By:David Kiarie

Are your planning your nest holiday to Kenya? Then here what you need to know

INSURANCE

You are strongly advised to take out travel and medical insurance in your country of origin. However, most travel agents can arrange medical and personal insurance if required.

Within Kenya, I recommend joining the Flying Doctor’s Society which, for a small membership fee, will provide an airlift free of charge from anywhere within Kenya accessible by air to Nairobi

HEALTH

Malaria is endemic to certain areas of East Africa and all visitors should begin taking their anti-malaria prophylactics two weeks before arriving, throughout their stay and for a minimum of three weeks after leaving. Pharmaceutical facilities are adequate in the big City centers. There are chemists (drug stores) in all major urban areas but any visitors requiring special and continuing medication should bring sufficient quantities. The equatorial sun is deceptive and can inflict severe burns even on overcast days. Good sun cream and lip balms, with a high degree of sun protection factor, are strongly recommended. Piped water supplies are generally safe in municipal areas but local advice should be taken particularly on safari. Bottled mineral water, both local and imported, can be purchased in hotels, sundry shops and other tourist kiosks. Filtered and safe drinking water is often provided (in thermos flasks) in hotels or lodge rooms, but it is advisable not to drink water from the taps, rivers or lakes. Do not bathe in rivers and lakes.

SECURITY

Security is really a matter of common sense, and the same precautions should be taken in our towns and cities as in any city worldwide. It is advisable not to wear jewellery (especially necklaces and expensive watches), do not carry large sums of money, and keep a close watch on handbags, wallets and camera equipment. When walking in town keep to the main thoroughfares and avoid walking at night, especially alone. Make use of hotel safe or deposit boxes and never leave valuables in hotel rooms or safari vehicles. It is a good policy to travel with photocopies of your passport, traveler’s cheques, and any other important documents.

IMMIGRATION

All visitors must be in possession of a valid passport. Visa requirements vary from time to time and are dependent on the nationality of the visitor. Valid passports and visas for everyone, with the exception of citizens of most Commonwealth and certain other countries with which East Africa has reciprocal waiver arrangements. Since it is essential that no visitor arrive without the correct documentation, visitors are strongly recommended to check the latest requirements either from Airline offices or through the nearest Tourist Office, Embassy or High Commission. Visitors with the proper documentation and holding onward return tickets may obtain “Visitor Passes” (normally valid for three months) on arrival at any Kenyan Port of Entry free of charge. Visitors who arrive without an onward ticket maybe asked to purchase one before obtaining a visitors pass. Visitors are not allowed to take up work or residence in Kenya without the authority of the Principal Immigration Office.

CUSTOMS

All reasonable volume of personal effects can be reasonably import together with cameras and any amount of film. Unused personal effects, unexposed film, cameras and accessories (except cine and slide projectors may be temporarily imported free of duty. A visitor wishing to bring home video equipment in the form of cameras and cassettes should consult the nearest Consulate or High Commission as a Customs Bond is normally required for the period such equipment is in the country. Refundable deposits may be required for the temporary import of radios, tape recorders and similar equipment including musical instruments.

DUTY FREE

Visitors are restricted to duty free items of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars and one litre bottle of spirits.

MONEY

Travelers’ cheques and major credit cards are generally accepted in Kenya but the latter not all over other regional countries where you would be advised to carry travelers’ cheques and cash. Only authorized dealers and banks are allowed to change currency. There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be imported. It is strongly recommended that visitors carry little cash and as much money as they wish in freely convertible travelers cheques. It is advisable for visitors to use up or convert back any local currency before leaving, as it will be difficult to change once overseas.

Please note it is an offence to destroy local currency or to deface the currency in any way.

DRIVING

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and many of the road signs will be familiar to European drivers. Major cities are connected by roads, which for the most part are well metalled with long straight stretches. Self-hire is arranged locally but not recommended, you will need an International Driving Licence. A maximum speed limit is 100 kph.

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Safari wear should be comfortable and casual. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly so warm sweaters are recommended. Low heeled comfortable shoes are best, and suitable walking shoes should you intend joining any walking safaris.

A hat, sunglasses, flashlight and binoculars are useful accessories. Most hotels, lodges and camps have swimming pools so you are advised to bring swimsuits. Some specialist safaris, i.e. mountain climbing, require extra items of clothing and footwear – details would be provided on booking. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.

Laundry is possible on some safaris but not all. Although many places offer `same day’ service, in practice this is not always reliable. We recommend you `save’ your laundry until in a city or at the coast•

PHOTOGRAPHY

Its recommend that you bring your equipment, extra batteries and all your film with you although all normal types of film can usually be bought in major towns. A telephoto lens is essential for good game pictures. Most lodges and hotels have facilities for recharging batteries for video and digital cameras.

Please respect the local people and only photograph them with their permission. Please be strongly advised never to attempt to take photos of border posts, airports, persons in uniform and military installations where photography is strictly prohibited.

ELECTRICITY

Voltage in East Africa is 220 – 240 AC. An adapter will be necessary for appliances, which operate on 110 – 120 AC.

RESTAURANTS

The major cities have restaurants offering International Cuisine, in Nairobi there are two excellent Italian and a number of Indian Restaurants. Traditional African food focuses on fish dishes.

TIPPING:

It is customary to give a tip of about 1 USD for 2 cases to your porter in the hotel. Waiters in restaurants can be tipped about 10% of the meal cost, if service has been good. Safari driver guides should be tipped at the end of the safari, at about USD 3 – 5 per day.

PUBLICK HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Day – January 1st

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Labour Day/May Day – May 1st

Madaraka Day – June 1st

Moi Day – October 10th

Kenyatta Day – October 20th

Eid ul Fitr – end of Ramadan, depending on the sighting of the Moon

Independence Day/Jamuhuri Day – December 12th

Christmas Day December – 25th

Boxing Day December – 26th

(Should a holiday

BANKING HOURS

Mon. – Fri: 0900 – 1400 hours

Sat: Some Banks 0900 – 1100 hours

On first/last Saturdays each month

NB: Banks & International Airports operate a 24 hour service

David Kiarie
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/trave-tips-kenya-114434.html

Shirts
Tennis Shoes
Toothbrush
 Shampoo
Shorts
Flats
Toothpaste
Pants
Flip Flops
 Toothbrush
Underwear
Comb
Bras
Sandals
Hair Stuff
Pajamas
Socks
Deodorant
Hair Brush
Makeup
Face Wash
Body Spray
Body Lotion
Razors
Nail Polish
Feminine Items
Jewelry
Nail Clippers

Books
Sunglasses
Cameras
Cameras Batteries/charger
Note Pad/Pens
Sharpie Markers
Umbrella
Cash
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Lip Gloss/balm
Maps/Directions
Blanket
Pillows
Beach Bag
Bed Toys/Animals
Camera Bag
 Cell Phone
iPod
Headphones
Wall Cell Charger
Beach Towels
Bathing Suits
Goggles

anything else to add? please and thank you =]

Errm perfume? but it seems as you have got everything you will need there! have a great holiday.

Last night when I got home, I opened my garage door and my little cocker spaniel came shooting out of the open door. My daughter was in the garage vacuuming out her car and let the dog out to be with her, otherwise my dog would have been in the house. There was a big stray male Boxer in the street, saw my dog and attacked her. I ran and was finally able to get my dog away. My arms got pretty scratched and my face a little. Luckily my dog wasn’t hurt just really scared. In all the panic, I locked my car and ran inside to make sure the blood was from me and not my dog. Of course I’ve never seen the boxer before and no one I have asked has either.
This morning I went out to my car to get a book I had left there, and everything from the center console was spread all over the back seat and the back door was barely open. It took me a few seconds to figure out what had happened. Someone had obviously broken into my car. They found the cord to my sons navigational device and probably started looking under the seats to see if they could find it. He always brings it in the house, I noticed that my sunglasses were gone, they were cheap anyway, they hadn’t broken windows or anything so I didn’t call the police.
Then tonight my husband and I were going to go grocery shopping. I went to the closest to get my purse and it wasn’t there. In all the confusion with my dog I had left my purse in the car. I have never done that. My husband is disabled and can’t work, I had just cashed my paycheck, every cent I have I guess had was in my wallet. Along with 3 credit cards, my drivers license etc, etc. The thief’s wouldn’t have been able to see my purse, because I always push my purse under my seat. I think they were looking for the navigational device and found my purse. I know I had locked my car because I had to unlock it to get the book out, they had jimmied the back door.
I called the police and filed a report. Later found out that two locked cars in the next circle were broken into last night as well. We had a neighbor call us and tell us that last week someone broke into her car stole her stereo and then used her garage door opener and came in her home and stole a bunch of stuff, while they were sleeping just down the hall. She said that they have a really good idea who the kids are that are doing this, and gave me their names. I called the police back, four different officers had investigated each break in and they hadn’t linked the four together. I told the officer that we have some names and would like him to check out the possibility that these boys did this. He said it was "hearsay" and he had no probable cause to check it out. What? Four robberies isn’t probable cause? I informed the officer that my husband was going to comfort these boy and their parents tomorrow. He said that if my husband did he would be arrested for harassment.
What can I do? I did cancel the credit cards Do we have any rights at all? I really need some advice.
No chance of my husband raising his voice. His vocal cords are paralyzed making it difficult to speak and breathe. He doesn’t have a temper, but he is big and may look intimidating. I know he would more inquire than accuse.
This has made us both physically sick, I’ve been throwing up with a migraine and my husband is struggling harder than normal to breathe. It’s 3:30 am I can’t stop shaking.
Thanks! All your advice was helpful. I spoke to the police sergeant this morning. She went to their home. She describes them as “very shady characters”. They did a small search but found nothing, yet. The father told the sergeant that if anything was in his home he would be turning the boys in himself. She informed them that because of the “evidence” they have against them that their names are now on the police data bank & more patrolling will take place. She is confident that they are in on some, if not all of the resent break-ins, & confident that they will be able to catch them in the act or find proof. My husband made up a 100 flyers this morning; with information from the states website showing the thefts in our area. Many made additional copies & passed out more, the neighborhood is now aware & helping the police. I hope this will save others from the same fate. It’s not totally solved but, I feel somewhat vindicated. We were able to close all accounts, I think we are okay.

Makes you wonder what ever happened to "protect and serve" doesn’t it? Call back during the day shift and ask to speak to the chief of police. Explain what you have told us here and ask him to look into the way you were treated by whoever took your original call. That is uncalled for.

If the chief takes no action, next try the city council or whoever is over the police department.

You probably will never see your cash again though, and for that I’m sorry.

need to know what is the best kind to buy so for as for comfort. I am hour glassed shaped. Hard to know what size to buy on the internet.

There really is no best size for chaps. If you get chaps cure it using an ointment and next time use chamois butter for long lasting comfort.

Well I’ve always had a problem with my eyes (sensitivity, nearsightedness, etc.) and they are sensitive to the sunlight when I’m driving, especially with my contacts in for some reason. So is it alright to wear sunglasses while my contacts are in?

of course! its totally safe!

Which one…..

icecream or cake
dog or cat
white chocolate or dark
coke or water
salt or sugar
long hair or short
pants or shorts
sunglasses or hat
tennis shoes or flip flops
inside or out
hot or cold temperature
phone or computer
house or home
math or science
horse or cow
friend or foe
deal or no deal
summer or winter
happy or sad
white or black

Thanks for answering!

Carvel Icecream Cake.

My amazing Russian Blue, Thunder Cloud.

I don’t like chocolate.

Aquafina Grape flavored water.

Hmmm, the lesser of two evils…sugar.

Long black hair on me, hair no longer than shoulders on a guy.

Capris.

Oversized sunglasses.

Hmmm…both. Heels too.

Outdoors!!!

Hot if I’m outside, cold inside.

Computer.

Home, lovely home.

Give me English, please!

Horseback riding all summer long.

Me, myself and I.

Can’t grasp that concept; never seen the show.

SUMMER.

Happy and friendly feels better.

Nope, I’m a gray area person.

Ok, so last night I had a dream that I was standing in a room with a dog named mom, and he was telling me to kill everything in the world of man and god. I then agreed and started by shooting him and ripping him apart. then making his intestines into a necklace
I then dreamed that I went to Europe and met Mecha-Hitler, a robotic reincarnation of the famous man. With his lazer cannon and the magical secrets to immortality that he taught me, we burned France to the ground, and ate baguettes atop the Eiffel tower as Paris was alight with fire, and the screams could be heard, even up there.
But then I turned into Stalin, and Hitler betrayed me, but I sent mother russia in and tied each of Mecha-Hitler’s arms and legs to a motorcycle and we ripped him apart.
Then I kicked Superman in the nuts, put on some sunglasses, and blew up the world.
What does it mean?

Thanks for the laugh. It means you are bored.

how do i get the motorcycle out of the glass room?

When you get out of the elevator just turn left and out onto the roof, then pull out your guns and face the gated area on your right, then press Triangle, or Y or w/e system you have, and the gates will blow up… Then climb the pole and get to the top of THAT roof, then use the grapple to pull the glass sunroof and jump into the building, then get on the bike downstairs, and follow the path…

Ok, so i got caught shoplifting at a pretty high end store. The police officers booked me, charged me (misdemeanor), and gave me a date to appear at a juvenile court since Im a minor. This is my first offense, so i want to look respectable and remorseful. What should i wear?
-I have a black Hugo Boss suit that cost $900 which i can wear with some very nice shoes and shirt/ tie. Is it too formal, I’m not being charged for murder or anything…
-I also have a very nice cashmere sweater that can be paired with khakis or denim, but is that too casual?
- or i could wear my usual shorts, plain black t shirt, and rainbow sandals with sunglasses, is that permissible?
- also jeans/ khakis and a polo with a golf jacket is another option.

From personal experience I’d recommend something business like or dressy. No jeans, wear heels or dressy flats, no tees, no piercings or anything. I’d cover tattoos and pull your hair back away from your face. Make it seem like it was a one time thing. So that way, maybe she could assume you were pressured into stealing or something. Because after all, she’ll probably never see you again after that day if you don’t repeat your offense. I’d really play it up…nice button down shirt, with a blazer, but no jeans, and no shorts, and no sandals. Oh and keep your jewelry simple.

are these worth getting? i usually fish from the bank…with occasional trips on the boat. what do polarized glasses actually do?

Yes Polarized sunglasses do work, I wear them every time I go bass fishing so I can see the underwater structure and fish.

During the spring spawning time you can see bass and other fish on their beds under the water and watch them guard their nests.

Example: when I’m working a spinnerbait and I see some wood under the water I’m able to pick that piece of wood apart. If I didn’t have the glasses I would never had seen the wood. Polarized glasses are part of a anglers arsenal.

Without Polarized sunglasses your eyes see in a cross pattern vertical and horizontal lines and with Polarized sunglasses it gets rid of one of the two line patterns, I’m not exactly sure which one. Polarized glasses also will keep the glare down which will help you see into the water better.

tight lines
John