At the airport: Exceptionally tight security at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, so limiting the rings, bangles, watches and other metal you may wear will save you lots of time and discomfort at the metal detectors. Also carry a pen to complete arrival forms, as there are no pens available.
Transport: Should you arrive in the late afternoon or early morning, allow at least three hours for travel from the airport to a hotel in the CBD, as peak traffic time can be overwhelming. Pre-book a transfer rather than hire a car.
Sleep: The Sarova Stanley, The Serena, Kempinski Hotel and the Hilton are upmarket options ranging from $100 to $1000 a night. Each has its own unique offering alongside the practical, executive amenities. A more affordable option is the Fairview Hotel, which promotes eco-friendly living within the city and has an award-winning restaurant and exceptional wine cellar.
Staying connected: Hotels offer free Wi-Fi and most have cables for speedy internet access. Get a local SIM card and airtime from Airtel and Orange service providers.
Eat: The average cost per meal in a hotel is R250 excluding drinks. Kenya's staple diet is Ugali (maize), but Western cuisine is readily available at the hotels.
Money: You can change rands into Kenyan shillings at the airport - Euros and British pounds are also accepted.
Language: Although Swahili is the most commonly spoken language, English is widely spoken. It is always good to know the basic greeting in Swahili: jambo, and thank you: asante sana.
Sightseeing: Nairobi's people are warm and friendly, all signs are in English and must-sees include the Maasai Market where traders sell curios, fabrics and shoes, while Java Café serves great coffee. Attractions include the Giraffe and Elephant Sanctuary about 45 minutes away - you can feed a giraffe and adopt an orphaned elephant. Also visit the creatives at Ocean Sole who transform recycled flip flops found on beaches into the funkiest animals, beaded curtains and jewellery.
Safety: Pickpockets can be a problem, therefore pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for new security risks. Place copies of your passport, airline ticket, credit card and travellers cheque numbers in your main luggage, so that if you misplace the originals you will have the information for insurance and replacement purposes.
What to pack: Sunscreen, a hat, basic emergency medical aid kit, light cotton clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, rain jacket, insect repellent, sunglasses and a camera.
