Published on 30 April 2014

Mombasa Hotel DealsPlanning a vacation or holiday to Mombasa means that you’re going to want to enjoy your time … the entire time. There are some things that you should consider when planning this Mombasa holiday, though, and the three main things are listed below.

1. Know what’s available to do before you arrive in Mombasa. In Mombasa, there are so many things that you can do that it might be overwhelming to try and decide once you get here. You might be pulled in a hundred different directions, so it’s best to have some idea about what you want to do, or what you’d be interested in, before arriving here.

How can you figure out what you’ll want to do until you’ve been here?

Go online and read about all of the various activities available throughout Mombasa. There are numerous sites that offer a list of things to do at any travel destination.

  • Do you enjoy scuba diving?
  • How about snorkeling?
  • If you’re into night life, you might have a preference for a certain type of club.
  • Maybe you’d rather hang out by the hotel pool.
  • Perhaps a safari would interest you.
  • Or instead of that, you may be interested in the rich and colorful history that Mombasa has to offer.

No matter how long you’ll be staying in Mombasa, there’s something for everyone.

2. Plan your hotel stay properly. Just because a hotel fits your budget, you should still make sure they offer the amenities that will make your stay enjoyable. Look or things like:

  • Internet access
  • Onsite spa
  • Room service

Not all hotels offer the amenities, so choose the right one for you.

3. Transportation. There are plenty of transportation options when you’re in Mombasa, but finding your way around could be tricky. It’s best to rely on the taxi services here. If you don’t know anything about finding the right kind of taxi service, contact the hotel where you’ll be staying and they will be able to assist you.

You can also contact Find Mombasa Hotels to learn more about great opportunities for Mombasa holidays and to make your next trip one to remember.

Published on 27 March 2014

Beach Shisha4Mombasa is an island off the coast of the Indian Ocean and is Kenya’s second largest city. It is connected to the mainland by bridges built over two creeks that separate it from the mainland of Africa. It is such a popular destination that is has both a port and an international airport to serve travelers.

The climate of Mombasa is typically hot and humid like most tropical areas. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. The North Coast of the island has a reputation for non-stop day and night entertainment in the form of nightlife, clubs, pubs, bars, discos, restaurants, and activities for families and water-sports aficionados. Adventure lovers can have their fill of mountain biking, hiking, and trekking through the parks and forests in the area.

Fort Jesus is one of Mombasa’s top cultural attractions. It is a high-walled old fort and museum that can be visited during the day. The narrow streets surrounding it are lined with coffee shops, local artisans selling wares, and other hole in the wall type places to soak up local culture.

For those more interested in the beaches, Bamburi Beach is the top tourist spot in Mombasa. Whether you simply relax in the sun or take a swim in the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean, beauty surrounds you. This beach has a tendency to become crowded so if you want a more secluded destination, take a trip to the South Coast. Diani Beach has all the beauty of Bamburi but far fewer people.

There are nearly endless types of accommodation to choose from in the area. You can rent self-service apartments, stand alone bungalows, private villas, five star hotel rooms, and even budget accommodations. Whatever is best for your budget and your needs, you will have no trouble finding them.

Mombasa is rich with wildlife as well. There are several nature trails and reserves you can spend your days wandering through. You’re likely to spot giraffe, ostrich, antelope, and a huge variety of birds. There is also a marine park for those interested in the various sea life in the area.

Mombasa is well known as a culinary destination. The wide variety of cultures that meet in the area have made a huge impact on the local cuisine. It is a seafood lover’s paradise and most of what you eat from the sea will have been caught just hours (sometimes even minutes) before. You can also sample dishes made from exotic game, as this is included in many Swahili delicacies.

There is no shortage of things to do and enjoy in Mombasa. If you’re planning an African holiday, call Find Mombasa Hotels. We’ll help you plan the perfect getaway.

Published on 03 March 2014

Beach Shisha4White sand beaches as far as the eye can see, clear turquoise Indian Ocean water, and gentle breezes ruffling the fronds of a hundred coconut palms make Mombasa the perfect getaway. Whether you want to experience a world-class resort or stick to budget accommodations, Mombasa Island offers something for everyone no matter what your budget.

Once you’re done lounging on the beach, you can experience the rich cultural treats Mombasa has to offer. A visit to the 16th Century Old Town at Fort Jesus will take you back to the Portuguese era in Kenya. The Gedi Ruins situated in the same vicinity are worth a visit to get a glimpse of East African trading routes during the Middle Ages.

The caves of Shimoni (a nearby fishing village) showcase the colonial British Era. The village is near the Tanzania border and is worth visiting for the architecture and tours of the slave caves. You can also spend the evening on a sunset dhow cruise, which departs from the caves.

If you’re interested in Carnival, make your Mombasa escape in November. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively for most of the month. You’ll see beautifully decorated floats in a variety of parades that take place during this time. Carnival is a wonderful way to experience different ethnic groups and nationalities as they all come together to celebrate this holiday.

The main parades converge on Moi Avenue and are a blend of music, dance, amazing costumes, and creative art. Stalls selling local cuisines and handicrafts are set up all along the parade route. This is a big event that is famous throughout the world.

For those interested in local art and crafts, the Bombolulu workshop is a must see. The workshop is run by the Association for the Physically Disabled and features handmade textiles, weaves, wood-carving and traditional bead-work. Visitors can buy souvenirs and support the association.

For food aficionados, Mombasa’s many local markets hold a treasure trove of exotic tastes. The City Market in Mombasa gives you a glimpse of the local produce, shopping habits and daily life of the locals. Take a trip to the picturesque Floating Market in the oceanfront, which stocks traditional goods and fresh produce. The Nakumatt Nyali center is for a more sophisticated experience of restaurants, boutiques, and malls.

When you want someone else to do the cooking, you will have plenty of fine restaurants from which to choose. Fresh-caught local seafood, tropical fruits and local vegetables are abundant. Apart from the local Swahili delicacies and game-meats, a variety of international cuisines like Japanese, TexMex, Indian, and European are available. South African wines, Kenyan coffee, and delicious fresh coconut water and milk are great thirst-quenchers.

Published on 26 February 2014

The Famous Mombasa Tusks

Mombasa was and still is an important port. By the 15th century, trade routes had been established with China, Persia, and India. Mombasa is the largest port on the coast of East Africa. It serves the countries of Rwanda Burundi, Uganda, Eastern Zaire, and Kenya. The population is fairly diverse but still consists mostly of those of African descent.

Mombasa has dealt with its share of foreign invaders over the years. Many have tried to lay claim to the city including the Portuguese, Omanis, and British forces. The British ruled Mombasa for a time starting in the late 19th century. They leased part of the coast to the Sultan of Zanzibar and it belonged to Zanzibar until Mombasa ceded to Kenya in 1963.

In 1901, the British completed a railway connecting Uganda and Mombasa, which solidified the importance of the city as a vital African port. Mombasa remains one of Africa’s main links to the rest of the world. The city (built on an island) is surrounded by a natural harbor. Its natural beauty draws tourists from around the world.

One of Mombasa’s most significant historical attractions is Fort Jesus. It is built at the entrance to the harbor. It was built in 1593 by the Portuguese to defend against local enemies and incoming warships. One can tour the remains of the fort and a small museum houses a variety of relics from the time period. In the northwestern corner of the fort you will find the Omani House which provides tourists a view of Swahili life as well as gorgeous views of Old Town.

Even though the history dates back centuries, most of the buildings and houses in Old Town are no more than 100 years old. They were modeled after ancient Swahili architecture to keep the city close to its historical roots. You will see intricately carved doors and frames showing off the creativity of the Swahili culture. You will see Muslim influence in the balcony construction, particularly in the intricate latticework. This is a beautiful area of Mombasa that every tourist should visit.

The center of Mombasa is more modern in design. The heart of the city is at the intersection of four major roads. Each of these is lined with shops, stalls, and local artists. Here is where you will find the city’s most famous landmark: the crossed tusks. These were erected into a ceremonial arch to commemorate Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953.

To experience the culture of the city, both the Modern city center and Old Town are perfect places to explore. You can use a Tuk Tuk to drive around looking at the sights or take it slower by walking through both areas and talking with the locals.

Published on 23 February 2014

Continental Resort HotelThe Mombasa Continental Hotel is located on the Shanzu beachfront along the north coast of the Indian Ocean. It is roughly eighteen kilometers north of Mombasa Island and about twenty-eight kilometers from the airport.

Each suite has a private balcony with an ocean view. The hotel offers 24 hour room service with butler service upon request. They also have amenities like a mini bar, air conditioning, an in-room safe, telephone, high speed Internet, and en-suite bath/shower. The suites are spacious so you can spread out and feel right at home. There is also a presidential suite available with a private lounge and big screen plasma TV.

The resort also caters to weddings. The set up can be casual or elaborate, whatever your taste happens to be. The experienced wedding and group management staff at Mombasa Continental Resort Hotel promises your wedding will be perfect. The wedding reception staff can make receptions, or any wedding event, large or small, so your dreams will come true.

The Continental Resort is a bit out of the way but that is what makes it special. It occupies 8.3 acres and is far enough from the city to be totally peaceful, yet close enough to be convenient. It is an excellent place to stay.

Call Find Mombasa Hotels today to plan and book your holiday. Not only will we help you plan an unforgettable stay at the Continental, we also offer deals on car rentals, flights, and safari packages. We work with all Mombasa hotels and offer great prices for any stay. Thanks to this huge selection of hotels, you will be able to choose which one best suits your needs and desires to make your vacation absolutely perfect.

Many of the hotels and resorts in Mombasa are all-inclusive. This means they include all the fun, adventure, and luxury that families want most. A beach holiday in Mombasa will bring your family together and offers something for everyone. When you’re looking for oceanfront accommodations, high quality amenities, and family activities, the Continental Resort has it all.

Published on 18 February 2014

Neptune Beach Resort Christmas OfferFormally called Giriama Beach Hotel, the Milele Beach Hotel is the top non-alcoholic hotel in Mombasa. The hotel is set on 9 acres of tropical gardens that overlook the Indian Ocean. It is designed in traditional Swahili architecture for authenticity.

The hotel is all about comfort and relaxation. The atmosphere is laid back and the staff is friendly without being obtrusive. The hotel is nonsmoking and non-alcohol. It is family and health friendly.
Milele sits roughly twenty minutes (10 km) north of the city. It is within walking distance of Haller Park (Bamburi Nature Trail) and a large shopping mall.

The hotel prides itself on its healthy stance. The goal is to promote high moral values and flow better with nature. The hotel is a wonderful place for a wedding or other special event. They have their own “event team” of highly skilled people who go to great lengths to see your desires satisfied. There are special areas reserved for events like their “secret garden” where ceremonies generally take place.

The hotel offers two swimming pools with nearly endless activities, from water polo to aerobic sessions, pool to table tennis, and much more. There are also many beach activities you can participate in such as darts, beach volleyball, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Or you can simply relax by the pool with a soft drink or fruit juice and take in the sun or a local cultural performance.

Live music and performances take place almost every night. One of the regular groups perform traditional Maasai dances, which are not to be missed. The hotel also has its own restaurant featuring traditional Kenyan as well as international cuisine.

The hotel is also keen to accommodate business travelers. They offer competitive rates for their conference rooms and amenities. Staying at the hotel is not required in order to have your conference hosted there. They are currently the leading destination for many corporate firms including government agencies, NGOs, and religious organizations. It doesn’t matter what you call your conference – a seminar, workshop, brainstorming meeting, or even just a party; the staff will do everything they can to meet the needs of all your attendees.

The facilities are modern. They have five large conference rooms, each equipped with a LCD and overhead projector, DVD player, PA system, cordless microphones, and whiteboards – everything you need to run a successful conference.

Milele is different than many of the other hotels in Mombasa and could be just what you’re looking for. If you have any questions about the hotel or with planning your trip, visit Find Mombasa Hotels and give us a call at +254 (0) 736 441 397.