Understand

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Although one of Africa's more powerful economies, Kenya is still a developing country, and so certain aspects of the country's society and infrastructure may come as a shock to some visitors from developed countries who are unfamiliar with the poverty and poor quality of life experienced by many Kenyans. HIV AIDS has recently caused some major sociological upheaval, and orphans to the disease can be found all across the country.

Although made up of many diverse ethnic groups and tribes, Kenyans have strong sense of national pride which may be due in part to unity in the struggle for Uhuru (Kiswahili: "freedom") – independence from British colonial rule, achieved in 1963. Most Kenyans seem optimistic about the country's future. Kenyans understandably pursue the business opportunities offered by tourism with a zeal that may be offputting to some visitors, but are usually open, talkative and friendly once business matters have been settled.

Although foreign visitors are now a common sight in many parts of the country, there still exist vast areas off the beaten track where a white face will attract cries of "Mzungu! Mzungu!" (Kiswahili: "white person") from local children. Visitors to these areas should think especially carefully about the long term effects of their visit on the local community, and should for example avoid giving out sweets or money without restraint – merely playing with children, or talking to and helping villagers will yield far better results than merely giving out handouts.

Hominid fossils of significant scientific interest have found in the Rift Valley area, and it is often believed that this area of Africa is where the human species originated from.

Magical Kenya is the official travel and tourism guide of the Kenya Tourism Board. Kenya Wildlife Service manages the National Parks.

Eat

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Nairobi has some of the finest eating establishments in Africa. Many different cuisines and types of restaurants are available, from fast food to fancy. Many five star hotels have attached fine restaurants, which are expensive but worth it. Many restaurants can be found downtown, and in the areas of Westlands and Hurlingham. Amongst the many cuisines available are Brazilian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, German and French restaurants. Fast Food restaurants, mostly by South African Chains (Steers, Nandos) are common in the larger urban areas.

The Carnivore A meal here is a must.

Mandhari (Nairobi Serena in Uhuru Park) is a 5-star restaurant

Haandi (The Mall in Westlands) - Indian

Trattoria (CBD)- Italian

Medittarraneo(at the Junction Mall on Ngong Road)-Italian

Pampas Churrascaria(In Panari Center on Mombasa Road)-Brazilian

Alan Bobbe's Bistro(On Riverside Road)-French

Slims(Lenana Rd)- American Bar/Grill/Steakhouse(excellent steaks)

'"Furusato'" (Westlands) -- Perhaps the best sushi in Africa

'"Tamambo'" (The Mall in Westalnds) -- very good international cuisine

'"Siam Thai'" (Unga House Westlands) -- top notch Thai cuisine

'"Kudeta'" (Bogani Road, Langata) -- The best ribs in Nairobi and some of the best seafood too -- nb may be closed and road can be dangerous due to carjacking

Porini (Mombasa) - Seychellois

K'osewe's (Nairobi Central Business District) - Serves many traditional Kenyan meals

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