"A white lady is like gold for us": Economic and emotional dimensions of Kenyan-German romantic relations

This essay explores dimensions relevant to understanding the high number of romantic relationships between African Kenyan and German, Swiss, and Austrian partners that are observable on the coast and in other areas of Kenya. The study focuses on Diani, an area on the South Coast of Mombasa that is one of the most vibrant beach tourism centers of the country. North-south relationships and marriages, which are increasing around the world, are indicative of both economic and emotional dimensions of global mobility. The author argues that romance and marriage ought to be acknowledged as crucial vehicles facilitating not only emotional but also economic transnational flows.