals will suffer from insufficient supplies, unsterile and unsanitary conditions and structurally poor facilities. Furthermore, labrotory services at public hospitals are slow and have on numerous occasions been criticised for providing inaccurate test results. Finding specialist doctors can also be difficult in Nairobi’s public hospitals and waiting lists to see specialists are often painfully long.
 

Public healthcare in Nairobi

There are a number of different types of public medical facilities in Nairobi. Government-run dispensaries are the first point of contact for the public. These facilities are run and managed by nurses and provide the most basic out-patient services for simple illnesses such as the common cold and flu, skin conditions and the initial treatment of malaria. If the nurses at the dispensary cannot deal with a problem the patient will be referred to a health centre.

There are also private community clinics which are usually run by nurses, but there are also a small number which are run by clinical officers or doctors.

Government-run health centres are run and managed by a clinical officer. Health centres in Nairobi provide primary care, and tend to focus mainly on preventative care such as childrens vaccinations and tend to fall short when it comes to curative treatment.

Like in each of Kenya’s eight provincies, Nairobi’s public provincial hospital is the referral point for all the smaller district hospitals in the city. Provincial hospitals are regional hubs which provide the most specialised care in the public sector and include intensive care treatment, life support and specialist consultations.

Finally, there are two national hospitals in Kenya which offer the best standard of treatment with regards to public healthcare. These are the Moi Teaching and Refferal Hospital (MTRH) and Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH)
 

Private healthcare in Nairobi

Most expats prefer to use private healthcare facilities in Nairobi. Even though the cost is much higher than treatment at public facilities, the quality of service tends to be better and doctors tend to be more experienced. Furthermore, the hygiene levels and quality of equipment are incomparable.

There are plenty of private hospitals, medical centres and individual practices in and around Nairobi. The major challenge for expats will be to decide where to seek treatment. Expats will need to consider convenience and which facility best aligns with their priorities and health needs.

Depending on whether one is moving to Nairobi with a family or alone, it is not always necessary to have a full health insurance plan in order to take advantage of private facilities or doctors, as day-to-day treatment can be surprisingly
affordable. That said, it is highly recommended that expats settling in Kenya invest in private health insurance to cover them for more complex procedures and expensive evacuations.

When taking out health insurance it is important that expats are aware of the terms of their coverage. For example, those that plan on travelling outside Kenya will need to ensure they also have travel insurance, as a policy that is specific for Kenya will not cover them in the event of an accident elsewhere in Africa.

Medicines and pharmacies in Nairobi

There are plenty of pharmacies in Nairobi. Most major hospitals also have pharmacies attached to them, and are open 24/7.
There are also many privately run pharmacies that can easily be located in shopping malls as well as on the main high streets in Nairobi.

Most generic medicines are easy to find at Kenyan pharmacies. Expats will find that most medicines are imported. Generally, medicines are cheaper in Kenya than in a lot of other expat destinations. However, it is still best to have an insurance policy that covers all medication expenses.

If expats suffer from a specific health condition, they should bring ample supply of their medication into Kenya with them along with a doctor’s note stating that the medication is for their personal use.
 

Basic health tips for expats in Nairobi

There are some very basic health tips which expats should bear in mind while residing in Kenya. These should assist in avoiding some of the main health issues experienced by visitors to the country:

• Take precautions against insect bites to help prevent malaria, dengue fever and sleeping sickness. There are sporadic outbreaks of dengue fever in Kenya.
• Always wear long-sleeved tops and trousers at night, especially when outside, and make sure to repeatedly apply insect repellant.
• Always sleep under mosquito nets.
• Take anti-malarial drugs as medical prophylactics especially if travelling outside of Nairobi. Please note, due to the high altitude of Nairobi, malaria is not a high risk in the city; however, one should still take some caution when out, especially at night.
• Don’t drink tap water or consume raw produce that could have potentially been washed using tap water. Also avoid ice in drinks.
• Make sure to keep flies away from food, and wash your hands often.
• Never use rivers for swimming purposes or lakes to avoid parasitic infections.
• Be careful around all pets, and especially wild animals due to rabies.

Emergency medical services in Nairobi

Private hospitals in Nairobi provide emergency medical services in Nairobi. However, in some instances it may be best to get the patient to the hospital by car or private taxi, as waiting times for ambulances can sometimes be long.

For those without private medical insurance, the St Johns Ambulance provides emergency medical treatment in the event of an accident and can be reached on +254  22 444 44.

The general emergency number in Kenya is 999 and this should be dialled in the event of an accident which requires an ambulance.
 

List of private hospitals in Nairobi

The Nairobi Hospitalwww.nairpbihospital.org
This is a privately-owned hospital in Nairobi, which has both in-patient and out-patient facilities. The Nairobi Hospital has a full 24-hour laboratory, X-Ray facilities and ultrasound services, as well as experienced doctors on duty 24/7. It is run by European standards and accepts most major insurance policies. There is a pharmacy on site.

The Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobiwww.agakhanhospitals.com
This is regarded as a very prestigious hospital, not only in Kenya, but throughout the African continent. Both the hospital and the university are highly respected. The staff are highly qualified and well trained, as are the nurses on duty. There is also a Doctor’s Plaza in Nairobi’s city centre which is run by the Aga Khan University Hospital where patients can visit specialist doctors.

Nairobi Women’s Hospitalwww.nwch.co.ke
This is a relatively new hospital in Nairobi, which is part of a fast-growing chain of hospital. There are facilities located in Hurlingham, Ngong Road, Ongata Rongai along Magadi Road. The latest facility is the 24-hour outpatient centre located within Kitengela town. This group of healthcare facilities specialises in women's health issues and only offera services for women. Specialist areas include maternity, radiology, gynaecology and oncology care units.

Gertrude Children’s Hospitalwww.gerties.org
This is the only hospital in Nairobi which specialises in the care of children. Gertrude has clinics in Lavington and Muthaiga. The hospital provides comprehensive children’s healthcare unit and outpatient services, as well as dental services and a child development centre.

Karen Hospitalwww.karenhospital.org
This is a private hospital and located in Karen on Langata Road. Karen Hospital offers a well-equipped emergency unit which provides a 24-hour service, specialised doctors, laboratory services, dental treatment, a baby clinic and an on-site pharmacy.

Back in Nairobi

Right after the schools were closed, we took a long nice break for Christmas and New Year, we visited two countries which I call both 'home', US and Turkey.

First I visited Istanbul with my two kids, the weather was cold but pleasant. I was able to walk, shop, go out at night without worrying about my safety:) Then we went to US, it was a great feeling to be back, because since we moved, which was five years ago, I did not get a chance to go back. Then, We spent two weeks in Washington, DC with our siblings, had lots of shopping, met with old friends and enjoyed wide range of cuisine. Probably, it was the coldest weather I have seen so far, for few days the temperature was -14C!!! To much of a surprise, DC area grow impressively, (I thought it was already a developed city) much bigger highways:), many shopping outlets, huge sales, new metro lines and so much more. We used to live in Fairfax, VA which was a suburb than, now it is a city itself!

Returning flight from DC to Nairobi was such a long one, at some point I thought I would never step on the ground!! We flew with Turkish Airlines. Both flights were sold out, airports were packed with travelers, guess everybody was coming back to Nairobi after Christmas break.

We came back on Monday.  Before we left Nairobi, the weather was rainy and kinda cold. Now, this is the perfect season of the year.  We have clear blue sky every day and my kids are enjoying every moment of it. You can hear the birds singing at the background, my veggies are growing in the garden:) and little bit of wind in the late afternoon. If you plan to visit Nairobi, this is the perfect time.