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General Information |
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| Capital : |
Nairobi |
| Government : |
Republic |
| Currency : |
Kenyan shilling (KES) |
| Area : |
total: 582,650 km2
water: 13,400 km2
land: 569,250 km2 |
| Population : |
34,707,817 (July 2006 est.) |
| Language : |
English (official), Kiswahili (official), approx. 72 indigenous languages |
| Religion : |
Protestant 45%, Roman Catholic 33%, indigenous beliefs 10%, Muslim 10%, other 2% |
| Electricity : |
240V/50Hz (UK plug) |
| Calling Code : |
+254 |
| Internet TLD : |
.ke |
| Time Zone : |
UTC+3 |
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Kenya |
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| Kenya is a country in Eastern Africa. Its Indian Ocean coast lies between Somalia to the north east and Tanzania to the south. Its other surrounding countries are Ethiopia and Sudan to the north and Uganda to the west. |
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Buy |
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Kenya is famous for many handicrafts, which are often the 'signature' of a particular tribe or region. Look for Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Maasai jewelry, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks. The largest selection of handicrafts can probably be found at the Maasai Market in downtown Nairobi on Tuesdays, although expect plenty of hassling and hard bargaining.If one does not wish to go to the downtown Maasai market there is always the Village Market in Gigiri (Close to Unep Headquarters) where a small number of the vendors go once a week to sell their ware. This is usually at a higher price because Gigiri is a plush suburb so they price their goods accordingly. There is also a fine selection of stores selling craft goods in Mombasa, where the atmosphere is somewhat more relaxed. However the best prices can be found by buying direct from the artisans at their villages out in the countryside. |
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See |
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Kenya has some of the world's best parks (which may be referred to as National Parks or Game Reserves) where you can see some of the finest African flora and fauna. They are famous for Lions, Giraffe, Elephant and huge herds of Zebra, Wildebeest or Buffalo.
The annual Wildebeest migration (from Masaai Mara to the Serengeti) is a awesome sight & best experienced via a balloon safari. Bookings to watch the migration are best done months in advance due to the high demand and limited lodging available in the Mara.
Kenya also is a great destination for beach holidays and has some of the world's most beautiful beaches, located along the coastal regions and the city of Mombasa.
Kenya is also becoming a preferred golf holiday destination, with an abundance of beautiful courses around the major urban areas. |
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Talk |
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| English is the official language, and is spoken in the major cities as well as by those connected to the tourist industry. Outside of the large cities, Kiswahili (otherwise known as Swahili) is the major language, and a few words of this language will go a long way. Tribal languages, such as Maa spoken by the Maasai, are commonplace in more remote areas, however you will usually be able to find a local who can speak at least broken Kiswahili – although in such areas a guide will be indispensable. |
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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. |
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