“Life is short. Buy the plane ticket.” – Julie Paquette
#NomadLife #TravelLife #KiteLife #Intention #Positivity #Kenya
Welcome to Kenya- The land of beautiful colors, exotic animals and the kindest people you will ever have the honor of meeting!
Four years ago I had landed in Kenya for the first time. Being back, I question why I waited so long to return. From the hustle and bustle of Nairobi to the calmness of the Serengeti (which holds the beautiful Maasai culture) – there is definitely something special about this land, something unique & pure.
My Top 5 Activity Recommendations While In Kenya
#1. SAFARI
The Lion King is absolutely REAL! Going on a Safari is a life-changing experience – it brings storybooks to life & fills you up with so many emotions! The first time you see a wild animal, in its habitat you TRULY recognize how amazing our planet really is.
My first Safari visit I almost passed out from excitement. I saw Elephants near a watering hole – however, what really threw me over the edge was seeing a baby elephant run across a puddle to meet up with its mother. Everything in the world made sense to me at that moment. I was lost and absolutely didn’t want to be found. GO, book your ticket now!
#2. Go visit a Maasai Market
The Maasai are one of the most impressive people I have ever met in my life! They are magical, poised and filled with culture.
Maasai women are known for their beautiful traditional beadwork. After their many hours of household chores, women spend time beading in order to dress their husbands, kids and themselves up. Maasai Markets are a beautiful place to explore, shop and observe a beautiful new culture.
Remember, there are certain things NOT to do in a market. Be respectful and remember humans are not scenery. Just like you would not want someone taking a picture of you without your permission while grocery shopping – don’t do it to someone else. Put your camera away and do not live through a lens. If you choose to take pictures, remember to ask permission first.
Remember, to bargain. Do not accept the first price a merchant gives you, they expect you to bargain – it is a part of their culture.
#3. Spend time at the Nairobi Giraffe Center
Giraffes or “Twiga’s” in Kiswahili, are such elegant animals. Their long necks, blue tongues, and enchanting runs are simply magical to witness. At the Nairobi Giraffe Sanctuary, you will find giraffes roaming around with their pals & may even have the opportunity to feed them or even makeout with them – Yes, makeout! If you want to learn the best techniques to makeout with a giraffe get ready for my upcoming article!
#4. Drop by the Elephant Nursery in Nairobi National Park
They say elephants never forget – well let me tell you, you will never forget this experience. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) Elephant Nursery in Nairobi National Park provides a safe haven to orphaned baby elephants rescued by the DSWT. You will have an opportunity to visit elephants as well as, adopt a given elephant of your choice. A new article will soon be posted about my awesome visit to the Nursery – get ready!
Once the elephants graduate from the Nursery, aged 2-3 years, the elephants move to one of the DSWT’s Reintegration Centres in Tsavo East National Park, from where they will ultimately return to the wild.
Simply Amazing!
#5. Chat with Locals
Kenya is a multilingual country with English and Swahili being the two official languages. Before you head on your way, make sure to practice your Kiswahili & practice the language with a few friendly locals. Many laughs will be exchanged I am sure! Here are a couple of Swahili words & phrases to help you:
“Jambo!” – this is the most common greeting you will hear in Kenya. It is an all-inclusive greeting meaning: “Hello how are you?”
“Asante” / “Asante Sana” – this means thank you / thank you very much.
“Karibu” / “Karibu Sana”– this means you’re welcome/ You’re very welcome.
“Pole Pole” – You’ll probably hear this being said a lot! It quite literally translates to ‘slowly slowly’, everything in Kenya is “pole pole” – better get used to it before your trip!
#6. Carnivore – Restaurant in Nairobi
If you are a vegetarian this is not the place for you. If you haven’t guessed from its self-explanatory name, Carnivore is a meat-based restaurant which provides its clients with an unforgettable dining experience. From the time you walk in, to the time you leave you will have an absolute blast. Waiters freely walk by with meat spits and carve various types of meats onto your plate. To find out more about my experience soon!
Lessons from Kenya
There are so many lessons we have yet to learn awaiting us on the other end of that flight. When you travel, you broaden the mind. When you broaden the mind, you see in all colors, shapes, sizes, and religions. Travel will change you and always for the better – believe me.
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