This is the true definition of a hidden gem. Located in a little hamlet known as Kware—a local corruption of the word ‘Quarry’—is Micaphonia Suites, tucked between Joska and Malaa along Kangundo Road. For the uninitiated, this is not your ordinary Airbnb. It is a cross between a boutique hotel and a private rental. The architectural design is interesting, if not unconventional. The structure is made of plain sheets rising two floors. It is padded with gypsum on the inside to insulate it from noise and give it a modern touch.
Quarry
Before the building was constructed, the land where Micaphonia Suites sits used to be a disused quarry. Setting up a structure, let alone Airbnbs, sounded unfeasible. Using beams to support the structure, it metamorphosed into one of the best chill spots in the area. An attempt at landscaping what was once a quarry has been made, but much more can be done.
Rooms
The rooms come with a kitchenette, bathroom, and a balcony. The bed, made of steel, is immovable. A sofa is provided in the room to give it a homely feel. The one-way sliding doors lead to the somewhat squeezed balcony, which doubles as the window. It is nearly impossible to sit on the balcony because of the size. The rooms are surprisingly quiet and feel very private. This is a perfect hideout for lovers who want to spend quality time away from the chaos of the city. Utensils are provided for clients who want to cook for themselves.
Restaurant/Bar
As I mentioned in the introduction, these Airbnbs are a hybrid. It has a restaurant that serves walk-in customers as well as guests who don’t feel like cooking. The à la carte menu offers a variety of dishes. While the food is good, the seats are a bit uncomfortable. It is not really an ideal space to work from. Adjacent is a bar where you can enjoy drinks with an extended outdoor patio seating area. It is open to the public.
Coffee lovers will be disappointed, as the best you can get is instant coffee. They can also do some good with adjusting their prices.
Garden
The simplicity of this garden is what makes it stand out. It has umbrellas to provide shade in the scorching heat of Ukambani. They cleverly integrated what some would consider weeds to give the place a natural feel. This, in addition to flowers in pots, makes the place a perfect spot to enjoy your drink or hold a meeting. The downside is the seats that make a quirky sound with every move you make.
Service
The service is exemplary. The staff are on hand to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Micaphonia has a reception area to receive guests. It is well-designed and manned at all hours of the day and night.
Pricing
The rooms are very well priced for what they offer going for between Ksh2,500 to Ksh3,500 per night.
How would I rate Micaphonia Suites?
| Category | Rating |
| Rooms | 5 |
| Food | 3.5 |
| Garden/Seats | 3.5 |
| Service | 5 |