Economy Class Vs First Class On The Nairobi Sgr

All aboard, fellow travelers! Today, we embark on a journey that takes us from Nairobi to the scenic town of Voi via the ever-reliable SGR. But there's a twist to our usual first-class adventure – this time, we're venturing into the realms of second-class travel. It's a tale of frugality and exploration, and we're ready to share this passenger experience with you.

The Pre-Departure Buzz

Our journey kicks off with ticket printing and a quest for that all-important morning coffee. Yes, coffee, the elixir of life for many of us. As we ascend to the platform, we notice two distinct waiting areas – one for first-class passengers and the other for us mere second-class mortals. But here's the kicker: the second-class waiting area seems to have the upper hand. Closer to the restaurants and brimming with options, we're not feeling too bad about our downgrade.

And then, the coffee saga unfolds. As fate would have it, we found ourselves ordering at the wrong cafe. Is it Maya? Is it Paul Cafe? The plot thickens, and we prepare for a coffee taste test, with a review that promises to entertain your taste buds.

Forbidden Items: The Train's Quirks

While you're getting your coffee fix, here's a heads-up on some bizarre rules. The SGR has a quirky list of prohibited items. Say goodbye to aerosols, sunscreen, bug spray, and even shaving cream. Yes, shaving cream is perfectly fine on a plane, but on a train, it's a no-go. Alcohol, sealed or not, is also a non-starter. They don't want you bringing your own stash for a rolling party. Odd, right?

All Aboard the Second Class Adventure

Our train departs on time, sharp as a well-honed concept, at 8 AM. This promises to be a four-hour journey with just four stops along the way. And yes, time here is as punctual as a Swiss watch, so no Kenyan time to play with. As we roll out of Nairobi, the anticipation builds. Wildlife sightings along the Nairobi National Park are a bonus, with giraffes and zebras already making a guest appearance. Last time, close to Voi, we even spotted majestic elephants.

Economy Class vs. First Class: The Seating Dilemma

Now, let's dive into the heart of the matter – the economy class vs. first class showdown. The seating configuration in economy class may not be as spacious as its fancier counterpart, but it gets the job done. There's camaraderie with your seatmate, and who knows, you might even make a new friend. The real magic happens in first class, where you get more legroom, a reclining seat, a larger tray table, and, if you're lucky, a handy plug for your gadgets. However, be warned – choose the window seat wisely to avoid my partial window situation.

Now, let's talk about the price point. Second-class tickets are a mere 700 Kenyan shillings per person, while first-class tickets skyrocket to 2100. The big question – is the upgrade worth it? Stay tuned for our verdict.

Comparing Comfort, Service, and More

When it comes to comfort, the AC in both classes is a game-changer. However, first class offers more space, making it the better choice for a relaxing snooze during the four-hour journey. The food situation is interesting too. In economy class, you can snack on sandwiches and chips, but in first class, you have access to a mini-restaurant with warm meals. Choices, choices!

In the privacy department, first class wins again. The seats all face the same direction, giving you a bit more seclusion. And yes, the bathrooms are a tie – identical in both classes.

Voi, Nairobi's Picturesque Neighbor

As we reach the enchanting town of Voi, we're met with breathtaking views. Our adventure continues, but we'll spare you the details for now. We'll pick up where we left off when we journey back to Nairobi in first class. Stay tuned for more insights on comfort, service, and prices.

And just like that, we're back on the SGR, ready to uncover the mysteries of first class. Will the extra expense be justified, or does second class hold its own in this railway tale?

Stay with us as we navigate the rails, appreciating both the budget-friendly journey and the premium experience. Whether it's economy or first class, the SGR offers a unique travel opportunity that's more than worth exploring. All aboard for the ride of a lifetime! 🚆