“One does not travel by plane. One is merely sent, like a parcel,” wrote Isak Dinesen, who knew something about flying and Africa. It seems apropos to think of her as I fly from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (NBO), artfully tucked into a spacious business-class seat, a velvety blanket wrapped around me, and socks, decorated with a lion’s footprint, delicately pulled over my feet.

It’s a small detail, but I love these socks, drawn from the requisite business-class amenity kit. They could be just any socks, as most airlines would give you. Instead, Kenya Airways, whose nickname “The pride of Africa” also refers to lions, celebrates what makes them unique with special socks. They understand many travelers taking this newly minted, 15-hour, direct flight to Kenya are looking forward to seeing some wildlife. Why not fuel their anticipation?

A game-changing route for tourists and corporate travelers, Kenya Airways’ New York–Nairobi route began daily flights in October 2018. Flight frequency will vary by season, but with full flights, affordable airfare and high rankings by consumers, it’s been well-received in the travel community. Considered by many to be the best airline in Africa, Kenya Airways offers a fleet of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, planes built to diminish jet lag thanks to elements such as larger windows, better air circulation, a lower altitude oxygen level during fight and ambient lighting. They’ve just signed a codeshare agreement with Delta Air Lines, which puts travelers connecting to and from other cities in good stead.

I flew in February. Business-class service and perks were stellar, the staff had cheerful, big personalities and attractive uniforms, something I care about. The food was excellent, and the wine list was good.

Kenya Airways

Business Class
JFK–NBO
kenya-airways.com