Nightlife in Nairobi can be truly enchanting, as if Tinkerbell had flown over the city and scattered magical dust, blending people, locations, and celebrations into adventures that become lasting memories etched into your very essence.
If you observe carefully, you might just make out the gleaming particles, sparkling as they descend onto the areas that become vibrant during the night.
On the other hand, there is an almost unavoidable potential for chaos and disorder, particularly due to the mixture of various personalities that become more pronounced when under the influence.
Nairobi's evening scene is an exciting encounter, and I usually view it as an adventure just around the corner.
"How did Robert Kiyosaki make his first profit?"Every time I step out of the house, I silently pray for protection and spray Elizabeth Arden’s Red Fifth Avenue on all my pulse points, then I commit to making the most of my evening. And as per the law of attraction, it typically turns into another chapter in the ongoing series that is my life.
During my unchallenged weekends exploring the streets of Nairobi, I've memorized the Great Westlands Circuit thoroughly, and I've discovered that there are essential elements to enhance the goal of creating an unforgettable night.
A regular FridayThe night feels like entering The Mall to explore either the rooftop or the basement (shout out to The Mist), heading to Molly’s Pub on 'Electric Avenue' for a quick pregame, and finishing up at Alchemist to end the night with Boombox Fridays.
KEEP IT REAL
First and foremost, you must display your personality with the utmost pride.
In our large, vibrant, and lively city, performative actions have spilled out from social media onto our phone screens, taking the place of the genuine behaviors and routines we once displayed.
Certainly, intoxication reduces restraint and removes the facades individuals typically display in front of others.
However, it is natural that we act asourselvesinstead of sacrificing our uniqueness to conform to the clearly outlined categories that Nairobi's social scene seems to have created.
In the end, if everyone is maintaining a facade, when will we find the opportunity to reveal our true selves? (Assuming we even know who we are, as an identity crisis is a genuine challenge for people in their 20s)
KEEP IT COOL
A confident demeanor is the most effective asset for managing encounters with different people during an evening out.
From my perspective, maintaining calm is what sets apart returning home with bruised fists (or stained clothing, which is definitely not a stylish red accent) from ending the evening in a relaxed manner.
Several provocative events are likely to occur, ranging from a heated argument with a threatening doorman outside a trendy venue, or an unpleasant interaction with someone who's barely coherent and heading for a three-day drinking spree, to a rowdy couple who brought their quarrels into the club, drawing in unsuspecting onlookers.
In these situations, staying calm is crucial. Keep in mind that you are in shared environments, and even though an impulsive reaction might seem satisfying at the moment, it may not be worth the consequences later.
STAY CONNECTED
If you're similar to me and have a mobile device that starts at 100% when you leave home and is nearly dead by midnight (I have an iOS device that's been in use for 10 years), you should consider getting a power bank.
BIG PROMO, BUY NOW!!!I can't count how many times a power bank has come to my rescue, preventing me from being unable to pay for a taxi, an entry fee, or an unexpected side-quest. It has also spared me the slightly awkward "Can I charge my phone here?" conversation at various counters, where I had no plans to make a purchase.
STAY SAFE
A night out in Nairobi can be stunning, yet it may also give the impression that danger is just around the corner, similar to a Scooby Doo episode (I'm talking about the Hanna Barbera series). This is especially true for women, who need to be particularly vigilant.
We cherish the city, yet it can be harsh at times, all thanks to the individuals who lurk in quiet streets and empty corners, seeking out victims for their instant satisfaction (as anything postponed is not part of their language).
Recently, the unsettling figures have grown bolder, arriving with friendly, innocent smiles, neat attire, and "generous" motives, creating an appearance that may trick you into letting your guard down.
I suggest having mace or a bottle of self-made pepper spray, and this advice isn't only for women — men should consider it as well.
"How did Robert Kiyosaki make his first profit?"Ultimately, remind yourself that the night prior will be amazing and remain committed to this belief, no matter what the night brings. This flow of thoughts has never let me down.