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Google
I stayed at the Sarova Stanley in Nairobi for two nights right before catching my flight down to Mombasa, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to kick off the trip. From the moment I walked in, the vibe just felt right: classic, a bit old-school elegant, but still warm and welcoming. The lobby with that famous Thorn Tree notice board brought back memories of stories my dad used to tell about travelers leaving messages there in the old days. Super cool to see it still going strong.|My room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and the bed was one of those “why can’t every hotel have beds this comfortable” kinds. After a long flight into JKIA, I basically face-planted into it and didn’t move for hours. The air-con worked perfectly (huge relief in Nairobi’s heat), and it was surprisingly quiet considering it’s right in the middle of the city. I could hear a bit of street noise if I opened the window, but with it closed you’d never know you were in the CBD.|Breakfast at the Thorn Tree Café was a proper treat: fresh fruit, good coffee, pastries, full English, Kenyan staples, and they even had guys making omelettes and waffles on the spot. I went back for seconds both mornings, no shame. The pool on the rooftop (5th floor) is small but perfect for a quick dip to cool off, and the view over the city is actually really nice, especially at sunset with a Tusker in hand from the bar.|Staff were the highlight though. Everyone from the doormen to the front desk to the servers greeted you like they actually meant it. I had a super early flight to Mombasa and they packed me a breakfast box without me even asking the night before; little things like that make all the difference when you’re traveling.|Location-wise, it’s hard to beat. Literally a 5-minute walk to Kencom for matatus or taxis, close enough to grab late-night nyama choma if you want, and I felt totally safe walking around the area even after dark.|If I’m ever back in Nairobi (and I hope I am), I’m staying here again without a second thought. 5 solid stars. Worth every shilling.