{"id":7348,"date":"2017-10-30T16:17:32","date_gmt":"2017-10-30T16:17:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/AFRICAtime\/?p=7348"},"modified":"2020-07-13T13:00:18","modified_gmt":"2020-07-13T12:00:18","slug":"how-to-get-rich-in-10-days","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/how-to-get-rich-in-10-days\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Rich in 10 Days"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>Having grown up, lived, and worked in Kenya, you\u2019d think the excitement and intrigue this beautiful country inspires in its visitors might have lost its hold on me, but once a fam trip begins those feelings always come back.<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 1280px;\" class=\"wp-video\"><video class=\"wp-video-shortcode\" id=\"video-7348-1\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" preload=\"metadata\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"video\/mp4\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lion_cubs.mp4?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lion_cubs.mp4\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/lion_cubs.mp4<\/a><\/video><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>27<sup>th<\/sup> September 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Somak\u2019s relationship with Kenya Airways has ensured the group are sat comfortably in the airline\u2019s lounge, anticipation on the faces of what is a fairly young cohort from several East Africa tour operators. Hosted by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.saruni.com\/\">Saruni<\/a>, the group probably don\u2019t realise they have a particularly good week ahead of them as the plane takes off from Heathrow.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7350\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/1-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7350\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/1-3.jpg\" alt=\"Air Kenya\" width=\"600\" height=\"356\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/1-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/1-3-506x300.jpg 506w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7350\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Air Kenya\u2019s stellar service facilitated our Kenyan adventure, and we had pilot Kiprotich Biwott all to ourselves. <\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>28<sup>th<\/sup> September 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Eight-and-a-half hours later we touched down at Nairobi\u2019s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the Kenyan dawn following soon after. Printing and filling out a VISA form early from the high commission website ensured the usual efficiency and politeness at the border. $50 in cash, or more sensibly at current exchange rates \u00a330 cash, is the entry fee.<\/p>\n<p>Warm air and familiar smells were Africa\u2019s greeting. After a seamless transfer to Wilson airport and a flight to Kalama that revealed <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mount_Kenya\">Mt. Kenya<\/a> and the surrounding savannah in all its glory, we arrived at Kalama to be taken to the idyllic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/kenya\/samburu_shaba_meru\/saruni_samburu\">Saruni Samburu<\/a> in time for an afternoon game drive. It\u2019s a clich\u00e9, but no less true for it \u2013 there\u2019s simply nothing like an African safari.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7356\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7356\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7356 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7.jpg\" alt=\"Saruni Samburu\" width=\"700\" height=\"159\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7-600x136.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7356\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Samburu\u2019s stunning panorama is a warm welcome after a long journey, and in stark contrast to the approaching British winter.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7354\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7354\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7354 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/5.jpg\" alt=\"Samburu tribesman\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/5.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/5-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/5-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7354\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Jamen Benedict Lekoomet is one of Saruni Samburu\u2019s trackers. Approaching 30 years old, he is about to come of age in Samburu culture \u2013 the point in his life where he must choose a wife. Charismatic and confident, Jamen was strutting his feathers and backing his chances to win over the best available match.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_7355\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7355\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7355 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6.jpg\" alt=\"Ash with two tribesmen\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7355\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Jamen and Alois Lenasiyo, tracker and driver-guide respectively, were excellent hosts and ambassadors for the Samburu way of life.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>As you weave across the wild, rugged landscape spotting antelope, elephants, zebra, oryx, giraffes, as well as less celebrated species such as the astonishingly elegant giraffe-necked gazelle &#8211; the gerenuk &#8211;\u00a0 or the cheeky red-billed hornbill, you\u2019re drawn irresistibly closer to the vastly complex ecosystem you\u2019re now a part of, and the wider natural world.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7353\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/4-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7353\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7353 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/4-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"389\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/4-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/4-1-540x300.jpg 540w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7353\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Originally from South Africa, Lodge Manager Johan Kloppers\u2019 thorough professionalism was accompanied by a creative streak as he took us on a surreal UV scorpion safari.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>The wealth of species and the intangible, immeasurable value they represent is so obvious when standing face to face with a bull elephant on his own terms. The damage of Samburu\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/drought-death-hope-in-samburu-national-reserve\/\">recent drought<\/a> or the horrors of the ivory trade now represent a personal cost, just as the magic of this encounter is an emotional fortune.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>29th September 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The lodge itself is one of Kenya\u2019s most beautiful, set on top of a hill in the Kalama Conservancy with breathtaking views in every direction, yet determined not to compromise on luxury. Sitting with friends on a deckchair, drink in hand and watching a troop of baboons play around the watering hole below to the backdrop of the African sunset, it\u2019s hard not to believe in the adventures Somak sells.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7357\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7357\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7357 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7a.jpg\" alt=\"View from Saruni Samburu\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7a.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7a-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/7a-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7357\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Saruni Samburu boasts the Kalama savannah\u2019s \u2018most romantic suite\u2019: two chairs nestled under protruding rock looking out on the kind of panoramic splendour some people go their whole lives without seeing. <\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7367\" style=\"width: 210px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/18.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7367\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7367 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/18.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor shower at Saruni Samburu\" width=\"200\" height=\"266\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7367\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Outdoor shower<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>I settled for the similarly visually impressive outdoor shower, which though less storied was perhaps more novel.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7358\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/8.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7358\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7358\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/8.jpg\" alt=\"Drinks at sunset at Saruni Samburu\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/8.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/8-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/8-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7358\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>At the end of a long day\u2019s safari, drinks in the central lodge area overlooking the African sunset are a must.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Later on we were treated to a full bush dinner, complete with impeccable service and the best of Kenyan safari cuisine. The experience isn\u2019t complete without a visit to the local village, where the knowledge, heritage, compassion and charm of the Samburu people are evident from the smallest children to the most respected elders. The whirlwind of colours, traditional dancing, and Samburu hospitality is like nothing you\u2019ll find outside of this country; it\u2019s an insight into a complex and proud culture utterly different from the West, yet entirely welcoming.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7362\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/12.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7362\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7362\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/12.jpg\" alt=\"Somak CEO with a group of little Kenyan childreen\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/12.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/12-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/12-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7362\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The sheer positivity and enthusiastic optimism of the Samburu children blew me away. By British criteria so unprivileged, paradoxically they\u2019re so free and happy they were the ones impressing and inspiring us.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>30<sup>th<\/sup> September 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.airkenya.com\/en\">Air Kenya<\/a> was our carrier for the journey south to the world-renowned Masai Mara. The airstrip is a gentle 45 minute drive from Saruni Mara through a lush landscape wholly different to the dry sands of Samburu.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7383\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Senior-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7383\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7383 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Senior-1.jpg\" alt=\"Saruni Driver\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Senior-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Senior-1-533x300.jpg 533w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7383\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Our driver and guide in the Masai Mara, Senior, was excellent, which is so crucial to a truly great safari. The epitome of the Masai spirit.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>We arrived through the wide <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/kenya\/masai-mara\/saruni_mara\">Saruni Mara<\/a> main lodge, which opens out onto the lush green rolling hills of the Mara North Conservancy. The fusion of old-fashioned decadence and Kenyan style, as always, instantly felt like home. What was particularly impressive was how closely linked the lodge is with the local community, giving back to the community in projects and opportunities. We met William \u2013 a Masai driver-guide turned Saruni manager \u2013 walking proof of the success of this model.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7352\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/3-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7352\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7352 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/3-2.jpg\" alt=\"Sundowners by the river in Kenya\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/3-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/3-2-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/3-2-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7352\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>William (centre) welcomed us to Saruni Mara with a delicious lunch and drinks, helped by James Soit (left), the head waiter at Saruni Wild, and Benard Kiser.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>1<sup>st<\/sup> October 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Daily Nation recently reported that the Masai Mara was voted Africa\u2019s best national park, outgunning the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/tanzania\/serengeti\">Serengeti<\/a>, Botswana\u2019s Central Kalahari Game Reserve, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/south_africa\/kruger-national-park\">Kruger National Park<\/a>, among others. It wasn\u2019t hard to see why as we cruised past a plethora of varied wildlife, including ostriches, hippos, vultures, wildebeest, buffalo, a pride of lions complete with enchanting cubs, zebra, elephants, giraffes, and even a hyena stealing a kill from a cheetah. Life is lived day to day in the bush, minute by minute; witnessing this huge game of predator and prey is a visceral wake-up call from nature, a show that provides the perfect antidote to the grey routine of the commuter.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7359\" style=\"width: 709px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/9.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7359\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7359 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/9.jpg\" alt=\"Selection of animals seen on safari in Kenya\" width=\"699\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/9.jpg 699w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/9-449x300.jpg 449w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 699px) 100vw, 699px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7359\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>There are very few parks that can rival the Masai Mara for the abundance and range of its wildlife. From newborn lion cubs to an impressive cheetah kill, in just two days in this sanctuary we tracked down some of Africa\u2019s most powerful sights and experiences.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>2-6 October 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>All good things must come to an end, and Air Kenya was once again our taxi service from Mara North back to Wilson airport. The younger members of the group have been exposed to one of Kenya\u2019s and Africa\u2019s most rewarding experiences, and I could see they had all caught the safari bug. The rest of the fam trip continued with a stay at Diani Beach\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/kenya\/mombasa\/alfajiri_villas\">Alfajiri Villas<\/a> to unwind, but for myself it was straight into the fast-paced bustle of Somak\u2019s Nairobi Office.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7360\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/10jpg.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7360\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7360 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/10jpg.jpg\" alt=\"Somak Safari Lounge in Nairobi, Kenya\" width=\"700\" height=\"231\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/10jpg.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/10jpg-600x198.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7360\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Smiles like that mean one thing \u2013 happy clients just back from our Cheetah Safari to enjoy a meal and refreshments in the Somak Lounge.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>The week\u2019s target was to kick-start the process of bringing the London and Nairobi offices closer together, to put everyone on the same page working toward the same goal as a team. Genuine change and improvement requires commitment and drive from within, no matter the skill set or investment in the workforce.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7363\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/14.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7363\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7363 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/14.jpg\" alt=\"Somak CEO with some of the driver guides\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/14.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/14-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/14-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7363\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The building blocks of Somak and the reason so many clients keep coming back year on year \u2013 our driver-guides set the bar for an African safari. From the left: Samuel Mureithi, Clide Misiko, Martin Weru, myself, Phillip Musyoki, Richard Okubo.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Fortunately I had nothing to worry about, and left Nairobi encouraged, proud, and touched by the passion and desire to learn that radiates from the team. Their enthusiasm and willingness to take ownership of their work will lay the foundations for Somak\u2019s future in the long term.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7351\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/2-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7351\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7351 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/2-2.jpg\" alt=\"A group of Somak's car mechanics\" width=\"700\" height=\"380\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/2-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/2-2-553x300.jpg 553w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7351\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Somak\u2019s unsung heroes are the mechanics, tasked with keeping our vehicles on the road and undoing any damage Kenya\u2019s unforgiving roads and dusty conditions cause. The comfortable, efficient, and spotless machines clients see are a testament to the team\u2019s dedication. From the left: Gabriel Nyambare, Oscar Beuttah Mutahi, Richard Obare, Joseph Inyangala, Charles Mutuku, Stephen Juma, George Otieno, Jenny Kaka (Customer Service Manager), Okoth Ongak, Kennedy Nyajowi, Sylvester Oduor.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7361\" style=\"width: 705px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7361\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7361 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/11.jpg\" alt=\"Dinner at Pampa Churrascaria, Nairobi\" width=\"695\" height=\"303\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/11.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/11-600x262.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7361\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>On my final night I took the office staff out to dinner at Pampa Churrascaria, a pleasant Argentinian restaurant, to let their hair down a little and celebrate the week\u2019s work. The photo will bear witness to the night\u2019s success, but I think my biggest take-away is that the spirit of the Somak family is still going so strong.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7366\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/17.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7366\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7366 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/17.jpg\" alt=\"Some of Somak's driver guides\" width=\"700\" height=\"220\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/17.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/17-600x189.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7366\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>More of our terrific driver-guides. From the left: Joseph Wangombe, Francis Mafa, James Gitonga (Somak rep and Spanish liaison), Ahmed Mohamed, Samuel Mureithi<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>From the incredible range of charming, funny, and knowledgeable driver-guides our guests are so blown away by, to the immensely dedicated office staff that have been this company\u2019s lifeblood for nearly 50 years, there\u2019s a belief and pride in the work we do. Somak\u2019s future is bright.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7364\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/15.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7364\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7364 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/15.jpg\" alt=\"Somak Nairobi staff\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/15.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/15-452x300.jpg 452w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/15-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7364\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Somak Nairobi\u2019s Japanese-speaking team facilitate many of our Far East bookings and take care of the arriving clients. From the left: Catherine Kamunde, Rose Kimathi, and Keiko Yumoto.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_7365\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/16.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7365\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7365 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/16.jpg\" alt=\"Somak Nairobi Staff\" width=\"700\" height=\"387\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/16.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/16-543x300.jpg 543w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7365\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>A devoted transport team coordinate Somak\u2019s vehicle fleet to ensure all safaris run smoothly. Left to right: Michael Kilonzo, Shahid Ayoob, Peter Karanja, and Joseph Inyangala.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>The work was hard and the hours were long, but by the time I landed at Heathrow on Friday afternoon I still had a smile on my face and a renewed energy that reminded me exactly why I keep going back to this beautiful country. They say some people are so poor all they have is money. Whenever that starts to ring a little truer, I know my next\u00a0African adventure beckons.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7368\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/19.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7368\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7368\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/19.jpg\" alt=\"Kenya Airways aeroplane\" width=\"600\" height=\"327\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/19.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/19-550x300.jpg 550w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7368\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The iconic planes of Kenya Airways are a gold standard for comfort when flying to the African continent. <\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p>I travel back to Kenya at the end of November (i.e. quite soon) for another dose of sheer magic!!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7370,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[437,440,442,121,11,443,1,580],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7348","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-adventure","category-culture","category-family","category-honeymoon","category-kenya","category-luxury","category-uncategorized","category-wildlife-and-safari"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/small-6.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7348","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7348"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7348\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11024,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7348\/revisions\/11024"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7370"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7348"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7348"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7348"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}