Thank you/ mahalo!!!
 

Aloha All,
I am happy to report that I FINALLY got my trip booked! It's been a long process (started planning 5 months ago) with lots of emotional ups and downs with travel partners joining me then backing out, itinerary changes and airline pricing fluctuations---but the one thing that was a constant was all of you----giving sound advice, encouragement and the information I needed to move forward on this trip--so a huge THANK YOU/MAHALO to all of you!

I have lots of questions, but will ask them under new threads that are specific to what I want to know since this seems to be the best way to do it.

Just wanted to let you all know how much I appreciated your help!!!!

Congrats! Did you end up with Sweetwaters or something else?

Let's see the final masterpiece, if you care to share it.

Good to hear you get it going...........

Happy planning!

SV ((@))

Thanks Patty, atravelynn and spassvogel!

I would be more than happy to share the final itinerary (and appreciate any comments/tips you all would care to share on my destinations).

8/20 arrive Nairobi---
2 nights Nairobi Serena Hotel (I wanted Macushla House but it was booked)
2 nights Tortilis
2 nights Sweetwaters (yay, we got it)
4 nights Offbeat Mara Camp

Then back to Nairobi for the long,long trip home

I'm a little concerned about the cool (cold?) mornings and evenings. Living in Hawaii I don't own any cold weather clothes other than a few long sleeved t shirts and light jackets---will this do?

elizabethj
Regarding the weather:
It's going to heat up from 08.30h in the morning till sunset. So it's only the first 2 hours on drives. I am sure you have a kind of sweater or fleece or a jersey. Take with you what you have got - only one will be sufficient as it's not a fashion thing. Lions, elephants and the like simply don't care what you are wearing ;-) They have kikois on board, the typical Massai blankets. You could even advise Cheli+Peacock that they should have sufficient blankets in the car to wrap your legs and shoulders. It's really not a big deal for them as they have loads of them. AND - you could also buy some and take them as souvenirs as they are very very handy: for a beach chair which you undoubtedly have in Hawaii, for picknicks, to cover a wall when hiking etc etc. They cost approx between 12 and 15 ZS$ each and don't consume space in your luggage.
I wouldn't worry too much. Long sleeves shirt would do good. I would certainly not take shorts but rather a zip-thing slacks.

In case you want to visit Sheldrick, Giraffe Center, Nairobi orphanage and some markets you need 2 nights.
If you arrive in the morning and limit your visits to Sheldrick and Giraffe Center flying out the next morning I would put that extra night towards Tortilis making it 3 nights - or towards Sweetwater. But I have to admit I always like to stay at least 3 nights when on safari.

But - yourt itinerary sound fine!

Happy travels! August is just around the corner as time flies........

Enjoy the anticipation!

SV (@))

Thanks, spassvogel, for the information---good to know!

Could you elaborate a bit on the Kikois, since this is the first time I have heard that name. What type of fabric are they made out of? And are they available everywhere?

Hmmm, no shorts? That's all I wear (when I'm not at work)!!!

Yes, we are planning to visit Sheldrick's and Giraffe Center--which is why we decided on 2 nights in Nairobi. I've not been to either and looking forward to it. I plan on adopting an elephant--is it best to do now or wait until closer to our departure date?

We weren't planning on going to an orphanage in Nairobi, but I am interested and would like more info on that (where to go, what to take).

How about markets in Nairobi---any recommendations or just go with whatever our guide recommends?

Thanks!

The kikois I've seen are made of cotton. They're widely available. There's even a chain of Kikoi stores. They're very versatile. I have one that I use as a tablecloth.

Shorts are OK but your legs might be a little chilly in the morning.

I don't think it matters when you adopt an ele.

I'm not sure what type of orphanage SV was referring to but there's an AIDS orphanage called Nyumbani in Karen (close to Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick). I haven't been but you could email them and ask what they need www.nyumbani.org

There's a Maasai market in the city center on Tue and Fri I believe. There's also one at Village Market north of the city center on Fri (Village Market is an upscale shopping center).

Kikois are the Kenyan version of sarongs and come in a variety of colors. To me, they're a bit different from a shuka (Maasai blanket) which typically are red plaid/check patterns.

Thanks for the info Patty!

Is the shuka made of cotton as well?

Are the markets you mentioned the best places to buy crafts? Not sure what I want--but always want to get something to remind me of my trip. The last time I was there I bought a wood carving of a Maasai woman (I think I traded my shoes + $20.00 for it) and a gourd with etched animal carvings. I still love both of them! Cannot remember where exactly, but one of the markets in Nairobi...

Any predictions on how the conditions will be in August? Has Amboseli recovered from the drought?

Thanks!!

I believe the shukas are also made of cotton. If you're there on a non-market day, there's a good craft selection at Utamaduni. It's near Sheldrick, etc. and has an outdoor patio restaurant so makes a convenient stop. If you're interested in clay beads and pottery, also stop at Kazuri nearby. There are several other craft/curio shops such as Collector's Den in the Hilton arcade and Banana Box at the Sarit Centre. Happy shopping!

Thanks Patty!

oops - I am a bit late in referring to your questions elizabeth - Patty already gave you a whole lot on the kikois.

ORPHANAGE - I meant the Sheldrick orphanage. I have no info on any "human" orphanage.

Patty also gave you great info in the markets. I have never been to one as we tend to touch down, sheldrick at most (pre or post safari) and off to the savannah ;-)

Happy travels!

SV ((@))