Erasmus Experience in Nairobi, Kenya by James

Why did you choose to go to Nairobi, Kenya?

I chose to go to Nairobi because, being the capital city in kenya, it is home to the some of the best universities in the country. Not only is it home to great public universities but an array of wonderful private ones. The job market is also ripe with opportunity, with most multi-nationals having their offices there.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I was a self sponsored student, hence paid for my own fees. My parents have a house there so I lived in it rent free. Though there are scholarship opportunities and most universities offer student housing at subsidised rates.

What is the student lifestyle like in Nairobi?

Student life is great, loads of offers for students with student ID's. There are a couple of libraries in the city, though all universities have great libraries. Should one choose to stay outside the campus housing is relatively cheap.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Nairobi to other students?

Yes I would recommend it, it was voted on of the best in Africa and has strong ties with most employers in the country.

What is the food like?

Food here is amazing, with most of the produce being organic and fresh. The prices are also pretty cheap, and there are a lot of good hotels to eat in, some of great fast food joints are also here. Places like Kfc, Subway, dominoes pizza, pizza hut among a few.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Nairobi?

No, it did not cost me since I was staying in a house my parents own and were not using, but as I said above houses are pretty cheap depending on the location.

How much does it cost to live in Nairobi?

Housing can range from between $130 to $1000 depending on where you choose. There can be cheaper but I would not recommend living in such areas.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Yes there are language courses available, though almost everyone can speak English. Swahili is also very popular and easy to learn; easier than English.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Nairobi from your city?

The easiest way to travel is buy bus. There are plenty of buses and they are the main mode of public transportation,even within the city.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Nairobi?

Depending on your mood there are great joints in the town it's self, those are normally packed with patrons. There are others on the outskirts which are more niche based, some are casinos, some are just lounges, there's something for everyone. Though there also a lot of classy lounges in town, like at the Hilton, Sarova Stanley, Laico regency, Safari club in Lilian towers to name but a few.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Nairobi?

The hotels here are good for international cuisines the above named hotels are good. For african cuisines there are places like highland hotel, which has several brunches in town. Though as I mentioned above there are also fast food joints; Kfc, subway, steers, big square, snack attack, dominoes pizza but a few.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are plenty of museums in the town, and two parks in the middle of the town. Also there is a national park in the city with a large variety of wildlife.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Nairobi in the future?

Yes, as in every big cities there are conmen, do not trust anyone without credentials. Also when using the bus make sure to close the window when using the phone, there are snatchers on some routes. Other than that It is a great experience, there are a lot of friendly people willing to help.