Travel – Flight Reviews – Lifestyle
I have partnered with Jumia Travel NG to give one lucky winner a nights stay for 2 (including breakfast) at the Radisson Hotel in Ikeja. TO WIN, FOLLOW the instructions here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BsU-OQwhMtx/
ENTRY closes at midnight Monday 14th January
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2017 has been an incredible year of travel for me. Hope you enjoy this video montage of my travels this year and that it inspires you for the year ahead.
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There are different kinds of people that visit Lagos. There are the ones that have come to attend an event/celebration like a traditional wedding, those that are in town to seal a business deal, those that are here to soak up the sun in the summer, those that are Party-ready, PepperDemGang-ready and come to Lagos in December to find their future husbands. And of course, those that are here to visit family.
The tips I will be providing in the 5 ways to save money when visiting Lagos applies to everyone mentioned (as we know most likely you might fall into a combination of two or more of the categories even if by accident).
1. DON’T BUY ASO-EBI (if it will bankrupt you)
Aso-Ebi is a traditional wear that the friends of the couple wear to attend a wedding. Prices can run up high so rather than follow the crowd, analyse your pocket #EnoughSaid
2. ASK BEFORE YOU BUY/USE/DRINK
Especially at bars, ensure to ask exactly how much the prices for alcohol is as you might have a heart attack if you’ve already consumed the drinks and realise the venue wasn’t created for people like you. It is also important to ask and get a clear sense of EXACTLY what you are paying for when making any purchase or transaction (Don’t ASSUME anything).
3. NEGOTIATE
Remember in Lagos, everything can be negotiated (except food in a well organised grocery supermarkets) so make sure that you never pay the first price stated by a vendor. Vendors expect you to bargain (as they naturally overprice their products) so please DO. (Tip: You can negotiate deals at electronics stores especially if you are buying high valued items, just request to speak to the manager)
4. DON’T TIP (if you can’t afford it but do tip for great service)
Memory lane takes me to when I was in New York 7 years ago when I forgot to tip a cab driver. He followed me out of the cab and uttered some serious insults for not tipping. That will not happen in Nigeria. Tipping isn’t an obligation, it is a free choice so ensure that you exercise your right to choose your stance.
5. REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT “MOTHER THERESA” (unless of course you are)
Most people that visit Lagos are very generous with giving money to the needy and I personally find nothing wrong with that but it will get exhausting. Rather than giving money to beggars, why don’t you sponsor a child’s education through a well organised organisation with small donations (It will go farther).
6. CHEAPER DOESN’T MEAN BETTER
In your quest to save money, make sure you don’t compromise on quality. If a price seems too good to be true, make sure you run it by a close Lagosian friend who will give you a review better than that on Trip advisor. Ensure to do your research as the same product can significantly be sold at different prices in the same vicinity.
7. STAY AND SOCIALISE ON THE MAINLAND (and from time to time pop over to the Island)
The prices of everything in Victoria Island, Ikoyi and parts of lekki are inflated. This is due to the cost of rent in these areas which are much higher than those on the Lagos Mainland for instance. Whether it be the cost of hotels or food or artefacts, it will be more expensive in Victoria Island and Ikoyi.
Those are my quick tips on how to save money when visiting Lagos. I hope it was useful. Let me know if it was and perhaps you have other tips and hacks. Comment below!!
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?
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.
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TIPS
OTHER INFO
HOW TO BOOK
Lagosians, What other activities are worth exploring in Lagos?
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
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
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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:
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
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)
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)
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:
Hope you enjoyed my review of the Lekki Conservation Centre. Have you been there before? What were your thoughts?
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On a beautiful Saturday weeks ago, myself alongside my fellow blogger Bidemi (www.bidsingraceland.com) and her friends took a jetty boat from the Lagos boat club in Ikoyi to venture on a 25min bumpy ride to Ilashe. Ilashe is located along badagry creek. This was my second time in Ilashe. The first time, I had come to celebrate a private birthday at a private beach house (which was a blast btw, anything that gets me away from the hustle and bustle of Lagos has my vote – Great company and positive vibes is all you need to have a great time in the crazy city). This time my experience was as great as the first but certainly had a different kinda vibe.
Arriving at the dock with “Akin” the owner of the beach club, we took a 5 minute walk to the club. I was met with a basketball court, a ping pong table, colorful art work and a cool hippy vibe. Pop beach club is an exclusive sports club in Ilashe. It has that unpretentious vibe that most clubs I have been to across the world seem to lack. This vibe seemed to just allow people to be who they are and have a good time. It also seemed to encourages individual mixing out of their groups (something I notice Nigerians don’t seem to do much of – “If I didn’t come out with you, why am I talking to you?”)
I spent the day unwinding, munching (at the goodies and snacks we brought from the mainland shore), swimming, reading me some paulo coehlo and having good conversation. At 6pm, we set off back to Ikoyi contented. If you looking from a cool chilled vibe away from home with a few friends, Pop beach club is the one. The owner was a great host, the grilled chicken and fries delicious and the vibe 100%
Pop beach club also has accommodation for night stays so a perfect staycation out of the bustle of Lagos.
I hope I didn’t bore you too much – If I did, I hope the images below compensate. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. And please if you have cool spots you believe I NEED to see, please share.
Much Love
#SassyFunke x
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Too often many of us to do not appreciate our own history and we spend considerable time and money flying ourselves to other countries to learn about their history. When a friend of mine decided a while back that we should embark upon a trip to a beach in Ibeju Lekki, a beach with historical significance, I was sold. Ibeju Lekki is located east of Lekki. The beach of Ibeju Lekki was near the Lagos Free Trade Zone, a zone I had never been aware of. It took us approximately 2 hours from Victoria Island. 2 hours later, we stumbled upon an historical gem.
Rather than bore you with the history of the Awolowo museum at Ibeju Lekki (Chief Awolowo was one of the founding father of Nigeria btw) and the remains of the Regis Aine Factory (a slave trade company) which laid beside the beautiful beach, I’ll leave you with pictures and captions which am sure will be much easier for you to digest. Also I have a video of a Shrine we located alongside the beautiful beach. As always, I hope you enjoy and get to see a little more of my homeland and hopefully one day, make a visit.
#SassyFunke
Chief Awolowo On Self-Discipline
“I will, more than ever before, subject myself to severe self- discipline. Only men who are masters of themselves become easily masters of others. Therefore, my thoughts, my tongue,
and my actions shall be brought under strict control always.”
– My March Through Prison, 1985
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