By Ferdinand Mwongela
The honeymoon destination is a key component of the plans in any wedding. While some would prefer a wilderness experience, there are modern establishments in cities that offer a unique experience.
Just within Nairobi stands a honeymoon destination nestled not far from the Central Business District yet isolated enough for you to feel the calmness that comes with a serene setting. The pool area at Southern Sun Mayfair, which includes a relaxing dining space.
This is the Southern Sun Mayfair. Formerly known as Holiday Inn, the hotel maintains a quality hard to ignore, the design and structure clearly showing that the architects had an English setting in mind, reminiscent of the distinct colonial style common in older hotels.
For many Nairobi residents, few think of a honeymoon spot within the city, and it is not without reason, but foreigners and out of town dwellers will find the place a delight — different strokes for different folks.
Set in the business hub of the region and within reach of several wildlife and cultural heritage attractions, its accessibility is ideal.
The Nairobi National Museum is within two kilometres, the Nairobi National Park within 10km and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport about 20km away. And with the modern shopping malls that Westlands is known for, you have everything within reach.
My favourite will have to be the carefully manicured gardens if you want to laze around. Southern Sun Mayfair is set on 12 acres of ground. You have a choice between the standard rooms and the executive suite, with the Golden Spur Steak ranch and family restaurant complementing the hotel’s Oasis restaurant on the dining segment. A cosy sitting area at the hotel.
After the renaming of the hotel last year in August, a few things have changed; particularly the common areas that were refurbished. However, the place retains its old English colonial feel that always has me comparing it with the Norfolk Hotel, another colonial style hotel in the city.
