February 11, 2014

Today was 100% travel. We took three hops on a 12-seater airplane from Serengeti airstrip to Lake Manyora, to Arusha, to Kilimanjaro. Then we had a three-hour layover before boarding a true jet to Nairobi. Yikes, Nairobi is a big city, overly populated with 4 million people. On our long drive from the airport, made very long because we arrived perfectly at rush hour. The city seemed a contrasting mix of new growth, crumbling buildings, dirt sidewalks and a modern-looking city center. Our driver was wonderful and gave a quick education on Nairobi high points. He even pointed out the ghetto we passed that is home to 800,000 people, I asked if it was unsafe and he said, no, he takes guests for tours through the ghetto quite often. We were not interested.

Finally we arrived at the Palacino. Ok! I think this is the most fabulous hotel we have ever enjoyed. Our driver checked-in for us while we relaxed on fluffy sofas. We were promised a jug of freshly brewed coffee at wake-up in the morning and then we reached our suite. Stunning!! Our door opened to a beautiful staired entry-way, a spacious sitting room and dining area, separate, fully-equipped gourmet kitchen, bedroom with its own sitting room, huge walk-in closet/dressing room and a bath fit for royalty. And, phooey, wouldn't you know it, we must leave at 8 am tomorrow morning. No time to truly enjoy it.