Karibuni Lodge in Kitale

Karibuni Lodge in Kitale Town Kenya is like staying with friends, Theresa and Ibrahim, with Elvis and the crew just make you comfortable in surroundings which allow real relaxation after a busy day working. Cancel dinner because of a late lunch - no bother - would you like some bread and cheese, a sausage or two? Washing gets done quickly - a bit of a scrabble in the laundry basket to pick out your own - great fun.

And the coffee is good, and you can buy it to bring home at a good price.

I can't recommend it highly enough. We were a group of tourists and students visiting schools in Kitale.

It's not five star but it's quirky and the service from Theresa, Ibrahim and Elvis is second to none - they went out of their way to make sure that our (often complicated) transport needs were dealt with and they spent time getting to know us.

The grounds are filled with turkeys, guinea fowl, chickens, ducks, geese. Most of us stayed in the "cottage" rooms each of which is unique and all of which show touches of genius in their design.

Spent hours on the terrace gawping at the view/sun and moonrises and eating huge quantities of home cooked food.

Saw some of the other hotels in Kitale centre as well as the Kitale Club and wouldn't even consider using any of them in place of the Karibuni.

Didn't want to leave!