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Here is Ashwaq Yasin's Mother's Day narration that won her an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620755942/Mother_s_Day_Delight_Winning_Entry_3_10_05_21_6eaf1bb87e.jpg" alt=""></figure>

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Mother's Delight- The Most Beautiful Woman In The World

It has been a long and unpredictable year, and most of us have been stressed out. My girls and I decided to take a breather, and do a road trip to Nanyuki- Mwisho wa reli as it is commonly referred to. We hit the road on Friday morning at 9am. The early the better, right? With a full tank of fuel, which lasted us the entire trip and more, we were ready to go.Our first stop for brunch was at slightly past Kenol at County 2 county grill. They have very nice Mbuzi choma which goes for Ksh.700 a kilo, and mouthwatering chicken from Ksh.1,000. This took us less that fifteen minutes as we ordered take away, and got back on the road. We were eager to get to our destination. Our next stop was the outskirts of Nanyuki, where we had booked our accommodation, at AJs The Ranch. Accommodation here is quite affordable if you are on a tight budget. The rooms go for betweenKsh.2,000 and Ksh.3,000 a night. The place has clean and spacious rooms, acommon lounge, and from some rooms you can see Mt. Kenya early in the morning. We dropped our bags and headed out to explore the town.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1024px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51a7cbbc175037dad7556_AJs.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>AJs The Ranch</figcaption></figure> The exploration took us past Timau, on your way to Meru, at a place called Kisima. There is a lovely coffee joint at Kisima for the coffee lovers, and a gift shop. We parked by the roadside, and danced to some music. We had carried our drinks with us because what’s a road trip with no drinks and music combo? The place is scenic and we took lots of photos. By the time we got back to the Ranch, it was late but we still had an in house party of sorts with the other patrons, till late.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1024px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51acf97fda256ada0c346_Sun.jpeg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>The sunset was amazing to watch</figcaption></figure>Nobody warned me that the sunrises so early in Nanyuki, and the place is very warm during the day. But, I was lucky to have a view of the peaks of the mountain in the morning. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51cd41522c4eb82ef35e8_Pose.jpeg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Kodak Moments </figcaption></figure>On Saturday, we went to see the ’end of the railway’ or ‘mwisho wa reli’, which is a walking distance from The Ranch. This is where the Thika-Nanyuki railway comes to an end. Legend has it that the map was lost, and hence the rail could not go all the way to Meru. How true that is, we may never know. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51b6e2abf0a192494d4e6_Rail.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Posing at Mwisho wa Reli</figcaption></figure>‍Later we would drive to The Fairmont hotel for lunch, only to find that the place has been closed since COVID-19, as with all Fairmont hotels. We met a welcoming guard who explained that there were plans to reopen this December. He allowed us to drive all the wayto the gate, and turn back.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51bb6a458e37d5fc2379e_Driveway.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>The Fairmont Hotel Driveway</figcaption></figure>After that, we went to Soames, which is a few kilometers from Nanyuki town, as you head to Chaka. There were few patrons here, but more came in as the evening went by. The place is quiet,and very beautiful. They have a varied menu, from food to drinks. We spent sometime here, taking coffee, and cocktails before heading out. Cocktails here go for Ksh.500 upwards. Our last stop on Saturday was Comfort gardens at Ol Pejeta conservancy. We got here, to find the place packed. There was a birthday partygoing down, and we did not stay long. The prices here are a bit high compared to other places we had been to a bottle of regular wine goes for Ksh.2500. They have accommodation, a restaurant and also a swimming pool. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd51c2b26f8613225178c7f_Soames.jpeg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Soames</figcaption></figure>Sunday was spent visiting friends before heading back to reality. Some of our friends had rented an Air B&amp;B near the Trout tree, and we passed by for sightseeing. The accommodation here is also pocket friendly especially if you are a big group of people. The price for the Air B&amp;B, is an estimated Ksh.30,000, especially during this festive season. The prices may vary at other times. They even had a whole mbuzi to roast. All in all, we had fun before heading back home. There are many places where accommodation is affordable, and also many places to visit while in Nanyuki. Am sure I’ll be back soon. It felt nice to be away from the City’s hustle for a moment. If you’re looking for a quick getaway this season, then you should consider Nanyuki.&nbsp;

Tight budget for a road trip? Don’t sweat it, we are on a budget too 

Our Africa Face of the Month Patricia Kihoro embodies female empowerment and is a role model to girls and women of all ages. “I celebrate women who challenge the status-quo- women who have challenged the systems that oppress us by fearlessly living their lives as they see fit, rather than as they have been conditioned or groomed to”So, without further ado, let’s get to know Kenyan Superstar Patricia Kihoro:Fact One: She’s a woman of many talents:Patricia is a singer, actor, and comedian and enjoys each of them equally. But, if she had to pick, it would be singing as she’s done it for the longest.Fact Two: More about her career path:She was going to study psychology but an opportunity to be in a play presented itself and she deferred a semester to participate. That was her first professional performance on stage. &nbsp;&nbsp;Fact Three: Patricia is excited about local TV and Film:<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621269687/2_0c96c0bb7a.png" alt=""><figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Patricia Kihoro on Instagram&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“Kenyans have such talent and such commitment to the industry”. She is excited to see local Kenyan originals on Showmax, such as Crime and Justice.Fact Four: As the host of Yes! Ndio! Beeni! she’s the show’s biggest advocateThe show is full of warmth, love, and beautiful demonstrations of intention and commitment between two people. Watch it Wednesdays at 19:30 CAT on HONEY, DStv channel 173.Fact Five: What’s on her watchlist?Her favourite is Room Reno, which airs on Fridays at 19:30 CAT on HONEY, DStv channel 173. You’ll also find her watching Nigerian Idol, every Sunday at 19:00 CAT on Africa Magic, DStv channel 198, and bingeing all seasons of Insecure on Showmax.Fact Six: As a content creator, she’s motivated by the launch of Showmax Kenya“It’s very motivating and I am inspired towards one day creating and seeing my ideas come to life”Fact Seven: When it comes to her free time<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621269549/1_fdededd069.png" alt=""><figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Patricia Kihoro on Instagram&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“Bingeing is my guilty pleasure and when I have moments to rest, I’m watching entire seasons of shows and movies. I recently watched Why women kill and Knives out- both brilliantly done.” You can watch both on Showmax.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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How Well Do You Know Africa Face of the Month Patricia Kihoro?

Yes, taking a long hot shower after a long day is therapeutic. But have you tried some good food and some relaxing music? This combo gives therapy a whole new meaning. Kenya’s Emmy nominated artist, Sara Mitaru knows this all too well and together with her husband David, have created two amazing products, ASH Music and Ash Kitchen and Grill, from the ground up. We caught up with her and she meticulously prepared a Cheesy Charcuterie board as she shared her inspirational journey, giving us a deeper understanding of what ASH is all about. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-video w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="padding-bottom:56.206088992974244%"><div><iframe allowfullscreen="true" width="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dt1Qsz1UgFY"></iframe></div></figure>&nbsp;“Ash which means Acoustic Songwriters Hub is a space where we combine great music and great food. With the pandemic we have restructured and we are bringing the music and food into people’s homes and backyards,” she starts. “Two years ago, we begun a musical experience for songwriters that grew in to a community. We are now combining that with the food aspect, which is a celebration of creative music and good food. Perfect way to blend the arts,” continues Sara who describes herself as a singer, songwriter and one half of ASH.&nbsp;“We are not trained chefs, we are Google taught, so many times and as expected, we’ve had to work twice as hard to learn and make sure that what we are cooking matches the standard or supersedes it if we can,” she confides. They pick some of the tricks from Google, specifically YouTube, then fuse that with some of their own renditions of these recipes to give it that ASH hospitality. &nbsp;&nbsp;ASH has collaborated with brands and friends who have proven to be quite reliable and helpful in the process. The collaborations have mutually beneficial. “There’s Rosemary of splendid events who makes our set ups look amazing, and Mumbi who runs Kisementi Oak farm, who gives us fresh ingredients. Collaboration has become critical,’’ continues Sara as the Cheesy Charcuterie begins to take shape.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:4032px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fad07c698861c196d1d9cea_IMG_6465-min%20(1).JPG" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;“The Covid-19 Pandemic really hit the entertainment and hospitality industries hard. As ASH, we barely had the food element going before the pandemic but then we had a series of chats with our friend Ciiru of Fun Homes who made us realize that we needed to pivot. She showed us how and since then, people have been supportive of what we do.”&nbsp;On lessons picked along the way, Sara firmly says the process has taught them the importance of changing one’s mindset. Accept the new normal, don’t have an ego, ask for help, always be grateful and give thanks to those who help and pay it forward. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:5977px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fad08c84565340e35781b74_PICNIC-54-min.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>&nbsp;“A typical day at ASH revolves around processing orders, mastering recipes from YouTube videos, testing and tasting.. y’know..just balancing work and family,” says Sara before adding that the idea of dining- in is changing since the pandemic. “People want an experience, we were lucky enough to be in the experience industry. Myself as a Songwriter and my husband David Kimanthi Muthami as a music producer and co-founder of ASH. He’s actually the one behind the great cooking and so we used that combined experience to guide us. We are now setting up in people’s homes and enjoying the intimacy of it all,” she says as she works the final touches on the Charcuterie Board. On ASH’s ultimate game plan, Sara says they hope to give an opportunity for many more creatives to get paid, keep busy and re-create the industry with the new normal.&nbsp; ‍

Cheesy Charcuterie by Sara Mitaru of ASH 

Lately I have been overwhelmed with work and I needed a break to just relax and catch a breath. And while I was working, looking for locations for my previous piece <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/fun-outdoor-date-ideas-in-kisumu-city">Fun outdoor date ideas in Kisumu</a>, I came across a certain nature trail or rather board walk known as the Dunga boardwalk. I initially wanted to add it to my list on the article but unlike the other locations and activities I haven’t been to the board walk and so I opted to try it out first on my own, use it as a getaway from work and take a break.As described on their website, it one can watch birds, snakes, an acre of reeds floating on the lake and at the same time view the lake. I was really elated and really looked forward to visiting the place…. except the snake part. So I freed up some time off this past weekend. I put on my jeans, t-shirt and bata ngomas, my sunglasses ,packed a bottle of water and set out for the hidden gem. Tracing it wasn’t really easy but a few consultations from the bodaboda guys and I was able to locate it.The board walk is located next to Dunga beach on the shores of Lake Victoria, a famous location for buying/eating fish fresh from the lake and going for boat rides. To access the place I had to pay an entry fee of Ksh.100. Once inside, it looked like a maze with different points to stop and view the reeds, a few fish swimming around and spot birds chirping in the background. Also inside, there is a semi-museum, allow me to call it a semi-museum given its size and also the fact that it doesn’t really have much apart from dried fish scales, purpose of the boardwalk, a few images describing the history of luos and some musical instruments. A quick walk through inside the museum then I headed to the main view point. From the main view point, I could see an acre of reeds, floating while swaying and dancing to the whispers of the wind. Finally, the peace I came to search for. A breather very much needed. It’s amazing how no matter each time I get to see the lake I still get amazed by its beauty and calmness. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1024px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f738917bb40246bc5c930a1_Dunga-Board-Walk-2.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>The Dunga Boardwalk aerial view </figcaption></figure>After a few minutes, I continued for a walk around the trail. It looked like a mini bamboo forest, a few locals here and there taking a break also from their daily lives while sipping on their beverages. I managed to find a spot where I could sit and view the lake, soak in the sun, while the birds sang to me. Given that the board walk somehow floats on top of the lake it felt like sitting on a giant swing , being swayed gently by the waves while the breeze brushed through. The perfect way to catch the evening sunset. Everything else was peaceful, a perfect place to chill except for the photographer who kept nagging me for a photo everywhere I went which I found really annoying. I only managed to stay for around 30 minutes, a short period for the peace I was craving but I don’t have any regrets. There is a plan to expand the board walk which I hope they do because it isn’t spacious. Also would I go back given that I like revisiting places be it parks, nature trails etc etc? I’m not really sure, maybe if they expand it. Luckily for me I didn’t get to see any snakes. Apparently they only come out during certain hours of the day. &nbsp;‍

Kisumu’s plan to expand Dunga boardwalk is definitely a great addition

I’ve slept in a lot of tents, from the good old days camping as a girl scout, right up to enjoying a one-day hike turned campout and the occasional weekend glamping in spaces with a king size bed. With it came some hard lessons and experience in terms of knowing what kind of tent is worth investing in. There are so many great options to choose from to ensure that you are cozy when catching some Zs outing the wild. To give you the best advice on this front, we’re combining expertise a from backpack traveler, cyclist and photographer who knows a whole lot about outdoor adventures and what makes an ideal camping tent with our own personal camping experience. We checked in with Malicky Boaz who spends more time than most in a tent often backpacking on solo trips or cycling cross-country. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thatkaguruguy/?hl=en">@thatkaguruguy</a>So whether you’re heading into the wilderness over the weekend or planning to camp in your backyard with the whole family discover some of the best tents equipped with varying levels of quality and reliability to suit your needs.‍Dome/Bow Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886eb7a88ead2da2423bc2_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>This is the most popular type of tents among campers, easily identified by it’s semi-circle structure. Dome tents are designed to have 2 or 3 flexible poles crossing each other at the top to create a wider floor area. Some models have features such as lights, porch area and premium storage although these amenities come with a weight penalty.The 3poled dome tents are much stronger and can be used for a wide range of camping trips. “One can easily set it up and they have spacious headroom. The only disadvantage is that they are not ideal for extreme weather conditions such as high winds or heavy rainfalls.” says Malicky.Backpacking Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:429px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886f1c413e6ed79d35e766_qq.png" loading="lazy"></div></figure>“At the end of along hike, the last thing you need to is pitch a tent. Built with hikers and lazy people in mind, backpacking tents are compact and lightweight. They are easy to carry so in bags or bikes over long distances without spending too much calories.” says Malicky. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>They are easy to set up and contrary to the dome tents, they can withstand harsh weather conditions. The only downside is that they have less headroom making it difficult to move around inside or accommodate more than one person.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886fb25f47e834e9b9ed91_qq.png" loading="lazy"></div></figure>“I think backpacking tents are ideal for hiking campers only” he adds.Cabin Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8870e45a96fe9b97c0cf3d_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:594px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f887142289c0af44213d882_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Cabin tents are a perfect choice for family camping and adds some luxury to the outdoors. They are essentially more stable than most tents because the poles are made up of aluminum and the walls made of waterproof canvas or polyester to create huge space that is square in shape. Some designs have dividers which can create separate rooms if needed.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Malicky says that cabin tents are spacious enough for one to stand while inside or fit in a kingsize bed. Interestingly, they tend to be fairly cheap because they are cheaply made. Unfortunately, most designs are too heavy and quite complicated when pitching.Rooftop Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8871af6138d50965bb9ae4_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Rooftop camping can most certainly be an exciting experience if you’re more of a road-tripping kind of camper. “Stepping away from the traditional tents where you sleep on the ground at muddy, rocky or less-than-ideal campsites, rooftop tents offer you the experience of sleeping while elevated off the ground.” says MalickyThey can be set up anywhere your car can go, only that you have to ensure that your car has roof bars for attaching the tent and is strong enough to handle a tent packed with many campers. Other desirable features are that it easily opens up and folds backdown and it comes with a ladder to help you access the car roof.“The biggest impediments of this tent is that its associated with a higher price tag and heavy bulk. Additionally, the tent can consume a lot of space limiting campers from carrying bikes or a roof box.” he adds.Pop Up Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:873px"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Pop-up tents, as the title suggests, are designed to pop up when opened without much intervention. You then fix it to the ground for stability. Its design is well known among campers for its simplicity, flexibility and ability to accommodate up to two people.Hammock Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:672px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f88727adf255ff2ed2123ab_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>This category &nbsp;is ideal for minimalists or camping in situations where sleeping on the ground is not an option due to wet or rocky uneven surfaces. Hammock tents, as the title suggests, are suspended off the ground with two straps tied to two trees opposite each other. This feature offers better protection from animals and more comfort when sleeping out in the rough wild.Most come with built-in bug nets and a roof to protect you from bugs and the rain. It is very easy to set it up and becomes very small when packed down.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:672px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8872dde0f788f44b625563_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;Happy Camping.‍‍‍‍‍‍

Pitch it perfect; tents for this and that

Magical Kenya- this is the phrase that best describes the destinations and experiences one encounters touring the country. Nothing less of magical. Kenya has too much to offer in terms of sites, experiences and opportunities. We could go on and on but we choose to focus on the double migration of the wildebeest and the whales! Yes! It can’t get more magical than this.. can it?You’ve probably heard and/or even experienced one of the most sought-after experiences for wildlife and nature enthusiasts- Great Wildebeest Migration. It is the largest animal migration in the world. Every year in late July through to August and the early days of September, around 1.5 million wildebeest; 350,000 Thomson’s gazelle; 200,000 zebra; and thousands of other hoofed animals migrate in a clockwise direction across the ecosystems of the Serengeti (Tanzania) and the Masaai Mara (Kenya)in what has come to be termed as the ‘greatest show on Earth’.This migration is characterized by high drama as thousands of animals are taken by predators, and thousands more are born, replenishing the numbers and sustaining the circle of life. And as if that isn’t magical enough, enters the humpback whale migration in Watamu which has been making headlines lately. Every year, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to warmer climates, congregating in Kenyan waters between July and August to calve and mate. After spending two months breeding and nursing their calves, the whales then make their journey back to Antarctica around September covering a cumulative distance of 4,000 kilometres. Since its inception in the country two years ago, the watching of the annual humpback whale migration in Watamu, Kilifi County, has become one of the biggest tourism attractions in the country.The humpback whales have grabbed the attention of Kenyans and overseas visitors, as they are among the most acrobatic of whales, and spend time leaping or ‘breaching’ to communicate,playing, or giving themselves a mini spa to remove unwanted skin parasites.Its timing, coinciding with the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, gives tourists a unique holiday experience this time of year. In mid-August, Tourism CS Najib Balala, together with top government officials, joined tourists to witness the spectacle in Watamu. The CS hailed the experience exciting and a life-time one as he commended the operators and facilitators of the migration for ensuring safety measures for all. Kilifi County Governor, Amason Kingi is also on record saying the humpback whale migration is the perfect opportunity for the county to showcase to the world the diversity it offers in hospitality and tourism. And you will agree with us that this is indeed something you want to add to your bucket list! Remember to carry sunscreen and your camera to capture all the moments. This are not the only places you can visit to have a magical experience in Kenya. We have a whole list of<a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/ideal-picnic-locations-across-kenya"> ideal picnic spots</a> you can visit across Kenya. All this as we brace to experience the Jacaranda Propaganda! Yippeeee! There’s always something magical going down in this country!&nbsp;‍

Double migration of the Wildebeests and Humpback whales

Have you ever tried to plan for a trip but things like work schedules or budget constraints get in the way? Or sometimes you just want a friend to join you on a trip and help you split the costs but your personal calendars just don’t match up.For many of us, the outdoors space seems inaccessible with activities such as hiking, cycling and camping often feeling exclusionary to anyone who isn’t physically fit, a tourist or a travel fanatic. Thankfully, Travel Influencer, Fahad Fuad is working tirelessly to change that impression. Through his travel brand dubbed ‘UnzipTanzania’, Fahad organizes group trips to unique destinations within Tanzania with trips to Kenya and Uganda set to open in the near future.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:506px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fbcdd6c8e375dcc76ebd_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Born and raised in Arusha, Tanzania, Fahad started his career as a model working for an impressive list of brand names such as Vodacom, Airtel, NMB and more. He later decided to invest in a camera which enabled him to earn a living as a freelance photographer for major social events, models and celebrities including Mi Casa, Omarion and Wizkid.Fast forward to today, Fahad is a travel influencer, content creator, wildlife and travel destination photographer. He is also the founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/unziptanzania/">UnzipTanzania</a>, an illustrious travel community which offers tours designed to give travelers a photo-centric experience of mind-blowingly beautiful landscapes across Tanzania.What inspired you to set up UnzipTanzania?As I transitioned from the fashion industry, I fell in love with the process of traveling and taking pictures of my experiences, the landscapes, birds and animals. However, at the time I could not afford to visit 5 star hotels and the likes. And Tanzania was only known for places like Zanzibar, Mount Kilimanjaro and its national parks. So in 2017 I started traveling solo to unknown destination where I would create a lot of travel content and post on social media. Everyone kept asking where those places are thinking that I’m in Switzerland or Norway, only to find out that I was just in Tanzania.In December 2018, I decided to disclose an itinerary for my next trip and I invited guys to join me. 10 people showed up and the community has grown to what is today known as UnzipTanzania. Currently I organize group travels of more than 80 people per trip.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fd09c580f056a66902f3_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>How does UnzipTanzania work?UnzipTanzania is all about opening up Tanzania to the world and creating awareness of how beautiful our country is through unzipping hidden destinations and experiences. For starters, we try to eliminate all the excuses one might have for not traveling. Domestic traveling has always been deemed expensive and time consuming. To counter this, trips are usually scheduled between Fridays and Sundays which is convenient for most people. We also keep it budget friendly since to some extent cost such as fuel are shared among the group. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:603px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fd7992647c1ea2dbe3d7_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Anyplans to expand across East AfricaOh yes. We have set up UnzipKenya and UnzipUganda; however, we have not made any trips yet. Before the year 2020 ends, I plan to explore Kenya to identify some hidden spots. UnzipTanzania seeks to connect the East African borders so that we are not always thinking of traveling to Dubai. For instance, currently, we have close to 30 Kenyans studying or working in Tanzania who frequently join our group trips. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:864px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fded7c6b9114afe8274b_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>It’s crazy to believe that the self-taught photographer’s fame in the travel industry spouted from a single photo taken at the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. What’s so interesting about the photo is that he is shirtless at the Arctic zone where temperatures are estimated to range between -7 and -29 Celsius degrees; which is extremely cold for an average person covered with insulated jackets.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:629px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fe9f2f6460c8968ea6d0_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>The image sent a message that Fahad is an adrenaline driven influencer with a willingness to go anywhere and try anything, which makes for amazing adventures and photo opportunities. It has also inspired many locals to try out domestic tourism. Scrolling through Fahad’s Instagram page is like browsing postcards with backdrops that are so beautiful that they appear unreal. Lately, he prefers to be the one behind the camera rather than in front of it and his images prove that a picture can in fact be worth a thousand words. It’s no surprise that his Instagram community has grown into a community of more than 82K followers. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fahad_fuad/?hl=en">@fahad_fuad</a>What challenges do you face as a travel influencer?At first, it was difficult to convince hotels and different destinations about the value of investing in influencer marketing. Some of them did not appreciate local photographers, instead they heavily relied on photographers from abroad to sell them internationally.I’m glad that they are now starting work with local influencers, that’s why many photographers are now venturing into this line of photography. ‍‍‍‍‍

Unzip Tanzania crossing over to Kenya and Uganda next

Every year different Kenyan cities get to experience the beauty that comes with the blooming of Jacaranda trees and from as early as September, Kenyans are able to enjoy the purple haze that dot their cities.I too decided to join the party this year.Though to be honest my ticket to the party was in the form of an assignment.&nbsp;This past weekend I was on a mission to spot jacaranda trees around Kisumu city and take pictures of them for our #jacarandapropaganda project. In Kenya, the trend was started around 4 years ago by <a href="https://twitter.com/Nanjala1">@Nanjala1</a> (Nanjala Nyabola) on twitter.&nbsp;Initially it first felt like just another field work under the hot sun but the more I continued spotting the trees boasting of their pretty purple flowers the more intrigued I became and ditched the whole ‘this is just another field work’ mentality.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1920px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2ce2fc5055617ee87033_jacaranda-268926_1920.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>Before I left home, I had a few ideas on where to spot them, Milimani estate being one of them of course. Though to be certain I had to confirm with Google though the information was scanty.&nbsp; Luckily I managed to find a tour guide, a friend of mine who is well versed with the area more than I am. In my defense I haven’t been around that area since 2017, I digress.&nbsp;We selected Milimani estate as our main focus area because that’s the one location we were sure we would see the blooming jacaranda trees.&nbsp;After a few trips around the estate, we were able to spot a few trees along Nehru road, Busia road and Got Huma road. With some growing in clusters and others alone yet proudly wearing their purple crowns.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:960px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2d33ac5336f483b5d41d_JT.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>We later went to Jamhuri Victoria park located Off Achieng Oneko - Ridoch Road, which I think should be renamed to purple haze park or something in that line given how the Jacaranda trees hug the park with their bell-shaped leaves swaying above majestically to the rhythm of the wind.&nbsp;The trees have also dominated inside the park setting a great picnic scene decorated by its purple carpet from the fallen leaves.&nbsp; An added advantage is that the park is quite peaceful especially with everyone relaxing as vendors sell their goods.&nbsp;Shifting over to the Great Rift Valley, Nakuru, jacaranda trees are perfectly lined along old Nairobi road and Solai road forming purple umbrellas decorating the roads. While driving through the town, one can also spot the trees in people’s compounds, churches, schools like shiners girls high school as well as next to restaurants, petrol stations along the Nakuru-Nairobi road.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1920px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2d6e095c050733a02e61_jacaranda-537027_1920.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>Over to the capital city, Nairobi, her residents have been able to enjoy the purple rain as early as September. In areas such as Karen, Kilimani, Tom Mbeya street, Upperhill, Kenyatta avenue, Railway museum, Jevanjee Gardens, Koinange street- just to mention a few, Nairobians are being treated to breathtaking sceneries. On social media, they are not shy when it comes to sharing photos of these trees, in their full glory and bloom.&nbsp;On the Nothern region of Kenya, Marsabit to be specific, the jacaranda trees in that area also gracefully take part in #jacarandapropaganda. The trees form a line venturing deep into Marsabit forest.&nbsp;And on the Eastern region, residents of Wamunyu town in Machakos County also get to bask in the glory of Jacaranda trees every October.&nbsp;

#JacarandaPropaganda:  Fifty shades of purple across Kenya 

The festive season is finally here with us and after a rocky year of uncertainty and anxiety, everyone deserves to unwind. The time is just right for a getaway and the Coast sounds like a good place to start. The Coast means flaunting those curves in a nice-fitting bikini, body shape and size notwithstanding. &nbsp;Well, to rock one, you must know how to wear it, and to remember that confidence is key.We spoke to Wangari Macharia, founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wonderland_wear/?hl=en">Wonderland wear</a>, an on and offline shop that specializes in bikinis and women swim wear. She had a few tips on how to rock swim wear for all body shapes and sizes.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:853px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fce8c3fa6b4a51b6fea93da_3.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Know your body/curvesThere are different plus size body shapes, which include rectangle, triangle, apple or round, hourglass and diamond. Each body type has their weakness areas which are the parts of your body that are less flattering. Camouflaging these areas helps achieve a more flattering body proportion, by highlighting parts of the body that you are proud of.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:861px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fce8c6d05e03adcd388e766_6.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Pay attention to the tummy areaMost women are always concerned about their tummy, including the skinny ones. When buying swim wear, choose ones that mimic a slim waist. For example, a peplum tankini that hugs the waist and flares at the bottom. Cutouts around the waist also makes the waist look smaller.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:853px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fce8d0d25707f33a62e4a2c_4.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Slim down arms and shouldersA swim suit with a plunging neckline, camouflages big arms and broad shoulders by elongating the torso and drawing the eyes to the midline. The deeper the lunge is, the more slimming it looks. This is a perfect fit for women with small breasts.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:853px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fce8d3305e03afc31899b02_7.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>DietTame your diet to bring down abdominal bloating two or more days before you hit the beach. Eat more proteins, veggies, fruits and fiber. Avoid a lot of carbs and sugars. Generally, ensure you have a healthy diet at all times and not only on the beach days.Straps and Skin For people with back fat, it is better to get a swim suit without straps as they are going to dig into your flesh creating flesh folds. Also ensure you get the right size of swim wear. Most of us have cellulite on our skin. You can choose to hide it or flaunt it. If you are not comfortable showing it, go for tankinis or swim wear with longer hemlines.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:853px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fce8c8ceef33613e66514ce_2.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>‍

Bikini for your body-shape: Expert’s take on the best swimsuit for literally every body

With the schools and daycares closed since the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, parents are tasked with taking care of their kids now more than ever. From helping them with their online classes, providing a safe space to setting up activates and chores to keep them engaged. Under normal circumstances,kids would be home for the August holidays. It would be a time of groupies hanging out and even having sleepovers. But these are not normal times. However, not all is lost. Parents can still create an atmosphere for their kids where they can play and be safe at the same time. The key to this is getting creative and making the most out of the situation. Also take this period to encourage a passion, if your child has always wanted to learn how to sew, carve, design a game or build a Legoworld, then this is their time to enjoy those unique passions. Here’s how: Outdoor activitiesTaking play activities can be beneficial for both children and parents. Outdoor spaces provide new objects to interact with and new forms of the natural world to marvel at such as animals,insects, trees and sky. Make sure you mask them up, and remind them to social distance if at all they’ll be mingling with other kids. Get a kiddie pool.&nbsp;Kiddie pools have been one of the few lifesavers during this lockdown. It might not compare to the regular swimming pool but it’s a better option given that it’s just your kids in it. Nothing feels better than your kids cooling off in a kiddie pool filled with some of their favorite toys on a hot afternoon. It’s fun and keeps them busy at the same time.Bike rides. ‍Depending on your neighborhood, you can identify ideal certain spots that are safe for bike rides, with less human traffic. You can engage in playful riding competitions with the kids. Nature walks. ‍With parks and nature trails slowly starting to open up, you can take the kids for a walk. Take time to enjoy nature and a breath of fresh air with your family. Or you can simply go for an evening walk around your neighborhood. Plan a scavenger hunt. If there is one interesting way to keep kids busy and entertained is scavenger hunts. You can come up with a list of items for the kids to find around the house or compound then ask them to go hunting. It could be their toys, a red sweater, or any other simple objects.Play board games. ‍These kinds of games can teach reading, math, logic,turn-taking and social skills. You can opt for the classic ludo, snakes and ladders, puzzles, scrabble or even kids’ jenga. Virtual movie night. ‍Since the theatres are a no-go zone for now,you can set up a mini theatre in your house for a family movie night. Have popcorns and drinks ready over the kitchen counter, a ticket stand by the dining table and the screening in the living room. Make it fun and memorable for the little ones. &nbsp;&nbsp;‍

How to resume play with kids in a Covid observed environment 

Picnics are casual outdoor gatherings which makes them one of the easiest and most effortless occasions to dress up for. However, what you wear to a picnic is determined by the activities that you will engage in. Let’s not forget that you’ll be munching on all sorts of lip-smacking homemade nibbles that might drip on to your outfit and leave visible stains, some temporary, others permanent. Your go to outfit must be a winner – a comfortable and breathable fabric, and low – maintenance (easy to clean). By now you’re probably thinking of throwing on a T-shirt-and-jeans combo but you can be sure that won’t be adding much life to the party. To ease your fashion dilemma, we’ve reached out to Personal Stylist – Wahu Muchai.&nbsp;She has worked with personalities such as Victoria Rubadiri, Gladys Gachanja and Catherine Kamau. Just recently, Wahu was the main stylist at a picnic event and she was generous enough to share how she came up with a number of show-stopping looks for the ladies who were present at the occasion. So, scroll down the gallery below and draw some inspiration from these stunning outfits! We promise you that these ideas would be perfect for your upcoming picnic date and will help you take the fun to the next level.“When working with clients, the first thing I do is to observe their sense of style and body type – which helps me create wardrobe pieces that will bring out their personalities”, says Wahu. “At a picnic, you’re likely to be lounging on grassy fields so why not opt for vibrant flowy maxis, floral minis or Ankara palazzo pants!” she adds. Floral Prints <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620192852/Screenshot_482_d2ea256189.png">Floral maxis are nothing but delightfully flowy. The first dress (far left) is sure to make a statement. “I wanted to reveal her neck and match the model’s complexion with this green and white lap maxi dress. The dress has a front slit which allows her to show off her legs if needed and the V-neckline made it easier to accessorize with marble green earrings.” says Wahu.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620193431/1_a44569a070.jpg"> For this second look, we love how the wrap up white floral dress makes the model look elegant, dreamy, and relaxed. “I thought why not add a bloom happiness to the picnic with this flattering full-length dress? To finalize the look, the model wore a pair of white heels,” she said.&nbsp; Shop for:Green and white floral dress at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/t.jcollection/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">t.jcollection</a>White floral dress at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dada_wear_ke/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">DADA WEAR</a> We also couldn’t help but notice the luxury picnic baskets in all the frames. Purchase the bread basket, picnic basket and more picnic accessories at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintage_picnics/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vintage_picnics</a>. Palazzo pants/jumpsuits <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620195926/5_885245a355.jpg"> For your next picnic, try stepping forward in these broad legged pants that are stylish, floaty, cool and undeniably comfortable. Your best match for such a versatile pair could be a tank top, tube top, off-shoulder top or even a long slit top.“I personally know this model as someone who has a vibrant personality. I picked for her Ankara pants to go with a yellow tank top. The whole look flattered her curves and she served sunshine vibes all day long.” said Wahu&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620196500/8_de79206865.jpg">“This model is wearing a wide legged jumpsuit printed with colourful patterns. The royal straw boater hat that she is rocking makes her look so cool and classy."&nbsp;<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620196793/7_935a7fa5e4.jpg">"And for the 3rd look (far right) I went for white-yellow palazzo pants paired with a white tee and hat. Here I was going for a cool and playful look.” she added.Shop for:White-yellow palazzo pants and hats at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samaiahs_closet/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">samaiah_closet</a> Ankara pants at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shytessfd/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">shytess</a>Jumpsuit at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannamoda.ke/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">giannamode.ke</a> Asymmetrical Maxi dresses <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620197053/4_1ee5f6a0ee.jpg">Asymmetric dresses are the throw-on styles that will elevate your picnic wardrobe and take off the stress of not knowing what to wear. Wahu says that she loves asymmetric dresses because they look just as great with chunky sandals or heeled iterations. And we are not surprised that they look this stunning.“I styled this look to create a rich babe kind of vibe and this blue spotty number did just that. The high-low design and vibrant colours complement the model’s skin tone so well. I accessorised it with black sunnies and a bread basket from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintage_picnics/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@vintage_picnics</a>." <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620197380/9_4386b8293d.jpg"> This second piece is a red-marron dress designed to show off the legs and flatter the curves. “The unique print style gets a yes from me and I would recommend such a fun and flirty dress for romantic picnic dates, park trips or garden visits. We tried it out with chunky heels but even if one wears it with trainers, they’ll still want to wear this dress in rotation.” said WahuShop for Blue polka-dot dress, sunnies and the asymmetric red-marron dress at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shopnewlevel/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">shopnewlevel</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vibrant colours <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620197761/2_24f0f683a4.jpg"> Wahu says that, the ultimate guide to nailing it for a picnic is to add some colour. Bring a little sunshine and rainbow with you – no matter where you are – with such vibrant colours. The striped, pleated maxi skirt is one you’ll want to wear again and again and… you get the picture.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620198194/IMG_0529_34318d4376.jpg"> The orange bodycon dress cinched with a golden belt is a summer staple you’ll want to bring to every picnic date in your diary. “This model is wearing her own wardrobe but I accessorised the first look with sunnies and chunky earrings. “she added.Shop for:Accessories at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/misskerre/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">misskerre</a> Foldable garden champagne table at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintage_picnics/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vintage_picnics</a> Neutral shades&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620199123/6_def8c9a245.jpg"> You can’t go wrong with neutral colours especially when it comes to picnic soirées, and these shades of white are 360-degree perfection. “The model wears a white shirt topped with a red fedora hat. I was going for something simple, breathable and clean.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620199307/IMG_0478_438711ea97.jpg"> Here, I’m wearing an off-white mini pleated dress with an animal print head piece. The fabric is not only as soft as a picnic blanket but the design makes for great brunches too.” says WahuShop for:White shirt at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/t.jcollection/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">t.jcollection</a> Off-white dress plus accessories at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samaiahs_closet/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">samaiah_closet</a> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620199572/3_8adac1c6dd.jpg"> If you’re looking to show off a little extra leg and catch a few rays, then this look is just perfect for you. The tropical suit is a combo of shorts, a kimono and a white T-shirt. Wahu said, “The colours are just ideal for someone who wants to feel like one with nature and be playful while flipping the kimono.” Shop for:Kimono two piece at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/keekyscollection/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">keekyscollection</a> Photos By: @festolang

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Personal Stylist Shares Picnic Outfit Ideas You Can Easily Recreate

Accidents are inevitable and can happen anywhere. And even as we emphasize the importance of outdoors, we still need to stay safe while out there. Keep an open mind in case of an accident while outdoors. &nbsp;It is useful to be able to treat accidents quickly and, on the spot, even if it is only to stick a band aid on a cut. In case of something as serious as a huge fall or a snake-bite, always have a hospitals’ or a doctor’s number on speed dial.In case any accident happens when you’re out unwinding, here are some first aids tips you should apply:Cardio pulmonary resuscitation –CPRTake the trouble to learn basic first aid and CPR. If an emergency occurs, you will have much more confidence in dealing with it if you know exactly what to do. This includes basic first aid steps, like checking the airway of a person, the breathing and pulse rate. In case a person gets unconscious, or choking occurs, the basic steps learnt can save a life.You can get CPR classes at any hospital. First aid kitIt is advisable that you always carry a first aid kid when going out.You can buy a ready made one in a drug store, or you can make one at home. To make your own at home, here are some of the things that you will need;-Use a waterproof box or bag to hold all your first aid. Don't make your first aid kit too big though or you will be tempted to leave it behind.A list of the contents below;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Personal Insect repellent to keep flies and mosquitoes at bay.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antiseptic cream for cuts and scrapes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sun screen for anyone who has forgotten to bring their own.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ointment or white vinegar for stings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bicarbonate of soda for rashes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Crepe bandage to immobilize limbs in case of a snake bite or sprains.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wound dressings and roll of bandage.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roll of sticking plaster.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Disposable gloves. Always wear gloves when you are treating open wounds for hygiene and safety.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Band-Aid dressings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Triangular bandage to use as a sling.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tweezers and a needle to remove splinters and bee stings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matches for sterilizing needles.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Paracetamol for headaches.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ibuprofen for more severe pain.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An instant cold pack to help relieve the pain and swelling of sprains and bruises.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Small sharp scissors.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eye bath to wash foreign bodies from eyes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antihistamine tablets to treat stings and hay-fever.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A small book of instructions for simple first aid and CPR.If anyone in the group has a medical condition,remember to carry their medication. This is in case of asthmatic attacks,diabetics due to low blood sugar and others.&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

First aid essentials for your next hike

It has been one heck of a year - thanks to COVID-19.When the pandemic finally got to Kenya in March 2020, we had to stop and drop everything. This has never happened to me in my lifetime. Covid-19 interrupted my hectic schedule that had turned me into a robot. The pandemic made me realize things I had taken for granted – freedom of movement being one of them. Adjusting to the new normal was not as easy as I thought.I was not alone. My friend Sonia Birdi was struggling as well. Her hot yoga studio at Two Rivers closed. Due to the strict Covid-19 health guidelines, gatherings in closed spaces had been forbidden.Mid this year, I paid Sonia a visit at her home. It was a nice sunny day and we sat outside under a tree enjoying the cool breeze. We talked and reflected about life and how the virus had interrupted our lives. I had taken to recycling bottles as a way to stay “sane” while Sonia dedicated her time to helping boys at Mukuru Promotion Centre (MPC).Since early in the year, she has been running yoga and meditation sessions with teenage boys. Most of them are former street urchins who are under rehabilitation. “In the new norm, we have to learn to be extra thoughtful and careful. I have learnt it’s about time we changed the way we give in society. Teach them how to fish,” she told me.Fast forward to December 2020... I saw a video on Facebook shared by a friend. It was a beer yoga session. Immediately it gave me an idea. “Sonia, can we pull this off?” I asked on WhatsApp. “Why not?” Sonia responded. “I will call you,” I said. Several phone calls later, we had a date, poster and a beautiful venue by the poolside.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc21337f5de9e187ce9787_1.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> Many of my friends thought I was joking. Being Christmas season, we agreed we were going to do a beer yoga charity event to benefit the awesome boys of MPC. Entry fee was donations in cash and kind towards the MPC.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2166b1a9873264cd3628_2.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> The sun was out it all its glory. We stretched and sipped our drinks by the poolside. We are truly grateful to the Board of Sikh Union Club for agreeing to support this worthy cause.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc219f3325e94b59b141f7_4.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> And what a day it was. We had about 15 people attending the two and a half hour session. Some had never tried yoga before but there was space for the regulars and first-timers. They came with donations, their yoga mats and a drink.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2250f2c6020bf606dc32_7.jpg"> Look out for more tipsy yoga events in 2021. If you love the outdoors, make sure you join us.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2293d41db41b33866ae0_6.jpg"> &nbsp;‍

Christmas Giving: Tipsy Yoga for Charity 

Picnics are often illustrated as a group thing. It could be couples, close friends, family or even a colleaguesthing, but it’s not every day you hear someone telling you that they picked up their picnic basket and went out alone. Personally, I have done infinite solo trips,park visits and restaurant dates but never solo picnics until &nbsp;recently when I decided to challenge my self and go out for one. With all the working from home vibe and literally no groupings, I decided there’s no harm in doing certain activities alone.I made a quickgoogle search for ideal picnic locations in my locality and one of the resultscaught my eye- the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary http://www.kws.go.ke/content/kisumu-impala-sanctuary. You see, the best thing with having a destination in mind prior is that you are able to plan accordingly and also, you know what to expect. The KisumuImpala Sanctuary has five different picnic sites to choose from all of which offer a beautiful view of Lake Victoria. Despite being from the lakeside, this stood out for me because I never get enough of this scenic view, especially the sunsets. So with the destination in check, I settled for a Saturday afternoon for my first solopicnic. I was excited and looked forward to a fantastic me-time. being that I hadn’t gone on a solo picnic before, I didn’t have a sizable picnic bag, so Iopted for my medium sized kiondo, oneI had from Maasai market on a previous trip to Nairobi. I packed myMaasai leso, a pair of sunglasses and of course wasn’t going to leave behind was one of my favourite/current read, The Alchemist, such a great book if you ask me. I would totally recommend it. Nothing beats soaking up all of nature's wonders while reading your favourite book. A perfect way to travel in another dimension. For my meal and being a light eater, I opted for my favourite chicken sandwich, two chocolate bars, cold lemonade and a bottle of water- Kisumu is one hot place I wasn’t going to risk &nbsp;dehydration. I was keen to pack my sunscreen as well. I settled for a white sleeveless top and below the knee shorts and with a picnic hat to complete the look, I was good to go. &nbsp;I arrived at the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary and was treated to a great reception. The experience was everything I was looking forward to and their services offered &nbsp;exceeded my expectations. The scenery was beautiful with zebras and Impalas roaming freely around the park.It was just a beautiful experience soaking into all this nature and reading my favourite book while at it. &nbsp;Out of all my solo activities, this would rank as my top two, to be honest. I had such a relaxing afternoon, enough to unwind with all that's going on currently, I got to watch the sunset and complete two chapters of my current read. Couldn't ask for a better afternoon.I would definitely recommend a solo picnic. You owe it to yourself. &nbsp;‍

Picnicking in Solitude

Yaas!!! We got our <a href="https://thepicnicsite.co.ke/win-it-a-deserved-mama-s-day-picnic-treat-for-six-2">Mother’s Delight Competition</a> winners and we can’t keep calm. The four, Charlette Joyce, Ashiq Yasin, Tuzo Jonathan, and Charity Wafula, had the most compelling stories celebrating mums.&nbsp;The winners will be elevated as guest contributors on our website, The Picnic Site (<a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) and will also receive an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="http://www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).The Mother’s Delight Competition kicked off on Tuesday and each day we published a unique theme that captured the spirit of Mothers and Motherhood on our social media handles on Instagram and Facebook.&nbsp;We then invited everyone to share with us an original, inspirational, and creative narration – through a written essay or poem, a short video or a graphic art piece. At the end of each day, our judges evaluated the entries received by the cut-off time. The winning entrant is who shared the most compelling narration. That is how our winners secured their spot for the fabulous picnic set-up.A hearty congratulations to our winners from all of us at The Picnic Site (<a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) &nbsp;and Vintage Picnics (<a href="http://www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).!!!! We love and value you!&nbsp;

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Congratulations To Our Winners!!!!

Barack Obama’s annual summer playlist tweet for 2020 went out just in time for me to compile it and bring it out with me on my walk. Of course, I did not walk for 3 hours and 36 minutes but by the time I was returning home, I had already decided that the phrase that best describes this list is Vintage Hip. &nbsp;My nods gradually turned into bobs and my wry smile widened as I added artists to the playlist I was compiling to share here. &nbsp;I discovered some new artists; learnt that Frank Ocean is back, this time silently after that stunt he pulled in 2016. Bob Dylan has new music. Billy Porter also samples Kelly Rowland’s Stole to create ForWhat It’s Worth which he performed this morning on Day 1 of the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Barack’s list indicates which other artists will be performing at the week-long convention. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3bd0bb52a68c70f3720ba8_1.jpg"></div></figure>&nbsp;Forgive me for belaboring just how much range 44 has. This list somehow manages to bring out the harmony from a very diverse list of artists and genre. Songs ranging 7 decades from folk music to TikTok hits, this is truly a playlist for everyone, and you can also enjoy it in solitude.&nbsp;Perfect playlist for a nature walk.<a href="https://music.apple.com/ke/playlist/barack-obamas-2020-summer-playlist/pl.u-a6Zuz452Ab">{Link to Playlist}</a><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3bd19b75b9f81983aea30e_Barack%20Obama_Playlist%202.jpg"></div></figure>‍

Barack Obama’s Vintage Hip 2020 Summer Playlist 

<blockquote>Here is a quick gluten-free desert you can make for your potluck book club in the park. With just these five simple ingredients to work with, this flourless chocolate cake topped with flaked almonds is not only quick and easy to make but also a crowd pleaser. </blockquote>Ingredients: <ul><li>100 Gram Chocolate</li><li>4 Eggs</li><li>75-gram Butter</li><li>100-gram Sugar</li><li>Flaked almonds</li></ul>Method:<ol><li>Break the chocolate into small pieces and melt over hot water.</li><li>In a bowl whisk butter and sugar together. As you whisk, add the 4 egg yolks, one at a time.</li><li>In another bowl whisk 3 egg whites until frothy.</li><li>Let the heated chocolate cool down and pour it into the butter and egg mixture.</li><li>Then add the egg white mixture and stir thoroughly.</li><li>Pour the chocolate mixture in a floured and buttered oven tray &amp; garnish with flaky almonds.</li><li>Set the oven at 175 degrees and bake for about 10 minutes.</li><li>Serve the chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream.</li></ol>Serves: 4Prep time: 20 minsCook time: 30 mins<blockquote>Side note: I considered adding some chili flakes to give it a kick; that would go down a treat with a good bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. Send up pictures of how this cam eout and pairing reviews.</blockquote>‍

Quick fix flourless chocolate cake recipe

We all hope Covid-19 will go away, don’t we? And it shall. ‘We shall overcome’, we keep saying this as much as we keep the hope. So, when we finally overcome, what’s the plan? Camping sounds like a plan, no?Planning for a camp can be hard work, especially if you are to go with the whole family. There are basics that you will need to look into as you plan for it. We’ll give you some ideas on how to plan for the near perfect camp:LocationCampgrounds vary indifferent styles of camping for families but the campsite selection must be based on the need and preference of all members of your family, not only yours.Established campgrounds or national parks are ideal sites. Remote locations are interesting if you plan to spend the entire time in the camp. Established grounds have the advantage of amenities like running water and bathroom facilities. Though you might have to book in advance, it is worth the cost.TentsWell,what is camping without a tent? Pack your tent, which is probably bigger that all your luggage. But, you need it. Choose a tent that is durable, for multiple use. In established grounds, they might offer the tents at a fee, which is convenient since you will have less luggage.Basic amenitiesYou will need to eat, drink and keep warm during camping. If you are going camping in remote areas where there are no basic amenities like water, you will need to pack your own. Cooler boxes come in handy at this time. The bigger the cooler box the better to reduce the number of luggage you have to carry along. You can carry your water and drinks in one, and food items in another. Depending on the number of days you will be camping, carry enough to last. Clothing will also come in handy. It is a good idea to carry clothes warm enough especially for the night. The tent is not as warm as your bedroom. PackingWe keep insisting on the idea of having less luggage. To pack your camping essentials, it is easier if you have one large bag –we recommend a water proof one. The alternative of this is to line your bag with a garbage bag inside to make sure that items in the bag remain dry. Pack your items in order of priority. Ensure all the space in your bag is used up. Also, ensure like-items are grouped together for ease of setting up when you get to the camping site.Here is a list of items you will need to pack:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;i.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sleeping-bag and mat&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Knife&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Batteries&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iv.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flashlight&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;v.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matches&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;vi.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extra clothes, with multiple pairs of socks&nbsp;&nbsp;vii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Compass&nbsp; viii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cellphone, for communication.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ix.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Food and water&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;x.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Toiletries&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;xi.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pen and paper&nbsp;&nbsp;xii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Camera&nbsp; xiii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Insect repellents xiv.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/first-aid-essentials-for-your-next-hike">First aid kit</a>, including medication for anyone who is asthmatic or diabetic.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

How to plan for a perfect family camping trip

Most schools across Kenya have been closed for more than five months since March this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. For many parents, having kids at home for such a prolonged periods can be nerve wracking to say the least. Between adjusting to shifting work schedules, playing teacher and trying to keep Covid at bay, it can be a lot to deal with.However, kids always get cranky after being confined in the house for too long. While smartphones, computers and TVs are often the go-to distractions, parents are generally encouraged to find alternate child-friendly activities. Such activities allow for their continued physical and mental development while creating bonding opportunities between parents and children.With a bit of planning, camping at home can be an educational and entertaining family activity. It is also a fun and hassle freeway to create lasting memories and pique the children interest in the outdoors while in the familiar comfort of home. Like any outdoor activity, preparation is key. Pick a convenient date for your home camping ‘trip’ with the family. Put an actual ‘X’on the calendar and get everyone to clear their schedules for the day. The further out you set it, the more room you create to build anticipation.Camping is essentially about making a temporary outdoor home in a tent, so start there. Sure, setting up an outdoor tent in the middle of the living room or the family parking lot might seem odd but consider it a dry run for the actual outdoor camping experience – whenever that will be. &nbsp;You will need some basic gear; a tent, sleeping bags, a torch, board games and of course food. The convenience of being at home also means you can enjoy the benefits of a stocked fridge and your own bathroom which can be especially convenient when you have little kids.As any avid camper will attest, the evening campfire is often the climax of any camping experience. This should be no exception.Whether you like to stargaze, tell stories or sing, you can custom make different activities for the whole family to participate in without connecting to the Wi-Fi.Without adequate planning, camping at home can easily turn into another boring task. Take time to tune out the details taking each family member’s preferences into consideration. Of course there will be unforeseen problems but if you work around them you will pick up valuable lessons for your next camping trip.‍

Set aside the gadgets for a home camping 'trip'

Still on that <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/how-to-plan-for-a-perfect-family-camping-trip">camping</a> vibe.Although camping seems like a fun outdoor activity, it can get complex with so many details to put into consideration. But don’t worry, as you plan for your camp, here are some safety tips you need to put into consideration. <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/first-aid-essentials-for-your-next-hike">Prepare a first aid kit</a>Your health and fitness comes first. As you go camping, you need to stay in good health throughout for you to enjoy. If you are considering a camping trip, getting a travel-appropriate first aid kit is essential to your health. Find out how to make a home-made first-aid kit here.The best camping first aid kit should come loaded with products to assist with any possible complications, including medicine and emergency equipment that can save lives.Choose your camping partner wisely Even if you have complete confidence and are a master camper, you should definitely go with a buddy or two. &nbsp;This way the camping is more memorable also, anything can happen while out camping. You need to make sure that you are compatible with the camping partner you pick. You need to be with someone you know got your back as much as you got theirs. Camps with compatible and problem-free people have always been more enjoyableHydrationWater is the most important, vital need. We should not forget to take enough water with us and drink water regularly.Instead of drinking water when we are thirsty, it is much more important to drink water regularly. Carry lots of it too for your camping activities, and remember to pack water containers for refills.Pitching your tentWhile determining the area we will camp, we always try to find the right and most beautiful place. Sometimes this search can be misleading. Most of us would prefer camping at the water’s edge since it has a beautiful view, right? However, this is not a safe camping spot. Wild animals visit these water sources at night to feed and some to hydrate. If you set up your tent near these water sources; you may encounter these creatures.So set up your camp at a distance of at least 600-700 feet away from the water.And lastly, never pitch a tent on the edge of the running water. In case the heavens open and it pours, then water will definitely get into your tent. Watch out for wild animals and insectsDo not forget that we’re the guests in the forest or land we will go to. Therefore, act as a guest and respect the natural habitats of living things. Do not leave food, drinks, and fragrant things in your camping area before sleeping. Look for tracks on the ground, stay away from animals’ crossing points. Remember that small creatures can cause problems as much as large creatures. The bite of a small tick insect might even result in death. Note the following to avoid this situation. Be sure to put on long-sleeves, and to keep at the center of the paths while walking. Most insects are on the leaves and bushes. You can also tuck in your pants into your socks.Insect repellents are also a good idea.InformationEnsure you inform your family or friends when and where you will be camping. Also the duration. If you are able to keep a charged cellphone with you, the better.FeedingAvoid eating all the edibles you find in nature.The right food choice is very important when camping, but there are even more important things such as the source and storage conditions of these foods.Canned foods are better to carry and preserve. Some fruits and mushrooms found in the wild could be poisonous, so avoid them. Note that not all water may be drinkable, despite looking clear. So, avoid it by all means. CampfiresFor a camp to feel complete, there always has to be a campfire. The fire could be a disaster in itself if not taken care of. Do not build a campfire next to old and low trees, to avoid spreading. A place with rocks is a good choice. When going to rest, it is best to put the campfire out and not leave it unattended. Be prepared in case of storms.In the forests, stormy weather is a common occurrence. You should be prepared for it. And also watch out for it. Incasethis happens, you should stay away from the rivers and go to a safer place such as a cave or a car. If you don’t have cars of caves nearby tighten the ropes of the tent to make it more stable and robust. You should erect your tent away from old trees, they may crack and fall on the tent in a stormy weather.In case you are wondering how to plan for family camp getaway, <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/how-to-plan-for-a-perfect-family-camping-trip">here’s how</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

Camping in the wild? Here’s how to stay safe

The vocal bible of pop and R&amp;B has returned with her first album in…. get this.. Eight years!!,and this time, on her own terms. B7&nbsp;is the seventh studio album by American singer&nbsp;Brandy Norwood. The album was released on July 31, 2020, through her own label, Brand Nu, Inc.and&nbsp;eOne Music. It is her first independent release, on her own record label, and her first studio album since 2012 Two Eleven…. This girl is winning… right? Right!.Eight years is a long time without an album, but forgivable for someone who has been an original since 1994. Her album is all about healing and self-love. It also focuses on self-worth, and her own spiritual transformation. The album which comprises of fifteen tracks, also features Chance the rapper in a single, ‘Baby mama’, and also Daniel Ceaser in ‘Love again’.&nbsp;“Sorry for my tardy / long time I was broken-hearted,” she sings on ‘Saving All My Love’, the opening track on‘B7’. Many people have viewed this as an apology for her close to a decadeabsence. The song also serves as a tribute to her late mentor and idol&nbsp;Whitney Houston, as she nods to&nbsp;“the goat”&nbsp;over a euphoric hotbed of kick drums and unrelenting keys doused in urgency. On ‘Unconditional Oceans’ she acknowledges a dysfunctional past: as she sings of how she used to be a mess, and was self-sabotaging. &nbsp;She doesn’t stay down for long, though, finding herself a new swagger on the empowering ‘I Am More’, on about maneuvering the busy production, understanding her worth, and even finding time to flip some of&nbsp;Eminem’s and Biggies lyrics.She addresses mental-health on the raw ‘Bye Bipolar’, and demands communication on the pristinely produced ‘Say Something’. ‘Rather be’ finds her copping to a moment ofweakness, warmly wearing her heart on her sleeve as her love interest playshard-to-get. But Brandy shines brightest on ‘Love again’, which features Ceaser.The album, could use a little more spark, and has an average score on 7.5/10 on reviews. Though it took almost a decade to come by, it was well worth the wait.We wish her well, and hope we get another album soon.Stay safe, and listento some Brandy. ‍

Some Brandy for that picnic? Yes please!

The convenient thing to do once you have emptied that bottle of your favorite tipple is to trash it in the garbage bin, right?&nbsp; Assume you partake of three bottles monthly, a quick calculation tells me you trash about 36 bottles every year.&nbsp; Now, that’s just you.&nbsp; Think of your circle of friends, the bars and restaurants in your locality, and all the solid waste, in glass form, that they generate: you quickly start to appreciate how your modest consumption contributes to the estimated 40,000 tonnes of solid glass waste that is generated in Kenya every year.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621446495/2_59a61873af.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Some of Rintari's work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>While many people give very little thought to what happens to that waste once they have disposed of it, a growing army of innovative craftsmen is busy at work, transforming trash into treasure, and lending beauty to nature and homes through their creative genius.&nbsp;Meet Rintari Joel, a self-made contemporary glass artist who takes pride in working with empty glass bottles transforming them into an elegant array of glassware.&nbsp; The Picnic Site recently caught up with Rintari at his workshop, along Ngong Road, Nairobi. His is an inspirational story of a man who has been able to plug passion and talent into a profitable venture that also minimizes environmental degradation.&nbsp; We share with you snippets of our conversation with him:What inspired you to do what you do?What started as a curiosity to learn the art of glass cutting and engraving has turned into a passion project on youth empowerment and climate action. My talent made me realize the true impact my work has on the community. My workshop has provided opportunities for countless people and has played a major role in reducing glass and plastic waste in the environment. My entire operation is based on recycling and up-cycling, and this has given me the drive and the passion to keep at my work.Where do you source the raw materials?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621446632/1_8132947a4a.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Some of Rintari's work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>Well anywhere and everywhere really. My team and I work closely with establishments that use or retail products contained in glass and have a large disposal rate. They dump it, and we take it to make beautiful and well-crafted accessories and curios.What kind of stuff do you make?Functional items, such as household goods, mementos as well as furniture, all to the preference and specifications of my clients. It’s truly fulfilling to see customers brag about their pieces from Rintari Joe!&nbsp;How do you market yourself?The bulk of my customers come to me through referrals. It is common to find customers who desire a piece they came across at a friend’s home.&nbsp; Social media has also served as a great platform for showcasing and marketing my creations.What are some of the challenges you face in your line of work?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621448042/3_891a8ef3da.jpg" alt=""></figure>As any creative would tell you, the lack of support from the general public and corporate sector is one of the greatest setbacks in this industry. It takes a while to build a brand as a creative and to get the well-deserved rec&nbsp;ognition for the hours of work, sweat, and tears you put into your craft. Though we keep the hope alive, it takes weeks or even months to get big contracts that require bulk orders to stream in. We hope to expand further to incorporate a marketing department to tell the public, art enthusiasts, and corporate clients to buy and build the Rintari brand and product lineCould you share with us your vision and prospects?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621922229/2_05f073ffd3.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Rintari at work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>My vision for my glass workshop is to attract investors who can pump in the funds into machinery and a larger space to produce more and display more. My dream is to rebrand and open a gallery store that would allow walk-in clients to browse, select and purchase glass items at their pleasure. Currently, silent investors have been my biggest cheerleaders! What’s next or who is next? The Universe will reveal in good time!&nbsp;___________________________________________________________________________________&nbsp;In the true spirit of The Picnic Site, we encourage our community to support local talent and celebrate our planet heroes who make the world a better place. You can reach Rintari on his Facebook page, “Rintari Joel”, and also visit his workshop on Ngong Road.&nbsp;____________________________________________________________________________________

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This Planet Hero Is Crafting Elegant Glassware From Trash

We’ve all been there. You’re young, naïve, full of hopes and dreams. &nbsp;You know, the ones you have before you run headfirst into the concrete wall that is life &amp; the numerous responsibilities you didn’t sign up for as an adult member of the human race. &nbsp;In my case, one of them included having a vehicle that could use all of 400 horsepower, or more. Doing the 0-100 km/h sprint in about 4 seconds would be nice too. But mostly it was about that number. It had to match what the WRC cars could deliver, or better it. 300 brake horsepower sounded like a lot back then. Today, it really isn’t. &nbsp;In 2015, I thought that dream was going to end up with me cramming a 7-liter V8 into the engine bay of a then 9-year old Japanese wagon. This didn’t happen. What did happen is that in 2017, I sold the sensible station wagon bought a lemon of a car. &nbsp;Like all interesting project cars, at first glance, they don’t look like much. There’s usually a lot to fix.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f739276a96d3e167ad35d5a_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;For most Kenyans, anything with 4-wheels and an engine is an appliance. Does it start? Will it burn a hole in my pocket? Can my usual mechanic fix whatever problems crop up without ripping me off? Oh, and I have to look good in it. &nbsp;That’s the typical checklist here, and it explains why we end up with so many underpowered, shoddily maintained BMWs and Mercedes on our roads. Because image, or our perception of it, comes first. Who needs maintenance when you’re driving an underpowered tub of German lard? &nbsp;A project car requires a different mentality. It’s a borderline obsession with creating something fantastic out of something sub-par. It’s you saying no, when everyone else says, yes. &nbsp;Which inevitably means starting with something that has a million problems to fix. The 6-speed dual-clutch transmissions in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Xs hada curious flaw – especially for a German firm. The mechanism that would shift it into 4th gear had about as much integrity as a Kenyan politician .It wasn’t long before they failed. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f7392c5d77a04cfa0c94084_3.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;But that wasn’t a deal breaker. The engine and gearbox were going to be fully rebuilt anyway, so all the old stuff had to come out. This, I thought, would be a short project. 2 months of disassembly, rebuilding, and I can finally get behind the wheel of something potent before I turn 30. Life, had other ideas. In the same way that an army marches on its stomach, project success is heavily reliant on logistics. When you’re trying to source 300 plus kilograms of parts from continents away, all kinds of things can – and do - go wrong. I ended up with an extra pair of camshafts, for instance, because the initial set ordered was ‘misplaced’, and then ‘found’, months later. &nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f7392d63d7b52c73915ecd2_4.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>After being so agonizingly close to<a href="https://www.instagram.com/zafar.sadik/"> finishing the engine re-assembly</a>, the cam cap snapped. This is a relatively small, but vital block of <a href="https://www.amsperformance.com/cart/ams-mitsubishi-4b11-cam-cap/">forged aluminum</a> that cradles one end of your camshafts and keeps them in place when you’re revving out to 8000 rpm. Between ordering a replacement, and getting it into the block, at least 4 months had passed. What I thought was going to be a<a href="https://www.instagram.com/zafar.sadik/"> 2-month project</a> stretched into a 13-month slog, fighting one issue after another. The flip side, however, is that this <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD0JLUsgNQk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">little 4-door</a> sedan taught me things about people, myself, and talent, which I didn’t know. I found local talent in precision machining &amp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/weld_hack/">fabrication</a> which I didn’t know about. Friendships were built around this vehicle and all her tantrums. Friends who said yes to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zafar.sadik/">working on this crazy project</a>, and proceeded to build it come rain, or shine. In the process, a side-hustle was born. &nbsp;The biggest lessons, however, were in being patient, and facing ideas that seem too large, or too complicated to pull off. If you told my then 10-year-old self, watching Collin McRae fly through rally stages in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8pJvcURQuI">Mica Blue Subaru Impreza</a>, that I would own, much less daily-drive something with more power than that vehicle had 20-yearslater, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. &nbsp;I certainly wasn’t the target audience Mitsubishi had in mind when <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJ1-v4W3Dsc">Tommi Makinen</a> &amp; Collin McRae were fighting epic battles for the World Rally Championship. But here I am, decades later, buying one of the last of a dying breed of stupidly rapid, capable, all-wheel-drive rally replicas. &nbsp;Mjolnir, as she’s known, finally got back on the road 14-months after she rolled into a makeshift workshop. &nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f73928e141ca852339c9427_2.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>She has her quirks. At slow speeds over rough roads, she can be a bit of handful, to put it mildly. I adore the stock bucket seats, but – from passenger feedback – they were certainly not built to cater for curvaceous women. Like all of her predecessors, she has a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVt1IjIdLxY">horrifically bad turning</a> circle. If I’ve ever held you up in a parking lot as I do a 10-point turn where everyone else would do a 3-pointer, I apologize. If I eke out 250 km between top ups, I consider that a good run…especially when you have 2-bar of boost under your right foot, and fuel injectors which may as well be a firehose dumping fuel into the cylinders every time I tickle the throttle. Was it all worth it? <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDsZOZxA2pf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Absolutely. </a>&nbsp;Especially if it creates the<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD0JLUsgNQk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link"> next generation</a> of car enthusiasts. &nbsp;‍

Motor enthusiast Ramah Nyang’ on rebuilding his dream car  

There is no doubt Kenya is full of beautiful landscapes and nature trails all over the country. We have infinite perfect spots for outdoor activities such as picnics. So, whether you are in Nairobi, Kisumu, Rift Valley or in the Coast, going for out for a picnic is a must. Each county has various locations to choose from for an ideal picnic with loved ones. Here, we highlight for you some of the magical places you can visit across the country: Kisumu Impala Sanctuary - <a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/content/kisumu-impala-sanctuary">http://www.kws.go.ke/content/kisumu-impala-sanctuary</a>Set on the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria, the Kisumu impala sanctuary offers you a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy mother nature. The sanctuary boasts of five picnic sites to choose from. All sites have a lovely view of the lake while impalas and zebras roam around freely creating just the right environment for a picnic. Ngong Hills- <a href="http://www.kenyaforestservice.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=78&Itemid=524">http://www.kenyaforestservice.org/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=78&amp;Itemid=524</a>Surrounded by different types of exotic and indigenous trees plus scenic views, Ngong hills proves to be an ideal location for picnics. It is a popular site for hikers and nature lovers who enjoy trekking along nature trails while soaking in beautiful views like the wind generations sites. The site is also great for group travels so pick your squad and head to Ngong. Maasai Mara- <a href="https://www.maasaimarakenyapark.com/">https://www.maasaimarakenyapark.com/</a>No location best describes a picnic in the wild better than Maasai Mara, Kenya’s popular safari destination. You and your friends can enjoy a picnic mid-game drive as you enjoy the beautiful nature that abounds in the Mara as the wildlife roam around.Jumba ruins - <a href="https://www.museums.or.ke/jumba-la-mtwana/">https://www.museums.or.ke/jumba-la-mtwana/</a>Located just 10km from Mombasa, Jumba Ruins is a perfect spot for a chilled picnic for you and your loved ones. It has a quiet atmosphere accompanied by the sound of the sea breeze swooshing through the trees and ruins. The half ruins also add an aesthetically pleasing view to the location alongside the sea. &nbsp;Diani Beach - <a href="https://magicalkenya.com/places-to-visit/coastal-kenya/diani-beach/">https://magicalkenya.com/places-to-visit/coastal-kenya/diani-beach/</a>Still at the coast, one can visit the famous Diani beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Africa and a major hit with both local and international tourists. The location is picture perfect and the refreshing breeze plus the beautiful sunsets will make your evening picnic by the beach an unforgettable experience. Karura Forest - <a href="https://www.friendsofkarura.org/">https://www.friendsofkarura.org/</a>Just a few meters from the Nairobi CBD is the Karura forest, a beautiful haven for nature lovers. It entails a nature trail covered by acres upon acres of trees and grassland for the ideal picnic. You can set up your picnic by the rocks at the river facing the falls and in addition to that, there are caves, a natural lake and waterfalls that are a perfect backdrop for photos to help you capture those beautiful moments. Nairobi National Park - <a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/parks/nairobi-national-park">http://www.kws.go.ke/parks/nairobi-national-park</a>The park within a city, the Nairobi national park is well known for its wide-open grass plains and backdrop of the city scrapers. It is also s a host to a wide variety of wildlife including the endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and a diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded. You can set up a picnic and get to enjoy the views and spot the wildlife giving a home away from home type of feeling.If you are at the Kenyan Coast, then <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/ideal-picnic-spots-at-the-kenyan-coast">here</a> are places you must visit.‍‍

Ideal picnic locations across Kenya

Blackpink’s 1st album aptly named The Album is a must have in your playlist for your next road trip. The album released on October 2nd has eight songs and features collaborations from Selena Gomez on their second pre-release song ice cream and the WAP hit maker Cardi B on the track bet you wanna.In this album, the girls talk about love and hate; from being lovesick girls who have been hurt over and over but they’re still looking for love in lovesick girls to dealing with the hate they get from haters in tracks like love to hate me. The girls do a great job by having songs that are not only catchy but also easy to dance to.On the title track lovesick girls, the girls sing about looking for love even though they’re born to be alone over a very catchy guitar instrumental that leads to a more house beat on the chorus. This is that song you sing along to at the top of your voices as the wind blows in your hair and you butcher the Korean lyrics.On ice cream and crazy over you, the girls are more playful and seductive as they talk about love using tongue in cheek lyrics likening it to ice cream and also talking about how they are crazy without the love of their significant other. The songs have great beats that are bound to bring out the inner deep body rolls out of the worst dancers and make for the perfect songs to make a quick car choreo for.On tracks like how you like that and bet you wanna featuring Cardi B, the girls go from being triumphant over an ex flame to teasing a new catch. Both have amazing lyrics and groovy beats that will have your head bobbing the entire time.On pretty savage and love to hate me, the girls address hate they keep getting and talk about how they are avoiding it and focusing on doing their work and being themselves despite the haters. Both feature amazing lyrics and great raps from Jennie and Lisa and Rose and Jisoo aren’t left behind as well. Their vocals are outstanding.The album ends on a softer and hopeful note with you never know which features heartfelt lyrics, raw vocals, a soft beat and the reassurance that the girls are still themselves even after all the hate and self-doubt that comes about after. This is definitely that song to ride out into the sunset with as the drive comes to a close.The Album certainly lived up to its expectations and for such a long awaited album did above and beyond to deliver as no track on the album can be skipped. The girls did an excellent job with this album and we cannot recommend it enough for your road trip playlist.&nbsp;

Blackpink for your girls' trip

We’ve been on a sort of a prolonged holiday, since the pandemic landed and our children have almost exhausted all the means we had to keep them busy indoors. And while outside is not as safe as we used to know it to be, kids can still have some fun engaging in some outdoor activities. Just remember to mask them and remind them to observe social distance while outside.Here, we have compiled an exciting list of fun activities your children could engage in:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roller skatingFor this one, you don’t even have to take your kid(s) out of town… not even out of your estate. If you have skates at home, you can skate the afternoon away on that smooth path next to your house. Just beware of traffic. If you live in Nairobi and/or its environs, you should consider taking the young one(s) to the Aga khan Walk on a Sunday afternoon. Here they will meet other skaters of all ages, something that is bound to excite them and make them competitive at the same time. You'll be surprised to see the prowess of even five year olds in that field here. The beauty of this is that you can either carry your roller skaters or even hire if the visit was unplanned.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ice skatingYou thought you could only ice skate in Iceland? Well, there is an ice rink at the Panari Hotel along Mombasa Road where you can go for that experience. The ice rink that operates on alternate hours is usually open from morning to evening. Ice skates are provided once payment is made, and there are also guides to help the learners here. Remember to carry jackets, and a pair of socks for the children, it can be a bit chilly. Maybe a change of clothes, because they might fall on the ice too. You can also enroll your children for ice hockey lessons, and also ‘ice dancing’ lessons-like in Frozen.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;BowlingMost of us have only seen this in the movies, right? The experience has been brought closer to us now and we have no excuse. You can take the children to Village market - <a href="https://villagemarket-kenya.com/">https://villagemarket-kenya.com/</a>,or the Nextgen mall- <a href="https://www.nextgen.co.ke/">https://www.nextgen.co.ke/</a>,for this. This is probably a good experience for the older children aged 10 years and above. The beauty of these locations is that they have different games for the younger ones.. Like bouncing castles. Eateries are also strategically positioned so you’ll not have to worry about packing up meals. 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;BikingKids love their bicycles; despite the many injuries they give them. You and your children can bike the afternoon or the evening away as you unwind, and bond with them. You can visit a nature park, or Karura forest- https://www.friendsofkarura.org/ for this. You can still do it on a regular basis, on that road close to where you live, which will cost you nothing. Just carry your water bottles for hydration sake. And don’t forget helmets.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Animal parks.We all loved animal parks when growing up. Well most of us.This is a fun place to take the children as it is also a learning point. We have the animal orphanage in Nairobi, the snake park the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage &nbsp;and others. These are fun places where you take your children. You could even help and encourage then to adopt an elephant here, and title it after them.Remember to observe the Covid-19 containment rules in all the places you visit, stay safe and remember to send us some photos. &nbsp;‍

Fun outdoor activities for your kids during the holidays

INGREDIENTS1. 1/2 kg of ground beef/mined meat.2. 2 lightly beaten eggs.3. 1/2 cup finely chopped red onions.4. 1/2 cup finely shredded spring onions5. 2 Tsp ground garlic6. 1/2 cup finely chopped coriander.7. Salt to taste8. Pinch of black pepper.9. 1 tsp paprika10. 1 tsp curry powder11. Oil to deep fry.‍DIRECTIONS1. Add 3 table spoons of oil to a sauce pan and lightly fry the onions, spring onions until soft.2. Add the garlic and fry for 1 minute while stirring.3. Add the paprika, curry and black pepper and cook for 2 minutes then remove from the fire.4. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, coriander, salt and the cooked onions. Mix well.5. Divide the mixture into 6 portions and shape them into sausage shapes.6. Coat each in the wheat flour and then dip in the egg dip.7. In a deep frying pan or fryer bring the oil to heat under medium heat. Ensure the oil is not too hot and not too cool... it should be medium heat.8. Deep fry the kebabs on medium heat as you constantly turn them until they are light brown.(about 12 minutes)9. Remove them from the oil and repeat the egg dip and deep fry again this time for about 5-6minutes.10. Repeat the egg dip a third time and deep fry for 5 minutes. remove them from the oil and drain.11. pack them in aluminium foil to keep them hot.‍SERVING: 6 PORTIONSTOTAL TIME: 45 MIN

Zilpah's Kitchen special Kebabs for your next picnic 

It’s really happening, guys. The third wave of COVID-19 is here with us.We’re in a second lockdown, and we have no idea how long this curfew is going to last this time. We have to try and take the lessons from the last lockdown, exactly a year ago, into this one, as best as we can. <blockquote class="ql-align-justify">And what did we learn? Well, I don’t know about you, but I learnt that I like being outside more than I originally thought I did. Having the option to even go to the supermarket is something I had no idea I felt so strongly about! And who knew that tissue would become such an important commodity in such a short period of time?﻿</blockquote><blockquote class="ql-align-justify"> </blockquote>Kenyans are nothing if not adaptable. Within weeks everyone was masking up and using sanitizers. We barely even hug each other now – we only&nbsp;gota,&nbsp;or wave, which honestly, is kind of great if you’re not a very social person, I confess. People were and are trying really hard to take care of each other in the middle of a pandemic – and we tried even harder to take care of ourselves. That little thing I talked about earlier, wanting to be outside, but also not wanting to put anyone at risk? We adapted to that too. Did you notice how many events and interactions, within the past year, have moved to the big open spaces all around us? Kenya is lucky in that our country generally has a beautiful ‘outside’ – whether you’re talking about walking on the pristine beaches of Diani (how I miss Diani!) or cruising the desert sands at the Chalbi, or finding a quiet memorial park right at the heart of the city to just sit with your friends, be socially distanced and hang out. We’re fortunate that we have access to these places, and in spite of us being locked down, we can still go to them. Picnics, of course, became super popular as our various lockdowns wore on. There were a lot of events and spaces, restaurants, and even personal chefs catering to those people who were fighting cabin fever and grabbing joy where they could find it during Corona. It’s interesting to watch people fit and figure out what they can and cannot do now; whereas beforehand, all it took to go outside was a decision and a WhatsApp group, now, you have to consider, in a very deliberate way: where are we going? Who can come? How many people are we allowed to have? What will we bring? That last question is particularly important now because you can’t order at restaurants or bars. You’re either doing takeout in your car or cooking at home and using food tins and hotpots to carry around food. But how are you carrying them around?The great thing about the Vintage Picnics hampers is that it allows you to eliminate trying to manoeuvrer how to carry those hotpots! And each hamper has a certain number of people for it, so literally, all you have to do is bring yourself and the good eats. Yes, the hamper covers plates, cutlery, and a picnic blanket all wrapped into one, but also caters to some things a little more decadent and enjoyable for a perfect afternoon: if you want a bit of wine, there are wine glasses and a stand for your convenience. If you’re a cheese connoisseur, there’s a mini cheese board to put your jams and grapes and cheeses, or whatever delicious accompaniment you have decided on for your meal. So however you choose to take a break for self-care in these times or do a date night – date day! – or see your homegirls, Vintage Picnics has a hamper for it – for rent, or for sale – so that you can still enjoy everything Kenya has to offer, safely. What’s not to like? <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1618254263/DSC_08384_09ec28f4bf.jpg">

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Here Are The Lessons I'm Bringing With Me After The First Lockdown

<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:492px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8edef87bc9ed9ef586c9_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Rakesh Young Okuku is the founder of Baiskeli Adventures - a cycling tour company that organizes cycling trips across different parts of the country. Having spent the last 30 days on his bike touring the countryside, TPS catches up with Rakesh and he shares his experience going solo for a cross-country bike ride.</figcaption></figure>Tell us about this particular trip?&nbsp;I've been cycling for the last one month from Nairobi heading to and exploring the western side of Kenya. Currently I’m in Port Victoria but my next destination from here is Kakamega. I have gone through Suswa, Naivasha, Mau Narok, Njoro, Maili Sita (Nakuru), Lake Solai, Subukia, Lake Bogoria, Tenges, Nyaru, Kipkabus, Nandi Hills, Kisumu, NdereIsland, Mbita, Mfangano Island, Usenge, Mageta Island and River Yala.&nbsp;&nbsp;How many kilometers do you plan to cover?I have no set distance in mind for this but daily I ride between 50-100km depending on the specific destination of the day and how I feel. This is more of an easy tour, for once. Previously, I'd ride 150km plus per day on 5-day trips.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:451px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8c9d5254084a2a397fd7_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What’s the longest distance you’ve covered?In a day, 180km (but not in this particular tour). In a week, 930km.&nbsp;Do you stay in hotels on your bike rides?&nbsp;I do a mix of camping and cheap lodging. I carry a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat but if I feel too worn out, I stay in a hotel.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:600px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8cdc94e910c6388a3366_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;How do you prepare yourself for an epic bike ride? The biggest component is the mental preparedness. I have to envision myself completing the whole tour before setting out because only then can I feel confident enough to start. I plot outa rough route picking random locations on the map and saying I want to go here and here and here then try to connect them using the roads I see on the map. However, I also prefer to leave a whole lot of the route to chance, let it surprise me. For one, I prefer dirt roads over tarmac roads. The more mysterious or remote the route seems, the more appealing it is to me. &nbsp;And what's in your bag?Currently, on top of my camping equipment, I'm carrying a change of clothes (2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts, a pair of trousers, 2 sets of cycling clothing, a pair of shoes, a warm sweater, several pairs of socks, a pair of sandals, a rain jacket, camp light and basic toiletries.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:610px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8d51f87bc916e5f47292_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What makes you believe that you'll make it (cross-country)?I suppose it's experience that's given me the confidence. I've been doing solo bike touring since 2014 so I'm confident in my physical and mental capabilities. I also trust my equipment. I have a sturdy mountain bike that's taken me over many treacherous trails comfortably.&nbsp;&nbsp;What landscapes have impressed you? Any places you’d like to revisit?Oh they are too many to count. The most surprising ones though were on the route from Kongoni (Naivasha) to Mau Narok; going around Menengai Crater from Olorongai; riding along Lake Solai or descending into Subukia Valley; and climbing the 24 hairpins from Chebutei to Nyaru. But ultimately, nothing beats the views across Lake Victoria especially at sunset, be it atop Gembe Hill or on any of the islands.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:623px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8dc20a44c1f10aba7eb5_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What challenges have you faced so far?Besides occasional bad weather(rainstorms) and a case of stomach flu, I've had my phone stolen by a young man I requested to take a photo of me on Gembe Hill. I turned my back on him for a few minutes and he simply took off downhill with my phone. It was actually hilarious. Thankfully, that was my old phone though it had a better camera than my new one.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:677px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8e047d118d6c379d556b_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;Are there a lot of people taking up biking? How are they pushing themselves to cover more kms?Oh the cycling community has grown tremendously in the recent years and even more this year, fueled by theCovid-19 situation I believe. Lots of people are keen to push their bodies to the limits and then some more just to see what they are made of. I know a couple of guys who cycled from Nairobi to Mombasa (approximately 500km) in under 24hrs. Actually 15hrs to be precise. That aside, cycling for 100km+distances has become a weekend norm for most people now.&nbsp;&nbsp;How often do you manage to get out on your bike?I get out as frequently as I can and want; really since it's also my job. I used to commute with my bike in Nairobi a lot more before but I see myself getting more inclined towards trail and cross country riding instead. It's more peaceful this way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do you go cycling by yourself or in a group?I cycle alone when I need to unwind and discover places. I do group rides for work.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:560px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8e5f85c2a575da898d33_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>Do you listen to music when cycling?Oh yes, but only on days when the mood is low and I need a little motivation to keep going. I usually prefer not to listen to music while riding because I like concentrating on the voices within my surroundings.&nbsp;&nbsp;How do you see the impact of Covid-19 as you pass through the countryside?There are many remote places where tourism as well as local businesses have been severely affected. A shopkeeper in Kamukunji, Solai area, told me how since the pandemic begun, his sales at the shop have dropped as people now struggle to prioritize their expenditures. Many hotels and attraction sites I visit also speak of a decline in visitor numbers this year. However, the more interior I go, the more I realize that the curfews, physical distancing and mask-wearing protocols don't seem to apply.&nbsp;‍

30 days around the countryside with Baisikeli Adventures

My eldest brother turned 50. That’s a milestone in anyone’s life. As a family, we wanted to get him a special gift to mark the occasion. Something timeless, something real that he would appreciate and use. Not something that he would consume in a day and forget. I asked some friends and was pointed to several online gift shops. They had a variety of offers, but none stood out. &nbsp;They were mostly special alcohol bottles. It’s nice to have an expensive bottle of whiskey, but once you open it, it’s gone in a few hours. There also does not seem to be much imagination in men’s gifts. Yes, there are Fathers Day specials, but then it’s like they set out to masculinize and adapt Mother’s Day gifts for men. Instead of wine, do whiskey. Also, change chocolate to whisky stones and a beauty package to a beard kit. But hair grooming items will not appeal to someone who has managed his hair for 30 years. Then one day, while shopping at Carrefour. I saw something that clicked. I took a picture and shared it with the family. They all agreed that it was perfect. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3a565b0ee58d26e0dc9506_1%20(1).jpg"></div></figure> My brother loves to host guests and to grill meat. &nbsp;At family functions, he is always our resident meat chef, lighting a jiko, roasting goat legs and ribs, and carving them all before serving. While the kids are inside playing video games, and the ladies are cooking and gossiping in the kitchen, you will find him outside at his rather old grill with tongs, a bunch of rosemary twigs and marinade. Watching, sprinkling, raising the grille, turning, the meat. He’s at peace out there with a drink and a newspaper. So far the grill is perfect. I have not had a chance to taste what it roasts, but he’s very happy with and says it uses a very small amount of charcoal. He says it cooks really fast and that the first time he used it, he burnt the meat to the bone, as he got caught off by its intense heat conversion. &nbsp; So we got him, one of the three models by BBQ’s Today (<a href="http://www.bbqstoday.co.ke/" target="_blank">http://www.bbqstoday.co.ke</a>) at Carrefour &nbsp;We took a smaller one that cost about Kshs 27,000. It does two kinds of cooking, with charcoal, has wheels for easy movement, and is compact enough to fit in a station wagon. There were other larger ones, that cost about Kshs 50,000. I see lots of excitement about Builders Warehouse opening in Karen that also has several grills on its posters, and can’t wait to compare what they have. ‍

Gifts for men who picnic

The Jacaranda Propaganda. You’ve probably heard about it or come across the Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda (#JacaradaPropaganda) on Social Media. Better yet, you may have spotted the purple Jacaranda flowers shining in the sun and littering the ground in your neighborhood. Yes, the#JacarandaPropaganda is about nature showing off through blooming Jacarandas. In Kenya, they bloom in September through to late September.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1342px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74f64eabba48a3f2c044e_2.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Jacarandas are an exotic blessing that was left behind by the British at the end of their colonial rule of the country and by extension, Africa. As such, they are mostly found in areas previously occupied by whites-you will not spot a Jacaranda tree in the wild. You’ll spot Jacaranda’s in Kenya's urban areas of Nairobi, Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, Kiambu, Limuru, Tigoni, Murang'a, Timau, Eldoret, Kakamega, Naivasha, Kisumu and everywhere else the British settled or administered in the early-mid 1900s.Jacarandas are attributed to Allan Cunningham, a British explorer and botanist who introduced this ornamental tree into the British psyche. The breed was then exported to Rhodesia, and then spread across the rest of the British colony in Africa. Across the continent, in the former colonies of Britain, #JacarandaPropaganda is something people look forward to.&nbsp;In South Africa for example, in Pretoria, there are an estimated70,000 jacaranda trees that bloom in spring every year. This has earned the city Jacaranda City moniker. Here, you will even spot the rare white Jacarandas. On Herbert Baker Street in Groenkloof, there are about one hundred rare white Jacarandas. Annually, in October, hundreds of Japanese retirees fly in to see this profusion of purple.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74ce525a4ef04e835ab5d_1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Back home, Jacaranda trees are attributed to one Frank Walter Jameson aka Jim Jameson, aka Jacaranda Jim. Jacaranda Jim was Kenya’s Town Planning Consultant in 1926 with a mandate to supervise town planning. Being a Jacaranda tree lover and given his position, Jim planted as many Jacaranda trees as he possibly could.&nbsp;In 2016, #JacarandaPropaganda started gaining popularity on social media in Kenya. When Jacaranda trees in Nairobi started to bloom to a seismic hue of purple in, KOT started taking shots of them and posting on Twitter complete with the Hashtag.The trend has continued gaining popularity among Kenyans. The photos shared are just breathtaking and have even sparked conversations around preserving the environment for future generations. Sadly, most of the Jacaranda trees in the country have been cut down and we may not experience the blooming glory as Jim Jacaranda intended. But seeing that the hashtag is picking fast, there is hope that we can preserve the remaining pieces and even plant more. If not for us, as Jacarandas take 7 to 14 years to grow enough to bloom, for future generations.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1346px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74fa36084e3429dde57f0_3.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>In the meantime, go out there, bask in the purple goodness, take photos and join in the #JacarandaPropaganda bandwagon and feel free to tag us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepicnicsite">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/thepicnicsiteke">Twitter </a>and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepicnicsite_ke/?hl=en">Instagram</a> . Take time to look and enjoy the scenery of purple while it lasts. Then let's wait for next year and do it all over again! ‍

Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda - The Genesis

Honestly 2020 has been a rough year. This is something we all agree on, no debates. And even though the year is coming to an end, we are somehow grateful but cautious about the coming year. All the same, this should not stop us from unwinding and making the best out of this festive season. If you are looking to get out into the world without sacrificing all the comfort from home, then glamping should be at the top of your list. It has easily become a trend in the travel world over the past few years and most hotels and resorts are jumping aboard with aesthetically pleasing rooms and tents for an ultimate glamping experience. Here are a few glamping sites you can find across the country<a href="https://www.segera.com/">Segera Retreat</a><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1475px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52fdc1b6de9636fd66582_segera%20retreat.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Luxury has no limit at Segera Retreat.Located in the heart of Laikipia, the wildlife sanctuary and eco safari retreat aims to offer guests a magical experience in the wild. &nbsp;The retreat offers four types of accommodations: A farmhouse, Segera house, Villa Segera and the garden villa which comprises of 6 garden villas. &nbsp;The houses and villas have aesthetically pleasing layout ad interior décor which differs from most eco retreats layout. Some of the activities that one can do while at the retreat include: game drives, wild picnics, outdoor cinema, gathering wild honey just to mention a few. The retreat also boasts of well trained and experienced game drivers who are well versed with wild animals and the sanctuary at large.Their current 2020 accommodation rates are US$ 1485 per person sharing per night during the low season and US$ 1760 per person sharing during the high season. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The rock and sea bubble ecolodge<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1200px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52f4515146591d8d5cfba_Bubble%20hotel%20watamu.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>When the sandy beaches call we have no choice but to listen. If you are looking to try something new from the normal hotels and resorts at the coast, the rock and sea bubble ecolodge in Watamu promises to offer you an unforgettable experience. The bubble lodges are not only bubble shaped but also fully made of glass offering you a new outdoor experience. Honestly, nothing seems exciting as sleeping in a glass bubble while admiring the beautiful well displayed stars in the sky. The ecolodge also has an amazing panoramic restaurant built on a coral rock at over 40 metres above sea level. &nbsp;Some of the activities at the ecolodge include: snorkeling, sea diving, kayaking and kite surfing among other interesting activities. The accommodation rates depend on the type of lodge or tent you select.Entumoto safari campThe private tented safari camp is title refers to meeting point in the Maa language. The title is inspired by the location of the camp where the plains meet the hills and where valleys come together. Located in the hills of the Rift valley, Entumoto offers its guests breath taking views and sunsets over the Mara plains. Some of the activities in the camp include, game drives, cultural trips, sundowners, open air bush meals and other interesting activities.They are currently offering three nights for 2 for the rest of 2020. Most of their rates are tailored for all-inclusive deals. Mara Explorer<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52f92718dbb474ac49248_mara%20explorer.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Located in the very heart of Maasai Mara National Reserve, the 10 luxury tents offer guests prime views of the game as well as the yearly wildebeest migration which takes place between July and September. Guests also get to see herds of elephants and rhinos from the luxury of their verandas.The tents have been uniquely designed to open up to the sky and, on a deck on one side, a Victorian claws-foot bathtub which offers secluded open-air bathing – and a unique new perspective of the African bush.Both the luxury twin tent and luxury double tents rate start from $610 all inclusive. &nbsp;&nbsp;‍

The festive season is here, we are going glamping 

Picnics are releasing a breath of fresh air on Nairobi’s social scene, and Nairobi has not been left behind:&nbsp; from Paris to Brisbane, Shanghai to London, picnics have taken off on an unprecedented scale, fitting the bill as the perfect and safe way of reconnecting with nature and loved ones. People are stepping out in style, relishing the fresh air and therapeutic scenery, while bonding over cocktails and charcuteries.We caught up with Elizabeth Kamunge, Founder of Quaint in Picnics, a boutique party entertainment services company.&nbsp; Her company will be hosting Soulful Saturday, a delightful picnic outing this coming Saturday at the Evergreen Park.&nbsp; Soulful Saturday is the first of a series of music-themed picnic experiences that she has lined up.&nbsp; Here’s a snippet of our conversation with Elizabeth:<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620893415/Elizabeth_Kamunge_a2832df92d.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Elizabeth Kamunge</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;Give us a brief overview of Quaint in PicnicsWe offer picnic set up services for all occasions. The business began in November 2020 and started with home based private functions. We have now evolved into public outdoor events with Soulful Saturday being the first event that we have organized.&nbsp;What inspired you to start this business?My inspiration came from my family Sunday lunch tradition. When we got locked down due to the Covid 19 containment measures , we had to find a way to continue this tradition (my family is big). It started with placing an old carpet outside with a few cushions, to getting hay and pallets for those who felt too old to sit on the ground.&nbsp;What are some of the memorable experiences you have created as a brand?The most memorable experiences have also been the most challenging. My very first set up was for a young lady turning 21 who didn’t want any questions from me, she just said “Do your thing”.&nbsp; I loved the challenge and she absolutely loved it! Another memorable experience was for a 5 year old who wanted everything Spiderman. Creating the spider web inside the space was quite challenging. I was proud of what we did.&nbsp;&nbsp;How has the Covid 19 affected your kind of business?Interestingly, my business sprung from the social restrictions created by the Covid 19 pandemic.&nbsp; Our picnic experiences take into consideration many factors, the most common one being the limitation of numbers at any function, and the identification of safe and suitable outdoor locations for large scale events.Tell us more about the Soulful Saturday?Soulful Saturday is all about the music, reconnecting with your childhood! The DJ is well known in the area, having played in several clubs along Kiambu road. The event allows the guests to carry their own picnic baskets, favorite drink and enjoy the outdoors as we play soul music. Quaint in Picnics will set up the grounds.&nbsp;What other events have you lined up in the coming months?We plan to roll out a series of music-themed events every month.&nbsp; We will feature different genres of music – Hip Hop, R&amp;B, Kenyan, House, Amapiano, you name it.How can one get in touch with you for more information on Quaint in Picnics events?Call/Text/Whatsapp on 0714 813476 ; you can also join our online community on Instagram: quaint_in_picnics &nbsp;

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Grab A Mat, Some Cheese And Vino! Let’s Picnic

Playdates give your kids a chance to interact with their age-mates while learning some social skills including turn-taking and conflict resolutions. Choosing the right outfit for your kids is as crucial as picking their playdate partners. It would be best if you determined whether the clothes are stretchy enough, washable, comfortable and not forgetting stylish. With the numerous clothing options and great deals available today, you can go beyond the basic jeans and t-shirt style. Here are some tips to guide you through:<ol start="1"> <li>Choose functional clothes</li></ol>It might be tempting to dress your kids in fancy clothes,and as much as they will look great, the clothes might not be functional for play. It will be best if you pick some laid-back casual outfits that aren't overly fancy. For instance, you can opt for soft cotton, which prevents excessive sweating. Also, ensure that the length is excellent to avoid injuries in case the kid trips.<ol start="2"> <li>Choose comfortable clothes.</li></ol>Pick clothes flexible enough to enable your child to cross their legs or climb over a frame. Avoid too slippery fabrics that restrict your kids from crawling, standing, or moving comfortably on smooth surfaces. You may also need to ensure that you fasten the belts and shorts adequately to prevent them from continually falling, which can be a nuisance.<ol start="3"> <li>Consider the weather</li></ol>If it's cold, dress up your kid in lots of layers and thick jackets. You can consider a waterproof outer layer for the rain. In the hotsummer, look for loose pants, skirts or dresses. Also ensure the clothes are absorbent to absorb the sweat.<ol start="4"> <li>Colors</li></ol>Avoid too bright colors that can stain easily. Dress your child to get dirty, since play-especially outdoor involves getting into dirt.Bright colors will restrict the child, as they are afraid of getting dirty, and you may also need to keep changing the outfits.<ol start="5"> <li>Pick strong fabrics</li></ol>You need to shop for clothing that can hold up to several years of cleaning without wearing. Natural fabrics are always the best option for every occasion. Cotton is a good idea, since it is comfortable. Khaki bottoms are also a good sport.We will keep giving you more tips on ensuring your kids have the best fun. Enjoy and keep safe.&nbsp;‍

What to consider when picking an outfit for your kid’s playdate

Here is Joyce Charlette's Mother's Day narration that won her an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620666127/Joyc_42e480a8d4.jpg" alt=""></figure>

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Mother's Delight- So Long For So Much 

Dogs come in a surprisingly wide range of shapes, sizes,coats and colours. From the portable poodle to the ripped Rottweiler. When Caroline Githinji decided to get her pair of pups, she settled for crossbreeds,perhaps drawn by their irresistibly good looks and predictable charm.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f4623887726b7e9afe45521_2.jpeg" loading="lazy"></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>“I wasn't partial to the breed, I just love dogs in general and was looking for small breeds that could happily fit in our home,” she says.Like most dog owners, Caroline adores her mutts. Daisy (three years old) and Benji (one and a half) have grown to become cherished members of the Githinji household alongside their cat, Bubbles. “My dogs are the most constant thing in my life,” says Caroline. “They are loving and dependable. They have a way of making me mindful of the present moment.”She particularly enjoys taking daily walks with her dogs and occasionally tossing the ball out in the garden with them. Daisy, the Maltese half-breed, “doesn’t return the ball though.”<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f46230d25c607b28a7d0bb3_3.jpeg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>During the Covid 19 pandemic, the dogs’ movements have been restricted to the environs surrounding their home with the occasional trip tot he vet and groomer. While the risk of spreading Covid 19 between pets and humans is considered low, experts advise against letting people outside the household interact with pets alongside other standardized measures that have been put in place to contain the spread of the virus. For Caroline, nothing could stop her from showing love to her pets. “I'm trying hard not to obsess about Covid and adding one more worry about getting it from my adorable dogs is not something I'm keen on.”‍<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>‍‍

Caroline Githinji on handling dog-pets during Covid

Picture this: a beautiful Sunday afternoon out in the sun, hearty laughter,&nbsp;great music and delectable finger foods washed down with a selection of premium drinks – all&nbsp;these, against the backdrop of a spectacular picnic in one of Nairobi’s hidden gems; your chief&nbsp;guest is Mama, and the occasion is Mother’s Day.&nbsp;Now think about this: the possibility of bringing this picture to life on Sunday 9th May 2021, as&nbsp;the world celebrates Mother’s Day. And it gets even better: all you have to do is craft a&nbsp;compelling story that celebrates Mama. If your story receives the highest votes from our panel of judges, we will not only elevate you as a guest contributor on The Picnic Site&nbsp;(<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) but also present you with an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).Every day this week, we will give you an opportunity to participate in the Mother’s Delight&nbsp;Competition – each day we will publish a unique theme that captures the spirit of Mothers and&nbsp;Motherhood on our social media handles on Instagram and Facebook. We invite one and all to share with us an original, inspirational and creative narration – through a written essay or poem,&nbsp;a short video or a graphic art piece. Each day, we will evaluate the entries received by the cut-off time, and the winning entrant will secure their spot for the fabulous picnic set-up.Safety Above All&nbsp;As the world adjusts to a new normal, it is of utmost importance that we act responsibly and&nbsp;observe the Covid 19 safety protocols issued by the WHO and the Government of Kenya.&nbsp;We have taken utmost care to ensure that the Mother’s Delight Picnics will meet the highest standards of safety. Physical distancing will be a paramount feature, and each of the picnic setups will be laid out in full compliance with health and safety protocols.&nbsp;A day out in a safe space with controlled human traffic will also provide that special&nbsp;reconnection with nature, something we have all yearned for during the extended lockdowns this past year. Let us create beautiful experiences this Mother’s Day, and celebrate responsibly.&nbsp;For those who may want to do something different for Mama this Sunday, we have curated&nbsp;some content on <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke </a>that can guide you as you plan the perfect Mother’s&nbsp;Day treat.&nbsp;About the Mother’s Delight CompetitionThe Mother’s Delight Competition is proudly brought to you by The Picnic Site and Vintage&nbsp;Picnics. We are passionate about the outdoors and have curated content and accessories that&nbsp;make it possible to do outdoor, smartly – outdoor activities have immeasurable physical, mental,&nbsp;emotional and spiritual benefits.We are committed to changing the script and giving Kenyans a safer and more exciting way to foster stronger social bonds and create great memories through smart outdoor living. The Mother’s Delight Competition will take place from 3rd May to 7th May, and will be&nbsp;conducted on the Competition Organizers Digital Assets as follows:&nbsp; <ul><li>Facebook Vintage Picnics The Picnic Site</li><li>Instagram vintage-picnics thepicnicsite_ke</li><li>Website <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke </a> <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a></li></ul> The competition is open to all Kenyan citizens, residents and non-residents over the age of 18&nbsp;years. While multiple entries across the five different themes will be accepted and graded, an&nbsp;individual can only win one prize.All winning entries will be published on the competition organizers’ digital assets. There will be a total of five winners, each winning a picnic set up for 6 people at a location to be announced later. All prizes are not transferrable. By participating in the competition, the winners are&nbsp;expected to carefully select their party of six people who will attend the picnic on Sunday 9thMay 2021. All entries will be judged on Originality and Creativity.____________________________________________________________All Enquiries:Email hello@vintagepicnics.co.kePhone 0746 035043 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620121399/The_Picnic_Site_Mother_s_Day_campaign_1_04_05_21_2_71c9c98daf.jpg">

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Win it!  A deserved Mama’s Day Picnic Treat for Six

Like blossoming flowers, the outdoors is slowly coming to life after almost a year in lock-down.&nbsp; Our favourite restaurants and parks are providing the perfect backdrop for social interactions, as families and friends reconnect. Charred burgers and shawarma with all the fixings, fresh chicken salad, goat ‘choma’ grilled over a barbecue, ice-cold drinks and a large chees board —food just tastes better when served in the open.And just in case you’ve forgotten, Mother’s Day is here, that’s right, this Sunday! With warmer weather and relaxed restrictions, it’ll be hard to resist the urge to dine outside.&nbsp; A picnic is just the perfect plan to celebrate moms and hangout with loved ones.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482562/3_fb29e35931.jpg" alt=""></figure>There are a number of things that could mess up the perfect picnic. If you are careful and conscientious, you could easily avoid common errors that can create a disaster while dinning outside. Here are some clever tips to keep in mind and how best to prepare for your next picnic.Know your picnic siteUnless you have your own green space in the backyard, consider doing a site visit to the identified location or calling in advance to confirm things like opening hours, any fees requirements, parking availability, security and the size of the crowd that frequents the location you are gunning for.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482693/2_b5db8c9c3f.jpg" alt=""></figure>In Nairobi, for example, parks can get jammed with people because lately there has been an increased demand for outdoor spaces. Don’t be surprised to find that some sites are being overused. Nothing kills a picnic vibe like sharing a spot with hundreds of revelers. But the most important thing in avoiding crowded or common spaces is to help protect each other from exposure to coronavirus.&nbsp;Another thing you want to find out in advance is whether the picnic site has any restrictions in terms of bringing in alcohol beverages, use of plastic bottles or playing music. You might also want to find out if the location has a view to make the whole experience magical.Always ensure you consult the weather forecasts and make your preparations with this in mind. The type of weather will influence the time you go out, they type of clothing and shoes you wear, and the typeof activities you engage in.In addition, you might want to take into consideration special mobility needs, especially for the elderly.&nbsp;Some mothers prefer settings that are more private and intimate; In that case, you could explore a neighborhood park since all you need for a picnic is sufficient space to fit a mat. You can transform the mood by streaming some forest sounds on YouTube to create an ambiance of a natural and relaxed environment.&nbsp;Limit your squad<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482969/7_005cef632e.png" alt=""></figure>If you would like to invite others to join in this special day, it’s probably best to stick to your quar-pod - these are the people whom you are not social distancing from maybe because they are members of your immediate household or you know for sure are responding to the pandemic seriously and observe all safeguarding conditions like masks, hand-washing, and social distancing. This significantly reduces risk to you and your family.&nbsp;It is also wiser to gather a limited number of people as per current Covid 19 safety recommendations but in case you have a bigger family then encourage some groups to bring their own picnic setup which will be arranged six feet apart, kind of like a picnic archipelago.Protect your skin<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483154/6_de09209120.jpg" alt=""></figure>Going outdoors sunscreen-free is not an option. No matter the forecast and even with a hat on, you are still going to catch some UV rays which could irritate the skin or eyes and increase the chances of getting painful sunburn, premature aging, or skin cancer. So whether you go for sun sprays, sunblock sticks, sun creams or gel just grab a bottle, throw it into your bag and remember to reapply every two hours.In the old days, sunscreens contained para-aminobenzoic acid but newer sunscreens contain a variety of ingredients such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and others. If you are trying to shop for the right sunscreen, experts recommend choosing SPF 50 or higher in form of lotions that are easier to apply and evenly distribute on the skin.Don’t let the bugs bite<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483355/8_0aa4d76cd0.png" alt=""></figure>Depending on the location you choose, you might get some uninvited guests that could ruin Mother’s day. Pesky pests like ants, flies, wasps, hornets, bees, mosquitoes or stingers can break the memory of a fun picnic outing by being annoying and dangerous. Some pests are just a nuisance while others sting, bite or transfer diseases. Unfortunately, what attracts most of them is the fact that they too like cheese, crackers, fruits and wine.The good news: there are some smart solutions to help you ward off those pesky beings. Most bugs don’t like acidic scents so consider setting up a few citrus candles or spraying essential oils that have the aroma of garlic, mint, rosemary or lemon. In the same spirit, you might want to avoid wearing strong scented fragrances, shampoos, or deodorants which can attract the bugs and the stings that follow.Bugs are adept at tracing sugar in any food, so another trick is to avoid displaying food or sticky sweets until you are ready to plate it. At all times food should be kept in well-sealed containers or coolers.Beware of birds<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483520/1_2783331a38.jpg" alt=""></figure>Dive-bombing birds are the most startling experiences one can have when out on a picnic. I’ll be the first one to admit that being attacked by a crow is no laughing matter (except to the persons watching the incident). Especially in the months of May and June, crows can become so territorial. Similar to our mothers, they can repetitively strike anyone that moves too close to their nest although in other instances they simply can’t resist the mouthwatering smell of ‘nyama choma’. If you notice that the location you have selected is frequented by many birds, consider bringing a big umbrella and avoid leaving meaty food uncovered.&nbsp;Keep cold foods cold and cooked foods warm<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483622/5_28e66a969e.jpg" alt=""></figure>To begin with, if everyone is bringing a little something to eat, it’s probably a good idea to coordinate menus beforehand to avoid having the same set of recipes. More importantly, when planning the menu, you want to go for dishes that do well outdoors such as crusty bread, salami, nuts, sandwiches, meat platters, cheese, grapes and some dips. The picnic might also be a great opportunity to order takeout from local restaurants.The key thing here is to observe how you pack the food to reduce risks of food poisoning. You do not want to get sick with any foodborne illness. If possible, pack cold food in an insulated cooler or add ice packs and pack hot food in foil papers or food warmers to help keep all the goodies at a safe temperature. Snacks such as sandwiches can be made at the picnic site to prevent them from becoming soggy.Remember to keep it Eco-friendly<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483783/4_02fa4c8253.jpg" alt=""></figure>Ensure that you encourage everyone to dispose all throwaways in the garbage cans available at the park or bring a trash bag to avoid littering and conserve the beautiful outdoor spots.&nbsp;Don’t forget to pack these essentialsRemember to carry sanitizers, gloves, masks, napkins, wet wipes and plenty of water to complete your outdoor kit keeping in mind that the area may not have functioning bathrooms or running water fountains. You may also want to carry a small picnic table, foldable chairs and extra blankets.Happy Mother’s Day!

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Eight Things To Consider When Planning A Mother’s Day Picnic 

Just what is it that makes Kenyan cuisine unique? While the country keeps in stride with the emerging trends worldwide, we have held our own and remained true to our unique palate and culinary exploits.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kenyan menu reflects our rich social-cultural heritage while the meals serve a multi-sensorial experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;As you set off on a Kenyan food expedition, you are bound to find these ten along the way:1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ugali&nbsp;at the heart of every meal In many parts of Kenya, no meal is complete without a generous serving of Ugali, a well- loved staple food. Made mainly from maize flour and water, and cooked into a brilliant white and flavourful mound, Ugali packs a perfect punch, pairing expertly with&nbsp;nyama&nbsp;and&nbsp;mboga.&nbsp;But just what is it that makes Ugali a holy grail of Kenyan cuisine?&nbsp;&nbsp;This starchy dish delivers unparalleled satiety, keeping hunger pangs at bay for extended periods.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is nutritious and affordable and can be made from a wide variety of flours milled from millet, sorghum and cassava.2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nyama, nyama, nyama&nbsp;is importantNyama choma, or grilled meat, sits right up there with the best of Kenyan cuisine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kuku&nbsp;(chicken),&nbsp;Nyama ng’ombe(beef), or&nbsp;nyama mbuzi&nbsp;(goat) are the most popular meats, often served as delicacies both in homes and social events.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nyama&nbsp;also holds an interesting cultural significance, and it is quite common to find places where certain cuts of meat are reserved specifically for either men, women or children – any deviation from such restrictions are said to result in serious consequences.&nbsp; 3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avocado is baeKenyans love their avo. But who wouldn’t? The avocado is a versatile fruit that pairs well with salads, as well as bland and spicy meals.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and healthy fats, the avocado also holds its own quite well, and can be enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt, sugar or lemon. Did you know? Kenya is one of the world Top 10 exporters of avocado.&nbsp;&nbsp; 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Onions + tomatoes + water = soupIn many Kenyan homes, the standard soup, stew or stock is made in a predictable fashion:&nbsp;fry your onions, add your chopped tomatoes, season with salt, pour in some water then bring it to a boil!&nbsp;&nbsp;With cross cultural integration, technological advancements and globalization, soup is taking on a different path in many Kenyan kitchens – but being the Kenyans that we are, we remain true to our&nbsp;onion+tomatoes+water =soup&nbsp;orientation. 5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any time is teatime!Kenyans love their&nbsp;chai&nbsp;served hot and rich (milky).&nbsp;&nbsp;Kenyan&nbsp;chai&nbsp;overrides time and season and fits comfortably in any social setting – served on its own, with a snack, or after a hearty meal. Traditionally, Kenyans consume black tea – grown largely in the Rift Valley and Central parts of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Increasingly, green tea and purple tea are gaining popularity as healthy variants to this well-loved&nbsp;any time&nbsp;beverage. 6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It gets spicier at the coastFancy some heat and spice in your meals?&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kenyan Coast has you covered.&nbsp;&nbsp;Historically, the coastal towns of Mombasa and Lamu served as a melting pot of diverse cultures as a result of linkages between the local population and the Indian and Persian traders. It is no wonder that coastal cuisine is considered distinct and unmatched.&nbsp;&nbsp;With a plethora of exotic spices and time-tested traditions passed down from generation to generation, a coastal meal – be it the rich rice-based&nbsp;pilau&nbsp;or&nbsp;biriyani, the fresh coconut-infused&nbsp;samaki&nbsp;(sea food), or even the&nbsp;mahamri na mbaazi(cardamom-infused pancakes and pigeon peas in coconut sauce) – is a multi-sensorial experience. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Different regions cook differentlyWhat makes Kenyan food so fascinating to explore is the fact people from different regions prepare it differently. For instance,&nbsp;ugali&nbsp;from the Kenyan coast is very different from that of the Nyanza lakeside region near Lake Victoria.&nbsp;Githeri,&nbsp;another popular meal made from a base of maize and beans, is cooked, and tastes markedly differently – in the Central Kenya regions, it is often enriched with a wide variety of vegetables – peas, potatoes and carrots - while in the western regions, it is quite common to find&nbsp;githeri&nbsp;featuring an assortment of different varieties of beans, peanuts and groundnuts.8&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a lot you can do with milkConservative estimates indicate that each Kenyan consumes approximately 125 liters of milk every year. Apart from serving as a key ingredient in the famed Kenyan&nbsp;Chai,&nbsp;milk is commonly fermented at home and consumed as&nbsp;maziwa mala&nbsp;or yorghut – a filling stand-alone drink, or accompaniment to main meals.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is also a key ingredient in marinades and traditional vegetables, and a base for making clarified butter, cheese and cream.9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fish is plentifulThere is no shortage of fish in Kenya.&nbsp;&nbsp;The fresh waters of Lake Victoria provide an endless supply of Nile Perch, Tilapia and&nbsp;omena&nbsp;(sardines), while the expansive Indian Ocean yields a bounty of prawns, lobsters, oysters,&nbsp;una(mackerel) and&nbsp;katashingo&nbsp;(sardines), to mention but a few. The cooking methods are as diverse as the species.&nbsp;&nbsp;While previous generations saw fish or seafood as a preserve of the “lake and coastal” people, today fish is widely accepted as a mainstream meal, and even raised in inland farms hundreds of miles away from the wide water bodies.10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wheat is kingYes, we Kenyans love our wheat, in all its glorious forms. Whether that is bread, mandazi, mahamri or chapati, we embrace wheat on our dining tables as a delectable addition and palate soother. Pro tip:If you’re a foodie, Kenyan food is the new adventure you’ve been looking for. Once you taste it, you’ll definitely be back for more!Catch Making the menu on HONEY, DStv channel WAT (16:00) CAT (17:00) EAT (18:00)&nbsp;

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Top 10 food tips for your next outdoor potluck 

A friend of mine took me to Kereita-The Forest this past weekend, for a much needed break from the city hustle. You’ve heard of The Forest, no? Okay, you need to visit The Forest if you haven’t. It is at Kimende, past Limuru in Kiambu county- approximately One and a half hours drive from the City. From the Nakuru-Nairobi highway, it’s almost eight kilometers in. There are signs to show you the direction. It is located in Kereita forest, which is manned by the Kenya Forest Services(KFS). For starters, I’ve been postponing my visit to this scenery. &nbsp;I lived in Kimende a while back, so I kept wondering what more does the place have to offer than what it offered me back then. But, being an outdoor lover,the promise of the zipline thrill kept calling me. So, I finally gave in. Until Covid happened, The Forest was open on all days except Mondays. Since reopening post Covid, they have adjusted their timetable and are only open Fridays to Sundays. &nbsp;To go there in recent times, you have to pre-book, so that they can slot you in.Also, you have to pay a deposit fee of a thousand Kenyan shillings,non-refundable. When you get there, you will top up the amount needed for whichever activity you choose.&nbsp;&nbsp;We started our journey from town,at around eleven in the morning. My friend who was supposed to have pre-booked our slot, had forgotten to do so, and we almost decided to forego the whole thing. Then we decided to call and see if we can get a slot for the same day.Luckily for us, we were told that if we are there by one, then we could get a chance. And so we paid a deposit of a thousand shillings per person. We got to Kimende and branched off to the road leading there. As you start on the winding road, you can already feel the sense of calmness creeping in. The road is in good condition, considering the location of the place. We even found some roadworks going on, to make it better. At the Forest’s entrance, there is a KFS station, where we paid entry fees of two hundred Kenyan shillings per person. A receipt was issued for the same. The weather was a bit warm, but the place is naturally chilly. The KFS officer gave us directions to The Forest, and we began our way in. &nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f402148d5fe7aaf0a96abc4_3.jpg"></div><figcaption>Photo courtesy: The forest website</figcaption></figure>This place is beautiful to say the least. We drove through the forest enjoying the beautiful calm scenery for about two kilometers. The road here is a bit rough but still in good condition,considering there had been rains. Nothing can describe the calm feeling, unless you go experience it yourself. For a moment I forgot all my troubles, and wished I could spend an entire day, just looking and taking it all in. We got to the entrance and were ushered in, there is enough parking space. There's someone who mans and directs the parking process. They have installed Covid-19 containment measures as required by the Ministry of Tourism/Health. You get to wash your hands first as you approach the registration desk. Our temperature was taken, and recorded together with our personal details. The personal details included our names, residence, and contact information. Also, you have to keep your mask on. Social distance is being observed, at all points,including the restaurant. From the desk, we headed inside to the office, to finish our payment, and head out to the activities. We got, to the payment office to pay for our activities, which is close to the restaurant. The view from the restaurant is beautiful. They have different offers on their menu. I was meant to understand that pre-Covid, they used to have buffet meals, but not anymore. Also, they are not selling alcohol for now, as per the guidelines. We got there just in time for ziplining O'clock. Below are some pointers on what to expect:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the flying fox desk, you’ll get a brief on how the ziplining will go. 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The instructors will help you put on the ziplining gear. A pair of latex gloves is provided, before putting on the rubber glovesused for the zip line.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a short zip line, where we you’ll get instructions before going to the main line. 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here the instructors will teach you how to brake, and how to position yourself, and what to do in case you are stuck.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Safety checks are also done here. Once you are good here, you proceed to the main line.6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They take people in groups, each group between two instructors.7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then you get to the main zip line where you go one person at a time.8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The instructor performs some more safety checks, and then you are good to go.&nbsp;Personally. I did two zip lines and the adrenaline is on another level. My legs felt like jelly for a while after the experience. &nbsp;There are other activities here like paintballing,archery and nature walks. All activities are charged differently, there is a price list and you can check this out on their site <a href="https://theforest.co.ke/">here</a> .They have also introduced a zip line for children recently.Unfortunately, the weather changed and it started raining before we went for paintballing. So we had to leave‍Kimende being a chilly place, please do not forget to carry your jackets as the weather may change any time.&nbsp;‍<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f402089d5fe7a063f966d95_1.jpeg"></div><figcaption>Getting ready for the zipline </figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f4020b95220ea3ec58dca04_2.jpg"></div><figcaption>Ready? Set? And gooo.....</figcaption></figure>

My experience ziplining at The Forest

What to wear to an outdoor book club<div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n0zJuAjDuS0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Once again it’s that time of the month for your book club meeting and this time round, your club members have decided to meet outdoors. The outdoors set a refreshing scene for any kind of meeting, good vibes, great conversations a glass of wine and book reviews.However, you might be wondering what to wear and so here are four easy style ideas to keep you looking both casual and polished when you go for the meeting. You might also decide to mix or swap some of the fits with each other to suit you.&nbsp;Short, t-shirt, converseShorts and outdoors go well together. Not only do they make you feel young, comfortable and free but they also make your legs look good. Add a graphic tee, a pair of converse or any of your favourite sneakers and sunglasses to complete the look. Pack your book, wallet phone and few necessary items that you may need in your fave kiondoo and you are good to go. Remember your mask too!<figure class="image"><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f2effd49f29b738268d48d8_Untitled-2.jpg"></figure>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@angelabaileyy?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Angela Bailey</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/clothes?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>Jeans, cardigan, flatsThis look is super simple and comfortable. Pair your favourite jeans with chic ballet flats, a top and a cardigan. It is the ultimate go-to outfit for when you are late but still want to look put together. Alternatively, if it's a super-hot day you can trade your cardigan for your favourite kimono. Don’t forget your tote bag.T-shirt dress converse comboThe t-shirt dress and converse combo have proven to be one of the most stylish yet comfortable combos. Because it is a simple fit you can accessorize with a simple pair of mini gold earrings, a few midi rings and a sling bag that fits your book of the month wallet and phone.Mom JeansIn case you would like to drift away from your regular skinny jeans you can always go for the mom jeans. Mom jeans have proven to be the most versatile and timeless pieces of clothing you can own. There are so many different ways of styling them. You can opt to style it with a chunky bright sweater and sneakers for a warm look. Or you could pair it with a beautiful coloured or print blouse with a pair of mules for a well-put fit. Whatever style you choose to go with you will definitely look great and be comfortable at the same time.‍

What to wear to an outdoor book club

Another Mother’s Day in the New Normal is here with us. With all the Covid-19 containment measures, the last thing you need is a celebration that breaches all the safety protocols, leaving you and your loved ones exposed and uncomfortable. This, however, does not mean that you should spend this special day stuck indoors with only tales, screen time, and predictable activities and meals. You can make this day special by taking Mum out for some sunshine and bonding. Outdoor activities in this season are a breath of fresh air, allowing us to reconnect with nature, and also get some much-needed fresh air and a dose of sunshine vitamins. We are delighted to share with you some sure bets that will add a special touch to Mother’s Day this year.&nbsp;Nairobi and surrounding regions1. Evergreen Park<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620244417/evergreen_9c00cf95e4.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>The Evergreen Park</figcaption></figure>The Evergreen Park is located Kiambu Road, some 500m to the left after the Northern Bypass overpass. This would make an ideal picnic destination for Mama. Here, she will be spoilt for choice, with a variety of activities including fishing, boat-riding, horse and camel riding, among others. The Evergreen Park provides a quiet and serene environment perfect for Instagram-worthy photo sessions. In case you are bringing Mama's grandkids along, there is enough place space for them and a bouncing castle. This will keep them busy and happy as you bond with your Mum.Entry Requirements:Ksh500 per adultKsh400 per child(3-11YRS)Ksh100 per activity2. Langata Botanical Gardens<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620244553/Langata_Botanical_53bbba362f.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Langata Botanical Gardens</figcaption></figure>Located about 20km from Nairobi CBD and less than 20 minutes from the Karen Shopping Centre, Langata Botanical Gardens is a spectacular recreational spot. Mum is bound to fall in love with the beauty and calm here. Langata Botanical Gardens is ideal for relaxation, recreation, celebration, and inspiration, giving that therapeutic vibe. Here, there are hundreds of indigenous trees, large beautiful lawns and a lagoon that has a large variety of fish. The place has bandas all around, secluded by natural vegetation and this gives you enough privacy to catch up with your mum as you relax in nature.Entry Requirements:They give custom quotations based on the activitiesOpens from: 8:00am3. Waterfalls Inn<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620382911/waterfalls_inn_5_1928e9f3d0.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Waterfalls Inn</figcaption></figure>About 45 minutes drive from the Nairobi CBD, is the Waterfalls Inn in Tigoni, Limuru, Kiambu County. The area is well known for its beautiful rolling landscapes with carpet-like tea plantations&nbsp;and so, even before you get to the destination, you're already basking in nature's glory. At Waterfalls Inn, the picnic site is set on a hill overlooking the Nairobi skyline and the Highlands of Limuru. This is a breathtaking view and you can bet that your mum will love every bit of it.Entry Requirements:Ksh: 450 per adultKsh: 200 per child(If bringing your own drinks, you'll have to pay corkage fees)4. Nairobi Safari Walk<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620383313/Nairobi_SW_33e7b4720b.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Nairobi Safari Walk</figcaption></figure>Does Mama thrive in a nature-centric location? Then the Nairobi Safari Walk, located in Lang'ata, less than 30 minutes drive from the CBD, is all she needs to make Mother's Day memorable. Here, she'll get to see a sample of Kenya's rich animal life including the rare bongo, white rhino and albino zebra as well as big cats, antelopes and primates. Nairobi Safari Walk is also home to at least 150 species of local trees.Entry Requirements:Entry Fee: From Ksh.400 for adultsOperating Hours: 9:00am-5:30pm5. Ngong Hills Nature Reserve<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620062685/Ngong_Hills_ed62ead7f3.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Ngong Hills Nature Reserve</figcaption></figure>Located in the northern tip of Kajiado County and 25km from Nairobi City, Ngong Hills Forest is managed by Kenya Forest Service (KFS). You can take your mother this Mother’s Day to enjoy a panoramic view of Nairobi and the surrounding knuckle-peaked hills. For nature-loving mothers, this location has a wide range of indigenous trees such as pine, cypress and sandalwood. The Ngong Hills is an exceptional location for hikes and picnics. For those mothers who would appreciate an adrenalin-rush, they can try out zip lining, an activity that is not for the faint-hearted.Entry Requirements:Park Entry Fee: KShs 200.00Opening Hours: 8.00am – 5.00pm, daily6. Karura Forest Reserve<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620383693/Karura_5ece0f257f.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Karura Forest Reserve</figcaption></figure>The Karura Forest Reserve is an urban upland forest on the outskirts of Nairobi offering an eco-friendly respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.&nbsp;It is a serene, safe and secure environment that has a lot to offer: scenic nature trails, archaeological sites, caves and marshlands.&nbsp;You can organize a memorable treat for Mama, combining some low-impact aerobic activities with a delightful picnic in the sun.Entry Requirements:Gate Fees: Range from KShs 50.00 to KShs 600.00 (different rates applicable for citizens, residents and non-residents)Opening hours: 06:00am- 16:45pm&nbsp;Coast Region7. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384537/Nguuni_8ad5c22950.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Nguuni Nature Sanctuary</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;It is located about 30 minutes’ drive from the Mombasa City Centre. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary in Kiembeni is home to a variety of wildlife species and birds. You can take your mum for a picnic here and share meals underneath sweeping doum palms in the company of friendly giraffes, ostriches and oryx. You even get to feed them during mealtime. The sanctuary is a bird watchers’ paradise and makes a popular site for serene sun-downers.Rates*Resident: Adult - Ksh. 350 Child - Ksh. 100*Non-Resident: Adult - Ksh. 800 Child - Ksh. 300*All payments are done in cash at the gate upon arrival.8. Butterfly Pavilion<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384829/Butterfly_d368ed12e2.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Butterfly Pavilion - Photo courtesy of Vamos Homes App</figcaption></figure>In close proximity to Mombasa’s northern beach front lies the Butterfly Pavilion. It is a tropical paradise that hosts more than 16 species of butterfly and various antelopes. The facility is ideal for day trips and offers a range of outdoor activities to make Mother’s Day special for Mama. Its reclaimed forest, ponds and hills make it a unique picnic location. Watch out for the crafty troops of monkeys that like to swoop down from the trees to join the get-together.Rates*Resident: Adult - Ksh. 250 Child - Ksh. 150*Non-Resident: Adult - Ksh. 600 Child - Ksh. 300*All payments should be done via MPESA.Western Region9. Dunga Boardwalk<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384984/Dunga_4d2ab24d07.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Dunga Boardwalk</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;The board walk is located next to Dunga beach on the shores of Lake Victoria, a famous location for buying/eating fish fresh from the lake and going for boat rides. It is the perfect place to take Mama for some sunshine and bird watching, hippo spotting and enjoying the amazing Kisumu by the Lake Victoria waters. The sundowners here are a picturesque affair, one that Mama would definitely enjoy on her special day.Rates:*Resident Adult- Ksh.100.*Resident child- Ksh 50*All payments made at the entrance10. Impala Ecolodge, Kisumu<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620385181/Impala_0b00d38933.png" alt=""><figcaption>Impala Ecolodge, Kisumu</figcaption></figure>Picture Mum and yourself having a delicious lunch on a gazebo-like floating restaurant.&nbsp;Feels like having a meal on a deck, right?&nbsp;The gazebo, decorated with oil lamps, is set just above the lake and offers you a full view of the city as you enjoy a sumptuous meal and chat the afternoon away with your Mama.&nbsp;The Impala Ecolodge is secluded, making it the perfect getaway for a cozy treat with Mama.Rates:These vary according to services offered.These are just some of the options you can look up and make Mother’s Day memorable for Mama.

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Here are 10 Perfect Spots for Mama's Day Picnic

A good number of us have special relationships with our mothers from childhood through the different stages in life. Our mothers tend to hold a special place in our hearts given the things they do for us, the lessons they teach us, and the memories that we share them.At The Picnic Site, we are all about celebrating our mums this Mother’s Day. We reached out to our friends, Grace Akinyi, a sustainability writer/researcher and Hassan Umar, Tv and radio presenter at KTN home and Radio Maisha to share with us their relationships with their mothers and how they would treat them on this special day.&nbsp;How would you describe your relationship with your mother?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620476495/Grace_and_Mum_1_236c1e0592.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Grace Akinyi and her mum</figcaption></figure>G.A: There is no true love like that of a mother. A mother is someone who knows your pain and can feel it. She also knows what you are going through and can easily detect it. I’d describe my relationship with my mom as “extremely close” we are more like sisters. She is my support system and is always there for me. It is one kind of love that I will live to cherish for the rest of my life.&nbsp;What are some of the traditions that you and your mother have?G.A: I thank God that my mom is a very prayerful lady. I would describe her as a prayer warrior. And it has always been our tradition to pray before sleeping, and going to church together too. She usually says we have to thank God for everything. Praying is therefore a habit that I have learnt through my mom and it is part of me; it is part of us.&nbsp;What are some of the lessons you have learnt from your mother growing up?G.A: Humility- My mom has taught me the value of being humble. Knowing that everyone in life is going through something and we have no option but be humble and treat someone well regardless of the situation.Staying true to who I am- my mom always tells me to make everyone feel like they matter. Be confident and know that in this life, I am my own super-power and that I can achieve anything.&nbsp;What message would you like to send to your mother this Mother’s Day?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620476725/Grace_and_Mum_2_57fa0bab11.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Grace Akinyi and her mum</figcaption></figure>G.A: I would love to tell my mom that I really appreciate everything she has done for me this far and just to tell her that her prayers have kept me going and I wouldn’t hesitate to treat her this Mother’s Day like the queen she is and will always be. I love you so much mom.&nbsp;At the picnic site, we are all about outdoor living.&nbsp; If you had a chance, what kind of activity would you organize for your mother on mother’s day? Why?G.A: I would organize a picnic for her or take her for a boat ride at paradise lost so that we can just enjoy the day together and celebrate her.&nbsp;You can reach Grace Akinyi on the following platforms:Email:&nbsp;gracarl2013@gmail.com&nbsp;| LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-akinyi-645a15168/">Grace Akinyi</a> | Facebook: Gracy Gracy&nbsp;Tv and Radio presenter Hassan Umar“I genuinely feel like every day should be Mother’s Day. Our mothers are precious, they go through a lot to provide&nbsp;us with nothing but the best and they always support us and so one day is just not enough to celebrate them,” Hassan Umar.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620478003/1_6080a2c67f.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Hassan Umar and the mum</figcaption></figure>How would you describe your relationship with your mom?H.U: I wouldn’t define it as a relationship rather a commitment and an unbreakable bond. My mom and I are very close. There is an 8-year gap between my sibling and I and during this period, my mom and I got to spend a lot of time together doing so many activities such as a singing, cooking and dancing. This led to the very close relationship that we have.&nbsp;What are some of the traditions that you and your mom have?&nbsp;H.U: Aside from the singing, dancing and cooking, by the way I am a very good cook thanks to her, my mom and I love watching sunsets. Even if we are not in the same city, we will be sure to remind each other to watch sunsets during the week. Also, not a tradition but I picked my fashion sense from her. My mom loves dressing and has a great fashion sense and I was able to pick that up and emulate it.&nbsp;What are some of the lessons that you have learnt from your mom growing up?H.U: She has taught me that in life, I need to always treat everyone equally, be humble and above all put God first in everything.&nbsp;What message would you like to send your mom this mother’s day?&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620478703/2_71d8fb1a2a.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Hassan Umar and the mum</figcaption></figure>H.U: I would like to tell her that she is the best thing that has ever happened to me. She has helped me make some of the best decisions in life and for that I am very grateful to her.&nbsp;At the picnic site, we are all about outdoor living.&nbsp; If you had a chance, what kind of activity would you organize for your mother on mother’s day? Why?H.U: I would organize a hike for her. She is always saying how she would like to cut down some weight and I think hiking would be the best outdoor activity for her to do it.You can connect with Hassan Umari on the following platforms:Radio show - Maisha Xtra: Monday- Friday 1am-amTv show (KTN Home)- Klub Maisha: Saturday; 8pm-11pmInstagram: hassanii_umar| Youtube: Hassan Umar|&nbsp;

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Dear Mama, From Me To You With Love

Brunch&nbsp;may sound a little fancy but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t have to worry about having to break the bank in order to entertain your guests for that breakfast-lunch fellowship. Take a look through some of our budget friendly backyard brunch ideas for inspiration. Don't forget the <a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/you-too-can-board-the-charcuterie-train">Charcuterie</a>.. it will earn you some points. LocationGiven that the setup is in your own backyard is a save already. No fuel costs. No parking fee hassles. Plan your menu earlyPlan your menu a week or two before brunch. This helps with the purchase of your grocery list, you can take advantage of weekly grocery deals in supermarkets and online grocers. Also,with a menu in mind it’s easy to set a specific budget to carter for what’s needed. You could also suggest a potluck, that way each friend is responsible for bringing a certain dish. Impose a BYOBYaas! Bring Your Own Bottle to the party. Since you are already catering for all the food, ask your friends to provide drinks, it could be alcohol, bubbly drinks, or even soft drinks. It’s a fair way of sharing costs. It also gives liberty to the attendees to drink whatever it is they prefer.DécorAs much as fresh flowers,beautifully placed all over the set up alongside personalized napkins are good to look at, they can be a bit costly. Instead, fill up the table with an assortment of meals and your favorite set of tableware. A full table always looks like you’ve created the most generous offering. Also given that the setup is in your backyard, let it act as the décor itself. A well-manicured backyard sets a beautiful tone for any outdoor event.Plates and glassesOpt for serving your meals on small plates and cocktails on small glasses to control the amount of food and drinks your guests will consume during the event. Skip fancy itemsSo long as you are able to fill your table and feed your guests with enough tasty meals such as crispy French toasts, stacks of pancakes, scrambled, freshly brewed coffee, fruit infused water just to title a few, you don’t need to serve expensive dishes. Serve your guests filling meals, it will keep them satisfied and happy to even notice a missing expensive dish. Remember to play the music from your Bluetooth speaker. ‍

Swap the restaurant brunch for a DIY backyard brunch 

Choosing a hydration vest for running might be challenging given the fact that options are endless. Whether you like hiking, going for daily jogs, cycling, you’ll need a pack that is substantial, easy to carry and sizeable for all the essentials, be it snacks, fluids, your phone etc.How to choose the best optionWhen choosing a hydration vest, there are certain things you need to consider. You will need a vest that offers maximum comfort. The shoulder, chest and waist straps should offer you that. When it comes to the shoulder straps, they need to be padded and wide enough allowing it to distribute weight evenly. As for the fit, it would be best to consider how the vest feels on your back and how well it compliments your natural position. The capacity of the vest matters too. Depending on how much you like to carry while on a hike, trailing or cycling. A 5-12litres vest usually offers more than enough room to fit all your belongings- be keen not to over pack. Here is our budget friendly option you can consider while shopping for hydration vests:Topspeed 5L lightweight Multipurpose hydration vestBest for cycling, Hiking and running.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:2500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f95cc36ee9ba48db944f34d_running.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Features:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2L Water bladder included in the price.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Super-light elastic fabric to help you go farther every time. Empty weight: ~260 grams.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Breathable back and shoulder straps for maximum comfort.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reflective edges to keep you safe while cycling or jogging at night.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Empty capacity: 5L.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extendable capacity in shoulder strap pockets can fit additional small items.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Available in black, red and grey.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Price: Ksh2799/=.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Where to purchase: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/outdoorer.ke/?hl=en">outdoorer.ke </a>‍

A budget friendly Hydration Vest for your next hiking adventure 

It’s been one long holiday for the children since the pandemic hit. And with the ‘stay home, stay safe’ directive, indoors have been boring for them. Keeping them busy while indoors is not a walk in the park for parents. And if they are eating as much as mine are eating, then I feel your frustration.But worry not, here is a recipe I can swear by. The corn-dogs… these snacky bites have kept my sons busy since they are easy and fun to make, so we now make them together and whatsmore? They keep them full for longer.Ingredients●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 pack of hot dogs/smokies●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ cup of maize/corn flour●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ cup all-purpose flour●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 tbsp. of sugar●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 tsp of baking powder●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1/8 tsp salt●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 large egg●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ cup whole milk●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vegetable oil for frying●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lollipop sticks.&nbsp;Method<ol start="1"> <li>In a bowl, mix the corn meal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In a separate cup, whisk together the egg and &nbsp;milk. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.</li> <li>Cut the hot dogs into halves and insert the lollipop sticks into the cut off end of each hot dog.</li> <li>Add oil in a pot and heat in medium heat until well heated. </li> <li>Dip the corn dogs into the batter until well coated, shaking off the excess batter lightly. Dip into the hot oil and fry until &nbsp; golden brown and crispy- about 3 minutes, then transfer to a paper lined plate. Repeat the process for all the hot dogs.</li> <li>Serve while still warm.</li></ol>This can serve as many as you want, depending on the number of hot dogs/sausages you use, and also the number of children. Don’t forget toput their appetite into consideration. But, is a sure way of engaging the little chefs during this very long holiday.Stay safe, as we learn more ways of keeping them busy.&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

Keep the little chef munchies fuller for longer with this easy peasy corn-dog recipe

We all agree on two things:&nbsp;First, the Covid19 pandemic has hit us hard, some harder than most.&nbsp;There are those who have not been able to spend quality time as a family because of geographical challenges posed by the extended lockdowns and travel restrictions.&nbsp;Others have lost big time: with massive job losses, reduced salaries and collapsed businesses. Second, Mother’s Day holds a special significance, as the day set apart to celebrate mothers and mother-figures.&nbsp;I can almost successfully predict that come Sunday, many of us will forwarding a beautiful message or e-card to mothers in our contact list – mainly on WhatsApp, on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.&nbsp;Those not too mechanical may actually pick up their phones and call that all-important lady and wish her “Happy Mother’s Day”.&nbsp;That is all good – but without a doubt, a little effort and creativity will go a long way in making this year’s Mother’s Day a heart-warming experience for the Mothers in our lives.Our Top 5 Quick Wins for Mother’s Day: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flowers, Chocolate and WineThere’s something magical that happens with the Deliveryman drops in with a floral bouquet and gift hamper.&nbsp;Create that magic for your mother or the mother-figure in your life – include a personal and thoughtful note.&nbsp;Nothing warms Mother’s heart than an act of love on her special day.&nbsp;If you are not able to present these to her in person, take advantage of trusted florists and gift companies that offer amazing deals and reliable delivery services. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Personalised giftAll our mothers have that special ‘kikoi’ or scarf. It is hard to find a mother without one in her bag. Those things are lifesavers – and yes, Mother knows best! It’s interesting how at the first sense of a slight draft, Mother dear will whip out that piece of cloth, and tenderly wrap it around a young child, or offer it to anyone in close proximity suffering the discomfort of the evening wind.Wouldn’t it be a great and practical gift for her this Mother’s Day? A personalized fleece-lined kikoi blanket, or a flowery woolen or silk pashmina, with her name, intricately and discretely embroidered?Another idea is to get her a hooded sweater and have her name, or ‘Queen’ embroidered on it. You can take this to her, or have it delivered. Either way, her day is made. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;E-cardOne of the benefits of improved technology is easy communication. A personalised ecard for mum is a good idea. You can write the message, include photos or videos. Then share this via WhatsApp, or mail. Reading your sweet message will definitely make her day.&nbsp;Stretch your creative juices and give Mother an extra special message, not the ‘forwards’ that we have all become so adept at sharing. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FoodWe all love some good food, especially made by our mothers. On this Mother’s Day you can let her take a break and treat her instead. Start her day with breakfast in bed (we have a few inspirations for you on our Cookbook). Make her favourite lunch or dinner.&nbsp;If it’s practical, serve her outdoors – on the lawn or patio.&nbsp;If you live in a high rise complex, it wouldn’t heart if you could explore setting up a picnic on the roof top – of course, only if it is practical and safe…remember, we don’t want the wind blowing off Mama’s fancy hat, or giving her the chills. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spa dayTreat her to a day at the spa. She can get a massage, a scrub, manicure, and pedicure. Get one that suits your budget. There are many offers around for this special day. Let her relax from all the hard work of bringing you up, no?We would love to hear from you – other creative ideas, planned or previously done.&nbsp;Remember, we are all in this together – celebrating our mothers in style.

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Kisumu’s plan to expand Dunga boardwalk is definitely a great addition

Pitch it perfect; tents for this and that

Double migration of the Wildebeests and Humpback whales

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