A piece of paradise at Msambweni

One of my regrets whilst producing the TV show ‘Travel Diaries’ was not getting to travel with our camera crew as they  filmed a visit to Msambweni beach house. I remember my cousin, Alister, initially telling me about this unbelievable spot in Ukunda. He said there wasn’t any other place like it along the Kenyan coast and it would make a great destination to feature. Boy was that an understatement!

The owner of Msambweni beach house, Frederik Vanderhoeven, was kind enough to recently invite me over for a holiday. And my experience needs very few words… the pictures captured say it all.

The entrance to Msambweni house

This is truly a luxury holiday experience. One definitely worth putting on your bucket list. It’s about a 40 minute drive from the Ukunda airstrip at the coast and once I got to Msambweni, I could feel my body instantly relax. I guess it’s true, being by water calms, nurtures and recharges you.

In terms of accommodation, Msambweni boasts 3 luxurious private villas that each comfortably sleep 6 people. Each villa also has it’s own uniquely shaped swimming pool. I got to stay in my favourite, Villa 3, with its modern T-shaped infinity pool

Front door of Villa 3

Bed looking out to the sea

 

T shaped infinity pool

The main house has 3 spacious, luxury en-suite rooms with private verandahs plus a breathtaking 25 metre infinity pool

The main house infinity pool

Karibu Msambweni!

There’s also an Ocean suite perfect for couples seeking romance and privacy. Luxury meets rustic here, a tented room with a panoramic sea view.

In terms of activities, you can enjoy massages at the spa facing the sea, a gym, snorkelling, mountain biking, sailing or deep sea fishing as well as walks to the reef

Made it to the reef!

Enjoy a relaxing massage by the beach

Msambweni beach house also has self catering options for groups and i was especially please to find out they don’t charge corkage on drinks you choose to bring.

 

 

Blessed by nature

Experience this incredible piece of paradise for yourself, call +254 722 484 173 for holiday rates or check out Msambweni Beach House

MJ inspired pose at the beach 

No really… call +254 722 484 173 for holiday rates or check out Msambweni Beach House

ORA RESORT WATAMU

I must say I’m obsessed with Watamu!!! What a little piece of paradise along Kenya’s coast

And in the small town of Watamu, I found a quiet resort to enjoy an incredible holiday. Ora Resort. Located at the entrance of the Watamu Marine Park, this hotel offers stunning sandy white beaches and enchanting ocean views accessible from any part of the Hotel.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities and the first thing I did was change and head off to the sand bank in Watamu bay that emerges during low tide. Clear white sand, warm sunshine on your back and only the sounds of the sea…erm and yes, my cliche wanna be model poses! 🙂

Ora Resort boasts of 200 rooms that are divided into single or double floor bungalows set in lush green gardens.  Each room has wide windows with views of the Ocean and come equipped with air conditions, safes, telephones, a Veranda and outside seating. Each room can accommodate up to a maximum of 3 adults or 2 adults + 2 children.

It’s a miracle I didn’t turn into a snotty nosed brat after this holiday, especially after the treatment I received from their spa!! You have the option of setting up a massage session out by the pool if you prefer.

A little TLC…

Working up an almost frightening suntan, I took full advantage of their two swimming pools; one is quiet and secluded or if you need some exercise their second pool is always very lively with regular music and exercise routines

Dinner was a grand affair and on my way to the evening cocktails I couldn’t resist first stopping by their telescope to do a bit of star gazing.

I was in great company and chatted away and enjoyed delicious cocktails before we sat down to a special dinner set up in the garden. A special sea food dinner that comprised of crab, shrimp, octopus and red snapper as well as plenty of chicken and lamb chops for the meat lovers. I didn’t dare step on a weighing scale for months thereafter!!!

A popular activity in Watamu is snorkeling in the Watamu Marine Park, I was transported into a whole different world, with pretty coloured fish, interesting coral formations and the beautiful sights under the sea. A truly magical experience.

For the more daring, kite surfing has become quite trendy along the coast and there are instructors available to will provide the equipment and instructions needed

Back at the resort, the lunch call is always a celebration of song and dance and they encourage you to join in the fun!!

Lunch time!!

Customary lunch time celebrations

Best….holiday….EVER!!!!!!

 

Soaking in paradise