Magical Watamu On My Mind
By Mona Ombogo
Sunshine anyone?
I sure could use some. It’s cold, ya’ll. Which makes it the perfect time to dream of Watamu. Picture this, clear blue oceans, sea gulls calling overhead, a boat sailing on the horizon, waves lapping against white sandy beaches. And you, lounging by the beach, with a drink which has an umbrella in it. Perfect, yes?
If we add DCA 2024 to the mix, it’s better than perfect. Those slots are filling fast with bird rates climbing as we speak. What are you waiting for?
Last month ( https://timeline.rotary9212.org/watamu-twasija/ ), I promised you ten reasons why you need to be on team ‘Book Now’. Here are the next three reasons why Watamu should be in your calendar for April 2024, whether by land or by sea, air or by rail.
Watamu On My Mind!
4. Of Mouth-Watering Cuisine — The only thing I cook well is breakfast, which is ironic because I totally love good food. Add ‘sea’ to that word and we are winning. There is just something about the flavours of the Coast; biriyani, mbaazi ya nazi, viazi karai, pilau not to mention the prawns, kaa, calamari, king fish — I could go on but I am getting hungry. Are you? Good, because you can enjoy these delicacies at exotic locations in Watamu. Like the Floating Crab Shack, the Tree House or Prawn’s Lake Conservation Group. There is no limit to interesting, cozy, homely and traditional restaurants to pick from. So much to eat, such little time…
5. Of World Recognized Marine Parks — Did you know Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is one of Kenya’s first marine parks and recognized as a United Nations World Biosphere Reserve? Home to the green turtle, it’s also a haven for several endangered species and is deemed a 99% viable sea turtle nesting site. As if that wasn’t enough you can find the whale shark, octopus, manta rays and barracudas. Experience the past and present as these deep oceans hold heritage that attracts tourists from around the world. Become one of those tourists as we visit Watamu!
6. Of Exotic Venues — The main venue for DCA 2024 is the Garoda Resort, a beautiful expansive sea facing hotel, which boasts recognition by CNN Travel for sitting along the second-best beach in Africa, seventh in the world. Garoda has exquisite rooms, a club house and pool side bar, two restaurants and, most interesting to me, a watersport school where you can learn to kitesurf, wakeboard and stand-up-paddle. Yeah, I’m also not sure what some of those things are, but they sure sound interesting. Sign me up. See you at sea?
All these attractions are simply a bonus because the experience of DCA itself is enough to travel to any destination. This time, Watamu awaits us with love, fun and promise of life changing experiences.
If you’ve never been to a DCA, first of all see us behind the red tent, secondly, let’s meet in the next edition for the last four reasons why Watamu should be on your mind. In that edition, we will focus on DCA, what it means, why it matters and how it can and will uplift you, not just as a Rotarian or Rotaractor, but as a person.
Don’t wait. Secure your spot now to get the best possible deal.
Hot, hot, hot!
Rotarians $200 conference package.
Rotaractors: $175 conference package and accommodation.
