Mombasa Island, the true gateway to East Africa is connected by bridges and ferries to the mainland and its wide harbour is used by commercial shipping lines to serve the East African region. The laid-back nature of the town and its inhabitants has served it well tourism-wise as both local and international visitors throng the island during the holidays.

But before we embark on this journey, don some shorts, a T-shirt and open shoes to counter the humid heat that will seep through the screen.

1. Walk down one of the Oldest Streets in Mombasa and into the Old Town

Ndia Kuu Street existed during the Portuguese period and formed the main street of their settlement. From the Arab architecture to the ornately curved windows and balconies, the Old town is reminiscent of those days. Spare a few hours to walk down the narrow winding streets where the air is heavy with the scent of spices and feel yourself transported back in time.  If you walk down this street from the town centre, you will find yourself smack in Fort Jesus.

2. Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus was built in 1593 and reflects the turbulent history of the coastal region. A coral ridge at the entrance of the harbour was the site chosen to secure the safety of the Portuguese living in the East Africa region. The high gun turrets, battlements and underground passages of this 16th C fort were the centre of the historic struggle for control of the Kenya coast between the Portuguese army and the Shirazi - Omani Arabs. The fort was used as barracks for soldiers until the proclamation of the British protectorate when it was converted into a prison and eventually being declared a national park.

3. White sandy beaches...well not sparkling white but they’re still great

A visit to the beach is a must if all only to get the chance to walk barefoot in the sand or to soak in the sun. Better yet, carry some snacks with you and go picnic on a sunny day (if you want to have the beach to yourself, go on a weekday).

As you walk along the beach, you should be able to see the odd traditional sailing boat in the distance. If you fancy a ride, then read on. 

4. Ride in a traditional dhow around Mombasa Island

Tamarind Dhow offers an excellent evening cruise around this mystic island coupled with great seafood and set in an authentic Arab dhow. They set the mood by first serving guests with Dawa, a moreish concoction of vodka, honey, sugar, and lime finished with crushed ice. As the dhow sets sail, the live band belts out local rhythms which lift spirits and draw guests to the dance floor.

The dhow cruises round Tudor Creek offering a great view of Fort Jesus and the Old Town and finally moors in a sheltered bay where guests are served a 4-course gourmet meal (picture lobsters and steak being grilled over charcoal). Your meal is washed down with scented Arabica coffee served from a traditional Arab bra.

Complete ingredients for a romantic night!

5. Turn your feet (& hands) into a canvas for henna artists

As a visitor, you don’t need any other excuse to get a handful of henna, a dye which is mostly applied on special occasions. I would go on but in this case, the photo says it all.

6. Cook using a jiko and eat with your hands

Most families in Mombasa and probably all over the country still use jikos to cook meals which take an awfully long time to get ready. One of these meals is Biriani (okay not really but trust me on this) which is a thick meat gravy served with coloured rice. Some ingredients used are pawpaw, sour milk and spices just to name a few however the aroma of smoke that is imbued in the dish and the sensations arising from eating with one’s hands serve to create a magnificent meal.

7. Meet Owen & Mzee at Haller Park

Haller Wildlife Park (Lafarge Ecosystems) is a former disused quarry that has been reborn as a small private game sanctuary. A major initiative has been made to "green" the quarry and these efforts have literally blossomed into an area of lush beauty. The onetime pit is now a thriving game sanctuary, fully stocked with game including Giraffe, Eland, Hippo, Oryx and more. Haller Park is also home to Owen (a hippo) and Mzee (a giant 120 year old tortoise) who adopted Owen while he was still a calf.

8. Learn how to dress in a traditional kanga and kikoy

After learning Swahili and getting used to the local food, the final step in your transformation is the dress code. Kanga’s and Kikoy’s (ladies & gents respectively) are wrap-around clothes which are worn around the waist or as a sarong. Kangas are characterised by dominantly huge and tiny prints in bright colours and are normally used to send a message through common Swahili proverbs which are usually written on the lower edge. Kikoys on the other hand are famous for their beauty and vast colour variety.

9. Drive to Mtwapa and have some Palm wine

While Malindi is usually teeming with tourists from Italy, elderly visitors from Germany and Switzerland are to be found in throngs lavishly spending their retirement money in Mtwapa. Other than holiday-makers, the area has numerous palm trees which help support the local wine industry. Should you be interested in trying the local flavours, this is the place to check out and the perfect occasion to try out your new threads.

10. Kisite Mpunguti Marine NP for divers and snorkelers...an idyllic day trip

The Mpunguti & Kisite Islands are about 100 km from Mombasa and can be accessed by boat from Shimoni, a small fishing village in Kwale District close to the Tanzanian border. The waters around the park provide some of the best environments for divers who want to check out the exotic coral reefs and lagoons. Manta Rays, Bottlenose Dolphins, Hawksbill Turtles, Whale Sharks, Angelfish, Butterfly fish, Damsel fish and Humpback whales are just a small part of the beautiful marine life.

Take note that documented proof is necessary for one to make the dive voyage and would-be divers may as well be subjected to some diving test.

As l promised ladies & gentlemen, 10 ways to take in Mombasa and create some great memories. Whatever else you do, please share with others.