What are the opening hours?

Monday 09:00 - 17:00 Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00 Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00 Thursday 09:00 - 17:00 Friday 09:00 - 17:00

Blopps, Nairobi (2026)

06/10/2023

Dubai tourist tax refund
Visitors and tourists exploring Dubai have the privilege to reclaim the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on their purchases during their stay in the UAE. This reimbursement process is seamlessly executed through an integrated electronic platform that links retailers enrolled in the ‘Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme’ with all entry and exit points of the UAE.
In January 2018, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) introduced a 5 percent VAT, and by the last quarter of 2018, they launched a fully digital tax-free shopping service, enabling tourists to apply for a VAT refund since that year. The system is administered by Planet, the exclusive operator of the tourist tax refund system, under the oversight of FTA.
Typically, most well-known stores are participants in this scheme, and tourists can secure their refunds upon departure via land, sea, or air travel. However, to be eligible for VAT refunds, tourists need to meet the following criteria:
• the traveller must be at least 18 years old
• purchases must be made from a retailer actively engaged in the ‘Tax Refund for Tourists’ program
• goods are not excluded from the refund scheme of the FTA
• the traveller must physically present the tax invoice, ‘tax-free’ tags and relevant goods
Please note that refunds are not applicable in the following cases:
• items that have been fully or partially consumed within the UAE
• goods that are not in the traveler’s possession upon exiting the country
How to shop tax-free?
Exploring tax-free shopping in Dubai is straightforward. Follow these steps to make the most of this opportunity:
• while shopping, tourists can request a tax-free purchase, applicable for expenditures of AED 250 or more
• the visitor’s valid travel document will be scanned for integration into the payment system
• the shop assistant will utilize the Planet system to record the visitor’s details
• a ‘tax-free’ tag will be affixed to the back of the sales receipt by the shop assistant
• a digital tax-free form will be generated
• the traveler should ensure validation of the transaction at the airport within 90 days from the date of purchase
Please refer to the Official Portal of the UAE Government for more details on VAT refunds for tourists.

05/10/2023

Dubai tourist fee and tax hotel
The Dubai tourist tax landscape remains dynamic, undergoing periodic adjustments. According to various sources, the current breakdown of the Dubai tourist tax applied to hotels is as follows:
• Value Added Tax (VAT) – 5 percent
• municipality fee – 7 percent
• property service charge – 10 percent
As previously noted, Dubai’s hotels apply a ‘Tourism Dirham Fee’ for each room occupied per night, applicable for a maximum of 30 consecutive nights. The fee varies, spanning from AED 7 to 20, contingent upon the specific category or grade of the hotel. This fee is commonly referred to as either the hotel tax or the city tax.
Dubai tourist fee and tax liquor
For non-Muslim tourists in Dubai, access to alcohol is permitted, with an associated tax. However, recent online sources indicate that Dubai has taken a significant step by suspending a 30 percent tax on alcohol. Additionally, the requirement for a license fee, previously mandatory for purchasing alcohol in the commercial and tourism hub, has been eliminated.
This strategic move is primarily intended to enhance Dubai’s attractiveness to tourists and expatriate residents, who are drawn to its comparatively more liberal lifestyle in contrast to other Gulf cities. The reduction in tax was implemented in January 2023 and is reported to be in effect as a trial for a one-year period.

04/10/2023

what you need to know about Dubai tourist fee and tax 2023
The UAE has implemented a tourism tax aimed at bolstering the expansion of its trade and tourism sectors. This tax is applicable to travelers who stay in a variety of accommodations, including hotels, hotel apartments, restaurants, and resorts.
In the UAE, establishments such as restaurants, hotels, hotel apartments, and resorts have the authority to levy one or more of the following taxes:
• tax on the room rate – 10 percent
• service charge – 10 percent
• municipality fees – 10 percent
• city tax – 6 to 10 percent
• tourism fee – 6 percent
Please note that Dubai’s hotels additionally impose a ‘Tourism Dirham Fee’ per room per night, applicable for up to 30 consecutive nights of occupancy. The fee varies between AED 7 and 20, depending on the hotel’s category or grade.

02/10/2023

The Type of Visas You Can Get After Purchasing A Property in UAE
Dubai’s property market is experiencing a boom, and there are no signs of it slowing down. In recent months, Dubai has witnessed consistent growth, with prices rising by 2.5% in August alone. This increase marks the highest surge in over two years, indicating the market’s strength. Even areas that were once considered less desirable are now commanding higher values per square foot. Dubai’s property market is set to achieve a new record with ongoing launches of off-plan properties and a projected 100,000 transactions expected this year.
Types of Visas for Property Owners
For individuals who have purchased property in the UAE, there are two visa options available.
• The Golden Visa
• Property Investor Residence Visa.
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is the primary visa linked to property ownership. It provides a five year validity period. Additionally, it offers the flexibility of unlimited time spent outside the country, allowing property owners to travel without constraints. To be eligible for the Golden Visa, individuals must own property or properties with a minimum equity value of Dh2 million.
Property Investor Residence Visa
This visa requires an investment of over Dh750,000 in property registered under the individual’s name or Dh1 million if registered under the spouse’s name. Similar to a standard visa, it necessitates returning to the country once every 180 days and is renewable every two years.
However, both the Golden Visa and the Property Investor Residence Visa have a requirement that the investment value must be fully paid, and eligibility criteria are not met if the property is mortgaged. It is necessary for the investment amount to be in the form of equity in the property.
The expanding population in Dubai contributes significantly to the robustness of the city’s property market. With ambitious yet realistic plans to double the current population by 2040, there is a growing demand for housing. However, the existing supply of housing falls short of meeting this demand, leading to a rise in off-plan property launches. Projects like Palm Jebel Ali and Expo City are prime examples of this trend. Developers are acutely aware of the opportunities that arise from this population growth and strive to offer competitively priced properties.
However, as the population continues to expand and housing supply becomes more abundant, property prices are expected to stabilize rather than experiencing a sudden crash. This trend showcases the maturing nature of the market, where supply and demand gradually find a balanced equilibrium over time.
In addition to the local market dynamics, the resumption of international travel from China has the potential to exert further influence on Dubai’s property market. As Chinese investors resume their international travel, they may bring in additional investments, further fueling the market’s growth.

30/09/2023

A large number of people who want to lose weight are under the misconception that eating rice leads to weight gain, while others believe that eating rice causes diabetes.
Rice is the staple and most important food of people around the world, which is widely consumed.
100 grams of rice contains 242 calories, 0.4 grams of fat, 53.4 grams of carbohydrates and 4.4 grams of protein, while it lacks vitamins and minerals.
According to medical experts, there is nothing wrong with eating rice, but how much rice is being consumed is very important.
A new study has revealed that eating rice neither causes weight gain nor causes other disorders such as diabetes, but rice can be eaten with protein-rich foods such as pulses, beans, meat, fish and vegetables. It is a very useful, easily digestible and healthy food if eaten along with it.
Medical experts say that rice is very important for people who suffer from vitamin B12, hemoglobin and vitamin D deficiency, saying that removing rice from the diet can lead to weight gain is a completely wrong assumption.
Medical experts say that there is not even a cent truth in eliminating the tricks from the diet and considering this process to be healthy, the consumption of rice increases the performance of exercise.
Experts say that although rice has less fiber than bread, rice plays the role of fiber for the human stomach and is a constipating food.
On the other hand, a medical study conducted in Japan has said that obesity rates are lower in countries that eat more rice.
During this study, the rate of calorie consumption, including the consumption of rice, was also analyzed in more than 136 countries, while body weight data was also looked at. Obesity rates are lower than in Western countries where less rice is consumed.
According to medical experts, eating rice in moderation with pulses, meat and vegetables is beneficial, while excessive consumption increases the risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
The study also revealed for the first time that white rice and pasta contain obesity-protecting carbohydrates, and that frequent consumption of plain rice may help protect against obesity.

27/09/2023

Luggage to Arrive First at Baggage Claim
Generally speaking, the bags that are loaded into the cargo hold last are often the first that are unloaded. Because of this, some travelers like to check in their bags as late as possible — but bags can end up being loaded on the plane in any order.
priority baggage services. Priority baggage service is offered to frequent flyers with certain tiers of elite status, as well as business and first-class passengers.
Even if there isn't a way to guarantee your bag will be one of the first arrivals at the baggage claim,
a few tips to make your checked baggage experience a little easier.
• Make sure you remove all old bag tags from your suitcase before checking it in, though you can leave your personal tag with your contact information and address on your suitcase (and we suggest you do!).
• When the agent tags your bag at check-in, look at the receipt they hand you and check that the final destination is correct.
• Pick a unique suitcase or attach some sort of differentiator to your bag to more easily identify it at the baggage claim. Some travelers use colorful luggage straps or ribbons tied to the handles.
• At the baggage claim, double-check which claim your flight has been assigned to, as this can change from the time you land to the time you walk to the claim.

24/09/2023

How to Redeem Airline Miles
Many travelers use airline miles to book free flights and pay for upgrades, but there are other ways to spend them.
Flights
Once you accumulate enough miles — at least a few thousand, but more realistically a few tens of thousands — you'll be able to spend those miles on flights. Since miles are free, you're essentially getting free flights, but there is a tiny catch. You'll still have to pay taxes and fees on the flight, which usually nets out to less than $100 per ticket.
To use miles as payment for flights, you'll need to book your flights with the airline directly, not through a third-party booking site. When you search for the flights, simply click the box that says something to the effect of "pay with miles."
Upgrades
You can also use miles to upgrade to a higher class of service or preferred seats within your current cabin, such as an exit row seat. After you've made your booking, check your booking on the airline's website or app to see if upgrades are available. Keep in mind that some airlines price upgrades dynamically, meaning the price will change based on demand. So if you don't like the price you see for an upgrade, you can take your chances to see if it will drop. But beware — the cabin could fill up before you find the price you like, leaving you in economy.
Other Redemptions
Each airline offers miles redemptions outside of flights and upgrades. You can use miles to pay for other aspects of air travel, from lounge memberships to top-shelf drinks in the lounges to in-flight WiFi, depending on the airline. But you can also use miles to pay for other parts of your travel experience too, including hotels, car rentals, and even special events or experiences.
Airline Miles and Elite Status
While airline miles and elite status are both part of a carrier's frequent flier program, they're two distinct branches with different purposes. Airline miles are simply an airline-specific currency, whereas elite status is a rewards program where you earn perks typically based on how much you spend and how much you fly with an airline. If you're not flying enough to achieve elite status, don't worry — you can still earn airline miles without it. But those with elite status do earn more miles per flight than non-elite members of a frequent flier program.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Airline Miles
Use award calendars to find the best deals.
The more flexible you are with timing, the more likely you are to score a great miles redemption deal. Most airlines allow you to view award flights on a calendar, showing you the best deals across an entire month. Sometimes bumping your flight earlier or later by a few days can net you huge savings.
Keep expiration dates in mind.
Each airline has a different policy when it comes to expiration dates. Some airlines have no expiration dates for miles, while others set expiration dates based on your most recent account activity. Read the fine print to ensure your hard-earned miles don't expire before you can use them.
Research change fees.
While you can typically change flights booked with miles, there's often a fee associated with any amendments, but this depends on the airline. If you want to cancel your booking made with miles, you can often redeposit those miles back into your account for a fee, with fees varying by airline.
Don't agonize over the redemption value of your miles.
It's natural to want the best bang for your buck — or in this case, redemption for your miles. But there's no reason to agonize over the value of your redemption. The threshold for a "good" redemption is unique to each individual and their circumstances at any given time. At the end of the day, anything you put your miles toward will be (mostly) free, and that's always a good price

21/09/2023

Everything You Need to Know About Earning and Redeeming Airline Miles
Want to fly for free? Here's everything you need to know about earning and using airline miles.
If you're thinking about dipping your toe in the airline miles game, don't delay. While points and miles can often feel overwhelming, it's easy to handle the basics — and that's enough to get you free flights and upgrades. Best of all, every frequent flier program is free to join, and you don't even have to be a frequent flier to sign up. We're here to help you understand airline miles so that you can start boosting your travel experience ASAP.
What to Know About Airline Miles
Airline miles — sometimes referred to as airline points, frequent flier miles, or award miles — are a form of currency used in frequent flier programs. Generally speaking, you earn miles for flying with an airline, and you redeem those miles for free flights, upgrades, or other purchases. Some credit cards also have similar points and miles rewards programs, but airline miles are specific to an airline (and sometimes its partners). Airline miles are often valued anywhere from just below one cent to two cents per mile.
How to Earn Airline Miles
There are numerous ways to earn airline miles, and they vary based on the specific frequent flier program. In order to earn airline miles, you must be signed up for an airline's frequent flier program — this is free to do, and you can sign up for multiple airlines' programs.

Flying
Flying with an airline (and sometimes its partners) is the primary way most travelers earn airline miles. For each flight you take, you'll receive a certain number of miles; the exact number of miles depends on your airline's policy. Most airlines base the number of miles awarded on either the distance flown or the amount paid for the ticket. Just remember that you must input your frequent flier number on your booking to earn airline miles. (Although you can request miles after your trip if you forget to add your number before).
Using Airline Credit Cards
If you have a co-branded airline credit card, you will likely be able to earn one to three airline miles for every dollar you spend on that card. Pay attention to earning bonuses for certain categories, which vary per card. In many cases, you'll earn higher bonuses for paying for flights with your credit card directly through the airline — for example, five miles per dollar instead of one mile per dollar.
Transferring Points From Other Credit Cards
If you have a credit card that has its own points system — like Chase Ultimate Rewards, Rewards — you may be able to transfer those points into an airline frequent flier program. Airline partnerships vary by credit card issuer.
Shopping and Dining Partnerships
Some airlines have e-shopping portals through which any purchases will earn you miles. Similarly, some airlines also have dining partnerships that reward you for eating at eligible restaurants.
Other Partnerships
Many airlines develop partnerships with rental car companies and hotel groups, so if you rent a car or book a room with one of these partners, you can actually earn airline miles. Typically you're not able to "double dip" and earn miles or points for both the airline and the travel partner, so advanced points players will want to be strategic about which account earns the points. Some airlines allow you to link your account to other businesses.

18/09/2023

People from 82 different countries can come to the UAE without getting a visa before they arrive. When they arrive, they can either get a visa that lets them stay for 30 days and can be extended for 10 more days, or they can get one that lets them stay for 90 days. If they are from nearby GCC countries, they can use their passport or ID card to enter without a visa or sponsor.
If someone from India has a regular passport, they can get a visa that lets them stay for 14 days when they arrive. They can also ask for an extension for another 14 days. But their passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months from when they arrive, and they must have a visa or residency card from the US, UK, or a country in the EU.
People who can’t get a visa-free entry or a visa when they arrive need to get an entry permit before they come. This permit is given by the UAE’s Residency and Foreigners Affairs office and depends on the reason they want to visit.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs suggests that people who want to visit the UAE should check the official website for the latest visa information. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship’s website also has details about visa requirements. If you’re not sure, you can also ask airlines for the most recent information.

14/09/2023

It is commonly seen that people apply for a visa but their visa is rejected for some reason or the other, they don’t know what are the reasons for their visa rejection.
There is no single reason for visa rejection but there can be several reasons, if we consider them, the chances of visa rejection can be reduced to a great extent.
The most common reasons for visa rejections are incomplete or incorrect information entered on the application form, including missing signatures, incomplete forms, incorrect passport numbers and other errors.
If you want your visa not to be rejected, carefully review the form before filling it and make sure that all the information you provide is correct and up-to-date and there are no errors.
1- No criminal record anywhere?
Your visa may be refused if you have a criminal record, including drugs, fraud or other serious crimes. If you have a criminal record, describe it in your application and provide all relevant information.
2- Lack of good relations with home country
If the visa officer suspects that you have no intention of returning to your home country, your visa application may be rejected. Therefore, it is important to have good relations with your home country.
3- Illegal travel documents
Make sure all your travel documents are correct and up-to-date before submitting your application.
4- Do you have a shortage of money?
It’s also important to have good cash, because if you’re applying for a tourist or study visa, you’ll need to show that you have enough money to cover your expenses while you’re abroad. The money is there. If proof of funds is not provided, your visa may be rejected.
5- Unknown documents
Attachment of documents with the application depends on the type of visa you are applying for, such as proof of employment, invitation letter or other relevant documents etc. If you do not provide these documents, it is possible that Your request may be rejected.
Overstaying your previous visa If you have overstayed your previous visa, your visa application will not be approved. This includes overstaying the visa period in any country.
To avoid this, make sure you leave the country before your visa expires.

12/09/2023

UAE Visit Visa – Types, Fee, Application Process and Requirements

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has gained popularity as a top destination for tourists and job seekers due to its vibrant economy and diverse leisure activities. If you are considering visiting the UAE, it is essential to understand the various visit visa options, associated fees, application procedures, and necessary documents.
Types of UAE Visit Visas
• Jobseeker Visit Visa
• Tourist Visa
• Visit Visa to Explore investment opportunities
• Patient and Companion entry Permit
• GCC Residents Evisa
Jobseeker Visit Visa
• Purpose: For individuals searching for job opportunities.
• Validity: 60, 90, or 120 days.
• Requirements: Personal photo, valid passport (at least 6 months), university degree.
Tourist Visa
• Purpose: For leisure and exploration.
• Validity: Varies; usually up to 30 days.
• Requirements: Passport validity, travel itinerary, accommodation details.
Visit Visa to Explore Investment Opportunities
• Purpose: For those exploring business prospects.
• Validity: 60, 90, or 120 days.
• Requirements: Photo, passport copy, attested qualification certificate.
Patient and Companion Entry Permit
• Purpose: For medical treatment purposes.
• Validity: 90 or 180 days.
• Requirements: Photo, valid passport, medical report.
GCC Residents’ eVisa
• Purpose: For residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
• Validity: 30 days, extendable for an additional 30 days.
• Requirements: Original passport, GCC country residence permit, civil/labor card.
Application Process
1. Applying Through Digital Channels
• Log in to the UAE Pass or use a username.
• Search for the desired service.
• Fill in the required application details.
• Pay the applicable service fees.
2. Customer Happiness Centre
• Visit the nearest center.
• Obtain a turn ticket and wait.
• Submit the complete application and required documents.
• Pay the service fees.
3. Amer Service Centre
• Visit the nearest Amer Service Centre.
• Get a turn ticket and wait.
• Submit the application and necessary documents.
• Pay the relevant service fees.
Fees
• Visa fees vary based on the type and duration of the visa.
• Additional fees may include security deposits, warranty service fees, and knowledge/innovation dirham.
Sample Fees
• 60-day Jobseeker Visa: AED200
• 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa: Varies
• 90-day Patient Treatment Visa: AED200-300
• GCC Residents’ eVisa: AED250 plus VAT (5%).
Remember that fees are subject to change and may have additional components.
Requirements
The documentation needed includes passport copies, photographs, qualification certificates, medical reports (if applicable), and valid health insurance.
The UAE offers a range of visit visas tailored to different purposes. It is crucial to accurately complete the application process and submit the necessary documents. Familiarizing yourself with the visa types, fees, and procedures will help ensure a smooth and successful visit to the UAE.

08/09/2023

How to Plan the Perfect Adventure to Rwanda
A travel expert shares how to plan an adventure to Rwanda — including the best lodges to book to see gorillas, giraffes, and chimpanzees.
For many intrepid travelers, Rwanda is at the top of the list. Many visitors want to embark on gorilla trekking — in fact, one third of the planet’s 1,000 remaining mountain gorillas live in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park. Seeing these endangered animals is a deeply moving experience, and a safari unlike any other. Elsewhere in the country, you also can track chimpanzees in Africa’s oldest rainforest, Nyungwe Forest National Park, or spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park.
In less than 30 years since its genocide, Rwanda is a now prosperous, safe, well-functioning democracy where people of all ethnicities are welcomed and celebrated. Today Rwanda also firmly stands on the global platform of experiential luxury travel. It is one of Africa’s great safari destinations, but also one of its most inspiring conservation success stories.
For those in the know, Rwanda is simply one of the best destinations for luxury honeymoons, family trips, or friends finally taking that big bucket list trip.many clients embark on unforgettable trips to this stunning, surprising country. Here's how I suggest planning your Rwanda adventure.
Start in Kigali
I always suggest clients spend a few days in the thriving capital of Kigali. Visit the vibrant Kimironko Market where everything local is on offer from artisan textiles to live chickens. My recent highlight was immersing myself with local designers now showing on the runways of Milan, and having some bespoke pieces made to order.
You can also visit with a genocide survivor, or tour the genocide museum and marvel at how far Rwanda has come in such a short amount of time. Eat at chic eateries and enjoy gastronomy that will tell the many stories of Rwanda through their incredible fresh farm to table food.
Where to Stay in Kigali
The hotel I always suggest is The Retreat, which is family-owned and in the heart of the city. With two onsite restaurants, you'll also get a sampling of modern African cuisine. For true indulgence, book a luxury pool suite.
COURTESY OF SINGITA
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Beyond
Singita Kwitonda Lodge sits right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Each of its eight luxurious suites have a private heated plunge pool, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and large timber framed windows that showcase the most cinematic volcano views.
One & Only Gorillas Nest is set within a forest of swaying eucalyptus trees, roses, wild flora, and fauna. This property is a more boutique resort than lodge, with onsite facilities like a spectacular gym, pool and spa facilities, drumming lessons, nature walks, biking, and multiple venues for special dining.
Wilderness Bisate’s six suites take a whimsical nod to traditional tribal techniques for building, dotting the natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone and offering panoramic views of three volcanoes in the area.
COURTESY ONE&ONLY
Go Deeper Into Akagera and Nyungwe Forest National Parks
Rwanda is so much more than gorilla trekking. While many travelers combine Rwanda with other countries like Tanzania, Kenya or South Africa, you could easily plan a two week itinerary just in Rwanda to soak it all in.
Akagera National Park has an incredible density of lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and giraffes. Safari can be done by 4x4, motor boat and on foot, and the landscapes are incredible — ranging from craters with dramatic walls hundreds of feet high to the stunning Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is Africa’s oldest forest and it offers the chance to trek with chimpanzees. You can see chimps flying through the canopy and walking right in front of you. You can also explore the untamed jungles using sky-high translucent metal rope walkways spanning the treetops, or wander the high altitude tree plantations with the lady tea pickers, who still pick by hand the old fashioned way.
Where to Stay in the National Parks
In Akagera, , which boasts perfectly situated lakefront accommodations for a Big Five safari. In Nyungwe, opt for the outstanding

Blopps

06/10/2023

05/10/2023

04/10/2023

02/10/2023

30/09/2023

27/09/2023

24/09/2023

21/09/2023

18/09/2023

14/09/2023

12/09/2023

08/09/2023

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Featured

Share

Category

Monday	09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Thursday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00