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Mobassa, Kenya Adventure

Like many people, I wondered what it was like to visit the beautiful county of Africa.  Fortunately, I got that opportunity this year during a recent mission trip to Kenya.  Our mission assignment was primarily in Nairobi and Kitale, Kenya, but I was excited when the opportunity to add a couple of beach day in Mombasa was added to the calendar.  Today, I want to share with you all the things to do in this beautiful location.  Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya and if you love beaches and history, this is a place you will truly enjoy.  The city borders the Indian Ocean and has a collection of award-winning beaches, with Dania Beach being the most notable.

Most people traveling to Mombasa will travel from Nairobi by air.  There are charter flights that leave every couple hour and the per person price round trip range from $75 to $150.  If driving is your thing and you want to explore the countryside as you travel, then you can travel by car within 8 hours and by train it will take about 5 hours.  I chose to travel by air which took all of 45 minutes, it was quick, and the airport was easy and very manageable.  The downside to the airport was the limited options for restaurants and shopping.

After meeting our driver outside of baggage claim, we headed to our hotel an all-inclusive resort about 20 minutes away from the airport called The Voyager.  Upon arriving at the Voyager, we were greeted by our check-in host, offer drinks and the opportunity to relax while our check in paperwork and keys were gathered.  This property was so beautiful.  The staff was extremely friendly and timely in fulfilling request of the guest.  Our room was an ocean-front room balcony and very roomy for two people.  Having an all-inclusive package meant food and drinks were included and for this property, I was not disappointed in either.  The drink menu had specialty drinks that changed each day to give a variety and while the dining room was buffet style, the options and station created a wide range that I was able to experience something different each day if desired.

Additional things to note when staying in Mombasa.

1. When traveling to the market for shopping, be sure to convert money beforehand.  This can be done at the airport, your resort and even the ATM.  When shopping, keep your money in several different compartment so you are not displaying large amount of cash at one time.  A guide to assist with communication can be helpful.

2. Work with your travel agent to book tours before arriving at the tour site. This will give you the opportunity to maybe customize a tour to your specific interest vs. taking tours with guides soliciting business outside the various popular tour destinations.  Research is key to determining the tour right for you and the time you must spend in the location.

Overall, while my time in Mombasa was short, it was relaxing.  Five to Seven day is suggested to explore all this city has to offer.  Looking to check out this beautiful country, let me know I am here to help.

Tracy D. Shorter

Shorter Route Travel

P.O. Box 994

Birmingham, Alabama 35201

205-329-4117

tracy@shorterroutetravel.net