Nairobi, Kenya

"Do it! This is a great city. Ignore the reputation. Kenya does have some crime and social unrest issues but with care and caution these can be avoided. This is a beautiful city in a beautiful, friendly country," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"Before retiring in Nairobi, expats should research the cost of living and housing in the city. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations, and to ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare and other services, as well as the safety and security of the area. Finally, expats should make sure to have a valid visa and residence permit before arriving in Nairobi," said one expat in Nairobi.

"Nairobi is a vibrant and diverse city, and expats should be prepared for a unique cultural experience. It is important to research the local laws and customs before moving to Nairobi, as well as the cost of living and the availability of housing. Expats should also be aware of the security situation in the city, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Swahili, as it is widely spoken in Nairobi. Finally, expats should take the time to explore the city and its many attractions, from its bustling markets to its stunning national parks," said one expat in Nairobi.

"One option for finding a place to live in Nairobi is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in the city. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Nairobi area to help you find a suitable place to live. You can also ask friends and family who live in the city for recommendations. Finally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the city," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"Expat homes and apartments in Nairobi are typically modern and spacious, with large windows and balconies that offer stunning views of the city. Many expat homes and apartments come with amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security. Expats can also find furnished apartments with all the necessary appliances and furniture. Most expat homes and apartments are located in the city center, close to shopping malls, restaurants, and other attractions," said one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"The cost of housing in Nairobi varies greatly depending on the area and type of housing. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $500 to $700 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in the suburbs can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 per month. Prices for larger homes and villas can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month," remarked one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"There are lots of social clubs. A good place to start is the notice board in many of the city's main malls," remarked one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"Expats in Nairobi can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, book clubs, and language exchange groups. Expats can also meet people by attending events hosted by the local expat community, such as networking events, art exhibitions, and music concerts. Additionally, expats can join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Nairobi. Finally, expats can meet people by attending local festivals and events, such as the Nairobi International Film Festival and the Nairobi Marathon," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"When moving to Nairobi, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring clothing that is lightweight and breathable, such as cotton and linen, as well as a few warmer items for the cooler evenings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential for protection from the sun. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as a first aid kit. To help you adjust to the culture, bring items that remind you of home, such as photos, books, and music. Finally, make sure to bring a valid passport and any other necessary documents," wrote a member in Nairobi.

"Before retiring in Nairobi, expats should research the cost of living and housing in the city. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations, and to ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare and other services, as well as the safety and security of the area. Finally, expats should make sure to have a valid visa and residence permit before arriving in Nairobi," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"NGOs obviously big business. Advertising, banking, tourism, agriculture. www.myafricancareer.com," wrote one member in Nairobi.

"Foreigners often work in Nairobi in a variety of industries, including hospitality, finance, technology, and education. Many foreigners also work in the tourism industry, providing services such as tour guiding, hotel management, and transportation. Additionally, there are many opportunities for foreigners to work in the media and communications sector, as well as in the health care industry," remarked one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Nairobi is an exciting and vibrant experience. The city is a bustling hub of culture, art, and business, and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for those looking to explore. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to work from, as well as a vibrant nightlife and plenty of outdoor activities. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city is also home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"Kenyans are very family-centric and will be flattered if you show an interest in their home life. "Harambee" is the name of a family or community party which will require a small donation but is well worth attending. If you are invited to one by a Kenyan colleague, be sure to make a donation and attend, you won't regret it. Music and nightclubs, bars and fun carnivals are regular events," said one expat in Nairobi.

"Expats in Nairobi appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of traditional African and modern influences. They enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, who are always willing to help out and share their culture. Expats also appreciate the city's diverse cuisine, which includes a variety of African dishes as well as international flavors. The city's nightlife is also a draw, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Finally, expats appreciate the city's natural beauty, with its lush green hills and stunning views of the African savannah," said one expat in Nairobi.

"Conservation has a new meaning to me. I am used to large game parks with big 5, but the abundance in the smaller game parks here surpasses what I have experienced in South Africa. I honestly thought that all the game would be eaten by now, but reality is that they are well preserved," said one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"Expats in Nairobi often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as many locals speak Swahili and English is not as widely spoken as in other parts of the world. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate, as they are often quite different from those of the expat's home country. Furthermore, the cost of living in Nairobi can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Finally, the traffic and pollution in Nairobi can be overwhelming, making it difficult to get around and enjoy the city," remarked one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"A person learn to trust friendly people faster and tend to accept customs as a given. What caught me off guard is that the Kenyan culture has a very strong emphasis on good interpersonal relationships to the point where you will be extremely friendly with the person you are lying to and that you are in the process of deceiving. I found it difficult to learn not to trust a person just because he/she is friendly and apparently sharing as it took me a knock or two to realize the depth of receipt the friendly people are capable off. Corruption is everywhere and only power and money controls it," explained one expat living in Nairobi, Kenya.

"Nairobi is known to have a high crime rate. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, carjacking, and assault, is common in the city. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is also prevalent. In addition, there have been reports of organized crime, including drug trafficking and human trafficking. The Kenyan government has taken steps to address the crime problem, but it remains a major concern for residents and visitors alike," commented one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"Nairobi is a diverse city with a population made up of people from many different backgrounds. The city is home to a variety of ethnicities, religions, and cultures, and people from all walks of life are welcomed and accepted. Nairobi is a vibrant and tolerant city, where people of all backgrounds are respected and celebrated," wrote a member in Nairobi.

"This is an incredibly diverse city with tens of thousands of white, Indian, Chinese and other foreign residents. You might have to look hard to see them though as people tend to stay in their own locales," commented one expat who made the move to Nairobi.

"Nairobi is home to some of the best international and bilingual schools in Kenya. The International School of Kenya (ISK) is a top-tier international school offering a comprehensive education to students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. ISK is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and offers a rigorous curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The Braeburn Schools are a group of international schools located in Nairobi, offering a British-style education to students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The schools are accredited by the Council of International Schools and the British Schools Overseas, and offer a curriculum based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. The schools also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The Brookhouse School is a top-tier international school located in Nairobi, offering a comprehensive education to students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and offers a curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The German School Nairobi is a bilingual school located in Nairobi, offering a German-style education to students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the German Ministry of Education and offers a curriculum based on the German curriculum. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," remarked one expat living in Nairobi with children attending .

"The fees are high, but that is because you are paying for excellence, I would rate it as being equivalent to taking your child to one of the top private schools in the UK," said one expat in Nairobi with children at Hillcrest International School.

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the following aspects of living in Nairobi: 1. Vibrant culture: Nairobi is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a mix of different ethnic groups, languages, and traditions, making it an exciting and diverse place to live. 2. Friendly people: Kenyans are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to feel welcome and make friends. 3. Affordable cost of living: Compared to many Western countries, the cost of living in Nairobi is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads looking to stretch their budget. 4. Natural beauty: Nairobi is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including national parks, wildlife reserves, and the Great Rift Valley, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and weekend getaways. 5. Growing tech scene: Nairobi has a burgeoning tech scene, with numerous startups and innovation hubs, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. 6. Climate: Nairobi enjoys a mild climate with warm days and cool nights, making it a comfortable place to live year-round. However, there are also some aspects that expats and digital nomads may dislike about living in Nairobi: 1. Traffic congestion: Nairobi is notorious for its traffic jams, which can make commuting and getting around the city frustrating and time-consuming. 2. Safety concerns: Crime can be an issue in certain parts of Nairobi, and expats and digital nomads may need to take precautions to ensure their personal safety. 3. Infrastructure: While Nairobi has made significant progress in recent years, some areas still suffer from inadequate infrastructure, such as unreliable electricity and water supply, and poor road conditions. 4. Pollution: Air and noise pollution can be a problem in Nairobi, particularly in heavily congested areas. 5. Limited public transportation: Nairobi's public transportation system is not as developed as in some other major cities, which can make getting around the city more challenging for those without a car. 6. Bureaucracy: Expats and digital nomads may find dealing with bureaucratic processes, such as obtaining visas and work permits, to be slow and cumbersome," remarked one expat in Nairobi.

"Nairobi is a beautiful and dynamic city...full of contrasts and economic disparities. The weather and vegetation and fresh food/produce are amazing. Kenya is a young and youthful country teaming with potential and growing exponentially in development. It is also becoming more and more cosmopolitan. It s the tech hub for East Africa n a huge gateway city for the region. Touristy things to do are abundant and the country is diverse in people n landscapes and just stunningly beautiful. People are generally spite,warm and friendly...but some friendly folk are scammers, conpeople or will use friendship with expats for financial benefits. On the other hand poverty is rampant so one must be prepared to live more generously than we do in the west. Water, electricity n internet are not dependable but fairly doable overall...crime and corruption are rampant...there s a lot to learn in order to avoid them (hopefully!! But no guarantees). Traffic is AWFUL n unpredictable... it s good to live as close as possible to your work and all the adverts that say only 20 or 30 minutes from somewhere are false advertisements. 20 minutes on your best day can easily be 2 hours another day," wrote one expat living in Nairobi.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Nairobi, typically have a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various social activities, such as attending cultural events, dining at local and international restaurants, and participating in outdoor adventures. Many expats and digital nomads join clubs and organizations to meet like-minded individuals, while retirees may find social connections through community centers or volunteer opportunities. Networking events and language classes are also popular ways for expats to connect with locals and other foreigners. Additionally, Nairobi's thriving arts scene, bustling markets, and lively nightlife provide ample opportunities for socializing and entertainment," said one expat living in Nairobi.

"The social scene in Nairobi, is vibrant, diverse, and lively, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences. Nairobi is known for its thriving nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. Live music, from local bands to international acts, is a popular feature in many venues, and the city also hosts several music and cultural festivals throughout the year. In addition to nightlife, Nairobi offers a wide range of social activities and events, such as art exhibitions, film screenings, and theater performances. The city is home to a growing number of art galleries and cultural centers that showcase local and international talent. Nairobi's diverse population, which includes people from various ethnic backgrounds and nationalities, contributes to the city's rich cultural tapestry. This diversity is reflected in the city's culinary scene, with a wide array of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the city's numerous parks and green spaces, such as Uhuru Park and Nairobi National Park, which provide opportunities for picnics, nature walks, and wildlife viewing. Sports and fitness activities are also popular, with many gyms, sports clubs, and recreational facilities available for residents and visitors alike. In terms of socializing, Kenyans are generally warm and friendly, making it easy for newcomers to make friends and establish connections. However, like any large city, Nairobi also has its share of social issues, such as crime and poverty, which can impact the overall social experience for some residents and visitors. Nonetheless, the city's vibrant social scene and welcoming atmosphere make it an exciting and dynamic place to live or visit," commented one expat who moved to Nairobi.

"It s best if your company or employer provides housing...if not gated communities are a safer idea," commented one expat who moved to Nairobi.

"Expats in Nairobi recommend researching the area you are interested in living in before committing to a rental agreement. It is important to be aware of the security situation in the area and to make sure that the property is in a safe and secure location. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the property is well maintained and that the landlord is reliable. It is also recommended to visit the property in person before signing a rental agreement to ensure that it meets your needs. Finally, it is important to be aware of the cost of living in Nairobi, as it can be quite expensive," said one expat.

"Medical services in Nairobi, are a mix of public and private healthcare facilities, offering varying levels of care and expertise. The city is home to some of the country's best hospitals and medical centers, providing a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. However, the public healthcare system often faces challenges such as inadequate funding, overcrowding, and limited resources, which can lead to long waiting times and reduced quality of care. On the other hand, private hospitals and clinics in Nairobi offer higher quality services, modern equipment, and well-trained medical professionals, but at a higher cost. Medical tourists and expatriates often prefer these private facilities for their healthcare needs. Overall, while Nairobi has made significant progress in improving its medical services, there remains a disparity between public and private healthcare options," remarked one expat in Nairobi.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Nairobi can be considered expensive, especially for the average citizen. The cost of healthcare services and insurance premiums largely depends on the type of facility and coverage one chooses. Private hospitals and clinics tend to charge higher fees compared to public facilities, which may be more affordable but often face challenges such as overcrowding and limited resources. Health insurance is not mandatory in Kenya, and many people opt to pay for medical expenses out-of-pocket, which can be financially burdensome in cases of serious illness or emergencies. Additionally, the quality of healthcare can vary significantly between facilities, with more expensive options generally offering better services and amenities," wrote one expat living in Nairobi.

"The cost of living in Nairobi is generally considered to be moderate. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Nairobi can cost around $500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Nairobi can cost around $10 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Nairobi.

"In order to visit or stay in Nairobi, visitors must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to apply for residency in Nairobi, Kenya, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable fee. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of employment, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid medical certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," said an expat in Nairobi.

"Nairobi is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and exciting nightlife. The city is home to a wide variety of international restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, making it a great place to explore and experience new cultures. Additionally, Nairobi is a hub for business and finance, offering a range of job opportunities for expats. The city also boasts a pleasant climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C, and a low cost of living compared to other major cities. With its diverse population, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife, Nairobi is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," said an expat in Nairobi.