Trip Report Lamu The Pearl Of The Kenyan Coast
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Trip Report: Lamu, The Pearl of the Kenyan Coast
Summary:
Upon arriving in Lamu, I couldn't help but worry about what I had brought my 7-year-old child into. The town seemed dusty, dirty, and had an unpleasant smell initially. However, this remarkable place soon revealed its captivating charm.
Lamu: A Cultural Treasure
Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rich in the Swahili culture that once thrived along the East African coast from Somalia to Mozambique. Despite my first impression, Lamu quickly grows on you.
The town's narrow streets, historic buildings, and intricately carved wooden doors set a storied backdrop. Donkeys, the primary mode of transportation, add to its local charm. What truly distinguishes Lamu from the southern beach resorts are its people: courteous, welcoming, and warm. While you should be mindful of small tricks, the presence of persistent "beach boys" is minimal here.
Exploring Lamu's Intrigue
We spent our first afternoon wandering the vibrant streets, pausing whenever something caught our eye. Watching locals play Mancala, a fascinating board game, was a highlight. Their expertise became even more impressive after we attempted playing its Western variant, Count and Capture. Shopping was also hard to resist. Stores in the 'old town' are filled with kikoi, the colorful fabric worn by men. While you might negotiate the price, you may feel a twinge of guilt after haggling.
A Dhow Adventure
Our full-day excursion on a dhow, the traditional Arab sailboat, took us on an educational journey. We learned to fish with just a line tied to a block of wood ?" no pole, no reel. Navigating the channel to Manda Beach at low tide was an adventure in itself. Our simple lunch of fish, vegetables, and rice cooked over an open fire reminded us how delicious uncomplicated meals can be. The mangroves, teeming with birds and large crabs, sparked excitement in my child, who frequently exclaimed, "Mom, look, over there!"
A Memorable Donkey Ride
On our final day, we arranged a donkey ride with a local boy. For my daughter, riding a donkey with a burlap bag as a saddle was a highlight of our trip. The experience was further enriched when her new friend appeared at our hotel with a gift of ice cream in exchange for the cookies she saved for the journey home. She decided that old baseball caps and t-shirts would make excellent trading items for future travels.
Unveiling Lamu's Heart
While Lamu may make a strong initial impact, its true essence lies beneath the surface. Once uncovered, it reveals itself as a place full of warmth and wonder?"a reminder that you can't judge a book by its cover.
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