January 5, 2026—the first official workday of the year. Across Kigali, alarm clocks rang early, and the streets began to hum with the familiar rhythm of commuters. I, however, woke up late, without a plan, letting the day unfold at its own pace.
By mid-morning, I found myself on the saddle of my bike, spinning through Kigali’s streets, letting curiosity lead the way. The ride carried me into Kibagabaga, an affluent neighborhood where posh houses and impeccable infrastructure seemed to reflect a city quietly polishing its edges. I lingered a little longer, admiring the calm, orderly streets that spoke of careful planning and quiet ambition.
As I was leaving the hood, something familiar caught my eye—a boutique hotel I had frequented a decade ago, hosting guests and spending long, laughter-filled evenings there. Ownership and management had changed over the years, yet its allure remained untouched. On impulse, I decided to check it out.
Now, I sit on the verandah, a cup of coffee warming my hands, the cozy ambiance inviting me to slow down. On one side, Kibagabaga’s lavish homes stretch in serene order; on the other, Kigali’s skyline rises, a breathtaking testament to a city in motion.
I have just toured the hotel. The rooms are cozy, and the coffee outlet and restaurant offer a warm, inviting atmosphere, stirring memories of evenings spent here years ago with friends—the laughter, the easy conversations, the feeling that time could stretch on forever.
For a day that began with no plan, this coffee break has felt like coming home—a return to familiar corners, to simple pleasures, and to the quiet comfort of watching a city stir awake to a new year.
If this morning is any indication of how 2026 will unfold, then I already love this year—full of familiar joys, small discoveries, and moments that make you feel quietly, wonderfully alive.