Experience in Mombasa, Kenya by Anthony

What is it like to live in Mombasa? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Well, if you do not mind the hot and humid weather, Mombasa is a cool place to live in. Very relaxed, and awesome beaches within reach. You will see a lot of Portuguese and Arabic architecture influence as a result of the history of Mombasa.

What is the student lifestyle like in Mombasa?

Its pretty laid back.

How much does it cost to live in Mombasa?

It is affordable to live in Mombasa, with costs varying from your needs and what part of Mombasa you live in. Approximately 200 euros usually covers my house rental and basic stuff for living but this can also go up or down depending on which part of Mombasa you live in and your lifestyle.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Mombasa? Is there any advice you can give?

No, its not difficult to find accommodation. There are usually several rental ads online and in the daily papers. There are also housing agents that can assist you with the search for accommodation, but they will charge a small fee once you decide to take up the accommodation. And, it is also possible to get house owners who provide rentals.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Local Swahili and Indian dishes are abundant. Kenyan dishes are also abundant, but if you fancy Chinese, Japanese, Ethopian, Italian, etc cuisines, these are also available in Mombasa. Note that there is no McDonalds or fast-food burger franchises in Mombasa, but you can get pizza too and other fast foods.

What places would you recommend visiting in Mombasa?

Fort Jesus in the Old Town on the Island. and there is also Mama Ngina drive facing the ocean near the Likoni channel for chill out relaxing time, a golf course nearby and clubs nearby too.

Bamburi beach in the North Coast along the Mombasa-Malindi road, upmarket area where you can have some foods and drinks at Pirates beach club overlooking the beach or swim in the ocean or even go for boat rides, snorkelling or scuba diving in the Mombasa Marine National Park. There is also Haller Park nearby for nice walks in a reclaimed quarry turned into a nature park and wildlife conservatory. There are also so many other activities in this area from Yuls Aquadrome to many pubs and clubs for your enjoyment. The list is long.

In the South Coast, Diani beach is a must with places like Forty Thieves restaurant a must place to visit and numerous cottages and nature conservancies to visit.

You must remember ale that Mombasa is a touristic destination place with many centres of attraction to go to.

Is it good to eat out in Mombasa? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

This is a touristic destination place so there are several good eating spots

Is the nightlife good in Mombasa? Where is good to go?

It's amazing. From Taarab music, which originates from Zanzibar, has a prominent local presence. Styles of music native to Mombasa include the smooth and mellow Bango, fast-paced Chakacha and also Bongo, originating from Tanzania.

Hip hop, reggae, soul, blues, salsa and (among the Indian community) bhangra have become popular, especially amongst the youth. From Bob's bar (used to be my favourite place a long time ago...still is a good place), mostly a very young crowd (18 -25 yr olds) to other clubs that are exclusive in Nyali area. I will update this in a few weeks on where to go.

What advice would you give future students heading to Mombasa?

Not so much I would say, the nightlife is good. Its not a costly city and depending on where you are staying, there is public transport 24/7....especially along the Mombasa-Malindi road.