Stepping into Nairobi felt like entering a whole new world, one that overwhelmed and delighted me at the same time. The very first breath of warm, slightly dusty air felt like the beginning of an adventure that would awaken my senses. Nairobi is not a city that sneaks up on you quietly – it welcomes you with a storm of colours, sounds and impressions that envelop you and cast a spell over you.

The traffic chaos on the streets was one of the first things that caught my eye. Matatus – those iconic, colourfully painted minibuses that honked loudly and sped through the dense traffic at lightning speed – were everywhere. They seemed more like works of art than means of transport, each one an expression of creativity and personality. The hustle and bustle on the streets was almost hypnotising: pedestrians, traders and cars moving in a chaotic yet harmonious choreography. I felt like an observer in a living theatre play that never ends.

My journey began in the heart of the city, at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre. This imposing building, with its striking circular shape, offered me the opportunity to get a bird's eye view of the city. From the roof, Nairobi stretched out like a giant jigsaw puzzle of high-rise buildings, streets and green spaces. The city seemed endless, a mosaic of modernity and nature stretching to the horizon. The view was breathtaking, and as I stood up there, I felt a strange mixture of awe and excitement. It was as if I could feel the vibrant energy of this city.

Back on the streets, my path led me to the bustling district of Downtown Nairobi. Here, life pulsates at a pace I had never experienced before. The streets were full of people going about their daily lives, while vendors advertised their wares on the side of the road. It was a spectacle of colours and sounds: bright fabrics fluttering in the wind, artfully crafted jewellery glistening in the sunlight, and fresh fruits whose colours seemed so vibrant that they almost seemed unreal. The air was filled with the calls of the traders, the laughter of the people and the irresistible scent of grilled meat and exotic spices. I felt overwhelmed, but at the same time fascinated by this abundance of life and impressions.

A highlight of my stay was a visit to the Nairobi National Museum. This museum is more than just a place of history – it is a window into the soul of Kenya. I was particularly impressed by the gallery of human fossils showing the origins of humanity. There in that room, I felt a deep connection to the past, as if the roots of our existence in this land were still alive. The stories of Kenya's many ethnic groups, the culture and art on display here gave me a sense of the depth and diversity of this country. I left the museum with a new understanding of the region's importance and a deep admiration for its history.

In the afternoon, I sought and found some peace and quiet in Karura Forest. This forest, a green oasis in the middle of the city, was a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the streets. As I walked along the shady paths, surrounded by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves, I felt a calm that I hadn't felt in a long time. Hidden waterfalls and small clearings invited me to pause and enjoy the beauty of nature. It was amazing how quickly you could switch from the hustle and bustle of urban life in Nairobi to the peaceful silence of nature.

In the evening, I returned to the city centre and went to a local restaurant to try Nyama Choma – the traditional Kenyan grilled meat that is often enjoyed in good company. The atmosphere was warm and lively, and I quickly got involved in conversations with the locals. They told me about their daily lives, the challenges and joys of living in Nairobi. What touched me most was the openness and sense of community that I felt in those moments. It was as if any stranger here could be a friend if you were willing to reach out.

Nairobi was more than just a city to me – it was an experience that awakened all my senses and gave me a completely new perspective on life. It was the small, unexpected moments that stayed with me the most: the sound of rain drumming on the roofs, the smile of a stranger, the vibrant colours that could be found in even the smallest corners of the city. Nairobi is a city of contrasts – one that challenges you, surprises you and ultimately changes you. I left the city feeling grateful to have had such an experience and knowing that Nairobi will always have a special place in my heart.