Kristie

We are thinking of visiting a beach resort either north or south of Mombasa but having read a 1997 Lonely Planet guide we were dismayed about the number of muggings. The guide indicated that 9 out of 10 people will have valuables taken from them whilst walking on the beach day or night! As this was an older guide we wondered if this is still true - or have the authorities in the five years from that publication tightened up the policing of the resorts.<BR><BR>Whilst we know that valuables should be left in a safe at the hotel the thought that we may be stopped in case we have anything on us is rather worrying.<BR><BR>I would be grateful to hear from anyone who has visited Kenya recently.<BR><BR>Kristie

ellen

I would think the Guidebook was accurate about the beaches especially around Mombasa being 'muggy'.

ellen

Somehow my message was interrupted. Mombasa beaches were dangerous 10 years ago and I can't imagine they would have improved. The beaches near Malindi and Pemba are gorgeous, safer, and truely picture postcard. Make sure everything is locked up securely in safety deposit box. I would take no chances. If you have the opportunity, be sure to visit Port Jesus in Mombasa, the old Portuguese fort, from which the slaves were shipped. There are also often concerts on weekends at the Mombasa Beach Hotel. If you travel down the coast by vehicle, be prepared for eye-opening experiences at the ferry crossings. We carried pens, paper, paperback books, comics, T-shirts, ballcaps to give away and to trade at the crossings. I can still taste the fresh, just roasted cashew nuts I got for a notepad of paper. Best, Ellen

Sue & Steve

Go to Watamu the beach is safe and the local bars very friendly.<BR>Turtle Bay Beach Club is a good place to stay.

darlene

Kristie,<BR>Read the revived thread about Lamu, it's an island north of Mombasa and wonderful.

noeleen

The beaches in mombasa are public beaches and local people hang around waiting to befriend you as soon as you step on the beach. If you do decide to stroll on the beach do so only during the day and never wear jewelery or bring anything of value. Remember these people are extremely poor and although not everyone is out to rob you, they will endeavour to try to get you to part with your money one way or another. Due to the entourage that you pick up on the beach you will probably find that is is more comfortable around the swimmimg pool. I found we had to be more cautious in Kenya than anywhere else I have visited but none the less we had a great trip and I would certainly go again.