Nakuru is the provincial capital of Kenya’s Rift Valley province and one of the largest cities in the country. There are endless things to do here, and shopping is one of them. Here is a guide on Nakuru Shopping.
Furniture
Being a largely agricultural society has its perks in Nakuru, particularly with the budding tourist industry. The wood from the forests surrounding the area is used in the furniture in houses, as well as some of the building materials of the houses in the district. Tourists looking for something exotic to showcase in houses back home can always browse through the endless rows of shops selling furniture, most of which are concentrated in the city center. Those not looking for anything to bring home can still admire the tribal carvings on some of their designs, or the simplicity of others. The trade of carpentry is passed down to the younger generation, and this is particularly evident through the young designers that are beginning to spring up, melding both traditional and new-age together. Be sure to check the wood for termites or wood ants before leaving the country, though, as the wood can be infected.
Handicrafts
Handicrafts are a large part of the African culture, and this is no different in Nakuru. Visit the local markets as a chance to witness the people in action – while the men are busy with the butchery or the livestock, the women and children are up and about selling the various homemade items from baskets or small stalls. Stop by one of these to take a look at the different items on sale – from colorful woven headbands and wooden carved key rings, to stitched pencil cases and painted plastic vases, the possibilities are limitless. So get a couple as keepsakes or souvenirs, or just buy a few as meaningful gifts for those back home.
Antiques
Another of Nakuru’s well-known items are its antiques, generally wooden furniture items or carved frames made out of the same material. Those who love the ethnic style will be in a heaven in Nakuru’s antique shops. The furniture and furnishings are completed with a dark varnish that represents the old school designs of the district. Be sure to take at some of the paintings that are on sale as well. Many of these draw inspiration from tribal paintings found from the tribal times, and some even paint scenes of tribal conflicts and wars of the past.
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