A great weekend getaway in the city

The Sanskrit meaning of Sankara is ‘bliss-maker’ and therefore an apt choice of name for the Westlands hotel that bears the same name.

It is indeed a very special place and has been lauded in international circles as such, having won a spot on the coveted Conde Nast Hot List in 2011 and also won a Wine Spectator Award for Excellence in 2011. All this just a year after it opened.

Never mind all the official accolades. Sankara has earned itself a reputation for being the go to place for businessmen, politicians, socialites and fashionistas.

What makes it very special is the immaculate attention to detail from walls filled with modern local art to the perfection of the Henley cocktail at Sarabi, arguably Nairobi’s hippest rooftop bar.

The hotel boasts two restaurants – Artisan & Muhibbah. Expect modern dining at its best with the majority of ingredients sourced from Kenyan farmers and producers.

The first floor Gallery Wine Bar is also worth a note - it’s quite likely that you’ll have an opportunity to try vintages that you won’t get anywhere else in Kenya.

There are little pockets in every corner that offer the perfect preludes for being social or relaxed and ultimately unwound. Expect unrivalled indulgence at the Angasana Spa (part of the world famous Banyan Tree Group).

While Sankara has earned itself a reputation for being a top-notch business hotel, it is also perfect for a weekend getaway.

Relaxed luxury and escapism, without having to travel too far from home! Sankara is representative of the new and emerging Africa that feeds a thirst for African pride with a global flavour.