09 April 2025

Over the Eid holiday, we set off on a family adventure to Penang, Malaysia — my first time visiting the country, despite being fairly well-travelled across Asia. What awaited us was a delightful mix of culture, history, and family-friendly fun that quickly made Penang one of our new favorite destinations. First Impressions of Penang Penang, and in particular George Town, surprised me in the best possible way. This UNESCO World Heritage site is bursting with character — a city where centuries-old Chinese temples, elegant colonial architecture, and eye-catching street art coexist effortlessly with trendy cafés, boutique hotels, and modern conveniences. The vibe reminded me a little of Hoi An in Vietnam — charming, walkable, and deeply rooted in its history — but with an edgier artistic flair that feels uniquely Penang. Top 5 Things To Do in Penang (Especially if You're Travelling with Family) Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or a parent looking for fun activities, Penang has something for everyone. Here are our top picks: 1. Hunt for Street Art in George Town Wander the alleyways and lanes of George Town, and you'll discover murals that have become iconic. From children riding bicycles to whimsical cats, these art pieces are interactive, fun, and totally Instagram-worthy. 2. Sunday Market at Hin Bus Depot This creative space turned weekend market is filled with local artists, handmade crafts, music, and street food. It's a great way to support local talent and pick up something unique. 3. Sample the Street Food Penang is often called the street food capital of Malaysia — and for good reason. From char kway teow to nasi kandar, the variety and quality are incredible. Don’t miss the chance to try local flavors from bustling roadside stalls. 4. Dine at a Hawker Market For an even deeper dive into Penang’s culinary scene, head to a hawker centre. These food courts are buzzing with energy and packed with delicious, budget-friendly options. 5. Experience the Nightlife on Love Lane & Chulia Street If you're out and about in the evenings, these streets come alive with music, street performers, and eclectic bars. It's lively, but still relaxed enough to enjoy as a couple or with older kids. Getting Around: GRAB It and Go We found that GRAB (Malaysia’s version of Uber) was the easiest, most efficient, and most affordable way to get around. Whether heading to a local attraction or grabbing dinner, it worked like a charm and made travel stress-free — especially with kids in tow. Kid-Friendly Fun in Penang Travelling with children? Penang has plenty to offer. A highlight was taking the funicular up to Penang Hill, which offers panoramic views and a cooler climate at the top. There are also several water parks and interactive museums perfect for younger travellers. Final Thoughts As a luxury travel advisor, I’m always seeking destinations that strike the right balance between authenticity and comfort — and Penang nails it. With its rich cultural layers, amazing food scene, and family-friendly attractions, it’s a destination I’d confidently recommend to couples, families, and culture-seekers alike. Would I go back? Absolutely. Penang has that rare magic — a place that feels like a true discovery, yet offers all the modern touches that make travel easy and enjoyable.

06 January 2025

Summit Night: The Longest Night of My Life The night before the summit attempt, we woke up at 11pm, donned every layer we had, and set off on the final leg of our journey. The cold was bone-chilling, and the path was a relentless ascent. With each step, I felt my muscles protesting, but I kept my focus on the peak. I wasn’t just climbing for myself anymore – I was climbing for everyone who had supported me along the way. Rayyaan, always quiet and but full of optimism, kept the mood light, even as we faced the bitter cold and exhaustion. Vigeash’s steady, measured pace gave me a sense of calm in the chaos of summit night. Together with our guide's, we climbed up through the darkness 'pole pole' (meaning slow in Swahili), determined to reach the top before the first light of dawn. I could feel my fingers going numb along the way- but the ginger tea five-minute breaks were a temporary relief every few hours enroute. One of the toughest stretches came as we approached Gilman's point. The altitude was beginning to hit hard, and with each step I felt the weight of the climb pulling me down. The view of the crater was something unimaginable! But when we reached Stella Point, I could sense the progress we’d made. It was a small victory in the grand challenge, a sign that we were getting closer. But we had to move on- one step at a time 'pole pole' - this is when I felt like I was tearing up- the cold was biting and my inner voice said I could not go further! At around 8.30 AM, after hours of difficult climbing, we reached Uhuru Peak – 5,895 meters above sea level. The exhaustion was overwhelming, but the sense of accomplishment and euphoria that flooded me made everything worthwhile. The sunrise, casting its warm glow over the mountain, was a perfect reminder that every challenge we had faced led us to this incredible moment. The Descent: A New Kind of Peace The descent was just as challenging in its own way. My legs were sore, my body fatigued, but my heart was light. We had made it. As we made our way down from Uhuru Peak, past Stella Point and Gillman's Point, we shared quiet smiles and moments of reflection. The hardest part was behind us, and now we had time to enjoy the sense of accomplishment we had earned together. As I walked with Rayyaan and Vigeash, I realized that the true beauty of the climb wasn’t just in reaching the summit, but in the journey itself. It was in the shared moments of struggle and triumph, the way we encouraged each other when we were at our lowest. There was a unique bond that formed between us on the mountain – one that would last long after the descent was complete. Little did we know the decent would not be a walk in the park, it came with its own challenges! Our final day a 21km trek down to the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, walking for 8 hours in the rain on a path where water was gushing down as you tried to balance your next step. We were welcomed by our team and had a small celebration; we were each awarded a certificate and medal- the highlight for today would have been that hot shower when we got back to the hotel at around 7pm. Conclusion: More Than Just a Summit The Rongai Route gave me much more than the opportunity to stand on the highest point in Africa. It provided me with the space to reflect, to connect with nature, and to push myself in ways I never thought possible. Standing at Uhuru Peak, looking out over the vast African plains, I realized that Kilimanjaro had taught me much more than just physical endurance. It had shown me the power of perseverance, the strength of personal resolve, and the importance of believing in the journey, even when it seems impossible. To anyone contemplating a Kilimanjaro climb, I say this: embrace the challenge. Take your time. Celebrate the milestones along the way, whether it’s Stella Point, Gilman’s Point, or Uhuru Peak-Because every step, every moment, will bring you closer to something extraordinary.

06 January 2025

It’s one thing to dream of standing on top of the world, and quite another to actually get there. The moment I stood at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, on December 19th 2024, I felt like I had crossed an invisible line between who I was before and who I’d become after that climb. Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, is often called the “Roof of Africa,” and in that moment, it felt like I had reached the peak of not just the mountain, but also my own personal journey. This is the story of how I got there – the moments of doubt, the unrelenting physical and mental challenges, and the support team who helped me push through to the summit. The Rongai Route: A Quiet Approach to the Roof of Africa - When I first signed up for the climb, I didn’t know much about the Rongai Route. I knew it was less crowded than the more popular routes like Machame or Marangu, but I didn’t realize how much that would matter to me. The Rongai Route begins on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border a quieter, more remote route – and I soon came to realize we had made a good choice. Traveling with me on this incredible journey were Rayyaan and Vigeash, these two made the experience not only doable but unforgettable. From the moment we met our guides and began the trek, I could tell this wasn’t just going to be a physical test – it was a shared adventure, a mental test! With Rayyaan's enthusiasm and Vigeash's calm determination, I knew I wasn’t alone on this climb- we each had our own goals, but we also relied on each other for motivation during the tough times. We started at the Rongai Gate, where the cool, peaceful forest immediately set the tone for the trek ahead. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the mountain, but this quiet, beautiful route offered a serene and reflective journey. The first days were relatively easy, with lush rainforests and sweeping views that allowed us to ease into the experience. But I knew that with every passing hour, we were getting closer to the difficult, high-altitude portions of the climb. The Challenge: More Than Just a Physical Test As the days went on, the climb became more demanding. The thin air and steep slopes began to challenge me, both physically and mentally. The higher we climbed, the more my body fought back. But every time I felt like I couldn’t take another step, I looked to Rayyaan and Vigeash, who were moving steadily and reminded me that this was a shared experience. Their calm encouragement helped push me forward. As we moved up the mountain the altitude sickness began to kick in a little more. Sleepless nights and a lack of appetite- just when we needed more strength. Once at base camp we were anxious, nervous and excited all in one. So far, the climb had been manageable it was just the cold that was making it quite difficult for me- temperatures had been dropping from day one and the worst was yet to come. CONTINUED IN NEXT LINK

09 December 2020

So, what’s it been like for me as a Travelcounsellor during this Pandemic? It has been almost a year since we have been living with the virus now and i have to say i have been through my worst and my best! In March to May 2020 as a travel advisor/booker it was initially all about cancelling bookings and postponing holidays for my customers. Over the summer months as people began to gain more confidence with going on local holidays- i had a sudden influx of bookings for the staycation market which was great! My existing clients, not only did they book with me, but they also told their friends about me. Many booked with me for a special occasion- an anniversary, a birthday, or to mark what would have been their wedding day and i always tried my best to make it special for them. When the kids finally went back to school (including my own) my clients started getting in touch with me for the October mid-term break and December travel options. Whilst i still continue to work on December 2020, i am now beginning to get enquires for Midterm February and Easter 2021. Not forgetting my clients outside of the UAE are also enquiring on future holidays in the UAE During the pandemic i have built some great relationships and have come out stronger and better, i have learnt so much. Today my clients contact me because they trust me, they have faith in me, and they know for me ‘it’s all about them!” I have them covered from A-Z! As I approach the finish of my 3rd year with Travelcounsellors I can say that November 2020 (last month) I had my highest sales ever since joining the company! That is my cloud with a silver lining- it cannot get better I want to thank you today for your support and standing by me and trusting me with your holidays- when you have never needed them more! Thank you for referring me again and again. I look forward to 2021 being a great year and hopefully I can send my clients a little bit further than they have been in 2020- I miss most creating itineraries for my safari’s to East Africa, my Christmas Markets to Europe and Lapland to meet Santa for my little customers! Best wishes Zahara D’souza Zahara.dsouza@travelcounsellors.ae +971503968220 I can be reached on any of social media links below Follow me Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zaharadsouzaTC/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelcounsellors__zahara/ Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaharakurji/

10 November 2019

There has been so much interest this season on Christmas Markets, it has motivated me to write a blog. This should give you an overview of the most popular Christmas Markets in Europe. When I was studying in Switzerland, I took the opportunity to visit these markets and this is something that has stayed with me forever. I hope this will give you a little bit of an insight on each of the destinations. 1. Sofia Sofia’s Christmas Market, referred to as Kolidariya or Koledaria, is held in Borisova Gradina Park and runs from the end November until early January, taking in the Eastern Orthodox Christmas on January 7. Eating & Drinking: Try the delicious German sausages will keep you going as you browse the traditional handicrafts on offer. Try a tipple of greyana rakiya –a traditional grape brandy popular across Bulgaria. Shopping: Rose Oil is one of Bulgaria’s most famous exports and just happens to be one of the hottest products at the moment, so stock up for a beauty boost. Places to visit: The Boyana Church. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on the outskirts of Sofia and dates back to the 10th century. The site hosts one of the most significant collections of medieval art anywhere in the world. 2. Paris Festive markets have become an essential festive event during the Christmas season in Paris. They are held all over the capital –in Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Place de la Nation on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées and in Place du Trocadéro. Eating & Drinking: My 2 favourites! Bûche de Noël – A traditional French dessert served at Christmas. Piernik – the traditional Polish gingerbread cake served at Christmas. Kir Royale – THE French cocktail – crème de cassis topped withChampagne Shopping: Freshly baked cakes and biscuits from the Christmas markets. These can be given as gifts at Christmas, although they’ll probably be eaten before you get them home. (but that's allowed) Places to visit: A day trip to Chateaux Vaux Le Vicomte – This 17th centurychâteau, an inspiration for the even grander Versailles, really decks the halls at Christmas time. Decorations inside bring the season alive while lights on the outside brilliantly illuminate the entire place. Look for the eight-metre tall tree inside the Grand Salon, decorated with over 5,000 baubles and balls. 3. Budapest Budapest’s famous Vörösmarty Square is transformed into a festive market placefrom the end of November with the start of the Christmas Fair. There is a wide range of shopping and eating options, live jazz, folk and world musictakes place on two huge stages, plus there are weekend puppets shows for the kids. Eating & Drinking: Mezeskalacs – this is a traditional spiced honey cookies glazed with red icing and colourful designs and of course Mulled wine or ‘forralt bor’ as it’s known in Hungary. Shopping: The traditional embroidery or lacework make an unusual souvenir or gift. Places to visit: It is a must to see the Budapest Nutcracker Ballet in the Hungarian State Opera House, take a boat down the Danube to see the city from another angle, take a dip in the Szechenyi Thermal Baths or go for a skate at the Budapest City Park Ice Rink. 4. Bucharest Two Christmas markets take place from the end of November at UniversitatiiSquare and one in Cismigiu Par – plus a cookies and sweets fair from December 5 – 7 at Sala Palatului. Eating & Drinking: Carnati – garlicky pork sausages, cozonac – a panettone-style cake or traditional ‘salata de boeuf’ – a moulded vegetable and chicken salad which, misleadingly, doesn’t contain any beef (funny enough) Tuica – a delicious plum brandy famous in Romania. Shopping: Stunning hand painted ceramics – perfect for serving up a Christmas feast back home. Places to visit: Bucharest’s new Santa Klaus Kingdom, where children can meet the man himself before having fun on one of the many attractions within, which include an indoor ski slope, skating rink, climbing wall and carousel. 5.Warsaw Traditionally festivities peak on Christmas Eve – known as Wigilia – when families get together to sing carols, exchange gifts and feast on a 12-course menu, featuring dishes including jellied carp. If that isn’t your thing, there are plenty of treats on offer. Warsaw hosts not one but three main Christmas markets – in the Old Town, Castle Square and Palace of Culture and Science. They all open on November 27 and run until Boxing Day. Eating & Drinking: Piernik – the traditional Polish gingerbread cake served at Christmas which is delicious Mulled beer – yes, hot beer. Spiced and then sweetened with honey it’s a staple tipple during the festive season in Poland. Shopping: Poland is famed for its artisans producing elaborate traditional blown glass Christmas ornaments. What better souvenir to take home and hang from your tree to remember your trip. Places to Visit: Lazienki Park, also known as the Royal Baths Park – a short tram or bus ride from the city centre, enjoy the open spaces whilst marvelling at the stunning Palace on the Water.

16 June 2019

If you’re planning a July getaway, here’s my pick of some top holiday destinations that you should definitely consider. Canada With a wealth of world-class attractions and sensational sights to discover, Canada has so much to offer whatever the season. However, perhaps the perfect time to visit is the summer months when this vast country is hot and lush. Nature lovers will be in their element in the beautiful provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, where you can enjoy everything from hiking and biking to kayaking and canoeing on the shimmering emerald lakes. If you prefer the bustle of urban life, soak up the sunshine on the glorious sandy beaches of Vancouver’s Stanley Park or enjoy the incredible atmosphere in Toronto, where there’s a food, music or cultural festival nearly every weekend. July is also the month of the world-famous Calgary Stampede, known as the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’, and the first of the month is Canada Day, so there’ll be plenty of celebrations across the country. USA The USA’s Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf Coasts are all home to some wonderful summer sun resorts, whether it be the exclusive Hamptons in Long Island, the world-famous holiday hotspot of Miami in Florida or Los Angeles’ plethora of legendary beaches. Away from the stunning coastline, explore New York’s host of world-famous landmarks, enjoy some thrills and spills at Orlando’s amazing theme parks or immerse yourself in Las Vegas, where mind-boggling casinos, a pulsing nightlife scene and the dry desert heat all combine to create a truly unique holiday experience. July is a particularly special time to visit the USA, as every year on July 4th, the country celebrates its independence from the British Empire with parties, parades and fireworks. Thailand Undoubtedly one of the world’s best beach destinations, captivating Thailand is home to an unbelievable amount of gorgeous tropical shorelines where the cashmere-soft white sands and sparkling azure waters are the stuff that holiday dreams are made of. From the peaceful seclusion at gorgeous Khao Lak and exotic Krabi to the party islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, all the way through to the elegant sophistication of Hua Hin, it’s so easy to find a beach which fits your unique vision of perfection. No visit to Thailand would be complete without visiting the buzzing capital of Bangkok. Take some time to immerse yourself in this invigorating city and explore all that it has to offer, including superb shopping, a vibrant nightlife scene, delicious street food and a rich Buddhist heritage. A land filled with stunning natural beauty, incredible culture and history, as well as some of the warmest people you could ever wish to meet, Thailand will both amaze and inspire; whatever type of holiday you may be looking for. Indonesia Indonesia, especially the exotic island paradise of Bali, is the perfect choice for a summer escape. Home to glorious palm-fringed beaches, dramatic volcanoes, lush forest, ancient temples and the friendliest people, you’ll soon see why Bali is often referred to as the ‘Island of the Gods’. Perhaps the most popular resorts on the island are upmarket Seminyak and lively Kuta, but there are numerous other beach resorts dotted around the island with more peaceful settings, such as laidback Sanur on the south-east coast, beautiful Jimbaran in the west and tranquil Tembok on the north of the island. Venture away from the glorious coastline and into Bali’s lush interior and you’ll also discover that there’s much more to this stunning island than sea and sand. With traditional villages, verdant rainforests and breath-taking cultural sites to explore, Bali really does offer something for everyone. Greece A remarkable country that’s filled with unparalleled culture and history, spectacular golden beaches and sun-soaked islands, gorgeous Greece is a land suitably fit for the gods. Dine on delicious dishes at cosy tavernas, discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites or swim in the glittering turquoise waters and feel the sun upon your skin, there’s plenty to entice all types of traveller here. If you’re searching for a blissful slice of paradise, you’ll be well served by the breath-taking Halkidiki peninsula on the mainland or the exquisite island of Rhodes. For nightlife, head to Kos or Corfu, and if culture’s your thing, don’t miss the largest Greek island of them all, Crete, where there’s thousands of years of history to explore. With fantastic weather, plenty of hours of glorious sunshine and a wide range of idyllic islands to choose from, whatever you’re looking for from your summer holiday, you’ll certainly find it in gorgeous Greece. Italy Whether it’s sun-kissed shores, shimmering lakes and ancient cities, Italy is the perfect destination for a magical summer holiday. The famous Amalfi Coast is perhaps one of the country’s most spectacular areas, with its exquisite shoreline that’s dotted with small beaches and pastel-coloured fishing villages. It’s also the perfect place from which to explore the stunning seaside town of Sorrento, the fascinating ruins of Pompeii and lively Naples, known as the birthplace of pizza. Away from the breath-taking coastline, head inland to see Italy’s great northern lakes shimmer like sparkling glass in the summer sunshine. The holiday retreat of Lake Garda is perhaps the most popular choice, with its temperate climate, magnificent setting and endless activities, whilst sophisticated Lake Como is perfectly positioned against a backdrop of spectacular mountains and is world-renowned for its palatial villas, stunning scenery and sublime cuisine. It may be hot in the city but surely no trip to Italy would be complete without visiting the Eternal City of Rome or the utterly romantic and unique travel destination of Venice? Both cities are bursting with unmissable treasures and surprises, and if the heat does start to take its toll, there are plenty of pretty piazzas where you can relax in the shade with a chilled glass of Prosecco or your favourite gelato.

30 May 2019

I am passionate about the restorative benefits of all holidays, but a growth in wellness-break bookings this year has encouraged us to showcase some of our hotels and resorts boosting mind, body and soul through activities, meditation, outstanding spa treatments or simply offering the opportunity to get away from it all. The Landings Resort & Spa by Elegant Hotels, Saint Lucia The one-, two- and three-bedroom villa suites at this tropical oasis of Saint Lucian hospitality are the height of luxury island living, with private terraces, four-poster beds, luxury linens and top-notch toiletries. All villa suites offer the services of a dedicated concierge while ocean and beachfront villa have a full-time butler. Other enticements include a large spa, a state-of-the-art gym, four pools, tennis courts, water sports and a kids’ club, while the Saint Lucia Golf & Country Club is close by. Coco de Mer, Seychelles Renovated in early 2018, this intimate and secluded four-star resort with its exquisite Indian Ocean views is named after the rare and exotic trees that surround it. Among its attractions are the pool-side bar specialising in colourful cocktails and a waterfront spa. The charming staff can arrange local excursions including deep-sea fishing and scuba-diving. “The Coco de Mer hotel backs onto the Valle De Mai and overlooks the ocean. It is a wonderful hotel in a wonderful setting, a little off the beaten track.” Domes Noruz , Crete Exclusively for adults, this stunning boutique hotel offers chic accommodation with views of the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, the chance to switch off completely in Soma Spa (where the signature Mythical Massage takes inspiration from five famous journeys from Greek mythology) and a poolside bar serving spanking-fresh sushi and hosting sunset DJ sessions. Nearby excursions include multicultural Chania and the wildly beautiful Samaria Gorge. Veranda Tamarin, Mauritius This laidback and funky three-star-plus resort – new in 2018 – caters to water-sports fans with a surf school and shop, kite-surf school, PADI-certified scuba-diving, kayaks and catamaran trips, but it’s also in a great location for discovering the salt pans of Tamarin, the Seven Coloured Earth geological formation, Le Morne mountain and the championship golf course of its sister resort, all close by. Amenities include a spa and beach kits with towels, coolers and baskets. If relaxation is your summer holiday inspiration, get in touch with me

14 February 2018

Having lived in Nairobi, Kenya for most of my life, albeit just a stone throw away I had never been to Zanzibar. So, when Ray and I got married in Mombasa, Kenya we thought there was no better place to have our honeymoon than in Zanzibar and this decision we never ever regretted. We fell head-over-heels in love with this otherworldly island. The beaches are right up there with the best we had ever seen, an we found so much more than sand and sunsets and cocktails. Most people come here for the pristine white sand, calm waters and dazzling sunsets. If that’s what you’re after, you won’t be disappointed. This is one of those “Wow, is this real?” places, and you’ll probably come away feeling like the dictionary definition of paradise should simply be followed by the word: Zanzibar. We had booked at an all-inclusive resort Diamond La Gemma Dell’est. Located in the Northern western tip of Zanzibar on the beach known as Nungwi. (Kendwa and Nungwi are the top most recommended beaches on the island). The resort has 138 rooms all with a sea view and surrounded with a luxurious tropical environment and boasts four multi cuisine restaurants. We were transported to the room in a buggy and given a complimentary upgrade as well as a bottle of bubbles and other amenities. Our honeymoon had kicked off really well! Over the course of the next four days we dinned most evenings at the Pavillion restaurant and one night at the Romantic Beach Grill. We would however frequent the deck bar every evening for sunset and after dinner drinks with dancing, and this was our favourite spot. The staff were very pleasant and always made us feel special. During the day we spent most of our time on the beach. The one activity outside the resort we did was visit the stone town. Stone Town is known for its eating. Every night there’s a food market where you can browse and pick up plenty of cheap, tasty treats. Top of the list has to be the seafood, which is freshly caught and barbecued in front of you. Our final activity on Zanzibar that needed to be ticked off was snorkeling. From the northern or eastern beaches, trips head out daily to explore offshore reefs and this was absolutely breathtaking. It’s a great way to see more of this beautiful island from the water. And having a fresh, seafood barbecue on a deserted beach – that’s something you won’t forget anytime soon. Our short stay in Zanzibar ended very fast but we both had to be back at work, or we would have stayed longer. Zanzibar is absolutely one the bucket list and I totally recommend it as a honeymoon destination.

14 February 2018

Giraffe Centre Nairobi The Giraffe Centre was founded in 1979 by Jock Leslie- Melville, a Kenya citizen of British decent. Jock and his wife began the giraffe Centre after discovering the Rothschild giraffe were drastically depleting in numbers. The Giraffe Centre is the only wildlife sanctuary in the world within a capital city that enables you to come into very close contact with the world’s tallest yet endangered animal, the giraffe. As a child growing up in Kenya the giraffe Centre never failed to be on the yearly school trip list. And no matter how many times we went there we never seized to be amazed at these beautiful creatures Situated in a quiet natural environment, whose biodiversity makes it a home to a herd of Rothschild Giraffe, some Warthogs and over a hundred and fifty species of birds. The center is located roughly 12.5 miles (20km) away from the center of Nairobi and can be reached by private vehicle or matatu (public transport) and is open 7 days a week from 9am to 5.30pm What to do at the Giraffe Centre You can Pet, Feed and Kiss the Giraffe’s, this is the closest you will ever get to a giraffe!! You can tell my kids are loving it! The educator will hand you some food pellets, these are made from corn, wheat and molasses. They are sweet little snacks and that’s why the giraffe’s love them. When on the feeding deck do be careful as giraffes do swing their necks and if they bang into you or the kids it can be quite painful (more commonly known as head butting!) There’s an information Centre where you can learn more about these Giraffes and how to take care of them when they are not in their natural habitat. Artwork made by students is also on display. You will also have access to a 1.5-kilometere nature trail at no extra cost where you may spot several species of bird, and smaller animals such as dik-dik (small deer), warthogs (with their tv aerial tails) and squirrels. The trail takes you down to the Gogo river which is breathtaking. Don’t forget to grab some Kenyan Chai (tea) or Kahawa (coffee) whilst giraffe watching at the tea shop and visit the souvenir shop for some mementos to take home from your memorable day. You also have the opportunity to visit the Giraffe Manor next door, spend a couple of nights there and have breakfast with the Giraffe's but that's a whole other blog!