We took 2 flights to get to Malindi (a short drive to Watamu); a flight from Addis to Nairobi and then a domestic flight to Malindi. Next time, I think I’d fly direct from Addis to Mombasa and then do the 2.5 hr drive to Watamu.

Malindi Airport is very basic and can be very hot if you’re waiting around.

Turtle Bay Beach Resort can organise a shuttle from both Malindi and Mombasa (obviously the cost from Mombasa will increase significantly due to the distance). The driver from TBBC will be friendly, organised and a bit of a tor guide along the way.

We stayed at Turtle Bay Beach Resort and had the all-inclusive package. This resort is a fine-tuned machine and most guests are repeat customers; some returning every year for the past 20 years.

The daily buffets are varied and delicious serving different meats, vegetables and pasta/rice/bread options. There’s always fresh, tropical fruit on offer (if you want a fruit that seems unavailable, ask - they often keep bananas and passionfruit aside). Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are part of the all-inclusive package. Dinner starts quite late (7pm) so you may like to reserve some lunch and put it aside as an afternoon snack or buy some chips at the little resort shop.

Wildlife - there are many exotic lizards and birds that scamper about the resort as well as crabs, tropical fish, sea urchins and the occasional reef shark at the nearby beach. If you take an excursion, you’ll also see dolphins and many more tropical fish further afield.

Activities - stand-up paddle board and kayak hire are also complimentary as part of the all-inclusive deal. Excursions, such as the Blue Safari, cost extra - about $40 USD per person. There are diving courses available through TBBC so check out the costs in advance.

Kids Club - Unfortunately, A didn’t want to spend much time there and nor did any other kids. We had expected plenty of beach adventures with the Kids Club but most activities seemed to be indoors. If you are relying on the Kids Club for some child-free time, ensure that you come with other families so that, if all else fails, they can create their own kids club.

Personal protection- Watamo in March is HOT! And the sun bites - apply 50+, water proof sunscreen frequently and often. Invest in bug repellent for the nighttime’s - the mosquitos are hungry and persistent even when the mosquito nets used properly.