Kenya in 3 Days

I have been so busy with so many things that it seems surreal that Christmas is tomorrow and I am leaving for Kenya in 3 days! I have a little bit of time this morning to pack and get ready for Kenya before moving on to Christmas stuff.

I am leaving at 7am on the 27th. Since there are so many of us (100+) the best group flight was out of Montreal (we also have an office in Montreal). So we are taking a bus to Montreal and catching a flight that evening. Laying over somewhere in Europe (Brussels, maybe? all these layovers just run together eventually) and then arriving in Nairobi the evening of the 28th, Kenya time.

I will not have access to Internet for most of my trip, while I am in the Mara. Like I always do, I will be journalling every day and blogging it when I can. But don't expect too many blog posts, if any, until I get back on the 7th.

Becuase there are so many of us, we will be split in rotating groups, but below is somewhat of a basic schedule (although many things will likely change). But this should give a good idea of what I will be doing.

Merry Christmas, and I will be posting again likely when I am home on January 7th!


December 29th: Giraffe Sanctuary, leave Nairobi and drive to Bogani, our center in the Mara.

December 30th: Tour of FTC schools- visiting old school vs. new school to see the differences. Official opening of the All Girls Secondary School! Being passionate about higher education, this is what I am most excited for. This is the newest FTC school for 30 grade 9 girls (will expand to grade 10 and further every year). Grand opening party and getting to meet the girls.

December 31st: School building and New Years party

January 1st: Take part in the alternative income program (beading) and do a water walk to experience the difficulty in fetching water for the family. Visit traditional homes and learn about women's issues and community development.

January 2nd: Safari Day! Maasai culture night

January 3rd: Medicinal garden and health clinic tour, organized games in the community

January 4th: Tree planting, duka visit (artisans sell their jewellery here), Maasai Weapons Training

January 5th: Depart for Nairobi, market shopping, dinner at the Carnivore (famous restaurant)

January 6th: Return flight to Montreal, then bus back to Toronto. Arrive home (Toronto) in the late evening... then back at work on the morning of the 7th!