One Week in Nairobi

I've spent the last week in Nairobi with the wonderful Krymusa family - Kirsten was my high school English teacher who lives here with her husband Phil and two daughters Mags and Josie. Thanks to their amazing hospitality, I've had a great time getting to know the city while getting my bearings in Kenya (and my parents can sleep at night knowing I'm safe.) And their calm neighbourhood, Gigiri, is a great escape to the craziness in central Nairobi. After a week with them, I feel fully prepared to venture out on my own! Here are some thoughts on Nairobi.

First impressions of Nairobi

Friendliness of passers-by on the street: A+ for enthusiasm to the inhabitants of Gigiri! A simple smile is often met with "hello, fine thank you, how are you!!"

Public transportation: the matatus are always a treat. I can risk my life for a mere 50 cents just getting into town, whereas most extreme activities like bungy jumping or sky diving can cost hundreds of dollars for just one go. Their decor is very impressive, what with their sparkly stickers and tassled curtains. And who can miss those names, like Hustler and Beyonce, for example. Rumour has it even Celine Dion is circling the streets of Nairobi.

Average speed of pedestrians of central Nairobi: glacial.

Security: For the most part I feel pretty safe, especially in Gigiri. Most security guards here are heavily armed, and there is a gate every few meters to keep out unwanted traffic. Although, they seem to open for almost everyone, and I do

wonder how effective they are when the guard keeps it open to leave his post, take a nap, or my personal favourite, sit in the booth and stroke his cat.

There's much more to tell about Nairobi, but I have a bus to catch to Rusinga Island! I'm heading to Lake Victoria for a few weeks to work with the Friends of Rusinga Orphans and Widows Group. (www.friendsofrusinga.org) I'm

very much looking forward to a taste of rural Kenya!