The doors of the classy, new White Rhino are now finally open.
The historic hotel retains some of the features of the original establishment while introducing some very state-of-the-art innovations.The rooms are also completely refurbished.
The old features include the two popular, original bars and the lounge. The ambience, however is completely new and refreshing .The noticeable new features include a well lit dance hall where the old disco and nyama choma used to be and the children’s’ park.
Nyeri has for a long time been missing space and entertainment facilities for children. The children’s’ playground is next to the open grounds which will also be hosting private events like launches and corporate luncheons, weddings and birthday parties.
There is an interesting phenomenon introducing visual arts in Nyeri. All the oil and acrylic paintings donning the walls of the White Rhino will be available for sale.
This will unleash the enormous artistic talent now dormant in the Nyeri County, given that some of Kenya’s leading artists like Professor Louis Mwaniki, Sculptors Samwel Wanjau and Gakunju Kaigwa Filmmaker and theatre director Lee Kanyare-Kaguongo , Journalists like Macharia Gaitho and authors like Gakaara Wanjau , Meja Mwangi, Charles Mangua , Poet Jonathan Kariara, Poet Caroline Nderitu, Singer Wahome Maingi and Comedian Fredrick Maina aka Githingithia all originate from here.
The new management has a formidable task of introducing and maintaining high service standards in order to capture a niche of the domestic and international tourism potential.
The dwindling share market tourism for the Nyeri County could be revamped by provision of quality dining and accommodation facilities. This in turn will increase employment opportunities and the county’s gross earnings helping re-position Nyeri as a prime tourist feature.
Hordes of curious tourists, Nairobian diasporans as well as proud and confident Nyerians have already started streaming into the White Rhino.
The official opening is scheduled to be held later in the year with all the pomp (including fireworks).