When I boarded my flight to Nairobi, I knew I was going to visit a dear friend. What I didn’t know was that I was about to fall in love – with a city, a spirit, and a vibe that left me speechless.
My friend Edith – whom we’ve all come to lovingly call ‘Grace’ – welcomed me with her signature warmth and light and sweet miss Koumba (Baye). She, her beautiful boys, and the wonderful ladies who surrounded her became my Nairobi family for a short but unforgettable time.
From the moment I landed, the air felt different. Crisp, cool, alive. It was 11 degrees when I arrived – a refreshing contrast to the desert heat I’m used to in the Middle East. But it wasn’t just the weather. It was the city’s soul.
Nairobi is more than a capital. It’s a celebration of life.
The streets buzz with energy, the people are kind and full of life, and the culture is deep, colorful, and welcoming. The food, the music (Amapiano), the laughter – it all felt so familiar, yet so new.
But one moment etched itself into my heart forever.
At the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, I had what I can only describe as a divine encounter. A group of little ones were visiting, and with a warm smile I asked if we could take a photo together. Their response? Pure joy.
The photo we took together – attached to this post – is one I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. Every time I look at it, my eyes well with tears. Their happiness, their light, their innocence – it was overwhelming.
In that moment, I didn’t feel like a visitor. I felt connected.
To them.
To this city.
To something much greater.
Coming from the Middle East, we often carry assumptions about Africa – narratives shaped by distance and misinformation. But Nairobi shattered all those perceptions. It is vibrant, modern, soulful, and rich in every way that matters.
I can’t recommend visiting Nairobi enough. If you’ve been curious, ladies – ‘go’. Let it surprise you. Let it change you.
A few tips if you’re planning a visit:
- ‘Mosquito protection is a must’. Carry repellents and cover up during evenings.
- ‘Apply for your eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)’ well in advance. It’s required for most nationalities.
- ‘Pack layers’. Nairobi can get quite cool – especially in the mornings and evenings.
- ‘Be open’. Let the city speak to you. Let the people show you who they really are.
To Grace, her boys, the ladies, and the children at the orphanage – thank you. You reminded me of the beauty in human connection. You made Nairobi unforgettable.
If you’ve been to Nairobi – or plan to – share your story. I’d love to hear how it touched your heart too.
With gratitude and awe,
