Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Expatriate people move to Kenya for many reasons, including work opportunities, so it is important to have some basics done before your arrival. One of the first things an expat needs to know is the cost of living in Kenya. Some may think that it is cheap, but there are many hidden costs of living in Kenya.

These expenses can’t be neglected because they are important for the well-being of any expat. However, some expatriates feel that this is an inexpensive place to live, especially compare to other countries around the world.

Well, the cost of living in Kenya is lower than the cost of living in other African countries, especially when it comes to buying food. And as a matter of fact, many expatriates are able to buy foods that are not available back home for cheap prices in Kenya.

Meanwhile, there are also costs other than food which are big issues for foreigners who move here. One of the priciest costs for expats is living space. Renting a place to live in Kenya’s cities is almost impossible without having many friends and family here who can refer you to people who will lease their places to you. That’s why it is more affordable if an expat leases a place with someone, than if he or she leases it on his or her own.

In this article, we will walk you through the tips to know before living in Kenya. Aside from this fact, you’ll understand the cost of living, and the best places to live as an expat. Have you been surfing the internet to get the right information about living in Kenya as an expat? Read further for more information.

Tips To Know Before Living in Kenya as an Expat

Kenya is a beautiful country with a rich culture and welcoming people. However, it’s important to do some research before moving here as an expat. The following are some things you don’t want to learn the hard way after arriving in Kenya:

You Need a Car That Can Handle Dirt Roads

Many areas of Nairobi have paved roads. However, if you’re trying to get out of the city, you may find yourself on dirt roads that seem like they haven’t been maintained in decades. If you’re not prepared for bumpy and dusty conditions, having a car with good shocks and large wheels is helpful.

The Sun Can Be Your Worst Enemy

Kenya is a beautiful place with plenty of natural beauty. However, that landscape comes at a price: the sun can be your worst enemy. The heat and UV rays are extreme here, so being fully prepared for this weather is important if you want to stay healthy while living in Kenya.

You Have To Learn Swahili or Risk Being Isolated

There are plenty of expats that don’t learn the native language. However, knowing how to greet people in Swahili can really help you out here. It’s also important to know some other basics like “thank you”, “hello” and “goodbye.” This will allow you to build connections with locals so it may be helpful to learn some Swahili before moving to Kenya.

The Power Can Go Out At Any Time of Day or Night

There are some developed areas in Kenya with reliable electrical service. However, you never know when the power is going to go out. You might find yourself sitting in the dark for hours, or your power could go out for half a minute and then come back on.You just can’t predict when this might happen in Nairobi so it may be helpful to always have some extra batteries and candles available in case this happens.

Not All Bills Are Paid At the Post Office

When you move to Kenya, you may think that all you have to do is going down to the post office and pay your bills. However, this isn’t how things always work here. Not only may not be able to pay your bill at the post office, but you might also need to hand-deliver it or hand-deliver payment to another location in order to make sure it gets paid on time.

You Have To Be Careful When It Comes To Bribes

The bribery culture in Kenya is well-known throughout the world. However, you may not realize what this means for your day-to-day life until you’re dealing with daily hassles from police officers and other officials just trying to get a bribe. It’s not uncommon for people to deal with these situations and try to bribe their way out of them, but this can be a risky move.

Things Happen On “Kenyan Time”

There is an attitude in Kenya called “Jamaica time,” which means that nothing happens when it should or according to plan (it takes about an hour for people to show up for a meeting, regardless of the time you said it would start).

However, this attitude is also related to how things are done. For example, bank hours are not observed. Instead, it’s common for banks in Kenya to close early without warning even though they were supposed to be open later that day orjuntil the next day. Furthermore, things like getting your phone fixed might take much longer than you expected due to delays in receiving parts or slow service at the shop.

Cost of Living in Kenya Today

There are many costs associated with living in Kenya, including cost of food, clothing, housing, healthcare and transportation. When it comes to the difference in cost of living between now and 2021, there are some variations that can be expected.

For example, due to inflation rates ranging from an average of 7% to 9%, by 2021, now prices might be as much as twice as high. On the other hand, considering that there will potentially be a better standard of living by 2022, certain types of expenses might also become slightly less expensive.

In order to give an idea about how things might change in the next few years, this article will take a look at cost of food, clothing, housing, healthcare and transportation.

Understanding the Cost of Living in Kenya in 2021

According to the CIA Factbook, currently (2016) a pair of jeans costs about 900 shillings ($9), while a kilo of rice ranges from 500–1200 shillings ($5.25–12). Suppose that by 2021, the amount of money needed to buy a pair of jeans is around 1 500 shillings ($15), and a kilogram of rice costs between 800–1 500 shillings ($8.50–15).

A large bottle of water that currently costs about 300 shillings ($3) might be up for sale at 350–500 shillings ($3.50–5) in 2022. Coffee, tea and other hot drinks are expected to be more expensive as well, with the average price being around 500–600 shillings ($5.50–6).

Similarly, a jacket or a jumper that is listed for about 3 000 shillings ($30) today might cost around 5 000–6 500 shillings ($55–65) in 2021.It is expected that clothing prices will go up, but not significantly — only by approximately 20%.

Two dozen eggs that are currently available for less than 1 000 shillings ($10.50) may become slightly more expensive and cost about 1 000–1 400 shillings ($10.50–13). However, milk is expected to become cheaper in 2021, costing approximately 500–1000 shillings ($5.5–10) for a litre.

Today, things have changed so much in Kenya. Earning a salary can no longer provide you with all the money needed to live, especially if you have a family to support. Cost of living prices in Kenya today are a bit high and for this reason, many employers give their employees more pay while keeping their original salary the same. Many employers even give their employees a pay rise for this reason.

In fact, people who need to study more cannot do so because they cannot afford the fees at universities and colleges, which are another sign, that cost of living prices in Kenya today are extremely high.

Cost of Living in Kenya as an Expat

You can see part 2 here.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

The process of moving to Kenya can be a daunting one for those who have never been there before. As discussed in our previous post about living in Kenya as an expat, many things need to be arranged. From finding accommodations and schools to learning how to use the currency and transportation system, the benefits of moving to Kenya as an expat cannot be overemphasized today.

Fortunately, it’s not as tough as it sounds. Kenya is a beautiful country located in East Africa with several distinct regions. Aside from this fact, the country is a tourist destination known for its wildlife, safari experiences, and white beaches. However, it also offers comfortable homes in beautiful landscapes appealing to expatriates from all backgrounds.

In this article, we will cover some of the most important aspects of moving to Kenya so that you can prepare yourself accordingly before taking the big step. Not only is that, but we will walk you through the tips or guides to know before moving to Kenya as an expat. Would you love to check? Read further!

Flight Arrangements

The first thing expats will need to do is make flight arrangements to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city and largest metropolitan area. Most flights from the United States will connect through Europe or the Middle East as there are no direct commercial flights from America to Kenya.

A passport will be required for all flights. More so, expatriates who are joining family members already living in Kenya should not have any issues with arrangements. This is because; their loved ones might have filed the appropriate paperwork to sponsor them.

If you are moving to Kenya alone, there are several ways to go about making flight plans. You can book a round-trip ticket or purchase a one-way ticket to obtain a visa at the airport. The second option is not recommended for those who are new to international travel.

And this is because; it will be more difficult to persuade immigration officials that you intend on returning home after your trip. The most popular way to book flights is by utilizing Expedia, Orbitz, or Kayak, which allow you to quickly and easily compare prices and locations.

Accommodations   

When moving to Kenya, it’s important not to get discouraged after looking at rental listings in Nairobi. The cities of Mombasa and Nakuru are much more affordable for expatriates on a budget, although there will be fewer job opportunities in those areas.

Regardless of location, you will find that there are plenty of rental options on the market. Accommodations range from luxurious apartments to tiny bungalow houses situated in rural regions. That being said, there might even be a few opportunities for furnished rentals advertised by vacationers looking to earn some extra money while they travel.

Currency Exchange

Although Kenya was part of the East African Community until recently, it is still considered a member of the Common Monetary Area (CMA). This means that all six countries share the same currency and exchange rates. For simplicity’s sake, we will use Kenya Shillings (KES) in this article though Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda also comprise the CMA.

Kenya’s currency is relatively stable and enjoys a floating exchange rate with the U.S. dollar, which remains relatively steady throughout the year. This makes it an attractive market for those looking to invest in real estate as well as those planning to send money back home to families and friends abroad.

Transportation   

When moving to Kenya, one of the first things you’ll need to do is obtain a Kenyan driver’s license. And this is solely because; international licenses are not honored in the country, and expatriates will need to take a written test as well as a driving test at their local transport authority.

Getting around Nairobi is fairly easy as there are extensive networks of taxis offering affordable rates for expatriates on a budget. However, those with more expendable income might enjoy the convenience of owning an automobile. Besides, this can be purchased in Kenya without too many headaches.

For most expatriates living in Kenya’s major cities, public transportation will not be their main source of getting around. The most popular way to get around Nairobi and Mombasa is by matatu, a type of van that has significantly evolved since its early days.

Changing over your currency into Kenyan shillings can be done at virtually any bank or retail location. ATMs are located throughout the country and offer an easy way for expatriates to withdraw Kenyan shillings at their convenience.

Food & Groceries 

One challenge expatriates face when moving to Kenya is finding the right grocery stores. Most large chain retailers will not be available, and independent shops might not extensively select goods. This can be problematic for those living in rural areas or smaller towns as it’s often necessary to travel a significant distance just to purchase necessities like toothpaste and toilet paper.

Fortunately, several international supermarkets offer an enticing array of imported food items such as Oreos, Red Bull, and Pringles. These shops will be located in larger cities but can also be found along the highways that connect major towns.

Language & Education  

When moving to Kenya, one of the first things that should be done is learning a few key phrases in Swahili and acquire a rudimentary understanding of the English language. This will be necessary to complete routine tasks such as shopping for groceries and speaking with government workers.

Although the Kenyan education system was once considered among the best in Africa, but it has become increasingly underfunded due to political and economic issues. Many schools still offer a decent quality of education, but the ratio of students to teachers is not always favorable, and resources are limited.

On the flip side, it should also be noted that Kenya does not have a formalized accreditation system for colleges or universities that issue degrees outside their borders. This means that while some Kenyan institutions might award degrees that are considered legitimate in their home nations, others might be seen as more suspect.

Cost of Living

Considering the rampant poverty that is still prevalent throughout many parts of Kenya, it’s relatively inexpensive to live here. The biggest expenses for expatriates will probably be rent and utilities along with groceries and transportation costs. These items can vary widely based on location and lifestyle but should fall well below the threshold of many Western countries.

Rent for a small apartment in a city center can be anywhere from $600-$1000 per month, while a larger villa or home can cost between $1200 to 1500+. Groceries will depend heavily on one’s personal tastes and dietary restrictions. Many stores, especially in larger towns and cities, will offer international brands like pasta and bread that are not typically found in rural shops.

Additionally, daily food staples can be purchased for under $30 per person, while eating out is relatively affordable. Most restaurants will offer set meals with an entree, side dish, and soft drink for roughly $5-$10. Nonetheless, alcohol is available at most retail locations but might not be served in traditional restaurants because of religious prohibitions.

In spite of that, Kenya’s public transportation network is quite extensive and generally affordable. For the equivalent of $1-$2, there are matatus which can take passengers virtually anywhere around Nairobi or Mombasa. These buses are the primary mode of transportation for many Kenyan citizens and can be crowded during peak hours.

7 Tips to Move to Kenya as a Foreigner

As a foreigner, living in Kenya may seem like an intimidating task. However, it is entirely possible with the proper research. Here are some tips that can help to make your move easier.

1.    Do Not Fly Into Nairobi If You Don’t Have To

Nairobi is much more expensive than other cities in Kenya. There are much better places to live in Kenya with cheaper costs of living. If you are flying in, make sure you research the city where you will be moving to and fly into that city instead.

2.    Get a Cell phone Plan Early

Cell phone plans are required by law, but it is also a practical requirement for calling cabs and other forms of local transportation. You do not want to arrive and find no taxi service on the island you live on.

3.    Stay Somewhere Before Considering a Move

Moves take time and making moves after only a month or two will make it difficult to settle. Therefore, make sure to give yourself at least a few months before making any significant life changes.

4.    Carefully Choose the Island You Live On

There are numerous islands that you can move to, and not all of them offer the same benefits. Make sure that you do your research on the city and island where you want to live. Also, make sure that there is a clear path to a town on the mainland if you decide to move.

5.    Do Not Delve Into Deep Relationships Immediately

Taking time to get settled can make it difficult for new relationships, so make sure that you don’t dive right in. Make friends, but take your time before diving fully into any new relationships.

6.    Get a Job As Soon As Possible

Getting a job and making money should be your top priority after arrival. It can be difficult to find work in Kenya if you do not have the skills necessary. So make sure that you start looking for jobs as soon as possible.

7.    Stay If Something Goes Wrong

It is essential to understand that things may go wrong, but that is just part of life. When something goes awry, it is crucial to stay calm and determine the best course of action before making rash decisions.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

For many expats, Kenya has everything to enjoy in East Africa. With a combination of mountains, well-structured cities, shorelines, and transportation networks, the benefits of living in Kenya cannot be overemphasized. It’s a medium-sized country with a large population and is home to ethnic communities.

If you’re considering a move to Kenya, there are many things to figure out. Sorting out visa requirements, understanding the process of living, finding a job, opening a bank account, and many others are some of the important considerations for anyone looking to relocate to Kenya as of today.

Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Kenya is an East African country that has attracted many foreigners over the years. Its economy greatly relies on transports, teaching, communication, and trade, which are some of the best promising fields for expat seeking employment in the country.

Having said that, you need to look beyond the African mindset and focus on why you want to reside in this country. In fact, it is generally a politically stable country with a Western-friendly government and manageable infrastructure. Have you been surfing the internet to get the right tips about this country?

Of course, you’d have seen several blog posts about Kenya. But are you sure they’re giving you the right information or tips? Not to worry about wrong information! In this article, we will walk you through everything needed to know about living in Kenya as an expat. Would you love to check? Continue reading.

5 Facts about Kenyan Culture

If you’re planning to relocate to any African country, it’s quite essential to know a bit about their culture. While Kenyans are used to seeing tourists and speak English as one of their official languages, they have unique customs and traditions you should know. Without further ado, below are the facts.

1.    Kenyans Thrive on Community Cooperation

This is one thing that’s common in African, particularly in Kenya. In fact, you’ll rarely see Kenyans isolating themselves, especially when times are tough. But, you’ll see them with their community members trying to solve problems together or find a solution.

More so, sharing responsibilities such as farming, herding, and forming political agendas contributes to their success. Besides, no one is left behind when they need collaboration or joint decision-making. If you’re visiting Kenya, then you need to immerse yourself in the spirit of group cooperation and mutual responsibility.

2.    Tardiness and African Time

Unless you’re meeting a new client or an important call, don’t expect Kenyans to be very close about the time. In fact, we can tell you that times are more casual in Kenya. In that case, if you plan to meet a friend for lunch, don’t get mad if he/she comes to arrive late. Also, don’t expect an apology either because it’s their norm.

However, the only thing you can rely on is a perfectly timed Kenya safari or anything that involves a formal timeframe. Meanwhile, in some parts of the country, it is considered rude to show up late, especially with no call. That’s why you need to understand the African time when you live in Kenya.

3.    Kenyan Respect Their Ancestors

For the fact that the ancestors have existed for decades, the Kenyans still show respect and remember them. They continue to include their past loved ones in talks while they remember their impact. In Kenya culture, as well as in most African countries, you’ll see that ancestors still exist in terms of sculpture.

Some are even stuck in limbo, while they know they are not in this world but are part of them. Trapped in-between an afterlife, Kenyans believe that their ancestors are closed to God. This way, they ask for ancestral guidance by displaying worship and respect through prayers and sacrifice.

4.    Know the Proper Dining Etiquette

Always have it in mind that dining is a formal affair in the country. So, when eating with Kenyan people, it is quite essential to know the proper table manners, as not to offend your hosts. However, refusing food is a major insult to the local’s personality. So, always show respect by accepting food from your host.

In addition, if it’s a special occasion, the guest of honor will have an assigned seat. You might even be given a space, otherwise, sit anywhere you like. In general, you need to wait for instructions before jumping to anything they offer you in Kenya.

5.    Communication is Indirect and Useful

In all ramifications, communication is one thing that you need. As a foreigner, it might seem odd that Kenyans use metaphors and analogies to get the point across instead of bluntly calling someone a liar. This is one thing to you need to know.

Aside from that, if someone wants to be openly critical or show anger about something, they try to do that in private. This way, yelling is not seen very often. Even though English is spoken throughout the country, it’s still good to learn the basics of Swahili to understand further the way Kenyans communicate.

Best Places to Live In Kenya as an Expat

Undoubtedly, Kenya is a beautiful nation with spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and friendly locals. This country is renowned for the popular wildebeest migration, outdoor activities, and many other things, to mention a few. In this section, we have compiled some of the best places to live as an expat. Without further ado, take a look at it below.

Nairobi

Of course, Nairobi is the country’s capital city known worldwide for being the only city with a national park. Far from that, it is the country’s political hub and administrative control session. The standards of living in Nairobi vary a lot, and you’ll certainly enjoy living in this city as an expat.

There are many reasons to stay in Nairobi today. For one, it could as a result of the good weather condition, beautiful people, national parks, and the best-known karura Forest. Others might prefer to stay in Nairobi because of the social amenities and range of public and private schools.

Nakuru

This is another place to take into consideration as an expat. It is known as a fast-growing town in Kenya, which incidentally attained city status. We can even tell you that it’s one of the top 5 cities in Kenya. Nakuru is also a country that’s a part of and formerly the headquarters of the Rift valley Province.

The cost of living in Nakuru is pretty low compared to Nairobi. Housing and accommodations are affordable, and they vary, depending on your budget and what you want. Some of the things you’ll enjoy while living in this city include shopping, visiting top international schools, and more.

Diani

This wonderful city lies 45 minutes South of Mombasa, which is a sparkling jewel of Kenya’s mesmerizing coastal life. According to history, it was a fishing settlement meant for the locals, mainly fishermen, and subsistence farmers, who led a quiet life in this city. And as of today, this town has about 100,000 inhabitants.

The cost of living also makes it perfect for both the locals and expat looking to relocate to Kenya. However, the town’s cost of living is expensive in some areas, particularly because it is a holiday destination. With that being said, you should plan to spend an average of KES. 5,700 daily if you’re planning for a vacation in this country.

Mombasa

This city holds a ton of scenic beauties, including beaches, fantastic outdoor activities, and incredible hotels. Not only is that, but it is the perfect place to start life if you were to consider it as your next destination. Research disclosed that it has a population of about 1,208,33 people and its metropolitan region is the second-largest in the country.

Moreover, the cost of living varies depending on various estates and the kind of lifestyle you choose. Meanwhile, the middle-class persons mainly live in Mbaraki, Kizingo, Changamwe, among others. This city is home to a lot of resort places and museums dating far back as to the Portuguese and the Omani empires.

Eldoret

Eldoret has also made it to the list of cities to relocate to when you’re moving to this country for the first time. Known as the home of athletic champions, this city is a bubbling industrial with rich agro-resources and diverse culture. The cost of living in Eldoret is relatively cheaper compared to what you’ll expect in Nairobi or Mombasa.

Moreover, it is an excellent destination for athletic enthusiasts, and its home to the high Altitude training center for athletes. As of today, the town has a population of about 480,000 people. Some of the best estates to live in Eldoret include; huruma estate, Pioneer estate, Elgon view estate, and many others.

Naivasha

This is a beautiful town in Nakuru Country that recently hosted the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally 2021 Edition. Not only is that, but known today as one of the best horticultural urban centers in the country. According to history, the name originates from the Maasi word Nai’posha which means rough water.

However, the cost of living in this city is quite affordable. And people looking to buy vacation homes around the lake can visit this place. Also, food prices are quite low due to the proximity of the agricultural-rich County in this town. In fact, it could serve as an excellent destination for a holiday compared to Nakuru.

Kisumu

Kisumu, apart from being the third-largest city in the country, is popularly known for being Barack Obama Snr. Hometown. In addition, it was once known as Port Florence, and it served as a commercial port connecting Uganda, Nairobi, and Port Bell together. It officially became a city in 1996, and it currently has a population of about 400,000.

10 Interesting Facts about Living in Kenya

I’m sure you know that Kenya is home to have one of the world’s leading safari destinations. Have you recently decided that you’re going to join the African community? Well, you need to know most of the things that make this country so captivating. Without further ado, below are the interesting facts.

1.    Coffee Is the Biggest Export

Do you know that coffee is one of the biggest exports in this country? Interestingly enough, Kenyans mostly drink tea over coffee because it grows so well in the country. Also, coffee from Kenya is similar to Colombian mild, making Kenyan coffee one of the most sought out coffees in the world.

2.    Home to Maasai People

The Maasai people are a group of indigenous people who have lived in the National Reserve, Maasai Mara, since inception. These folks are known for their jumping dance and warrior skills. They occupy a land area of almost 100,000 square miles, while their estimated population in the country is about 500,000. This group is seminomadic, although results disclosed that they are reasonably dependent on the market economy.

3.    Home to a Car-free Island

This island is home to Lamu Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kenya’s oldest constantly occupied settlement. This place has its origin dated back all way back to the 12^th century. To get around in Lamu Town, residents will walk, use donkeys, or take a boat to transport items. Meanwhile, cars are banned for the general public, and there aren’t roads that can even accommodate vehicles.

4.    Named After a Mountain

This country is named after a mountain, and it’s one of the things you need to know about Kenya. In fact, before the arrival of European colonists in the late 19^th century, this land was just a part of a larger region that’s simply called East Africa in the country. Also, no one is sure what Kenya was called before colonization, and the name is relatively new.

5.    Kenya Has 2 Official Language

If you’re just hearing this for the first time, you don’t have to worry, as the information is right. The two main languages of Kenya are Swahili and English. Both of these make sense, considering the African location and the British colonization. So, if you don’t understand English, you can still learn Swahili to communicate better in the country.

6.    Home to Famous Migration

There’s more to Kenya wildlife than just the big five, you know. In addition, Kenya is home to the largest overland migration in the world, aptly called the great Migration. This famous migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras. During each migration, the animals travel a total of at least 800 kilometers.

7.    Kenya Have Won Many Olympics

To date, we can tell you that Kenya has ever won a medal in a winter sport at the Olympics. However, the athletes have won over 100 medals, mostly on notable sports events. However, between the summer Olympics of 2008, 2012, and 2016, Kenya has earned 42 medals, almost half of the total medals won.

8.    Very Poor or Very Rich Segment

Certainly, you might be confused about this fact, but the truth is Kenya people are either very rich or very poor. This means, in Kenya, very few people can be classified as middle-class. So, it takes your hard work to describe you as being rich or poor during your stay in the country.

9.    Flower Garden of Europe

Well, let’s put it this way! There’d be no valentine’s day without Kenya. Meanwhile, if you receive a stunning, deep-red, fragrant bouquet of roses on valentine’s day, the chances are that they made it to your doorstep via a direct flight from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. So, have it in mind that Kenya is the third-largest producer of roses in the entire world.

10. A Paradise of a Thousand Birds

Have you ever thought you’ve seen the whole bird in the world? Of course, that would be wrong if you think so. Research made it known that Kenya is home to 1,132 species of birds. In less than 24 hours, 342 of those can be seen in one park, an official world record that Kenya set for the most significant number of bird species spotted in the country every day. What’s more, as over half of these birds can be found in Nairobi alone.

Pros and Cons of Living in Kenya

There’s so much to write about the pros and cons of living in Kenya. Expats moving to this country are surely in for a substantial measure of advantages, including friendly people, wonderful climate and many accessible gateways. Without further ado, below are the pros and cons of living in Kenya.

●        Good Weather Condition

Good weather condition is one of the first things you’ll enjoy while living in Africa countries. Regions, especially around Nairobi, have a gentle climate all year round. More so, the regions have brighter days and cooler evenings. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a warm climate, you can head on to Mombasa.

●        Enjoyable Social Life for Expatriates

This is one of the reasons why Kenya became a popular tourist destination for people around the world. This is because; they offer loads of cafes, restaurants, and bars with a vibrant social scene, especially in Nairobi. Also, numerous expats end up settling here because they come to adore the country, especially within Nakuru, Mombasa, and Nairobi.

●        Reasonable Expenditure

The general expenditure in Nairobi is reasonable. Today, you can buy anything you want at a low price in any of the shopping centers compared to other American countries. Most especially, agriculture being the country’s backbone, has played a major role in terms of revenue and the cost of goods in Kenya.

●        Financial Discipline

Just because of life in Kenya is not always easy, you might get forced to understand the meaning of financial discipline. One develops monetary control and a certain vision and wisdom is that you’ll be able to manage your fund.

Cons

●        Bribery and Corruption

As in many other African countries, corruption is one thing you’ll never want to avoid. In fact, numerous authorities will demand bribes to get things done fast in the country. So, this is one of the first things you need to consider as an expat, relocating to Kenya for the first time.

●        Safety and Security Problem

This has also contributed to some of the advantages of living in Kenya as an expat. Security is one major problem you might experience. With episodes of carjacking and burglary being common, you need to be careful when going out to visit friends and family. Moreover, most theft victims are middle-class or unfortunate Kenyans.

●        Poorly Constructed Roads

Hazardous driving conditions might weigh you down while living in this country. Therefore, you need to prepare for the negative impact it may cause in the long run. Although traffic accidents are not uncommon but expats relocating to Kenya are better off hiring local drivers who can better maneuver around the dangers than driving themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Kenya

What is not allowed in Kenya?

If you follow the article or read it carefully, you’ll know the right answer to this question. However, knives and hunting weapons are not allowed in Kenya. Not only is that, but plants and plants products are prohibited except you have a relevant written permit.

Is smoking illegal in Kenya?

Well, smoking in any public place is prohibited throughout the country, except in designated smoking areas. Meanwhile, offenders in Kenya can face a fine or imprisonment for this reason. Moreover, it is illegal to destroy Kenyan currency, and homosexual activity is illegal.

Is Kenya a poor country?

While Kenya’s economy is the largest and most developed in eastern and central Africa, results disclosed that about 36.1 percent of its population lives below the international poverty line. Not only is that, but this severe poverty is mainly caused by economic inequality, government corruption, and health problems

How wealthy is Kenya today?

As of today, Credit Suisse’s 12^th edition of the Global Wealth Report, Kenya is the fourth in Africa with the highest concentration of wealthy individuals whose total wealth is estimated at ($338billion). This way, you should know that Kenya is among the top countries in Africa to visit.

Conclusion

Moving to Kenya is one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. If you’ve never been to Africa, the outdoor activities and incredible things to do here will never leave you saying WOW. Nonetheless, refer to this ultimate guide and read it careful to know more about living in Kenya as an expat.