A Kaleidoscope of Memories:

A short glimpse of my Home Town, Kenya

Parin Waljee
The Masterpiece
4 min readOct 21, 2023

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Photo by Oluwatobi Akindunjoye on Unsplash

Kenya, a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, holds a special place in my heart. In the beautiful Coastal town of Mombasa I was born, raised and educated.

Memories are etched deeply within my heart, as I embark on a journey through the beauty of my past and the culture I once embraced.

I recall the elegant visionory “Tusks in Mombasa” referring to the iconic Elephant Tusks, a well-known landmark in this flamboyant coastal city of Kenya.

The enormous white structures, resembling the tusks of an elephant, stand proudly at the entrance to the city. Built in 1952 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Kenya, the tusks have become symbolic of Mombasa and its rich cultural heritage. They also serve as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation in a region known for its incredible biodiversity. The Tusks in Mombasa are not only a testament to the city’s history but also a powerful symbol of Kenya’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.

Mombasa the Coastal town of kenya, with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear water was a slice of paradise. The sunsets at Diani Beach were nothing short of magical. The vibrant hues painting the sky and reflecting on the ocean’s surface made for the perfect moments I spent during my short weekends break. I remember the lush white sands, astonishing camel rides and the ripe juicy mangoes I devoured with delight.

Photo by Harshil Gudka on Unsplash

Kenyan cuisine was considered the best as it was a culinary adventure. From feasting on nyama choma (grilled meat) in local joints to savoring chapati with sukuma wiki (collard greens), each meal was a gastronomic delight.

Mama Ngina waterfront pixabay.com

Mama Ngina Drive in Mombasa was a regular spot I frequently visited. A picturesque waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take leisurely strolls, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sunset while savouring crunchy cassava and potatoes crisps with dash of chillies and lime. The drive equipped With its beautifully landscaped gardens, recreational areas, and proximity to historical sites like Fort Jesus, Mama Ngina waterfront is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Mombasa’s coastal beauty.

I can never forget my cross overs of the “The Nyali Bridge” It was a joy to feel the hot humid breeze whilst I drove towards lush afternoon beach breaks with my family.

It’s simply a cable-stayed bridge that spans Tudor Creek, connecting the island of Mombasa to the mainland in the Nyali area. The bridge is a crucial transportation link, facilitating the movement of people and goods between Mombasa Island and the northern suburbs.

This exotic Bridge is known for its distinctive design, with towering support pylons and cables that give it a modern and impressive appearance. It was constructed to alleviate traffic congestion on the Old Nyali Bridge, which was a bascule bridge. The newer Nyali Bridge provides a more efficient and smoother flow of traffic.

My most enchanting memories concludes with the times I had spent visiting the
Tsavo National Park. One of Kenya’s most renowned wildlife reserves, known for its immense size and diverse ecosystem. Divided into two sections, Tsavo East and Tsavo West, it covers an area of over 20,800 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in Kenya.

Tsavo a home to a wide array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). The park is also known for its diverse bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

Photo by Timothy K on Unsplash

Nairobi’s dynamic blend of cultures and its vibrant arts scene added a touch of urban charm to my Kenyan memories. Visits to places like the Nairobi National Museum and Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative showcased the city’s rich history and creativity.

I Remember, Driving along the Great Rift Valley was like a journey through time. The stunning landscapes, green fields, vegetation, and the sight of Lake Naivasha were captivating, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Photo by Naveen Naidu on Unsplash

Kenya is a land of diverse beauty, from its wildlife to its cultures and landscapes. The memories I’ve shared here are just a glimpse of the many treasures this remarkable country has to offer. My life spent in Kenya was a kaleidoscope of experiences that have left an enduring mark on my heart, and I will forever treasure these beautiful memories.

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Parin Waljee
The Masterpiece

A certified counsellor and an accomplished Author, I'm looking forward to sharing my wealth of knowledge in diverse areas. I enjoy Golf, Ice skating and Nature.