Sarova Stanley

The Sarova Stanley opened in 1902 as Kenya's first luxury hotel and stands on the corner of Kenyatta Avenue and Kimathi Street in central Nairobi. Famous guests have included Edward Prince of Wales, Ernest Hemingway and Frank Sinatra. The hotel offers around 217 rooms over eight floors, from Deluxe and Club rooms to Executive and Heritage suites, most with views over the city, classic decor, a seating area and satellite TV.

Dining includes the legendary Thorn Tree Cafe, the Thai Chi restaurant, the Exchange Bar, a pool deck restaurant and 24-hour in-room dining. A heated pool on the fifth floor sits beside a health club with a gym, steam, sauna and massage. There are conference facilities for up to 400 people and a small arcade of shops. It is a good base for city meetings and for the start or end of a safari.