5 Kenyan Getaways Reaping Big from Bars Closure [VIDEO]

File image of hikers at Ngong' Hills in Nairobi
File image of hikers at Ngong' Hills in Nairobi
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With bars and clubs closed for the past five months, fun-loving Kenyans have been forced to find new ways to appease their cravings.

Several who used to frequent popular joints now enjoy their drinks at home, with liquor stores experiencing a surge in business.

For numerous others, however, the great outdoors have proven a new adventure, providing an alternative to life without parties or nightclubs.

While the Covid-19 pandemic has hit several industries hard, it has also fuelled increased interest in domestic tourism.

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Najib Balala pictured at Nairobi National Park.
Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Najib Balala pictured at Nairobi National Park.
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KWS

For Nairobians, green spaces including Ngong' Hills, Karura Forest and Evergreen Park have turned into highly sought after hangout locations.

As these locations don't typically offer catering services, it has become a trend for groups to drive out to the forests with music, drinks and foodstuffs in tow.

Videos have gone viral showing some of the outdoor parties that are fast replacing the club experience for many Kenyans.

Some of these mini-events even include performances from DJs and top artists, but aren't publicized due to the ban on large gatherings as part of the country's Covid-19 regulations.

National parks including Nairobi National Park and the Maasai Mara Game Reserve have also attracted many Kenyans in recent months.

In a recent visit to Nairobi National Park, Kenyans.co.ke witnessed several mini-picnics in the parking lot.

Others drunk in their cars while enjoying scenic game drives.

At the Coast, the story is similar with residents and tourists flocking back to beaches.

Nyali Beach, for instance, has been a hub of activity despite various Covid-19 restrictions announced at both national and county level.

While some do business at the beach and others swim, many simply visit the beach to relax, often with a drink or khat (miraa) by their side.

But even as Kenyans get creative, bar owners continue to pile pressure on the government to re-open bars and clubs under strict protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

Through the Bar Owners Association, they have argued that the loss of jobs and income could be devastating for the economy.

Watch a news report from Nyali Beach below:

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