WHERE TO VISIT IN LAGOS

March 15, 2019March 15, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING TARKWA BAY BEACH LAGOS (TIPS & HACKS)

Tarkwa Bay Beach is an “oasis” from the hustle and bustle of life on the Lagos Island. The sheltered beach is located near the Lagos Harbour and only a 20 minute boat ride from Victoria Island. The trip is a perfect “daycation.” It is also home to guest houses so also a perfect getaway if you want to take a honeymoon vacation (if you’re not prepared to deal with the issues that come along with holding a Nigerian Passport). I am actually ashamed to say that it was my first time visiting, after so many years of living in Lagos.

GETTING TO TARKWA BAY

We took a boat from FIKI Marina located at 3/4 Ozumba Mbadiwe Ave, Eti-Osa, Lagos. The boats have an hourly schedule on the weekends (but this may be delayed so expect it). The cost of an adult return trip is N4,000 and for kids is N3,000. They are open from 9am to 6pm. Expect the last boat to leave Tarkwa Bay at 6pm

ARRIVING AT TARKWA BAY

Because the Boats can not dock on the shore of the beach, you will have to step unto a floater which will then be pulled to shore (its a balancing but fun act to get through this). There is an entry fee to the beach (currently at N200)

AT THE BEACH

Be prepared to be approached once you land at Tarkwa Bay Beach. Many will come to you to sell you cabanas and offer to carry your belongings for you. If you don’t want to hire a cabana or chair, feel free to ignore them. But if you plan to rent a cabana or chair, speak to them and negotiate. Fortunately for me, I met friends that were organising an event so I didn’t have to pay for a chair/cabana.

SPENDING TIME AT TARKWA BAY

There are many vendors on the beach (many being children). They are very polite so if you tell them not to intrude, they won’t. I had a great time talking to the kids and even buying beach outfits from them. There are snacks available for sale from coconuts, groundnuts etc. To give you a sense of costs, my coconut was N200. It is interesting to know that many people live in Tarkwa bay and there are schools and churches on ground.

On the beach you can play volleyball (bring your ball of course as only a net is available), ride a horse etc.

With Veronica, Stephanie and their friends

With my lovely friend Efua (a travel lover like myself)

TIPS & HACKS FOR TARKWA BAYG

Get to Tarkwa Bay early – aim to leave Fiki Marina early in the morning so you get to enjoy the most of the day
Bring your own food and drinks – we made sure to stock up on water, alchohol, snacks, ice etc so that we had enough food to consume.
Take an ice cooler to keep your ice and drinks cold
Bring cash as beach vendors only take cash
If you want music and a “vibe” bring along your speaker to play your own music and ensure all electricals are fully charged
Bring your swimsuit and towel and a change of clothes. Many people swam in the water but I didn’t for no particular reason.

Have you been to Tarkwa Bay before? If you have, leave a travel tip below. If you haven’t, leave a comment to let me know if my guide was useful. I hope it was.

To connect with me, FOLLOW MY SOCIAL LINKS:

INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/sassy_funke
YOUTUBE: https://bit.ly/2yTp4QQ
TWITTER: www.twitter.com/sassy_funke
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/sassyfunke

R

July 9, 2018September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO VISITING LA CAMPAGNE TROPICANA BEACH RESORT

La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort is a private 60-acre beach resort in Lagos. The beach resort is located in Ibeju lekki, a 2 hour drive from Victoria Island. WATCH my VLOG and leave a comment if you have any questions.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXvFuWeODu8[/embedyt]

Share below your favorite beach resort in Nigeria!!

February 21, 2018February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING NIKE ART GALLERY

Nike Art Gallery is Nigeria’s leading art gallery. It is also No.1 on Trip Advisor’s list of top places to visit in Lagos, Nigeria. The gallery is owned by Chief Nike Davies Okundaye. The Lagos gallery is located at 2 Elegushi Beach Road in Lekki. This four storey gallery comprises of an art gallery and textile museum featuring over 7,000 pieces. On-site is also home to a coffee shop. Below is a visual diary and information on the gallery.

The entrance of the gallery

A view of the courtyard at the gallery’s entrance

A view of the gallery from the 3rd floor

More art

A wall of incredible beading and textile

The onsite gallery cafe

Meeting Chief Nike at her gallery

LOCATION: 2 Elegushi Beach Road, 3rd Roundabout, Epe Expressway, Lekki Phase I, Lekki, Nigeria

ENTRY COST: No entry fee

OPENING HOURS: 10AM TO 6PM (Everyday)

CONTACT INFORMATION: +234 1 270 5964

WHAT TO EXPECT: From Textiles to Paintings to Metal work to Fabrics

PRICE RANGE: It ranges from a few thousands to millions of Naira

PAYMENT METHOD: USD and local currency “Naira” is accepted

OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST NEARBY: Lekki Arts & Craft Market (Aka. Jakande Market), Lekki Conservation Centre

Have you heard of Nike Art Gallery before? Leave a comment

FOLLOW ME on INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, TWITTER for more amazing TRAVEL content.

Featured image credit: EkoCityGuide

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

FOLLOW ME on INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, TWITTER for more amazing TRAVEL content.

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 11, 2017February 3, 2019

A GUIDE TO VISITING LEKKI ARTS & CRAFT MARKET (TIPS & HACKS)

Lekki Arts & Craft (also known as Oba Elegushi International Market or Jakande Art Market) is what I would call a gem that does well to showcase the beauty that is within my country, Nigeria. It is a gem that gets overlooked because of its hidden location. Prepare to get another history lesson as you manure through this unique place. The market consists of well organised mini stores (over 60 stores if not more) that sell pieces from carvings to metal work to corals to painting to pearls and much more.

The market is located on Oba Elegushi Street, Off Lekki-Epe expressway (between 4th and 5th roundabout) which is about a 15-20min journey from Victoria Island. Below is a visual diary of my visit to the Lekki Arts and craft Market. I will also be sharing tips and contacts of stores that impressed me so read on:

A snapshot of a row of stores at the very well organised market

One of my favourite stores “Alara Collections” (Store D6 & D19) with unique home craft pieces. Contact: 0803 6578603

Custom furniture anyone?

Affordable gem stones anyone?

ART!

If you are interested in Ambar, Shebra Beads, Chevron Beads, PEARLS (real) and even leather bags, go to “Nura Bala” at Shop D9 (This gentleman is amazing and he will give you a great deal – show him this pic to seal the deal). Contact: 0802 618 2073

My travel companions and I

TIPS FOR SURVIVING AND WINNING BIG AT LEKKI ARTS & CRAFT MARKET

?*TIP 1* Don’t buy from the first shop you visit (Window Shop First). Stores are well labelled so easy to find in case you want to return.

?*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* Wear a hat and ensure you have water for hydration as it can very hot.

?*TIP 6* Avoid going at weekends if you can

Do you know of other hidden gems like this Lekki Market in Lagos? Share below

FOLLOW ME on INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, TWITTER for more amazing TRAVEL content.

April 5, 2017September 21, 2018

ROAD TRIP TO LA CAMPAGNE TROPICANA BEACH RESORT

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtsbNZpl4lY[/embedyt]

ROAD TRIP TO LA CAMPAGNE TROPICANA BEACH RESORT

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?

FOLLOW ME on INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, TWITTER for more amazing TRAVEL content.

March 7, 2017September 21, 2018

A GUIDE TO VISITING MAKOKO – A SLUM IN THE CENTRE OF LAGOS?

For many years whilst driving through the “Third Mainland Bridge” in Lagos, I notice a community built on water. I always asked myself why people lived there and years later I ask why they chose never to leave. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit this community whose name is “MAKOKO” and had my questions answered.

Makoko is a community with over 100,000 people (85% Christians and 15% muslim). This community is a fishing community with men responsible for catching fish whilst women are responsible for smoking and selling fish. The people are mainly from the Ijaw tribe (hence the reason I couldn’t understand the language spoken in Makoko) with some from the Yoruba and Igbo tribe. Makoko consists of 11 communities (6 of which are built on water). The community operates self sufficiently with limited interference from the government with chief being the judicial system. Below is a visual diary of my trip to Makoko (see also my SHORT video diary):

Approaching…

Commerce. Tomatoes anyone? Canoeing is the mode of transport.

Kids learn to swim from the age of 3

Mother and child

Certificate of chieftancy at the visit to the Chief’s house

A view from the primary school

The primary school in Makoko which educates 269 people a year

With the Chief’s youngest brother Noah Shamede who is also the Director of the school

Yours truly

How did I organise this trip: I am a member of the Nigerian Field Society, a national organisation made up of volunteers that organise trips across Nigeria. If you are interested in well organised trips, ensure to join the society.

How long was the trip: A 20-30min boat trip from Victoria Island to Makoko. Overall trip was 3 hours long.

What did I enjoy the most: The Q&A with Noah Shamede which gave interesting insights into the community. And seeing Makoko from inward instead from how I viewed it driving on the third mainland bridge.

Travel tips:

The heat can be intense so I suggest you take along drinks and snacks
Wear a hat to protect you from the heat
Wear comfortable shoes like trainers
Wear trousers (makes getting in and out of the boat easy)

Hope you enjoyed the write up on Makoko. Share your most memorable site to visit in Nigeria.