Spread over 2 mls of coast, Shanzu lacks both a distinct focus and local style. Low-rise buildings with white walls and sloping thatched roofs predominate but, as the majority of its hotels are all inclusive, there has been little impetus for shops and other amenities to develop. That said, Shanzu shopping centre is becoming a little village in its own right, even though its bars are frequented by prostitutes working the tourist clientele. There is the possibility of terrorist attacks on tourists in Kenya; Foreign Office advisory notices offer the latest official advice and should be consulted before booking.

Those seeking a beach holiday with little added excitement. The majority of visitors are German and Swiss clients of the all-inclusive African Safari Club chain; access to these properties incurs a hefty admission fee for nonguests.

A strip of self-contained package-tour hotels, most of them all inclusive; as a result, visitors tend to stay at the property they have chosen without wandering far afield. A handful of cheaper places, but some of these double as brothels.

A long stretch of soft white sand protected by the offshore coral reef and backed by coconut palms. The water comes up to the sea walls of hotel gardens at highest tides, so access is generally down steps. There are few facilities on the beach apart from those provided by individual hotels in their own beach sections. The water is clean and the gently sloping shore, extending to coral reef, makes it safe for swimming. Hawkers and peddlers abound during the day and it is not at all safe alone after dark. Weed can be a problem July to Sept.

Limited to tourist-inclined curio booths and high-class shops in Shanzu shopping centre.

Daytime: numerous water sports, including scuba diving, snorkelling, glass-bottomed boat trips to the coral reef and sailing. Nightlife: hotel discos; some bars in Shanzu shopping centre, mostly frequented by prostitutes and their clients, although the atmosphere isn't intimidating.

Limited to a German bar (bratwurst and sauerkraut), an outdoor Kenyan roast-meat grill and a creekside snack bar serving seafood. It is not advisable to drink the local water; stick to the bottled varieties.

Irregular "matatus" (pick-up minibuses) to Mtwapa and Mombasa via Bamburi Beach; these modes of transportation offer an adventure in that they tend to be overcrowded, confusing and in poor condition. Taxis are generally available outside hotels; agree the fare before the journey.

As for Mombasa, with organised tours picking up at hotels.

On the SE coast, facing the Indian Ocean. 300 mls SE of the capital, Nairobi. 10 mls N of Mombasa. 57 mls S of Malindi. 20 mls NE of Mombasa's Moi international airport.

Several miles of pale sandy coast, adjoining Mtwapa Creek to the N. Most of the area has been cleared of forest.

Telephone Area Code: 41

Airport : Moi International
Airport Code: MBA
Flight time from ther U.K.: 10 hrs