Kenya's Stunning Beach Resort

Q: We would like to visit Lamu Island in Kenya later this year, but need advice on transport and accommodation. We intend flying to Nairobi and would prefer to catch a flight to Lamu if possible. Could you also assist us to find a stylish guesthouse, villa or hotel. Should we stay in Lamu Town or Shela? - Rene Smuts

A: There are flight connections to Lamu from Nairobi, Mombasa and Malindi. From Nairobi, your best bet is the low-cost airline, Fly540. With a one-way fare of 161 US dollars (R1070), the airline has daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta Airport (www.fly540.com). There is also a daily flight to Lamu on AirKenya, but this airline operates from the smaller Wilson Airport (www.airkenya.com). AirKenya should not be confused with the much larger Kenya Airways, which is based at Kenyatta Airport and does not serve Lamu. Deciding where to stay depends on what sort of holiday you intend having. Many holidaymakers opt for Shela village, which is only 3kms from Lamu Town. Shela boasts the best beaches on the island and good accommodation options. However, Lamu Town has its own charm with its crowded streets and traditional lifestyle. In the town, it would be hard to beat Lamu House, which is built in the traditional style with great interiors. Rates for a double room with breakfast start at around 265 US dollars (R1770) per night, while full board for two is 405 US dollars (R2700) per night. You can also rent an entire five-bedroom house from 1,120 dollars (R7500) per night. In Shela one of the nicest places to stay is the intimate Peponi Hotel. It is located right on the beach and all rooms have sea views (www.peponi-lamu.com). A double room with breakfast costs 215 Euros (R2040) and full board from 335 Euros (R3100). A cheaper option would be to rent one of the many private holiday homes on the island (www.lamu-house-rental.com). Some of these are beautifully furnished in local style, with swimming pools, inner courtyards and rooftop lounges. Prices range from around 100 Euros (R950) per day. Overall, one of the most romantic places to stay is not on Lamu itself, but on a small private island nearby. The Manda Bay is a 16-villa boutique hotel offering barefoot luxury in an idyllic setting. The rate for full board ranges from 375 to 500 US dollars (R2500-R3300) per person per night (www.mandabay.com). (10/4/11)