Fun Classes for Expats Living in Nairobi
Summary: Once you've arrived in Nairobi, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Nairobi, the city offers a vibrant array of classes that cater to English-speaking adults. Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture, enhance your skills, or simply enjoy a new hobby, Nairobi's educational scene is rich with opportunities. From cooking classes that allow you to savor Kenyan cuisine to language courses designed to help you communicate better, there's something for everyone. Art, wine tasting, and various workshops also provide fantastic avenues to meet like-minded individuals and integrate into the community. Here's a curated list of classes that are perfect for those still mastering the local language but eager to learn and enjoy.
Mcensal School of Fashion Design
Type of Class(es): Fashion Design and Tailoring
Location: Adalyn Flats, Ngong Road, Nairobi
Website: www.mcensalschool.com
Mcensal School of Fashion Design offers a range of classes for those interested in fashion and tailoring. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, the school provides a creative environment where you can learn about textiles, design, and garment construction.
Utamaduni Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Kenyan and International Cuisine
Location: Langata, Nairobi
Utamaduni Cooking School is the perfect place for food enthusiasts to learn about Kenyan cuisine and other international dishes. The classes are hands-on and taught in English, making it easy for expats to follow along and enjoy the culinary experience.
Language School of Nairobi
Type of Class(es): Swahili and other languages
Location: Westlands, Nairobi
Website: www.languageschoolofnairobi.com
Language School of Nairobi offers comprehensive language courses, including Swahili, which is invaluable for anyone looking to communicate more effectively in Kenya. The school provides a supportive environment for language learners of all levels.
Nairobi Wine School
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Lavington, Nairobi
Website: www.nairobiwineschool.com
At Nairobi Wine School, adults can indulge in the art of wine tasting and learn about different wine regions, grape varieties, and pairing principles. It's a great way to socialize and develop a refined palate.
Brush Tu Art Studio
Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing
Location: Baba Dogo, Nairobi
Website: www.brushtu.com
Brush Tu Art Studio is a collective that offers classes in painting and drawing for all skill levels. The studio promotes creativity and provides a space for expats to express themselves through art.
Nairobi Photography School
Type of Class(es): Photography
Location: Kilimani, Nairobi
Website: www.nairobiphotographyschool.com
For those with a passion for photography, Nairobi Photography School offers courses that cover various aspects of photography, from the basics to advanced techniques. It's a great way to capture the beauty of Kenya through the lens.
Kenya Conservatoire of Music
Type of Class(es): Music Lessons
Location: Westlands, Nairobi
Website: www.conservatoire.co.ke
The Kenya Conservatoire of Music provides music lessons for a range of instruments, as well as vocal training. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the conservatoire offers a structured approach to learning music.
Shang Tao Media Arts College
Type of Class(es): Animation and Graphic Design
Location: Hurlingham, Nairobi
Website: www.shangtao.ac.ke
Shang Tao Media Arts College is ideal for those interested in the digital arts. The college offers courses in animation and graphic design, providing students with the skills needed to thrive in the creative industry.
Nairobi Art Centre
Type of Class(es): Art and Craft Workshops
Location: Lavington, Nairobi
Website: www.nairobiartcentre.org
The Nairobi Art Centre offers a variety of art and craft workshops for adults. These workshops are designed to inspire creativity and provide a relaxing atmosphere for expats to learn new skills and meet fellow art enthusiasts.
Italian Institute of Culture
Type of Class(es): Italian Language and Culture
Location: Westlands, Nairobi
Website: iicnairobi.esteri.it
The Italian Institute of Culture in Nairobi offers classes in Italian language and culture, which are open to all levels. It's a great way to learn a new language while also getting a taste of Italian culture right in the heart of Nairobi.
Goethe-Institut Kenya
Type of Class(es): German Language and Culture
Location: Maendeleo House, Monrovia Street, Nairobi
Website: www.goethe.de/ins/ke/en
Goethe-Institut Kenya is the cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany, offering German language courses and cultural events. It's an excellent resource for those looking to learn German or engage with German culture.
Alliance Française de Nairobi
Type of Class(es): French Language and Culture
Location: Loita/Monrovia Streets, Nairobi
Website: nairobi.afkenya.or.ke
Alliance Française de Nairobi is a French cultural center offering French language classes and a variety of cultural activities. It's a hub for Francophiles and those interested in learning French in a dynamic setting.
Temple Point Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Coastal Kenyan Cuisine
Location: Watamu, Nairobi
Temple Point Cooking School specializes in coastal Kenyan cuisine, offering classes that teach the secrets of Swahili cooking. It's a unique opportunity to delve into the flavors of the Kenyan coast while living in Nairobi.
Spanish School of Nairobi
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language
Location: Various locations in Nairobi
Website: www.spanishschoolofnairobi.com
The Spanish School of Nairobi provides Spanish language courses for all levels. With experienced teachers and a focus on conversational skills, it's an excellent choice for those looking to add Spanish to their linguistic repertoire.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.