AFRICA – Page 2 – #SASSYFUNKE

August 25, 2017August 25, 2017

VISA-FREE DESTINATIONS IN AFRICA FOR NIGERIANS ??

I receive many questions from my readers, some of which are related to travel destinations I would recommend for honeymoons and group trips. Some of these questions come from my Nigerian readers, who have issues getting visas or simply don’t have the patience to apply for them. Below is a video answering their question. Below are AMAZING visa-free destinations for those readers and YOU.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGAfX8GAUCM[/embedyt]

Have you been to any of these destinations before? And what were your thoughts on them?

July 20, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING EKO HOTEL ART & CRAFT MARKET

Eko hotel art and craft market is an organised creative market located in Eko hotel and suites in the heart of Victoria Island. It can be found on Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street. The market is very similar to that in Lekki “Lekki Arts & Craft Market”. It is certainly a smaller version of the Lekki market and its location on prime property also reflects on the prices of the pieces sold at the market. The market consists of organised stalls under one roof. Pieces range from bronze pieces to jewellery to masks (Expect to see less paintings for sale as compared to in Lekki Art Market).

This market is also home to Foreign exchange traders. Expect to find one of the best FX rates in Lagos here. Don’t forget to haggle as I have re-iterated in many of my Nigeria-related posts.

Animal skin bags for sale

A jewellery store which also double takes as a FX currency store

A view of a trader at his store

The market is home to many stunning sculptures and masks

TIPS FOR WINNING BIG AT EKO HOTEL ART & CRAFT MARKET (CRAFTS OR FX)

?*TIP 1* Don’t buy from the first shop you visit (Window Shop First).

?*TIP 2* Prepare to bargain heavily (I always try to start my bid at 25% of the sellers first price).

?*TIP 3* Don’t feel pressured to buy anything (especially if you have a few days in Lagos and you can visit again). Simply collect the vendors information for future visit.

?*TIP 4* Pretend to be a local and tell the vendor that Nigeria is home so they have to give you a non-touristy price.

?*TIP 5* For FX transactions, make sure to check the black market rate first (AbokiFX) and expect to get very close to that price (If not, don’t deal)

Do you know of other hidden gems like this EKO hotel Art & Craft Market in Lagos? Please share below and don’t forget to click “recommend” if you enjoyed this post x

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July 8, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING OLUMO ROCK, ABEOKUTA

Olumo rock is a popular tourist destination located in the city of Abeokuta [meaning “under the rock”] in Ogun State (only an hours drive from the bustling city of Lagos). The city of Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the egba people who found refuge at the Olumo rock during inter-tribal wars in the 19th century. The rock acted as sanctuary to the people as well as a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance. The site was renovated in 2006 to include an elevator, a water fountain and a museum.

Below is my travel video to Olumo Rock {Click here to SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube Channel for more AMAZING ?? travel videos}, visual diary and tips on visiting Abeokuta and Olumo Rock.

WATCH MY TRAVEL VIDEO BELOW

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mFEFgQO3fg[/embedyt]

VISUAL DIARY

At the fountain in front of the Rock

The elevator and garden at the base of Olumo Rock

The Cultural and Musical Heritage Centre at Olumo Rock

The small centre which was not opened during my visit

A view from the second landing whilst climbing the rock

In front of the “Orisa Olumo Chamber”, a shrine at the site. (Spot the sacrificed birds on the door of the shrine)

About to explore the Hide-Out cave in the Rock

The lady behind me is known to be the 132 year old Iya Orisa who lived most of her life under the rock (2017)

Another shrine at Olumo Rock

A representation of the deities

Manoeuvring between the rocks

Getting a helping hand from my tour guide to climb the rock

The view from at the top of my climb

TRAVEL TIPS

Make sure to get a tour guide to take you up the rock. It is safer and I enjoyed the delivery of the history lesson. (My tour guides where incredibly knowledgeable and were very happy to take pictures and record my trip)

Ensure to take a bottle of water up the climb in case you get dehydrated.

Take your camera up the climb to capture the views at the top of Olumo Rock which showcases the beauty of Abeokuta

Tour guides do not charge a standard price/they aren’t allowed to but feel free to tip them as you deem fit

Make sure to dress appropriately (wear trousers/leggings and trainers for the climb

TRAVEL REVIEW

Costs: N700 to visit. N2000 to visit using the elevator (bear in mind the elevator wasn’t working during my visit).

Where did I stay: Abeokuta has many accommodation options. I stayed at the Daktad Suites and Event Centre (a lovely hotel). Tip would be to book your hotel in advance on Jumia travel.

Accessibility: If walking up a small hill is an issue for you, I would avoid visiting Olumo rock as I cannot guarantee the elevator would work (unless you are happy to admire the rock from the base).

My verdict: I had a great time visiting the rock. It was an impressive site with very knowledgeable guides.

What did you think of my write-up? Hope you enjoyed it and it was useful? LET ME KNOW

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June 21, 2017September 21, 2018

THE ULTIMATE LAGOS BUCKET LIST

Lagos (Nigeria) is a city bustling with so much energy and vibes. Lagosians are a friendly and vibrant bunch and our energy is contagious. Having lived here for many years as a child and more recently as a working adult, I can say that their are few places in the world like Lagos. Below is my Lagos bucket list a.k.a gems and experiences that stand out to me and that hopefully will help you enjoy your time here (however brief or long you time in Lagos may be).

1. Walk across the Lekki-Ikoyi bridge at night

This 1.36km bridge connecting Lekki and Ikoyi is best seen at night where the beauty of the bridge truly shines. Expect to find runners and walkers getting their fitness sessions on in the evening.

2. Visit Yellow Chilli restaurant and order their “Seafood okro”

This is for all foodies. Yellow chilli restaurant is where you find authentic Nigeria dishes at affordable prices in a lovely african-inspired setting. The seafood okra is no doubt their signature dish and it will keep you coming back for more.

3. Visit the Lekki Arts & Craft market

Here you will find authentic arts and crafts from every culture in Nigeria (whilst also getting a history lesson). From leather to painting to metal work, prepare to find unique gems in this market. This market will leave you in awe and keep you spending (well worth it). See my review of the market here

4. Go to Quilox on a Friday or Saturday night

This is for those that want to verify that Lagos is truly the AFRObeat party capital of the continent. Quilox is a popular nightclub with beautiful decor and great music. Prepare for a long fun night out.

5. Attend an “Afropolitan Vibes” night out

Afropolitan Vibes is the premiere live concert series that invites amazing artists to perform live at Freedom Park’s Amphitheatre in Lagos, Nigeria. A very chilled and down-to-earth environment that brings the culturally aware residents of Lagos together. Here you can also try the local food and drinks like “palm wine” e.t.c

6. Take a day trip to Badagry

Badagry is home to the history of the Slave trade. In Badagry, you have visit the slave museums, the first storey house in Nigeria and visit “the point of no return” (This is the point where slaves were shipped from Nigeria to foreign lands).

7. Ride the streets of Lagos in a Keke Napep

This is certainly a great way to get around Lagos especially if you are traveling short distances. They are small enough vehicles to manoeuvre through traffic and also airy enough to ensure you don’t suffer heat stroke (Did I mention they are a cheap and affordable means of travel?)

8. Visit the beach

There a many stunning beaches to visit in Lagos. If you are keen for a beach club scene, visit “Pop Beach Club” on the weekend. If you are looking for a private beach feel, visit “La Manga Luxury Villas Ilashe” and if your thing is more of a resort feel, visit “La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort”.

9. Visit Makoko “The Community Built on Stilts”

Makoko is a community village build on stilts in water. The people of Makoko thrive on fishing as their major form of trade. A tour through Makoko is an eye opening experience to a completely different way of living than in the rest of Lagos.

10. Visit Nike Art Gallery

If you’re looking for a gallery that truly celebrates the many dimensions of what Nigeria has to offer, look no further than Nike Art Gallery. Chief Nike-Davies Okundaye (the owner of the gallery) is

11. Watch a play at Muson Centre

Muson Centre (Music society of Nigeria) is a performing arts centre that hosts many awarding-winning plays. Check their schedule and attend one of the plays. This is another side of Lagos that showcases the incredible talent that Nigeria has to offer.

12. Try a Gelato scoop or 2 at Hans & Rene

You think Lagos and you don’t necessarily think Gelato. Hans and Rene has changed that. With so many flavours (some inspired from locally grown fruits), you will be spoilt for choice. They are indeed the connoisseurs of the sweet life.

13. Stop by at “Glover Court Suya” and try Suya

Glover Court Suya is the King of Suya (grilled beef meat nigerian-style) in Ikoyi and is conveniently located on Glover Court. It is a popular spot for locals and expect long queues late nights on Friday and Saturday but the Suya is certainly worth any wait. Word of advise, if you are not into spicy food, ask them to go low on the spice or put the spice to the side #ThankMeLater

14. Visit Terra Kulture

Terra Kulture is a leading art, culture, lifestyle and educational centre in Lagos. For most of us Lagosians, we see Terra Kulture as a GALLERY + AFRICAN RESTAURANT. It is worth the visit.

15. Visit Lekki Conservation and climb the longest canopy walkway in Africa

Lekki conservation centre is one of Africa’s prominent and most-diverse urban Nature Parks due to its high species richness so certainly a must during your trip. The main attraction of the park is the walkway where you will find yourself close to the clouds.

16. Visit the NEW AFRIKA SHRINE (KALAKUTA)

First started in 1970’s by legendary Late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, this is an entertainment centre with african politics, great live music, food and drink bringing together residents of Nigeria from all walks of life. Out of the box but certainly a must.

17. Venture beyond Lagos

One of the biggest mistakes visitors of Lagos make is that they fail to venture outside of Lagos. Many of the incredible festivals that occur in Nigeria aren’t in Lagos. Many of the incredible resorts in the country aren’t in Lagos. My own plan is to venture out more than I currently do. Stay tuned for more experiences in Nigeria.

So over to you! What are your favourite memories from your trip to Lagos?

May 7, 2017September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO KAYAKING in LAGOS

I am sure you may be a bit confused with my title but its true, Kayaking does happen in Lagos and yes on the Lagoon. I used to be on of those people that complained that “There is nothing to do in Lagos” but truth is there is and thanks to websites like NothingToDoInLagos, Lagosians have been able to unearth activities to jazz up our lives. I went Kayaking with a friend of mine and below is a video clip of our afternoon kayaking. Read on for Kayaking activity tips and how to book your session.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHYOLZPOeXE[/embedyt]

TIPS

Ensure to go along with a friend, the more people you have with you, the more fun you’ll probably have.
Bring drinks and snacks for hydration
I would suggest wearing sandals or flip flops (no need for fancy footwear)

OTHER INFO

FEE: N 6,000 Per Kayak For 4 Hours, 2,500 Per Hour for 2-3 Hours & N3,000 For 1 Hour (Fee accurate as at April 2016)
TIMING: Thursday & Friday 9:00AM – 6:00PM Saturday 9:00AM – 6:00PM Sunday 9:00AM – 6:00PM (Timing accurate as at April 2016)
DRESSING: Caps, Sunglasses, Sports apparel or any waterproof apparel (including ziplock bags for phones in case you want to take your camera along) is recommended

HOW TO BOOK

Contact NothingToDoInLagos via nothingtodoinlagos@gmail.com

Lagosians, What other activities are worth exploring in Lagos?

April 6, 2017September 21, 2018

CHECKING IN: Nike Guest house, Osogbo

For many that venture into states other than Lagos and Abuja, we can be skeptical of the availability of good facilities such as hotels. I recently visited Osogbo, a town in Osun state and whilst I was there, I stayed at Nike Guest House. Nike Guest House is a product from Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Nigeria’s internationally known and renowned female designer and artist. Below are visuals from my stay. Read to the end to see my honest thoughts on my stay.

THE BUILDING

A view of Nike Guest House located on Nike Art Gallery Avenue

Dancers from Nike’s Art & Culture performing in front of the main building at the guest house

Sitting pretty in front of the house

A view of the 2nd building at Nike Guest House

THE INTERIOR

Communal living room in the centre of the main building (similar to moroccan riad style homes)

Another communal living room at the guest house

My room at the guest house. There were many other room options (none alike)

THE FOOD

Dinner couldn’t be faulted. It was a buffet with so many delicious options (The chef did well :))

Breakfast with my tour group was equally great (both continental and african options). We all were stuffed! (my plate is not a true reflection of the options available.

THE GARDEN

Part of the beautiful garden at the guesthouse

A stunning view of the garden from the main building during breakfast, wouldn’t you agree?

The resident tortoise in the garden.

What I loved: The food, the evening entertainment and the beautiful garden (not to mention the amazing staff that were very helpful).

What I didn’t like: Well the room I took didn’t have a solid partition between the room and the bathroom. I didn’t mind but I guess its non-conventional.

Would I go back: If I visit Osogbo again, I will certainly visit. I would also recommend it to family and friends

Hope you enjoyed the write-up on Nike Guest House.

March 30, 2017September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO VISITING OSOGBO, OSUN STATE || STAYCATION

I went on a weekend trip to Osogbo. Osogbo is a city in Osun state located about 225km NE of Lagos state. Osogbo also turns out to be my birth town. I have never stepped in Osogbo since birth and as such this trip had more significance to me than others. I was stunned by how much heritage Osogbo had and wanted to share that with you all with the hope that one day, you will visit too.

DAY 1: DRIVE TO OSOGBO (WITH A SHORT BREAK AT IBADAN) – VISIT LOCAL BLACK SOAP/PALM OIL/CASSAVA PROCESSING FACTORY – VISIT AN OBA’S (A KINGS) PALACE

After receiving a black making soap process tour from this amazing woman, we bantered together in my local dialect “Yoruba”.

Watching the palm oil processing process

At the cassava-processing (a.k.a garri making) plant.

We had the pleasure to attend the 10th anniversary of the Oba of Ido Osun at his palace and his appointing of a Chieftaincy.

Post the chieftaincy ceremony

DAY 2: VISIT UNESCO HERITAGE SITE “OSUN GROOVES” – VISIT SUSANNE WENGER’S HOUSE – NIKE’S ART GALLERY

The visitor centre at the UNESCO Heritage site “Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove”

A meeting place at Osun Grove

Standing by one of the amazing sculptures by Susanne Wenger and other artists mentored by her. Stay tuned for my full write up on this beautiful heritage site (VLOG of my trip also coming up soon)

At the home of Susan Wenger, An austrian artist and a priestess.

Some of the art collection by Susanne Wenger and artists she mentored at her home.

Nike Art Gallery, Osogbo

A visit to Nike’s Art Gallery in Osogbo. Chief Nike is one of Nigerias internationally known and renowned female designers and artist.

More art at Nike’s Art Gallery

Fashion at Nike’s art gallery

WHERE I STAYED: NIKE’S GUEST HOUSE

See here for my full review of my stay at Nike’s guest house

What did I like: Unearthing gems in Osogbo. The tour of the UNESCO site by a very knowledgeable tour guide was enlightening. My stay at Nike’s guest house was also memorable. The guest house’s garden (home to a tortoise) was nothing short of stunning. The visit to the Oba’s house was memorable as we were serenading with musicians and dancers.

What didn’t I like: I wish the local processing plants (i.e. for soap, palm oil) were more formally organised in a co-op for the benefit of those these.

What would I change: Nothing, absolutely nothing

What did you think about my write-up? Hope you enjoyed it. And if you have suggestions of what you would like for me to write on, let me know x

March 21, 2017

8 HACKS FOR surviving an airport in Nigeria

Before you think I am a bitter expat with too high expectations, I would like to clarify that I was born in Nigeria and have lived here for a considerable part of my life. Amongst my peers, I am always the first to defend my country. To say I love my country despite its many flaws is an understatement. I am #ProudlyNigerian. Nevertheless there are some things that even I cannot defend, things that I have tolerated and defended for so long that to defend them would be pure stupidity and more importantly impede the growth of my nation. One of those things is the state of our international airport in Lagos. I will not go into the issues but I will simple give you tips so that you can enjoy or at least not hate your experience so much that you refuse to fly into my beloved country again. Here they are “8 Hacks for surviving an airport in Nigeria”:

1. CHECK IN ONLINE (and PRINT out your CHECK-IN confirmation)

This is important especially if you are flying “cattle class”, sorry I meant Economy. And bear in mind that you may not see a baggage drop queue at the check-in desk. Simply approach an official with your confirmation and you will be able skip ahead of that unbelievable long-winded line.

2. DRESS LIKE YOU ARE GOING SOMEWHERE

The saying that says you should “dress as you want to be addressed” really applies here. People respect you more when you look decent so I suggest to avoid disrespect, dress like you’re someone important (aka rich or at least “not poor”). Sorry flip flops don’t cut it.

3. AVOID HEELS

If you’re unlucky enough to use an international credit card to book your flight, you will have the joy of being sent on a merry go round to do credit card verifications at the airlines office (Pray their systems are working). You want to conduct these activities in comfort AKA “NO heels” (simply to reduce your irritation).

4. IF ASKED YOUR OCCUPATION, RESPOND THAT YOU ARE A STUDENT (AKA You likely have little means of income)

This will reduce the likelihood that you will be begged for money. It can be a little irritating so just curb this by explaining you’re a student of UNILAG or which ever school you please (no rich schools).

5. HAVE MANNERS (a.k.a RESPECT YOUR ELDERS)

The truth is the airport can be a power-hungry environment and everyone from the check-in rep to the immigration rep may use his or her authority to put you down. Key ways to respect your elders are as follows:

Don’t use your left hand to pass anything to officials (it is rude and you will be faced with insults)
Respond to officials with “Yes Ma” and “Yes Sir”
Keep a happy/neutral face and banter with officials

6. GET A SHAPARONE

Who you know is everything in life and this applies at the Nigerian airport. Know the right person and you will likely seamlessly enjoy your hopefully short stint at the airport.

7. ENSURE YOU’VE BUILT UPPER BODY STRENGTH (or travel with a hulk)

Given all bags are manually checked at the check-in desk (I still don’t understand this), you will have to haul your bags on tables to be checked. Ensure to prepare for this so that you don’t feel irritated or question why the hell you have to do this.

8. BE MENTALLY PREPARED TO SHARE THE AIRPORT WITH OTHER SPECIES

The airport has been known to be homes to rats (don’t worry, they don’t bite and they are scared of you). Know that you are a superior being so when you see them, just ignore and continue with your day.

There may be many more hacks out there and perhaps you know them. Do SHARE in the comment section below so that your fellow travelers in and out of Nigeria can have a better experience.

Photo Credit: FAAN

March 14, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO Visiting Lekki Conservation Centre

Lekki Conservation Centre is a gem in Lagos State. It is a gem that I frankly believe needs to be promoted more but I do have my reservations and concerns (See my full review and travel tips for visiting at the end of this post). This conversation centre was established in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. The centre covers a land of approx. 78 hectares and is located along the Lagos-Epe expressway. I went to visit on a sunday afternoon and below is my visual diary. Don’t forget to watch my short VLOG on my trip here.

Arriving….

Keeping my eye on multiple monkeys

The trail begins

Hey beautiful!

Arriving at the main attraction (Africa longest canopy walkway)

Walking on the impressive walkway…If you’re afraid of heights, DO NOT DO THIS (It is not compulsory, there is an alternative walkway on land)

Checking out the picnic area

Human-size board games anyone?

One of the fish ponds

This one sure knows how to show off

What did I like: The trail especially the canopy walk (which is a must for an extra N1000). The area was well maintained.

What didn’t I like: The fact that I didn’t see many animals. I was told that many animals tend to make appearances early in the morning and late at night. But given the nature park isn’t open to the public during those times, the public never really gets to see many other animals.

What got me confused: If the park is home to black mambas and the likes, safety would be an issue, no? (I got the feeling there were probably no dangerous animals on site.

What could be better?: Better signage. It would have been easy to miss the picnic area and fish pond if we didn’t ask.

Animals I actually saw: Monkeys (at one point, I felt we humans were the minority), fishes, squirrel, peacock, tortoises.

Who should visit (for what?): Day out, picnic with friends, family day out.

TRAVEL TIPS:

Ensure to do the canopy walk (It is what makes the conservation centre what it is, its an additional costs but worth it)
Ensure to have a guide with you if you are interested in learning more about the park (they seem in short supply)
Bring along your own drinks and food because the heat can be intense
DO NOT WEAR HEELS (I saw a lady wearing heels, she had to take them off to walk the across the canopy walkway…It is not that kind of event)
There is only one way in and one way out so the further you walk is the same distance you have to walk back.

Hope you enjoyed my review of the Lekki Conservation Centre. Have you been there before? What were your thoughts?

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March 10, 2017March 5, 2017

THE LAGOS CHRONICLES: Lagos through the eyes of a stranger

First things first. Who is a stranger to Lagos? A stranger is not just a foreigner in Nigeria, a stranger in our own term means someone who has never lived in Lagos, Nigeria. They have always heard stories about Lagos, either via the media or through an acquaintance that has been there before. So wherever you are reading from, if you have never been to Lagos, you are a stranger. Truth is I know all the good and the bad things you have heard about this illustrious city, but I am here not only to debunk some and also to validate some as well.

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is very dangerous

THE REALITY:

Where is safe? Well Lagos is as safe as the streets of London. There are some places in London I would not attempt to go. Truth is you need to be aware of your environment; moreover the government has really intensified their efforts in making it safer.

Image: beegeagle

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

If you come to Lagos, you can get a job within the twinkle of an eye.

THE REALITY:

Lagos is for the smart and industrious, some of the people making it big here found their niche and didn’t wait for white-collar jobs. The chances are fairer that other states but then so are the chances in America but some people are still suffering there.

Image: gotoshool

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is for workaholics and there is no time for relaxation

THE REALITY:

You are right on the work angle but surely there is relaxation in Lagos. Have you seen the Lagosians do nightlife (I guess not)?. The city never sleeps but certainly gets more sleep than New Yorkers. After the stressful weekday, Lagosians know how to unwind at several spots such as the beach, boat clubs and sports clubs to mention a few. And the weekends? Just stop by at an event centre next to you, you would be sure to get free entertainment at any “Owambe” (Party).

Image via hotels.ng

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

Lagos is the place to get high class BAEs

THE REALITY:

You are right on that, if you are looking for high class BAE. Not that you cannot get them elsewhere but Lagos has them in abundance but then I must warn you, there are specific places to get the high class ones (I will talk about that another day).

Image: s3.amazonaws

THROUGH YOUR EYES:

The cost of living in Lagos is too high.

THE REALITY:

Though the cost of rent in Lagos is high but then other things such as food are cheap. Just don’t enter those fancy supermarkets in VI & Co. and you will be sure to save yourself some millions 🙂

Image: howafrica

Lagos is a beautiful city and you are definitely going to love it with it’s the fast life, authentic food, vibrant entertainment and so much more.

So have I changed your perception of Lagos?

What are your other perceptions about Lagos? Tell me and I will let you know if you can bank on them or not.