By Cindy Maloba,
You must have heard the popular phrase “Mombasa Raha.” Ah, the pure joys of the island. The hot summer weather, the coastal plains, breezy beaches, and Swahili dishes that leave your taste buds dancing. Add in the warmth of the Swahili culture and you forget the city’s endless hustle and bustle.
But my dear reader, that is only the beginning. The true raha (happiness) lies further south, in Diani. This jewel of the Kenyan coast is the very definition of relaxation. It is a tourist magnet, especially from July through August, when holidaymakers flock here to soak in its magic.
First Impressions
I discovered Diani after quitting my office job. One month into freedom, I packed my bags for my first real vacation. The Jacaranda Indian Ocean Resort was my chosen hideaway, and from the moment I checked in, I knew I had found my slice of paradise.
I arrived in the quiet hours of Saturday morning. My room welcomed me with cool air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, and even a private balcony. A minibar stood ready, alongside tea and coffee facilities. The best part? My balcony opened to a
sweeping view of the ocean, framed by lush tropical greenery. That sunrise became my personal masterpiece.
Lazy Mornings, Easy Afternoons
Saturday morning rolled in slow. I let my body sink into stillness, recovering from the long road trip. By afternoon, I dipped into the resort’s large outdoor pool, the water melting away the last traces of fatigue. Later, at the spa and wellness center, I surrendered to a deep tissue massage that left my body light and recharged.
The Food
When evening fell, magic unfolded at the Jungle Village. The waiters arranged fine dining under tall palm trees. Plates of fresh seafood, smoky grilled meat, and fragrant pilau arrived in turns. Old Taarab music floated in the air, tugging me back to days when bands like the famous Jandwani Boys ruled the coastal nights. Dinner wasn’t just food, it was an embrace of culture. The next day’s lunch was equally unforgettable. At the ocean terrace, I was served Swahili coconut curry, soft chapati, and samaki wa kupaka. Each bite carried the flavors of the coast; spicy, creamy, unforgettable.
The Adventures
Sunday was built for thrill-seekers. Alongside fellow tourists, I set out for a marine excursion at Kisite – Mpunguti Marine Park. We dived into clear waters and watched dolphins dance near Shimoni. Later, we wandered through the sacred Kaya Kinondo forest, its silence echoing with
history. Every step whispered stories of the ancestors. By evening, the resort invited me to join in games: beach volleyball, darts, table tennis, and even Zumba classes under the fading sun. Time in Diani doesn’t tick, it dissolves. You lose the
pressures of life and find instead the stillness of the moment.
The Highlights
The Jacaranda Indian Ocean Resort holds many charms. It offers direct access to the Indian Ocean, perfect for sunrise strolls on powdery sand. Ukunda Airstrip is just a 15-minute drive away, while Moi International Airport in Mombasa is about 45 km off. Nearby attractions
include Shimba Hills National Reserve, Wasini Island, and the Colobus Conservation
(https://theholidaydealers.com/, n.d).
The Drawbacks
Like every paradise, Diani has its shadows. The resort sits far from basic amenities; malls, convenience stores, fuel stations, and even some health facilities. Getting supplies or urgent services can be inconvenient. A few rooms carry the weight of age; they whisper rustic charm rather than modern luxury. Wi-Fi, too, can be stubborn, fading in and out depending on where you stand. And if you crave a vibrant nightlife during the week, you might find the evenings too quiet.
Recommendations
Still, the pros shine brighter than the cons. My advice? Pack light, carry your essentials, and prepare to switch off. Diani rewards those who come ready to let go. Go for the food, the culture, the sunrises, the music, the ocean, and most of all, for yourself. Because sometimes, dear reader, happiness is just a south coast sunrise away.
References
(n.d). Retrieved from https://theholidaydealers.com/:
https://theholidaydealers.com/destinations/kenya/diani/jacaranda-indian-ocean-beachresort/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMABhZGlkAFTBRmipujcBHt8Vuxw8QK0ADTosYLt8gezRXRpFmz0fV_nLHmbGcUJtohW8jnzqCvYv8m4_aem_62P_VwSmQPVnJX5vVwCa0A&utm_mediu
m=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_