I arrived late evening into the chaotic Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after a long flight and caught a taxi to the Fairview. Into the rather spartan Economy room after enjoying a Tusker beer at the poolside bar. Pleasant and quiet sleep.
The next morning I walked around the hotel and five acres of garden and marvelled at how one family has kept this property so tranquil and appealing for more than 65 years. Groomed shrubs, flower beds and trees envelope the hotel, blocking out the city noise and polllution. The family calls the Fairview a "country hotel in town" and it's an apt description.
Dinner and breakfast in the award-winning restaurant were excellent, and all staff were unfailingly polite and attentive.
Free wi-fi, a small business centre and an elegant swimming pool. What a welcome to Africa.
Only nitpick: the economy room, which was all that was available, was immaculate but cramped and relied on a fan rather than air conditioning. No problem as the evening breeze was blowing, but something that could be a serious drawback in the hot months.
All in all, I can see why this hotel receives the accolades. Well deserved.
- Fairview Hotel Nairobi
