Lagos

Lagos is progressively becoming a prominent tourist destination, as a result of the re-modernization project carried out by the previous government of Governor Raji Babatunde Fashola. It is one of the biggest cities in Africa and the globe. Lagos is in the process of becoming a global metropolis. On April 25, 2009, the Eyo carnival (a annual celebration that started in Iperu Remo, Ogun State) was a step toward global city designation. Lagos is now recognized for being a business-oriented and fast-paced city.

In Lagos, there are several festivals, each with its own set of offerings and conducted at various times throughout the year. Eyo Festival, Badagry Festival, Lagos Black Heritage Carnival, Lagos Carnival, Eko International Film Festival, Lagos Seafood Festival, LAGOS PHOTO Festival, and The Lagos Jazz Series, a unique brand for high quality live music in all genres with a concentration on Jazz, are just a few of the events. The popular event, which began in 2010, takes place over a 3-5 day period at a variety of high-quality outdoor sites. The music is as eclectic as the crowd, with Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Afrobeat, Hiphop, Bebop, and classic Jazz among the genres represented. The festivals include dance and song entertainment to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay in Lagos.

The Atlantic Ocean features a variety of sandy beaches in Lagos, including Badagry Beach, Eleko Beach, Elegushi Beach, and Alpha Beach. Bar Beach and Lekki Beach are two of the most prominent beaches in Lagos. Lagos offers a wide range of hotel options, ranging from three to five stars. The Tafawa Balewa Square, Festac Town, Lekki Conservation Centre, The Remembrance Arcade, and the Slave Jetty in Badagry are all worth seeing.

Lagos has a tropical wet and dry climate (Aw) that is close to tropical monsoon conditions (Am). Lagos has two rainy seasons, with the biggest rainfall occurring between April and July and a lighter rainy season occurring between October and November. In August and September, there is a short dry period, followed by a prolonged dry season from December to March.

Between May and July, monthly rainfall averages over 400 millimetres (16 inches), drops to 200 millimetres (8 inches) in August and September, and goes as low as 25 millimetres in December (1 in). The primary dry season is accompanied by harmattan winds from the Sahara Desert, which may be particularly powerful between December and early February. The greatest maximum temperature ever recorded in Lagos was 37.3 degrees Celsius (99.1 degrees Fahrenheit), while the lowest was 13.9 degrees Celsius (57.0 degrees Fahrenheit).

Lagos is Nigeria’s economic hub, accounting for a large amount of the country’s GDP. The island’s core business center is where the majority of commercial and financial transactions take place. This is also the headquarters of the majority of the country’s commercial banks, financial institutions, and large enterprises. Lagos is also West Africa’s key information, communications, and telecommunications (ICT) centre, with the potential to be the continent’s largest ICT market. Lagos boasts one of Nigeria’s and Africa’s greatest living standards.

The Port of Lagos is Nigeria’s most important port and one of Africa’s biggest and busiest. The Nigerian Ports Authority manages the facility, which is divided into three sections: Lagos Port, which is located in the main channel next to Lagos Island, Apapa Port (the container terminal), and Tin Can Port, which are both located in Badagry Creek, which flows into Lagos Harbour from the west. There is a railhead at the port.

Between 1997 and 2000, the port saw a significant increase in the volume of crude oil shipped.

Oil and petroleum products account for 14 percent of Nigeria’s GDP and 90 percent of its foreign currency revenues.

GSM and CDMA networks are available in Nigeria. The majority of international GSM networks are available here through roaming partners. Local pre-activated GSM (SIM) connections may be acquired for a very low price from anywhere in the country. A SIM costs Naira 200/-.

At times, the networks in certain sections of Lagos might be highly unstable. On certain days, you won’t be able to make a phone call at all, or you won’t be able to charge your phone for the most of the day, making business very tough. However, it is only done on occasion, which is why, if you want to remain for a long time, you should have at least two phones or a dual sim phone.

Most European cities (London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Rome) as well as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Istanbul, Beirut, Johannesburg, Casablanca, Addis Ababa, Kigali, and Nairobi are all accessible by flight. Direct flights are also available from the United States (Atlanta, Houston, New York City). There are other flights to Lagos from most of West Africa’s main cities.

Lagos lies just approximately 100 kilometers from Benin’s border. Arrive early if flying out of Lagos International Airport, especially near weekends and festive days, as security has been significantly increased (you must have your passport and ticket to enter the departures area) since the liquid explosive incident in December 2009, where the terrorist began his journey from Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

ARRIVALS

A peculiar feature of landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport is that aircraft must stop short of the final parking area and be towed into position by a tug. This implies you’ll have to be seated for a little longer after arriving at the airport than at other airports.

The immigration procedure is lengthy and cumbersome because to the presence of two immigration officers at each desk (supposedly to minimize corruption) and the priority given to West African passport holders. Priority is usually given to families with small children and those with disabilities. You must have a Nigerian address and a Nigerian contact number when filling out the immigration landing card; they have been known to phone this number to check that you are anticipated.

After immigration, grab your suitcase from one of the new baggage conveyors (operational late 2013); if you have delicate or big baggage, check near the conveyor’s start.

If you’re traveling with a large corporation, you’ll often be greeted by “Protocol Officers” at the baggage collecting area. These agents will guarantee that you meet with the company’s official drivers and that you enjoy a safe ride out of the airport.

Following the collection of your baggage, you will be subjected to customs and agricultural inspections, with a fair probability that your bag will be inspected for the normal contraband.

Your yellow fever card will then be checked by a health inspector. Many travelers have found this to be a stumbling block, since there must be 10 days between immunization and travel, and authorities have refused individuals access (i.e. put back on the next plane out).

Finally, you must have your check-in baggage tag, since security will not let you to leave the airport until you produce this tag, which corresponds to each bag.

If you have not made contact with your driver/pick-up, do not leave the airport since you will not be permitted to return.

DEPARTURES

Many foreign flights depart in the evenings, and the airport gets quite crowded after 17:00, with lengthy check-in lines. If you are not flying business class or priority check-in, the check-in procedure might take a lengthy time. Your luggage has been pre-weighed, and if it weighs more over 25 kilograms per bag, you must lower the weight. The ground personnel then checks your passport information.

Agriculture, customs, and “antiquities” officers scrutinize your baggage, and any indecent items are likely to be seized; this is the bottleneck in the check-in procedure.

Finally, you arrive at the check-in desk, where you will be given your ticket as well as a departure card to fill out for border control.

New expansions at each end of the departures hall hold immigration, security checks, and passport control. Proceed to the security checkpoints after handing in your departure card. The examinations have been exceedingly rigorous since the Christmas bombing. This phase of the leaving procedure has been made much easier thanks to new scanners and passport control stations (previously this could take two hours).

After passport control, there are a variety of pay-access and Priority Pass lounges (you’ll want to utilize it if you have the time and $50 to spare after two hours in the security line). Use Oasis or Skye Lounge, both of which are excellent, particularly Oasis, which is exceptional even by first-world standards. The Gabfol lounge is free, but food and beverages are not.

A last check of the passport, yellow fever card, and boarding ticket is performed before to boarding. You are frisked and your hand baggage is opened and searched. Finally, it’s time to board the aircraft.

Nigerian rail services are still sluggish and unreliable, although numerous lines have resurfaced in recent years. The Nigerian Railway Corporation operates daily trains from Ilorin to Ibadan, as well as a three-times-weekly overnight service from Kano to Kaduna.

Murtala Muhammed Rd, Lagos Terminus (Across the bridge from Lagos Island). The city’s long-distance railway station may be a shambles.

Several bus companies, such as ABC Transport, Ifesinachi, and The Young Shall Grow, provide daily trips to practically all significant cities within the country as well as foreign destinations in West Africa. Buses are normally pretty pleasant, although the trip durations are quite lengthy.

If you’re visiting Lagos, make sure you’re escorted by a knowledgeable guide who knows the area. In recent years, getting around Lagos has grown considerably simpler, with street signs on every street corner making it easy to find destinations and landmarks. There has been a significant fall in crime overall as a result of the city investing large sums on security. During the day, it is generally safe to move about. If you’re going out at night, make sure you’re in a group and stick to well-traveled paths.

If you don’t have a limited budget, you should rent a vehicle and driver, which can typically be found at most large hotels and the airport. The hourly rate will be between $1,000 and $2,000, and you can expect to negotiate. Talk to the drivers and choose one with whom you believe you’ll be able to talk the best, since they’ll be able to tell you about the sites you’ll be passing through.

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in Lagos have resulted in some good mass transit buses. BRT lines operate on physically separated lanes, allowing them to go quicker while private automobiles are delayed in gridlock. NURTW Cooperative (Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers) and Lagbus, a Lagos State Government-owned Asset Management Company, operate the system. The buses are red (LagBus) and blue (BlueBus) (NURTW).

The BRT is one of the state’s three-pronged assaults on Lagos’ metropolitan traffic congestion. Buses may be a cost-effective and comfortable mode of transportation. Bus prices are reasonably priced, and there are a number of routes connecting the mainland and the islands.

Before boarding the BRT or Lagbus, tickets may be bought at the bus stations. Tickets cost between 70 and 120 Naira (as of October 2011). Even though the buses run until late at night, ticket dealers are seldom accessible in the evening. Because tickets do not have a timestamp, it is a good idea to buy a ticket booklet or a few tickets in advance.

Smaller yellow buses run all routes between the mainland and the island, as well as inside the mainland. The yellow bus system might be somewhat complex for a newcomer, so it’s a good idea to get assistance from a local. Local Nigerians would be delighted to assist an Oyinbo (white person). The fee is set and begins at 20 Naira and escalates in accordance with the distance traveled.

The BRT buses are more efficient, cleaner, and convenient. On a weekly basis, they transport hundreds of thousands of people.

Taxis are one of the most convenient methods to move about. Taxis are usually more expensive than buses. In older taxi taxis, it is customary to haggle the price before entering and pay when you arrive. The cabs are quite secure. The state is gradually replacing dilapidated buses and taxi taxis with new vehicles that are equipped with contemporary amenities to improve comfort.

New taxis are launched on a regular basis by licensed cab operators via public-private partnerships. The new air-conditioned taxi taxis are already giving Lagos a new look, with fares as low as N400 depending on distance. Taxis are available practically anywhere, and all new taxis have phone numbers to contact for a pickup. There are various taxi companies that service Lagos, and they take both metered and fixed rates, as well as cash:

• Red Cab. Taxi Service, +234 700 073 3222, e-mail: [email protected].
• Corporate Cabs, Plot 3A, Owukori Street, Alaka Estate, Surulere, e-mail:[email protected].
• Orange Cabs. Taxi Service, 18B, Ladoke Akintola Crescent,G.R.A., Ikeja, +234 791 7202, 234 702 911 9504, 234 819 116 6926, e-mail:[email protected]

Lagos’ road network is generally excellent, however traffic congestion and insufficient parking space are common, particularly during business hours. To prevent accidentally entering one-way streets or roads, keep an eye out for traffic signs. LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Agency) is in charge of traffic management in the majority of congested regions. To prevent receiving a fine or having your vehicle confiscated, be sure to respect traffic regulations and avoid driving in the BRT Bus lanes.

There are car parks at hotels and commercial centers across the city, and some of them provide free and secure parking. However, expect to spend roughly N200 or more for parking in other parts of the city. (N150=$1)

If you plan on remaining for a few days or longer, renting a vehicle is another option. There are several car rental businesses in the city, so renting a vehicle from your hotel or resort lodging to drive about in for the length of your visit is extremely simple. For this, Avis is your best bet; phone them or utilize their internet services:

• Avis Rent-A-Car, Avis House, 6 Degema CLose, Off Park Lane, Apapa GRA,  +234 803 718 7000, +234 1 764 6442, e-mail:[email protected].
• Hertz Car Rental, 12 Keffi Street, SW Ikoyi,  +234 1 2703700.
• Unity Global Ventures Car Rental, +1.877.810.1221, +234 8066348333, e-mail: [email protected]. Chauffeur drivenair-conditioned SUV car rental car hire service. N11,500 a day.
• Novo Car Rentals, 2nd floor, UBA Building, Plot 22B, Idowu Taylor Street, Victoria Island,  +234 1 270 2047, 234 1 271 7069, 234 1 873 0193, e-mail:[email protected]

The Lagos Ferry Services Company is slated to start conducting regular services between Lagos Island and the mainland, Mile 2 (Apapa axis). On the lagoon and several streams, modern ferries have been allocated to transport both people and goods. The services are planned to start as soon as possible.

Motorbike taxis known as Okada may be used to cover short distances. These motorcycles are fast, inexpensive, and save a lot of walking time, but they are also quite hazardous. Okada accidents are prevalent, but since the state government and the Federal Road Safety Commission have ordered it, safety equipment is now given. If you’re willing to take a chance, you may safely half their original price, and there are generally plenty of options. Before you attempt to haggle, have a local to confirm the fare. Allow a Nigerian friend to bargain for you, since the advertised rate for locals and tourists vary substantially (for obvious reasons). Because the younger drivers are cowboys, choose an elder driver.

Both the rider and the passenger must wear safety helmets at all times. The majority of the time, they are ill-fitting or even missing.

For safety concerns, Okadas are not permitted to operate after 7 p.m. Avoid using an Okada for long distances, in the weather, or at night since the bulk of the mainland lacks street lights.

The mainland, Greater Lagos, and the Islands are the three primary districts. The island is connected to the mainland by three major bridges. The Carter Bridge, which begins on Iddo Island and runs into Lagos lagoon, the Eko Bridge (previously known as the Second Mainland Bridge), and the Third Mainland Bridge, which runs through highly populated mainland districts.

The Mainland has a higher proportion of people and businesses. Ebute-Meta, Surulere (home to two stadiums and the National Theater), Yaba (home to the University of Lagos), and Ikeja (home to Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Lagos State’s capital).

Greater Lagos includes Mushin, Maryland, Somolu, Oshodi, Oworonsoki, Isolo, Ikotun, Agege, Iju Ishaga, Egbeda, Ketu, Bariga, Ipaja, and Ejigbo.

Lagos Island and Victoria Island are the two biggest metropolitan islands in the Lagos Lagoon. The major waterway emptying the lagoon into the Atlantic Ocean, which creates Lagos Harbour, separates these islands from the mainland. The islands are linked to Lagos Island by bridges and are separated by waterways of varied widths.

Lagos Island

A Central Business District may be found on Lagos Island (CBD). High-rise structures and businesses distinguish this neighborhood. Many of the city’s main wholesale marketplaces are also located on the island (such as the popular Idumota and Balogun markets). The National Museum of Nigeria, a Central mosque, Glover Memorial Hall, Christ’s Cathedral (CMS), and the Oba Palace are all located there. Finally, there’s Tinubu Square, a historically significant location where the Amalgamation ceremony that united the North and South protectorates to establish Nigeria took place in 1914. Ikoyi is located on Lagos Island’s eastern part and is connected to it via a landfill. A bridge connects Ikoyi to Victoria Island, carrying a key route across a Five Cowrie brook. There are several hotels, nightclubs, a leisure park, and one of Africa’s biggest golf courses in Ikoyi. Originally a working-class neighborhood, it has evolved into a desirable residential enclave for the upper middle and upper classes in recent years.

Victoria Island

Victoria Island (commonly known as V.I.) and Ikoyi, a prominent neighborhood in the suburbs of Lagos that features numerous large commercial districts, are home to many corporate offices and leisure areas. There is an ecologically restored Bar Beach on its seashore near the Atlantic front.

Eko Atlantic city is a newly constructed city. It is a master-planned community being built on reclaimed ground from the Atlantic Ocean. Dredgers, big ships that transport sand, are working around the clock to fill the region where the city will be constructed with sand. The city, which is expected to cover around 4 square miles, will provide financial, commercial, residential, and tourist accommodations through a state-of-the-art high-tech infrastructure that adheres to current and environmental norms. These criteria will provide contemporary water, waste management, security, and transportation systems to the city’s citizens. Additionally, Eko Atlantic will provide its inhabitants with a self-sufficient supply of energy produced exclusively for the community.

Tourist (Backpacker) – 48 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:meals in cheap restaurant, public transport, cheap hotel.

Tourist (regular) – 103 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:mid-range meals and drinks,transportation, hotel.

MARKET / SUPERMARKET

RESTAURANTS

ENTERTAINMENT

PERSONAL CARE

CLOTHES / SHOES

TRANSPORTATION

Lagos beaches are a major draw for visitors to this part of Nigeria. These tranquil stretches of coastline are made up of white sand and pure, blue sea. When visiting Lagos, visitors may select from over 10 beaches.

Bar Beach

This beach, by far the most popular, is situated on Victoria Island. This beach, known for its sand bars, stretches from the Institute of Oceanography in the west to the Eko Hotel in the east. Numerous activities, including horseback riding, swimming, and football, are accessible for sports aficionados.

Coconut Beach

Badagry is a town located west of Lagos. Coconut Shore is located in Badagry and is suitably called due to the coconut palms that surround the beach. Holiday resorts are nearby for refreshments during your beach excursion. At Coconut Beach, soak in the tropical sun and take in the scene.

Akodo Beach

This contemporary beach is a popular destination for visitors visiting the Lagos beaches. The beach is lined with modern amenities and equipment. At the neighborhood parks, members of all ages enjoy the rides and amusements. Along this beach, a swimming beach is also a popular area for taking a dip in the water. At Akodo Beach, chalets are also widespread.

From the white sand beach to the undulating waves that lap the coastline, the ambience completes the setting for every traveler. Palm palms tower above, offering the ultimate in relaxation to any beachgoer.

Eleko Beach

The Kaiyetoro-Eleko beach, one of the most calm and pristine in Lagos, receives a high volume of visitors throughout the year. Eleko Beach, which is popular with local families, provides a variety of athletic activities. For beachcombers of all sorts, the environment is peaceful and restorative.

Takwa Bay

Exclusive and situated across Lagos’ port, this beach is only accessible by boat. Swimming is common at this beach, which is known for its tranquil, peaceful waters. Additionally, surfing and water skiing are available. Tourists visiting Takwa Bay may rent tents and chairs. The tranquillity is enhanced by the winds that pass through the port.

Kuramo Waters

This beach is often compared to Bar Beach due to a feature on its boundary. Kuramo Lake borders the beach and is well-known for its variety of eateries. Numerous performances, including music and jamborees, are accessible throughout the week.

Badagry Town: Badagry’s Ancient Slave Port—also referred to as the ‘Point of No Return’. Badagry was established approximately 425 A.D. Prior to its establishment, people resided along the Gberefu Coast, which ultimately gave rise to the town of Badagry. It is Lagos State’s second biggest commercial town, situated an hour from Lagos and a half hour from the Republic of Benin.

Lagos has over a dozen beaches, providing visitors with a diverse selection. Excellent for picnics and barbecuing.

• Lagos Bar Beach. This Beach is called for the sand bars that border Lagos’s coastline, not for the plethora of clubs that line the beach itself. It is the primary inner city beach, while the other beaches give a greater “get away” from the city. Lekki Beach, Alpha Beach, Eleko Beach, and Akodo Beach are located to the east, while Tarkwa Bay, Ogogoro Island, Atlas Cove, Lighthouse Beach, Ilashe Beach, Agaja Beach, and Badagry Beach are located to the west.
• Tarkwa Bay. Tarkwa is a man-made bay and beach that was formed during the construction of Lagos Harbour. Within the port barrier, there is a protected beach. It’s easy to get there by boat from Tarzan Jetty in Maroko (for a reasonable and inexpensive fee per person) or beneath the Falomo Bridge on Victoria Island. The beach is a fun activity for the whole family, with safe swimming even for little children. It has its own permanent population, the majority of whom rely on the beach’s visitors for a livelihood. Surfing is also possible in a corner of Tarkwa Bay, and other water sports like Jet Skiing and Water Skiing are popular.
• Lighthouse Beach.The Lighthouse Beach is located right next to Tarkwa Bay and is named after the 110-year-old lighthouse that guards the entrance to Lagos Harbour. The Lighthouse is only visible from the shore, but it is definitely worth a visit. The stroll down the beach between Tarkwa Bay and Lighthouse Beach is really relaxing, and you may find yourself alone on the beach at times. On the horizon, you can see the numerous ships waiting to reach the harbor.
• Eko Tourist Resort (Akodo Beach) – It takes at least 40 minutes to travel from Lagos to this location. On ten acres with more than a half-mile of immaculate beach, the Resort features chalets, restaurants, and a huge meeting space.

National Museum of Nigeria

Awolowo Rd (On Lagos Island, opposite Muson Centre). 9AM-4PM daily. 

The Museum Kitchen is a fantastic spot to experience native Nigerian food on weekdays. ₦100 for Nigerians, ₦200 foreigners.

DIDI Museum

175 Akin Adesola St (On Victoria Island), +234 709 850 5052. M-F 9AM-6PM. 

A museum of modern art

Nike Art Gallery

2 Elegushi Road, Lekki Phase 1, +234 80 330 36969.

See some of the movies on Nigerian culture or visit an art exhibit that showcases the whole spectrum of Nigerian art. Nike Davies Okundaye, an artist and designer, runs the show. For art enthusiasts and purchasers, this is a fantastic location. Students at the Nike Art Centers, which also function as educational centers, participate in a range of arts. Traditional skills such as indigo dying and sculpture, as well as non-traditional arts like as painting and quilting, as well as other cultural activities such as drumming and dance, are practiced at the center.

National Theatre

Mainland, Iganmu-Surulere.. 

It is roughly a half-hour trip from Lagos Island to Iganmu on the mainland. Built in 1977 as the main venue for the International Festival of Black Arts and Culture, it is now widely recognized as the country’s most important performing arts complex. The main auditorium seats around 3,000 people, while the conference hall seats approximately 700 people. Two movie theaters, a restaurant, and a bar are all located inside the structure.

Ovuomaroro Gallery

(Bruce Onobrakpeya’s Gallery), 41 oloje Street. Papa Ajao, Mushin, Lagos (close to The Guardian Newspapers along Apapa Oshodi Expressway, Lagos), 234 7056346458, e-mail: [email protected].

Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, Nigeria’s Human Living Treasure, has over 100 pieces on exhibit at one of Lagos’ oldest galleries, with some for sale. You may also watch almost six decades of his work as an artist, as he progresses through different stages of creativity and growth.

• Mr Bigg’s. Mr Bigg’s is Nigeria’s version of McDonald’s. While hamburgers and other western cuisine are available, Nigerian specialities such as jollof rice and moin moin are more popular. Look for a huge ‘B’ with a red and yellow color scheme in Lagos; you should have no problem spotting one.
• Tantalizers. Tantalizers is a popular Nigerian fast food chain that specializes in meat pies, scotch eggs, chicken, jollof rice, fried rice, cake, and hamburgers. In Lagos, there are around 25 outlets.

Nigerian

• Thistle Bar & Restaurant
• Yellow Chili(specialties include Fried Snail with Fries)
• Terra Kulture. Located within an art gallery.
• Whitehouse. Located in Yaba near E-centre.
• “”Natives””. Located in Victoria Island

Chinese

• Prime Chinese – Open 24 hours; By far the best Chinese food in the city!
• Marco Polo
• Mr Chang’s
• Zen Garden, Isaac John Street, GRA, Ikeja. Zen Garden is an excellent gourmet Chinese restaurant that is a sibling restaurant of Pearl Garden (VI). Weekends tend to be busy, so plan accordingly. Pork that has been grilled is a must-have. Dinner for two with drinks costs about N 10,000 – N 12,000 and is a tad on the pricey side.

Indian

• Spice Bar, Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island (Opp Park N Shop). the greatest location to eat Indian cuisine The environment is pleasant, and the service is excellent. Dinner for two (with drinks) costs about N 8,000-10,000.
• Victoria Palace, Danmole Street, Victoria Island.
• Viceroy’s, Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island. Viceroy’s, a newcomer to the Indian restaurant industry, has the greatest ambience of all the Indian eateries in town. The cuisine, on the other hand, falls short of the high standards established by Stanley and Spice Bar. Nilgiri’s Chicken is a speciality of the chef. There’s also a good continental cuisine. Dinner for two (with beverages) costs between N 8,000 and N 10,000.
• Cafe Bombay, Idowu Martins Street, Victoria Island. In the Food Court of Mega Plaza mall.
• Sherlaton. There are two outlets on the property. One is on the mainland (Hotel Newcastle, Antony Village) and the other is on the Virgin Islands (Hotel Newcastle, Antony Village) (Hotel Cumberland, Adeola Odeku St)
• AAA (formerly Stanley), Olutunda Street, Ilupeju,+234 17754609. Among the city’s greatest Indian eateries. Chef Anand prepares a delectable Murg Mussalam (serves 3-4) that is not to be missed. The ambience is a little drab, but the food quality more than makes up for it. Dinner for two (including drinks) costs about N7000.
• F&G Suites, Ilupeju (Opp to Bazaar Shop).
• Taj, Ilupeju (Adjacent to Shop Perfect, on the same road as Bazaar Shop).
• Harzoyka, Oduduwa Cr, GRA, Ikeja. Harzoyka is a decent alternative if you are in Ikeja and don’t want to venture across the city for Indian cuisine. It is the only mid-range Indian restaurant in Ikeja (the other option is the excessively overpriced Indian restaurant in Sheraton). The food is adequate, and the ambience is mediocre.
• Karma, Burma Road, Apapa. Dinner for two approx. N7000. Sunday buffet lunch at N 2200 per person.

American/ Continental

• Bottles (Tex-Mex) – Very excellent and eerily accurate. Fajitas are a popular dish. Margaritas served frozen are a must-have.
• Cactus (Pizza & Sandwiches)
• Double Four (Pizza)
• Le Saison (Pastries and Sandwiches)
• Debonair’s Pizza (Victoria Island, Opp to Park n Shop) (Pizza)
• Goodies Restaurant (Next to Goodies supermarket, near Falomo Bridge, Victoria Island)

• Chocolate Royal. American/ Bakery
• Churrasco’s, Ozumba Mbadiwe Rd. Brazilian Steakhouse. It’s in the same building as the Lagoon Restaurant.
• Cowrie Restaurant (Located in B-Jays’s Hotel). Offers include the traditionalgoat meat pepper soup. Nigerian.
• Fusion. It’s a fusion restaurant, as the name implies! Cuisine with a Japanese/Mediterranean influence. Sushi is the only thing it’s good for.
• Il Sorriso. Italian dining
• Pearl Garden, 137 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island.

Lagos caters to visitors in the same way that England caters to foodies. It’s a stereotype, and it’s not entirely accurate, but you have to work hard to notice it.

There are plenty beautiful beaches to choose from. Especially if you go out of your way to explore outside of the city, like Badagry did). Lekki is probably as excellent as it gets within the metropolis.

There are several marketplaces to visit, albeit they may be exhausting. During the day, it is usually safe.

The Lekki Conservation Centre, run by the Lekki Conservation Foundation, is located near Chevron on the Lekki/Epe motorway.

It is ideal for leisure; it is a thick park with a few animals and birds, as well as walks and chairs. Fees: Everyone pays $500.

• Suntan Beach in Badagry West, 15 minutes ride from the badagry round-about. A good place for pic-nic and holliday
• Bar Beach: On Ahmodu Bello Way, Victoria Island.
• Eleko Beach: 56 km, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Turn right just past Total service station, proceed to toll gate, turn left follow road to Rainbow Church sign, turn right onto dirt road. Eleko beach is at end of road.
• Lekki Beach: Turn right at round-about just past estate (about 9 km), Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lekki.
• Elegushi: Elegushi Private Beach, Ikate, Lekki,
• Tarkwa Beach: Accessible by boat only. Boat can be hired opposite American/Indian Embassy. You can also board water taxis for about ₦300(as of Oct’11) per trip. The beach is good for a one-day picnic because of the absence of hotels and restaurants on it. You can buy good paintings and handicrafts from the local vendors on the beach. The last boats leave Tarkwa bay at 5PM.

Unless you’re shopping at a supermarket or a restaurant/bar with set pricing, you’ll be expected to haggle the price of an item down to the lowest the seller will sell it for. Expect to encounter hawkers selling anything from potatoes to beverages while stopped in traffic. Expect any brand names you see in these unofficial marketplaces to be fakes, and if you do decide to buy them, look for a cheap price.

You may withdraw cash in Naira from numerous ATMs in Lagos if you have a Visa, MasterCard, or Maestro credit/debit card. At Standard Chartered Bank, there are Visa machines. Ecobank and several Zenith Bank locations have MasterCard/Maestro machines.

Foreign money, such as US dollars, British pounds sterling, or Euros, may be converted at a variety of locations, most notably near big hotels and airports. Because they aren’t official bureaux de change, you’ll have to haggle over the conversion rate. It is highly advised that you count your money in front of the exchanger and that you should not hesitate to walk away if the bargain is not satisfactory. Be cautious of your safety in money-changing places, and make sure you’re not being followed as you leave.

Although their rates may be somewhat more or lower than the rates outside, legitimate Bureau De Change exist in numerous banks, and you may feel safe trading with them.

The following are some excellent shopping spots:

• The Palms Shopping Centre, 1 Bisway St. 10AM-9PM daily.
• The City Mall, Awolowo Rd. 10AM-9PM daily.
• Mega Plaza, 14, Idowu Martins Street, Victoria Island. 10AM-10PM daily.
• Silverbird Galleria, 133, Ahmadu Bello Way Victoria Island, +23412706361. Silverbird Galleria is a gallery that specializes on silverbirds With five high-tech cinema theaters exhibiting the industry’s finest box-office films. The Media Store offers music and movies, magazines and books, as well as computers and gaming consoles. Restaurants, bars, and gift stores are also located inside the Galleria. Finally, there is Wi-Fi access as well as a bowling alley on the grounds.
• King’s Plaza, No 80, Adeniran Ogunsanya (Off Bode Thomas, Surulere). A big retail mall with gift and apparel shops, restaurants, a movie theater, and other amenities. In Ikeja, Lagos’ capital, there is also a prominent spot known as Computer Village.
• Lekki Art Market (Close to the Lekki Conservation Centre). This is a fantastic site to purchase Nigerian and West African art. You’ll discover a fantastic price on anything from artwork to jewelry to souvenirs to accessories and clothing. Practice your negotiating abilities. The location is a little difficult to discover; take a right before Chevron from the roundabout and ask for instructions. During heavy rains, the area is prone to flooding, so avoid traveling altogether or bring an SUV with a high ground clearance.

• Africa Shrine in Ikeja. With Femi Kuti, son of the legend Fela Kuti.
• Lagbaja’s Motherland, Opebi Rd (in Ikeja).
• The Night Shift Colosseum, Salvation Road, Off Opebi Road. The very best music. It’s well-organized. There is plenty of room for dancing and lounging. 9PM-5AM.
• Options, Allen Avenue – Toyin St T point. Good Music, Spacious, 10PM-5AM.
• MetroPark, Isaac-John St, GRA, Ikeja.

• Swe: Located at the top of City Mall, Onikan, Lagos.
• Ember Creek: Awolowo Road, Ikoyi. Pool Side drinks overlooking the Lagoon. Unnecessarily overpriced.
• Reeds: Light techno music plays in the background, creating a cool, darkly lighted mood. Cocktails and light nibbles go well together (Thai specialties). It’s perfect for a romantic date.
• Waterside :Located beside the lagoon that divides Ikoyi and Victoria Islands on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive. In the evening, go there to relax by the lagoon. The design is simple, with plastic seats and tables, but there aren’t many locations in Lagos that are open next to a lagoon. Suya with peppe soup is a good choice.

• Michael’s: The city’s coldest beers! Hangout for expats.
• POP!: It has a beautiful restaurant and a fashionable bar, and it is owned by Nigerian soccer icon Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha.
• Pat’s Bar: Ajose Adeogun Street. A rugby-themed sports pub that is quite popular with expats of various countries as well as the prostitutes that adore them.
• De Marquee A new, hip restaurant has opened atop Lagos’s largest shopping complex, Mega Plaza. Only outdoors on the terrace is it permitted to smoke.

• Monalido: at Corner of Creek road, Entry ₦500 per person. There’s plenty room to sit, and there’s good music. A good-sized dancing floor. Everyone is invited. 10PM-5:30AM. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the Nice Food Restaurant is open until 6 a.m.
• Club 21: Wharf Rd, ₦500 per person. There is enough room to sit and listen to music. There is a large dancing floor. Everyone is invited. 10PM-3AM. Drinks are reasonably priced.

• Koko Lounge: It’s as cool as it gets. D’Banj, Africa’s largest hip-hop sensation, is a co-owner and regular performer. Comedy events are held every Wednesday. Aristocratic VIP. Prices that are reasonable.
• The Psychiatric Hospital : A little eatery in Yaba is really located within a genuine psychiatric institution. You may spend hours here with friends, with tables and chairs strewn around on the grass.

Lagos festivals provide a taste of culture for visitors to this part of Nigeria. Festival offerings change year to year, and they may take place in different months than the previous year. The Lagos festivals feature dance and musical entertainment to add excitement to travel while in Nigeria. Plan your vacation around a festival to learn more about Nigerian culture and customs while being amused.

Eyo Festival

One of the most well-known Lagos festivities is the Eyo Festival. This celebration, which dates back to 1750, features masquerades of performers dressed in white robes and dancers. Thousands of people attend the annual event, which is hosted at Tafawa Belewa Square.

Throughout the carnival week, several colors of eyo groups’ performers may be seen holding a stick. Once the senior eyo member is seen in public on a Sunday in April, the others follow during the course of the week, indicating that the celebration will be held the following Saturday. This celebration is held in February or other months on occasion.

Yoruba Arts Festival

Every April, the World Festival of Yoruba Arts and Culture takes place in Lagos. The festival’s foundation is the promotion of Yoruba art and culture. Artists present their work at exhibits while performers amuse the audience.

Lagos International Jazz Festival

This event in Lagos will include local and international jazz performers. The jazz event, which takes place in various months each year, has roughly 20 different acts. Attendance is accessible during workshops and master seminars. Photographers and local artists are included in exhibitions. Enjoy local cuisine while listening to music.

Lagos Black Heritage Festival

In April, the Lagos Black Heritage Festival takes place. Carnival processions parade down the street in memory of the tale of the African slave trade. Over the course of seven days of festivities, dance performances are provided to bring the narrative to life. To recount the stories, art displays and videos are given.

Every year, the event attracts a large number of tourists. Traditional and contemporary performing techniques are combined to present guests with a memorable cultural experience in Lagos.

Lagos International Film Festival

The film festival is held in the month of August.

In general, Lagos has become a lot safer place to visit than in the past, with the state investing heavily in security, such as police patrol vehicles and CCTV cameras (though this is not always the case). However, be wary of bargains or enterprises that seem too good to be true (particularly e-mails begging your assistance), and avoid blatantly flaunting your things, especially in public.

While it is uncommon for a visitor to be a victim of a violent crime, it is nonetheless prudent to be vigilant, particularly during late-night activities. Stick to busy streets and try to go out in groups rather than alone.

Lagosians are typically polite and friendly people, and the majority of them would gladly provide you instructions if you get lost.

Lagos still has its fair share of oddballs: street beggars (both elderly and young), persons with mental illnesses, and so on. If someone approaches you for money, do what most Lagosians do: either ignore them totally or continue walking at a quick speed.

There are a few unscrupulous and inept police officers, so it is advisable to follow the law and avoid venturing anywhere off the main path without a trustworthy guide, particularly if it is your first visit.