Byba Peaches

The 4th Malindi Masaala Koroga Competition – Food Fiesta!

Posted on March 9, 2019 by Habiba Bien

The 4th episode of Malindi Masaala Koroga Competition took place on Saturday, 2nd of March 2019 at Driftwood Beach Club in Malindi. The event is a food festival filled with vibrant food colors, savory spices scents, and magical tastes, held after every 3 months in Kilifi County teamed up by Kilifi Tourism Investors.

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Mr. Edward Aniere (Eddie) and his wife Selma Mawani Aniere are the owners of Barefoot Beach Camp who coordinate Malindi Masaala. Their main objective is to revive toursim in Malindi targeting to make Kilifi County as an ideal tourism destination, by bringing both Local and International Tourists and Investors together in the Kenyan Coast to celebrate food. The winner then takes the next episode of Malindi Masaala to their venue. Keep reading to know who won the competition for this episode!

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Judges of the Malindi Masaala Koroga Competition 4th Episode

Eight teams participated including my favorite team; Tamu Fusion Restaurant from Watamu. Including Barefoot Beach Camp, Driftwood Beach Club, 7 to 7 Supermarket, Dental Art Center, Ocean Beach Resort & Spa, Surahi Restaurant and Malindi Sea Fishing Club. Of course, I attended to give my full support to my team. Just like Chef Diego and Tamu Restaurant as a whole, it was also my first time to attend and I have to commend Barefoot Beach Camp Coordinators Eddie & Selma for a great turn out!

Malindi Masaala Koroga competition commenced at 9:00 a.m. at the Driftwood’s pool venue. All chefs set their tables with their Company banners and flyers near the bar facing the swimming pool and the sea, fully prepared with their kitchen equipments; spices, vegetables, meat, cutlery and jikos ready to koroga! They each made two different curries as instructed; vegetable and non-vegetable curry.

It was an exciting moment for the chefs. I’ve never seen cooking look so fun! So much vibrant food colors, a mixture of different spices scents took over the air and music to turn it up. You could get famished by just walking into the food arena. Most importantly, chefs put extra effort in presentation, hygiene and ensuring that the food was served hot from the jiko.

Barefoot Beach Camp prepared delicious fish with octopus and coconut patagonia curry.

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Dental Art Centre prepared vegetable and spicy chicken curry.

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Driftwood Beach Club prepared spicy beef karoga and mushrooms & garden peas masala curry.

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Malindi Sea Fishing Club prepared Prawn Curry, Sweet Potato, Lentil and Spinach Curry.

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Ocean Beach Resort & Spa also prepared a special vegetable and spicy chicken curry.

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7 to 7 Supermarket prepared an Indian delicacy Dhahi Dhum Murg made with boneless chicken and kele ki sabzi (ripe banana). The ripe banana was delish. Their presentation was spectacular, followed by their foiled fish that was finger-licking!

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Surahi Restaurant prepared Chicken Palak and Paneer Tikka Masaala.

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Tamu Fusion Restaurant prepared Veg Thai curry noodles and pumpkin & mango cream with coconut milk and prawns dipped in red curry. Foodgasmic!

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Judges moved to each table to taste each of the contestant’s food before they set their food at the buffet table for guests to get the privilege of tasting their mouthwatering curries passionately prepared by the chefs at a cost of kshs. 500/- per person.

Surprisingly, the queue was impressively long. It was a food fiesta that people got to enjoy with drinks, music and socializing!

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Media press was also present for the event and so many different people came to support their teams. Eddie concurred that it was indeed the biggest Malindi Masaala Koroga Competition!

Guess who the winner of the competition was? *drum rolls* Barefoot Beach Camp!

2nd position was won by Surahi Restaurant.

3rd position was won by Ocean Beach Resort & Spa.

A certificate of participation was awarded to each participant as a token of appreciation.

The winner of the competition, Eddie of Barefoot Beach Camp, nominated Ocean Beach Resort & Spa as the next venue of the 5th Malindi Masaala episode (the date is yet to be confirmed).

I am surely looking forward to attend the next episode of Malindi Masaala. Do not miss out! If you have a business in the Kenyan Coast you’d like to promote, Malindi Masaala is the event for you!

Ps: Malindi is not dead people! It is very much alive and kicking! Let’s rock it! Cheers!

Live| Love | Eat

Posted in Food, lifestyle, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged barefootbeachcamp, chickencurry, cooking, cookingcompetition, Dentalclinicmalindi, driftwoodbeachclub, eat, Food, friends, fun, Hotel, indianfood, italianfood, Kenya, kenyancoast, kenyanfood, kilifi, kilificounty, koroga, korogacomoetition, lifestyle, Malindi, malindimasaala, nonvegetarian, oceanbeach, paneer, seafood, seventoseven, surahirestaurant, tamurestaurant, thaicurry, themalindifishingclub, Travel, vegetarianfood | 5 Comments

Falconry Of Kenya, Malindi – What A Thrill!

Posted on February 27, 2019 by Habiba Bien

Hey Peaches, welcome back to my blog. Today, we are going to the Falconry of Kenya in Malindi. The Falconry of Kenya is a private sanctuary in Malindi for birds and reptiles. Serves as a tourist center to promote awareness and conservation so that people can learn about different species. Moreover, it provides habitat and feeding programs for their wildlife.

Jay was in Malindi accompanied by her Mom, Caroline. The falconry sounded like a great plan out of the ordinary to share new experiences together.

We drove down following google maps direction which led us on the doorstep of the falconry signaled by the door entrance sign without any hustle. We alighted the car and made our way in.

On entrance, there were four old Italian men chilling at a round table drinking beer.

To our disappointment though, the place looked run down which made us skeptical about it being open *fingers crossed* Luckily, the receptiontionist was present who also happened to be the tour guide.

The entrance fee is kshs. 200/- each for the tour. After paying the guide, our tour commenced.

Welcoming us into the sanctuary, was a giant old Aldabra tortoise over 100 years originating from Seychelles.

Aldabra giant tortoise is actually one of the largest tortoises in the world and can reach upto 550 pounds and ages to 150 years old. Conserved to prevent it from going extinct. Our guide informed us that it is vegetarian can eat about 20 bananas and 40 kilos of grass on average per day.

Next, he led us to an extraordinary adventure of a hugging eagle. Our guide gave each of us a huge hard skinned glove that had a cube of meat which attracted the eagle to my arm in fast flight and landed on its sharp claws. I could feel the weight when it landed on my arm and the strong wind swooshed by its huge strong wing feathers. We did that with the falcon too which was heavier! It was a thrilling experience!

A few steps forward, was a line of net cages which had different snakes species. Some venomous, a few not.

Among the snakes we saw were the venomous Black Mamba, Puff Adder, African Rocky Python, and Black Necked Spitting Cobra.

They were NOT pleasing to my eyes. But I can say the green mamba’s neon green skin is so attractive.

Their eyes and hissing sound of tongue raised every single hair in my body. My snake phobia is too real.

To make it worse, our guide uncaged a small grey snake holding it on his hand and daring each of us to hold it. Caroline was brave enough but Jay and I could not hack that.

I literally just touched the snake with the tip of my finger and it sent chills down my spine making me scream with fear. Welp!

Biokenafrica – snake conservation – recently documented, “A snake is an animal, it is not a shetani, it is not a serpent and we have to put all that away. If you find it in your house, give it space to run away.”

The scariest snake was the deadly python and the weirdest thing to see was python poop.

Other reptiles we saw were monitor lizards, baby tortoises conserved in their pen and crocodiles.

Did you know that crocodile meat is tasty? 😋 Tastes like chicken and fish. Yes, I have to admit, I had a bite of crocodile meat in Watamu a few months ago. Additionally, it is good for your heart, lungs, blood circulation and it is known to cure asthma and coughing problems and their fat is rich in skin-healing/softening ingredients that are used to treat eczema and psoriasis.

Lastly, we explored a handful species of birds. Generally, birds are known to be biological controls, balancing the food chain.

We learned through our guide that there are more than 200 owl species in the world. In Kenya, however, we have approximately 17 species of owls; we saw a handful. The owls are nocturnal creatures with superb eyesight and huge ears framing their heads into disk-like shape. Their ears have strong hearing capabilities designed for hunting at night.

These Barn Owls were lit! They swing their bodies like they’re humming themselves lullabies. We played Tetema bongo song by Diamond and their dance swing rhymed with it, adding a wink to it.

Spotted Eagle Owls

African Wood Owl

Verreaux Eagle Owl are unique with pink eyelids

White-faced Scops Owls. Camouflages itself against tree trunks. Although tiny, they’re very aggressive

Sadly in most cultures, especially our African cultures just like snakes, owls are superstitiously subjected as a sign of bad omens. European cultures too believe that the barn owls are ghostly because they are mostly seen in graveyards.

Interestingly, a single owl can consume 1,000 mice a year, hence they can be used as natural rodent controls in farming to replace toxic rodenticides and other harmful chemicals.

Bush babies are cute and tiny with plaintive cries like babies. The bush baby was playful hiding itself in a small pot in its cage.

The bush baby has large round eyes for strong eyesight during night hunting as they are nocturnal. They feed on termites, fruits, rodents

What I found sad was some of the birds were tied down to small pots. However, the guide assured us that the birds get untied for them to fly out as they always find their way back.

PS: the fish eagle is the most endangered bird species with a killer beak and sharp talons that can rip your soul apart. They are quite temperemental too!

Surely, it was an educational and exciting experience.

Nevertheless, The Falconry of Kenya in Malindi is an exciting way to pass time and enjoy with your friends and learn about different species of birds and reptiles. Experience an extraordinary adventure of holding either a falcon, owl, or eagle or all in turns. A snake too! *yikes* Enjoy the thrill Peaches.

Live| Love | Laugh

Posted in adventure, lifestyle, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, Aldabratortoise, birdsanctuary, breeding, bushbaby, crocodile, eagle, falcon, feeding, flying, friends, fun, hawk, hawkfeeding, holiday, Kenya, lifestyle, love, Malindi, nature, owlconservation, owls, snake, snakeconservation, Thefalconryokenya, tortoise, Travel, vacation, wildlife | 4 Comments

Lavish and Luxe: Fashion High Tea 2019

Posted on February 20, 2019 by Habiba Bien

Fabulous!

The Island Guru

It’s mid week and I’m here still recovering from the fashion fusion that went down last weekend. The hottest fashion event in Nairobi happened and Fashion High Tea 2019 was nothing but all lavish and glamour. After so many years of stalking and dreaming of this event, I finally had a chance to be part of this gracious scenario and I can confirm that it is ‘the most anticipated fashion event in Nairobi’.

Fashion High Tea is an annual high fashion event hosted by Zen Garden to celebrate the fashion industry in Kenya. Zen Garden lives up to its name and brings together the zen in a fashion scene that is graced by the popular stylish personas in the city. Now I understand all the fashion hype that goes on in Nairobi every February.

I mean if we are going…

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Karibuni Villas Getaway – Malindi, Kenya

Posted on February 16, 2019 by Habiba Bien

KARIBUNI is Swahili name for ”Welcome All” in English.

LOCATION

Karibuni Villas is a classic beachfront villa in Mambrui consisting of 150 private beach villas and a resort which can accommodate about 200 guests; approximately 12 KM North of Malindi town (20 minutes drive) past Sabaki bridge near oldest Mambrui Village. You can easily access the villa by car/ taxi/ shuttle/ tuktuk from Malindi Town. Moreover, Karibuni Villas provides shuttle services for guests starting from a minimum of 5 guests KES 600/- each or 10 guests KES 300/- each. If you need a quiet and peaceful place to stay away from the city hubbub, Karibuni Villas is for you!

ARRIVAL AND CHECK-IN

Karibuni Villas was the perfect getaway for me last week, hence, I am honored to give you an insider’s peek of the spectacular villa.

Entrance to the Villa after a tight security pass at the main gate, Karibuni Villas has a grand compound with ample and secure parking space, a roundabout leading to the reception with an attractive fountain that is mounted on its perfectly trimmed star-shaped lush grass and sand filling the spaces. Eight country flags (Kenya included) are aligned at the entrance of the villa. A Concierge carried my luggage while ushering me into the villa’s opulent 24-hour Reception for my 12:00 p.m. check-in (check-in is at 12:00 p.m. and check-out at 10:00 a.m.).

The high ceiling and lobby space creates a welcoming atmosphere mirroring the true meaning of the Villa’s name, KARIBUNI, as it boasts a Maasai statute whereas a plush period sitting area is popped by quality white furnishings and Maasai wall paintings appreciating African culture.

The receptionist warmly welcomed me as he handed over to me my villa key with full information of the available facilities and activities time & location. Excitedly, I strolled to the large outdoor swimming pool centered between Chui and Tembo restaurant as directed by the receptionist since it is visible from the reception lobby.

SWIMMING POOL AREA

That has got to be the main attraction of Karibuni Villas because of its unique creative style with two pairs of enormous white elephant tusks similar to the famous aluminum elephant tusks boasted in Moi Avenue of Mombasa town which is one of the town’s attractive landmarks. It intrigues a sense of being in my hometown, Mombasa, as the elephant tusks were initially commissioned to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth in 1956 when Kenya was still part of the British Empire!

I would recommend that you come and have a dip into their refreshingly clean swimming pool as you get the feeling of Mombasa right here in Karibuni Villas for amazing pictures of their incredible elephant tusks. Also, to confuse people a little in this hideout.

TEMBO RESTAURANT

Right ahead of the stunning swimming pool, is a huge amphitheater that leads you directly to Tembo Restaurant of which is also marked by two gorgeous white elephant tusks on its entrance. The creativity of the restaurant’s name, Tembo, is quite impressive as Tembo Swahili meaning of elephant tusks is synonymous to alcohol. Moreover, Tembo restaurant bar is designed to serve a range of drinks and beverages; both alcoholic and non-alcoholic served with potato/cassava crisps. Also, tea is served in here everyday at 5:00 p.m. with snacks.

Tembo restaurant next to the large amphitheater.

In addition, this restaurant offers A LA CARTE menu to all guests the opportunity to choose from a menu of meat cooked on the grill and the best of the Indian Ocean can offer: lobsters, crabs and other crustaceans presented in choreographic preparations.

Nevertheless, guests can lounge in the spacious restaurant completed with high-quality white furnishings and a flat screen TV to kick back and relax while watching your favorite series and movies. Bookworms are not discriminated either as there’s a small book shelf strategically placed next to the TV with a wide selection of novels.

CHUI RESTAURANT

Stunning Cheetah painting representing Chui Restaurant. Chui is Swahili name for Cheetah. The wall painting is located between the ladies and gents toilets in the restaurant.

Chui restaurant is located on the left side of the pool.

The Chui Restaurant’s buffet services will tempt you with Italian & exotic specialties with a wide selection of mouth-watering appetizers, good Italian and international dishes, meat and fish accompanied by rich side dishes of fresh vegetables and other specialties. Desserts include cakes, fresh vegetables and tropical fruits such as papaya, mango, pineapple, cakes, espresso or tea and a wide range of fine Italian and South African wines. Once a week special Swahili dinner such as samosas, mchicha, chapatis, ugali and many other specialties. KARIBUNI!

Amazingly, Chui Restaurant is very spacious in that you can host wedding lunches or events as it can accommodate a lot of people. I love how the white furnishings and leaves décor pops the restaurant.

FOOD

Among the meals that I ate are healthy portions of fish sauce pasta & pineapple juice, chips & fish, ugali with chicken & kachumbari and rice with fish (tomato curry on the side), as I still try more meals; a taste of different cuisines. Prices are affordable ranging from KES 500/- to 3000/-

Fish-sauce pasta with pineapple juice

Chips and fish

Ugali and 1/4 chicken

Rice and fish + tomato curry

RESORT

Karibuni Villas Resort’s guest rooms are each equipped with a functioning A/C & fan – NEEDS! – a flat screen TV with satellite reception, a mini fridge to store your refreshments, kettle complete with a double bed, spacious closets an en-suite bathroom. It’s a decent size for a couple/friends/bachelor/bachelorette. The resort rates are pocket-friendly with single guest rooms ranging from KES 4,000/- to 6,000/- and double KES 7,000/- to 11,000/- depending on the meal plan you choose. Laundry services are provided at an additional cost.

Furthermore, some rooms are equipped with a chilling area.

BEACH VILLAS

The beach villas consist of one or two bedrooms of your choice, a bathroom and a comfortably, furnished living room which is combined with a kitchen corner. Self-catering facilities are provided in the kitchen corner complete with cooking utensils and crockery at affordable rates; KES 6,000/- for a one bedroom and KES 8,000/- for a two bedroom. Laundry services are provided at an additional cost.

FACILITIES

Boutique: There is a small boutique with a selection of high quality handmade African clothes, sandals and accessories which many guests buy as souvenirs.

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One of the most unique facilities offered at Karibuni Villas, is a prayer room (near the tennis court) readily availed for us Muslims to help us not to miss any of our Fardh (compulsory) prayers and read Qur’an.

Outdoor Facilities: In addition, Karibuni Villas outdoor activities is also included in your stay; Boccia game, Tennis Court, and a fully equipped & functioning gym to maintain that sexy summer body.

Boccia. (Italian game similar to bowling)

Tennis Court

Gym

More so, the open space with good ventilation and fans in the gym room despite the hot outdoor temperatures attracted me to work out!

Needless to say, it is one of Karibuni Villas strategies to get younger people to come and enjoy their all-inclusive outdoor facilities.

ACTIVITIES

For Karibuni Villas, they utilize their Pizzeria by hosting Pizza night every Sundays from 8:30 p.m. That Sunday night, I witnessed their talented chefs in the open kitchen pizzeria making a wide assortments of pizzas from scratch from their eco-friendly oven served hot! It was yummilicious!!!!!!!

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Karibuni Villas utilize their amphitheater space to host movie night and parties respectively.

Sea and Land excursions are also offered at Karibuni Villas on booking. Get adventurous and feed your eyes and soul with divine views of the Kenyan Coast!

Not to mention, valentines day (yesterday) was a ball. After a delicious buffet dinner, we watched Italian guests acting drama scenes and dancing at the amphitheater and of course, we joined the fun!

BEACH

Karibuni Villas beach has a stunning private beach carpeted with sparkly brown sand dunes and blessed with clear blue water, secure from beach boys. Grab yourself a book or a relaxing playlist as you peacefully chill in their sunbeds under a makuti shade attaining full tranquillity!

To be honest, Karibuni Villas is a great choice for families or groups of friends wishing to enjoy beach holidays. Also, perfect for weddings, Organization/club meetings, parties e.t.c. simply because Karibuni Villas offers the best space, atmosphere and facilities.

Contact +254724215418 for bookings.

KARIBUNI!

LIVE| LOVE | LAUGH

Posted in adventure, Food, lifestyle, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, ampitheater, beach, conferenceroom, Elephanttusks, Explore, Fashion, Foodie, fun, holiday, Hotel, islandfashion, Karibunivillas, Kenya, laugh, lifestyle, love, Malindi, Mambrui, nature, party, prayerroom, relax, sea, seafood, snorkeling, swimming, Travel, tusks, vacation, valentine, villa, villas, wanderlust | 4 Comments

Tamu Beach & Fusion Restaurant – Let’s Surf and Turf!

Posted on January 26, 2019 by Habiba Bien

Tamu Restaurant in Watamu, was birthed by Italian entrepreneur Roberto Lenzi who is also the owner of Crystal Bay, 7 Islands Resort and the beach bar restaurant Papa Remo in Watamu. Tamu restaurant beach club is perfectly located on the most beautiful serene beach of Watamu. The name Tamu is derived from Swahili language meaning Sweet; I concur!

“We decided to keep that name because we would love people to experience a sweet time as our customers. It’s an invitation to live a moment of pleasure-seeking and of beauty for the senses, not only for the food.” ~ Cecilia, Manager at Tamu Restaurant.

Tamu’s contemporary and cutting-edge style offers a classy and romantic ambience achieved by dim lights, slow classic music, natural wood and sleek white furniture which contrasts with the azure & green color of the sky horizon and of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, its discreet location makes the restaurant a preferred Celebration and Special Occasion venue like birthdays and weddings.

What makes Tamu restaurant different from others in Watamu, is their bone fide creative culinary proposal of fusion cuisine. Technically, the fusion cuisine is an assortment of Mediterranean cuisines starting from Africa, embracing China, Japan, passing through Hawaii, to return to their origins, in the Mediterranean sea and to Italy. As a result, a variety of fresh meals, using the local food products to get an eclectic, intercultural wanderlusting experience to customers! Also, to promote the local food business.

The Head Chef, Diego, is the mastermind behind the aphrodisiac fusion cuisine.

Chef Diego professionally grew in Milan, and has worked as a food consultant globally which makes him a connoisseur of food; a food alchemist. To Diego, food has been a passion to him since he was a child inspired by his mother’s cooking.

“I like to think that a chef is like a senses alchemist that can make people feel good” says Diego Tosi.

According to Cecilia (Tamu’s Manager), Diego developed a very personal taste in the plates composition, that brings them into his preparations; a combination of his love for travels, people and the cultural melting pop. After a long experience in events, catering and working as executive chef in Milan, he was chosen by the entrepreneur Roberto Lenzi for Tamu, with the purpose of creating a creative and cosmopolitan cuisine experience in Watamu.

Cecilia also owns a Catering in Milan, Italy, which makes her the perfect Manager for Tamu Restaurant due to her expertise. What a strong team I must say!

My Tamu Experience

With special thanks to Roberto Lenzi, Cecilia and Diego, I had the pleasure of testing one of their fusion cuisines.

Tamu’s hot and cold mezze menu offers a variety of starters to kick start your appetite. A fine range of drinks and foods to suit all sorts of palates.

“Our proposal is enriched by a long list of international cocktail, both alcoholic and not, a good wine list, most of all from Italy (Casale del Giglio) and of course the cocktail drinks and shakes.” ~ Cecilia.

The fusion fare mezze included:

Starters

Truffle Crostini, Tomatoes Brushetta, Hummus, Fried Dumplings (Gnocco Fritto) and cucumber with spicy mayo.

Tropical Cocktail. Tamu has the best cocktails in town!

Main Meal

Octopus Carpaccio, Zucchini Crudites, Tapenade of sun dried tomatoes, citronette, and fresh rocket cream in healthy portions. Exotic sashimi of coral grouper, with leche de tigre with mango,maracuja, and fleur de lis flowers. Black rice uramaki with crab salad, cucumber, avocado, green curry paste and cashew nuts grain. Gyoza Japanese Ravioli with white fish and ginger with teriyaki sauce and wasabi sesame seeds.

PS: The Wasabi was Ho-Ho-HOootttTT!

Desserts

1. Pistachio chocolate salami and salted caramel ice-cream. 2. Marinated pineapple with quenelle of vanilla, ginger and cinnamon ice-cream, crumble biscuit, amaretti and fresh mint. 3. Maracuja sorbet basil, ginger caviar and drops of liquorice.

To my delight, the food was mouth-watering. Starting from starters to dessert, including their tropical cocktail. My taste buds were instantly aroused by their desserts which were oh! so foodgasmic, melting in my mouth. Needless to say, each dessert had its own magic! You must try one at least!

So, Peaches, my clumsy self tried using chopsticks for the first time to blend into the Japanese culture, but food went south, literally!

Diego, however, tried his luck of giving me a mini tutorial on how to hold chopsticks but as his student, I failed terribly.

Regardless, I congratulate myself for finally getting some food in my mouth using the chopsticks. Shortly after the chopsticks hustle, I switched to my fork and knife eating like a proper adult. Grazie for the chopsticks tutorial Diego!

Tamu therefore will forever be memorable to me!

Cecilia, Tamu’s Manager (right) and Eunice, Tamu’s waitress (left)

Diego, Tamu’s Head Chef (left), Me (middle), Cecilia (right)

I would like to commend the whole Tamu team for a truly great dining experience; exquisite food quality, outstanding services and warm hospitality. The team conveys the grandeur and glory of the restaurant perfectly.

SURF AND TURF

Surf and Turf is a night grill on Tamu beach, every Saturdays from 6:30 p.m with music, and specialty cocktails. In Watamu, surfing and kite surfing are popular watersports and since there is a large European community, Surf and Turf is perfect for Aperetifs! Not to mention, JC Kitehouse is the best Kitesurfing School in town so expect the Kite Champions to be representing at Surf and Turf.

The “Surf and Turf” word expression comes from Los Angeles in the 70s and symbolizes the typical mixed plate of the wealthy American middle class. The original one, the “classic” one, is composed by lobster tail and beef fillet. So why not combine a little bit of Californian surfin’ spirit with the magnificent local fish and meat?” Exclaims Cecilia.

Tamu’s fusion plate comes with beef fillet, jumbo prawns, pork belly and buffalo chicken wings. They also offer the traditional Surf and Turf plate with lobster and beef fillet.

Tamu’s Surf and Turf setting has that Hawaiian theme with JC Kitehouse kiteboard and leis of plumeria flowers. The vibrant colors of the flowers pops the place giving it a tropical paradisiacal Hawaiian look and beats that gets you on a hula groove.

I would definitely recommend Tamu restaurant for those looking for pleasant moments that will leave a mark in your taste buds and fun too! Aloha!

Live | Love | Laugh

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Lakshmi Sparadise

Posted on January 17, 2019 by Habiba Bien

Lakshmi Spa is a magical wellness spa in Watamu that gives you a sweet taste of paradise. Owned by Lara Abagni; Italian lady who loves nature hence designed her spa to fit into the concept of nature as she specifically uses natural products; tea from Turkey, oils and skin care products for body treatments including aloe vera, coconut and avocado of which are rich in vitamins that are good for the skin. Named after Indian goddess Lakshmi connected with the belief of well-being.

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“Spa Lakshmi was born from the passion for this job and love for this Earth. The choice of this name comes from the Goddess Lakshmi. Divinity venerated also in Buddhism and protector of Well-being.’’ ~ Lara Abagni

Lately, I have been on an eco-friendly lifestyle haul, hence, Lakshmi Spa was IT for me.

My 1 hour massage appointment was on Monday afternoon at 1400 hours. If you follow my social media accounts, you already know that I have been kitesurf training at JC Kitehouse in Garoda Beach Resort, Watamu. Therefore, that was a much needed massage.

From Garoda Beach Resort to Lakshmi Spa, it took me about twenty minutes to arrive just next to Crystal Bay.

Lakshmi Spa’s entrance door already gives a vintage statement with a handcrafted vintage doorbell which once I pulled the bell handle, not one minute passed, the door was opened by one of Lakshmi Spa’s staff, Dorothy. They’re a lovely family altogether!

Rita (left), Lara (middle), Dorothy (right) and Ice (chilling😎).

Entering Lakshmi spa, my eyes were sparkled by a lush green garden trimmed to perfection. I was welcomed by the sweetest dog called Ice, as I greeted Lara with hugs and kisses. Not to mention, she is a lovely soul. Lara then introduced me to her other staff, Rita, who was going to be my masseuse for that hour. Rita ushered me into the lovely spa giving me a little tour for more eye candy.

Inside Lakshmi Spa, there is a guest waiting area with comfortable seating and a table with updated beauty and skincare magazines to keep yourself updated on beauty trends and skincare tips.

Located along the right side of the waiting area is a small boutique with tailored dresses, sandals and accessories from Afrosphere Design. While on the left side is a well equipped aesthetic room with a sophisticated light table stand for manicures and a wooden pedicure seat. Open built-in shelves on each room’s walls are used to store nail polishes and their natural beauty products on display.

Next to the aesthetic room is a massage room on your left which has twin massage beds for either couples or single massage.

Lakshmi Spa has two bathrooms; One is next to the massage room for guests and the other one is inside the massage room for clients to shower before and after their massage.

More so, among the services offered are manicure, pedicure, acrylics and lash extensions services. Waxing whether it is bikini, legs, arms, armpits, facial, chest and back. Also, face and body treatments; facial cleansing, facial scrub, specific facial treatment, body scrub and aloe body. Additionally, hydrotherapy, ayurveda, Kalari, lymph drainage legs, body stretching, back and reflexology services are offered for therapeutic muscle relaxant massages. Check out Lakshmi Spa Website for all the above mentioned services’ prices.

Down a small hallway you will find an open-concept massage room on your left, a relaxing area with sunbeds for sunbathing and outdoor grooming. The most amazing thing about Lakshmi Spa is that you can choose to have your massages and body treatments outside in their beautiful garden as you enjoy the paradisiacal nature views with melodic sounds from their windchimes.

Lakshmi Spa’s enchanting hydro pool for hydrotherapy massage with an outside shower adds on to the spa’s exquisiteness! You can choose to stay in the hydro pool for half an hour or more to your satisfaction.

Hydro Pool

Hydro Pool

Outdoor Shower

I have to commend Lakshmi spa for an amazing ambience and having a squeaky clean spa. Bedsheets and towels are spotless.

I was excited to experience an outdoor massage in the outside massage room. It has an exquisite view with natural ventilation. As I laid on the massage bed in my towel, Rita got some natural massaging oil in an artistic bowl and massaged my body literally from head to toe. That massage was amazing!

Without much realization, my body actually needed massage therapy. I felt super light after the heavenly massage. It was too good that I looked intoxicated. Therapeutic indeed!

Sadly, my time was up, therefore, I could not dip into the hydro pool but my hands felt amazing during a one minute hydromassage test earlier. It’s definitely a plan for another day!

In a nutshell, it was a day spectacularly spent at one of the most enchanting spas in Watamu. Lakshmi Spa is your beauty, body and muscles plug Peaches. Also, perfect for bonding sessions with friends, spouse or family. Most definitely a unisex spa. Do snap fabulous pics and tag me when you go!

Needless to say, Lakshmi Spa’s staff are total sweethearts. Rita served me well whereas Dorothy assisted me a lot with filming and photography. You are rest assured to get the best services from these two sweet ladies.

Have a lovely and relaxing day Peaches! Cheers!

Courtesy of Lara ~ Lakshmi Spa.

Thank you!

Live| Love | Laugh

Hat: ForeverTrendy

Sunnies & Earrings: StarsJoaillere

Summer Dress: Forever21

Black sandals: MRP

Posted in lifestyle, Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, beautyproducts, beauy, boutique, facial, Fashion, friends, hydrotherapy, hyropool, Islandgirl, Kenya, lakshmispa, lifestyle, live, luxe, massage, massagetherapy, natural, nature, reflexology, relax, spa, swimming, Travel, vacation, waamuspa, wanderlust, Watamu, waxing | 7 Comments

Hello 2019: Taking Stock 2018

Posted on January 1, 2019 by Habiba Bien

Happy New Year Peaches! 2019! I am thankful for the gift of life and health from the Almighty granting us all access to 2019.

2018 has been a hell of a rollercoaster. Revelatory to say the least. To be fair though, I’ve had some great moments and met phenomenal people hence I appreciate it. All I’m trying to do right now is focus on the good and positive things that 2018 blessed me with but not dismissing the bad moments either. Those are the ones that have shaped me into who I am today. Not bitter at all, but better, composed, stronger and wiser. ‘Never a failure, always a lesson.’

2018 adventures and events:

Zip lining. One of the most thrilling adventures in 2018!

I made new friends. Cool fun people to be around.

Laughter and good vibes

I attended candid conversations and met my all time favorite Kenyan Lifestyle Blogger ~ ThisisEss!

At the Candid Conversations event, I met phenomenal women who made me feel empowered.

I got the luxury to stay at Watamu Treehouse. One of the most beautiful places I’ve seen in Watamu. Made me realize that I love nature and art.

I did yoga for the first time at Watamu Treehouse. It was a new elevating and therapeutic experience.

First time seeing a whale with my naked eyes! I went whale watching at Hemingways in Watamu. Such humongous creatures. I wish I could swim with them.

The bubble Suit at Rock and Sea in Watamu totally wowed me! The interior, set up, nature views! I was lucky to be there in the hidden gem thanks to Stephano who is the Manager. Also, one of the nicest people I have met in Watamu.

Rock and Sea bubble Suit. Eye candy

Attended Breast Cancer Awareness walk. It gives me joy to make a difference in someone’s life. I am also happy to have been a part of Rotaract Club Malindi. Very enlightening!

Attended Youth Innovation event at United Nations in Nairobi through Rotaract Club Malindi – I met brilliant youths that were an inspiration.

I attended the historic Sustainable Blue Economy Conference as a delegate at KICC in Nairobi, Kenya. It was educational and it was a privilege to be in the same room with very prominent persons. I am loooking forward to conserve our country’s Blue Economy!

When I see women in power, it gives me joy and hope in changing the narrative of women in power. We need more women in power for a better future for the girl child.

Collaborated with Aaliya (Imakeuplikethis) and Shahista (makeupbyshahista). It was a first Halloween make up for me and I totally enjoyed it!

My girl Farhana launched her clothline and I will always support my friends so it is also the highlight of my year, because I love seeing my friends winning and I am always here for it. So proud of her!

Attended Farhana’s pop up shop to support my girl. She has an amazing collection!

I partnered with Watamu Transfer Tours and Safaris (still do). Through them, I am learning a lot especially when it comes to our wildlife Conservation and the Tourism Industry. Hence why I want to learn more languages. Through them also, I found my passion and for that I am grateful!

The first people I met through Watamu Transfer Tours and Safaris. Such beautiful and talented souls!

Watched dolphins for the 3rd time. It was one of the best dolphin views with a whole pod of dolphins swimming, diving, and jumping with joy. I’m still yet to swim with them. 2019 goal!

I did snorkeling for the umpteenth time. Swimming while enjoying views of beautiful fish, corals, and all that’s glittery underwater is one of my favorite things to do

Breakfast at the beach. It should be a lifestyle! Amazing views

I met such wonderful people at Watamu Treehouse. Barbara is a total sweetheart!

I learned a new water sports. Stand up paddling at Mida Creek in Watamu. It was intense work out in the scorching sun but totally worth it. Of watersports adventures!

Mida Creek Adventures

SUP sundowners! Amazing!

One of the best most therapeutic experiences in my life was yoga meditation on water. I came out feeling brand new and healed. My mind is clearer than ever. Worked like magic.

Shamsa got engaged! She’s more of a sister than a friend. Words cannot explain how happy I am. May Allah bless your union as we wait for the big day!

And I slayed!! Favorite outfit of 2018. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication!

A few important lessons I learned the hard way in 2018.

Observe not absorb. Being empathetic makes me question if it is a curse or a blessing because I can get sucked up into people’s energy and moods. I get so concerned with hurting peoples feelings more than I do care about mine. That has to change because it’s suffocating.
It is okay to be selfish. A hard one and a bold one too. I came to the realization that you can lay down for people and they will still say your back is not flat enough. Favorite quote because it summarizes everything I have to say about it.
Create boundaries. Walk away from disrespect. It is always so hard to walk away from people we love regardless of how they treat us sometimes. But there’s always a limit. We should stop making excuses for people’s ill behavior, unfiltered words, cheaters, liars, pretenders and back stabbers. Speak up, confront where need be and do not entertain anyone’s disrespectful behaviors towards you. We have to accept that some people will never respect you because they don’t respect themselves. Save yourself from such people.
Financial independence is empowering. So is emotional independence. If you manage to achieve those two, you will live a more peaceful life. Be your own sugar dad
Empowering women and conservation initiatives are vital in the world for better livelihood.
Follow your passion. Life is too short to work in a field you are not interested in, a waste rather. Also, I learned that it is never always about the money, but what gets your creativity wheel spinning!

Incase you didn’t notice, I took a long break from social media sometime in February 2018. As dramatic as it sounds, I was about to lose it! I could not focus. My mind was all over the place. My brains were about to fall out. I had to take a break. I could not form a sentence let alone think right or through things. I cannot really explain what I was going through because wild events were happening in my life back to back like the devil was on a mission to end me. I had to quit so many things and people dear to me to get my peace of mind; to save myself. Shockingly, I took a bolder step by moving to a totally new place where I knew literally nobody – Watamu. Honestly, I needed some quality time alone to regain my sanity. Luckily, I got a job at Watamu Treehouse and ever since, Watamu has become my new founded home. Proudly, I can say that I have found inner peace. It’s not about the people, rather, the place itself; A hidden gem. Exploring and more.

Here I am, today I can think somewhat clearly with no background noises of what if’s n whys. It’s peaceful in my head. However, I am still working on sharpening my listening skills. I am still adjusting my focus. I am still trying to find a way to forgive people completely and forgive myself for hurting people in the process. All I can say is, I don’t have it all figured out. I am a work in progress just like you and I. I might look like I have it all figured out but I’m far from that. Which is why I had to speak out when I was breaking silently for people to understand that I am only but human needing support just like I would support people who needed me. But I work everyday to improve on myself and learning to love myself and people I care about more fiercely. Most importantly, I am trying to work on stabilizing my emotions.

I hope 2019 is going to be a fruitful and prosperous year for everyone. Make everyday count and never lose hope.

To more adventures, new ideas, successful businesses, investments, travel destinations and healthier relationships.

Happy 2019 Peaches!

Live | Love | Laugh

Posted in adventure, Birthday, dolphins, Fashion, Food, lifestyle, New Year, snorkeling, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, anemone, Bata, clownfish, dolphins, drumming, Fashion, Food, Foodie, friends, fun, Happynewyear, Hemingways, Islandgirl, Kenya, lifestyle, live, Londoneye, love, Mentalhealth, party, seafood, snorkeling, swimming, Travel, underwater, vacation, wanderlust, Watamu, Yoga | 12 Comments

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