Jumia Travel (travel.jumia.com formerly Jovago.com) is Africa's No.1 hotel booking website. Our ambition is to bring every bit of available accommodation online, and to create the easiest and cheapest way for customers to book it.
Jumia Travel was founded in 2013 by Jumia and is backed by MTN, Rocket Internet, Millicom, Orange, Axa and financial partners.


We are currently looking for a candidate to join our highly professional and dynamic team as SEO Assistant/Content Writer.
You are in charge of developing and managing SEO campaigns in order to improve the company's organic search results in Nigeria.

Job Description
-Write or improve original, powerful SEO content for the website and the blog in order to deploy an effective local and long-tail search strategy
-Link building and viral strategies
-Discover link opportunities through competitive backlink research via tools such as Linkbird or Searchmetrics.
-Keyword Analysis
-Competitor Analysis

Profile Requirements

-Excellent written skills in English
-Great Storyteller
-Bachelor’s degree in in Marketing, Journalism, Advertisement or similar.
-Experience in writing research papers, blog posts
-Flexible, action and results oriented,
-Avid internet user with strong computer skills
-Any knowledge of SEO, Google Analytics, HTML is a plus point.

Send your CV to damola.soyoye@jumia.com

Lagos is known globally for its notorious traffic and residents of the metropolitan city have come to accept the dire gridlock. For the drivers, they need to have snail-like patience to successfully navigate Lagos roads without horning or getting infuriated. Even with the introduction of the ‘No-horn Day’ by the Lagos state government in 2014 and the seeming effects of noise pollution like hypertension, rise in stress levels, ear loss; many Lagosians could not get their hands off their horn. In line with this, JumiaTravel, Africa’s No.1 hotel booking portal shares 5 reasons Lagos drivers cannot stop honking.

The driver ‘shopping’ on the highway

It is possible to shop on Lagos roads without necessarily going to the market. This is because you can get all you want on the road. Many drivers take advantage of this and they just park their car right in the middle of the road trying to buy Lacasera and Gala. They don’t even care about other road users. Hence, the other drivers have no choice than to horn. Afterwards, a shouting match will unavoidably ensue.

The Strolling pedestrian

It is arguably only in Lagos where you find a pedestrian strolling on a very busy highway while there is a pedestrian bridge just a stone’s throw away. Instead of the pedestrians to quicken their steps, they stroll. In other cases, you find some pedestrians engrossed in the music they are listening to. In other not to knock some of these carefree pedestrians, you have to honk so that they can get off the road. There have been reports of pedestrians been knocked down. The horn has saved many lives.

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The Danfos picking commuters

The yellow painted commercial buses are one of the key contributors to Lagos traffic. They act as if they own the road. They drive recklessly and stop indiscriminately. They stop at unauthorised stops for passengers to alight and do same when they pick passengers. The annoying thing is that they do this in the centre of a busy road. Despite the fact that the Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA) officials have made painstaking efforts to clamp down on them without any significant changes.

Stop and search police men

Policemen are meant to ensure security and contribute in no small measure to guarantee free-flowing traffic. This is not the case with the policemen because they mount illegal checkpoints that slows traffic. Many drivers believe that the checkpoints causes unnecessary delays. To make them move faster, drivers have to honk.

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The dulling driver

The sluggish or dulling driver will be ‘chased’ off the road by the honking of exceedingly impatient drivers. If the driver is unlucky to be close to a truck, the deafening honk of the truck will confuse, frighten and de-stabilise such a driver.

More traffic, more honking

Except something drastic is done about the traffic about the traffic, Lagos drivers will continue to honk. For some drivers, honking is an habit as they honk every minute even if there is no reason for horning.

Lagos, Nigeria 23rd June 2016 - Africa Internet Group is today connecting its companies into Jumia’s ecosystem with a new vision, "Expand your horizons". The new Jumia ecosystem will give access to products and services from its leading platforms.
After 4 years of successfully establishing and growing its online services as leaders in their markets, Africa Internet Group, now Jumia, has become the N°1 E-commerce platform in Africa.
“We founded our companies with a very strong belief: Internet can improve people’s lives in Africa. Uniting all services allows us to better help our customers fulfill their daily aspirations. This is all possible because people connect to our platform to access those services and products in an environment that we have designed for them, addressing their needs and expectations on quality, choice, price, trust and convenience.” said Sacha Poignonnec and Jeremy Hodara, founders and co-CEOs of Jumia.

Customers can now find on Jumia all their needs; fashion and electronics with Jumia (prev. Jumia and Kaymu)], local sellers with Jumia Market (prev. Kaymu), hotel booking with Jumia Travel (Jovago), food delivery with Jumia Food (Hellofood), classifieds with Jumia Deals (Vendito), Jumia House (Lamudi), Jumia Jobs (Everjobs) and Jumia Car (Carmudi), and lastly logistics services with Jumia Services (AIGX).

Furthermore, sellers will also benefit from this move, by getting access to more traffic and to a greater world of opportunities. Every day, Jumia helps and encourages restaurants, hotels, local sellers, brands, real estate agents, car dealers, large companies and logistic companies to become better, bigger, more performant, thus creating positive impact for Africa.

The founders reiterated that, “Operating under the same brand name reinforces the legitimacy of proposing other services to our customers and to our sellers. We want to have one strong brand that is trusted and loved by our customers across Africa”.

Speaking on the new development, Kushal Dutta, Managing Director of Jovago Nigeria stated that, “This is a big leap forward for us as a group. We have worked really hard to build our brands and this synergy will open more doors of opportunity for us as a company. With this move, we can assure those who book on Jumia Travel world class services at the most affordable prices every single time. We are excited about this and this is a sign of even better things to come.”

Jumia’s new vision, “Expand your horizons”, expresses the group’s ambition to transform people’s lives through internet, overcoming the ground market challenges of the continent and giving all Africans the opportunity to access high quality services and products everywhere.

About Jumia Travel
Jumia Travel (travel.jumia.com) is Africa's No.1 hotel booking website, allowing you to get the best prices at more than 25,000 hotels in Africa and more than 200,000 hotels around the world. Our ambition is to bring every bit of available accommodation online, and to create the easiest and cheapest way for customers to book it. At Jumia Travel, we have hundreds of travel specialists constantly in touch with our customers. Our offices are located in Lagos (Nigeria), Accra (Ghana), Dakar (Senegal), Abidjan (Ivory Coast), Algiers (Algeria), Douala (Cameroon), Kampala (Uganda), Dar Es Salaam (Tanzania), Nairobi (Kenya), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Porto (Portugal) and Paris (France).Before June 2016, Jumia Travel was known as Jovago.
Jumia Travel was founded in 2013 by Jumia and is backed by MTN, Rocket Internet, Millicom, Orange, Axa and financial partners.

About Jumia
Jumia Travel (formerly Jovago) is the hotel booking service of Jumia. Jumia aims at creating a connected digital Africa to improve people’s lives on the continent thanks to the Internet. Therefore Jumia’s mission is to connect African consumers and entrepreneurs to do better business together. Founded in 2012, with a large presence across African countries, the group is backed by MTN, Rocket Internet, Millicom, Orange and Axa. Jumia has been creating a sustainable ecosystem of digital services and infrastructures through online and mobile marketplaces and classifieds to expand your horizons

Victoria Island is the beauty of Lagos city. The neighbourhood is so well known that even the names of its streets have become iconic across the nation. This island is only one of Lagos’ districts that has the most inimitable skyline.

Originally surrounded entirely by water, It was bordered by the Atlantic ocean on the south, the mouth of the Lagos Lagoon on the West, the Five Cowrie Creek to the north North, and swamps on the East.It has since, however, been filled (by the British colonial government to reduce mosquito breeding areas), creating land bridge between Victoria Island and Lekki Peninsula , and ending its existence as a true island.

Victoria Island is one of the most exclusive and expensive areas to live in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. While the rest of Lagos has much to see and do, it is Victoria Island that represents the city – and sometimes the entire Nigeria to the world.

Packed with attractions, dining and drinking for any budget and an expansive offering of shows and live music, the neighbourhood is certainly the center of the action in Lagos City. You could spend a week on this tiny island and still not see all there is to see. Grab a yellow taxi, hop on a keke-maruwa or just start walking, and you are sure to begin to understand just what it is that makes Victoria Island, thick. Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shows you more.



TOP 3 LANDMARKS

1004 building

Try imagining VI’s skyline without the towering spire of the 1004 Buildings. Impossible, right? The buildings are among the largest single luxury high rise estate in Sub Saharan Africa and comprises over 1004 flats, maisonettes, studio apartments.

Civic Tower

No matter which part of V.I. you are wandering through or where your curiosities lie, it’s hard to miss this architectural fixture or pass it without being awestruck. Located next to the Civic center, it has become one of Victoria Island’s most eye-popping skyscraper.

Oniru palace

Oniru Palace is located on a road named after the structure, next to Maroko and is the location where the ruling house of the area resides. The Oniru Palace Road has a length of 1.34 kilometres.



LODGING

From boutique and upscale spots to luxurious corners, Victoria Island still offers the most comprehensive range of Lagos hotels. Growth areas include the Eko Atlantic city, which is getting a new lease on life as its development nears completion. Upscale chains such as Sheraton , Protea, Intercontinental, e.tc have their flashy property erected in the district, 5star hotels including Federal Palace Hotel, Eko Hotel, also Oriental Hotel have taken up spots in the area. There are also favorite longstanding B&Bs, which will give you a taste of local life.



DINING

The dining choices in Lagos are almost infinite, and deciding where to spend your food money can be overwhelming. Victoria Island’s rich history, lively bars and growing number of hot restaurants attract young, adventurous visitors as well as businessmen and women. The breadth of the Victoria Island’s restaurant scene is truly something to behold, ranging from internationally renowned fine-dining establishments to tasty cheap eats, and boasting a cosmopolitan range of cuisines to choose from, including Italian, Chinese and Indian.



SHOPPING

Victoria Island is one of the best shopping areas in Lagos. The district is rightfully famous for its glossy, perfume-scented stores and high-end boutiques, which sell everything from bespoke suits to top-notch leather bags and exquisite diamond engagement rings.While there are very few local markets, there are places where you can get the most of retail goodness. V.I is an especially great destination for a shopping holiday if visting Lagos, as the exchange rate will be in your favor!



FUN FACT

Victoria Island is popular for being the location of the embassies for Russia, Germany, Bulgaria and Great Britain, as well as a number of consulates, including those of The United States India, Brazil, Lebanon, and Spain.

Yes! It is another May 27th, a day set aside for children to celebrate. On this day, although kids will be away from school, very few of them expect to be at home throughout the day.

The minds of children are very imaginative and there are certain activities you can engage in to bring them joy. With this in mind, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 hotel booking portal shares 5 of the things want on Children’s Day.



Take them to fun factory in Lekki

Fun Factory in Lekki Phase 1 will be filled with the cries of excited children. Your kids should be among them. They offer games, toys, bouncy castles, train rides, carousels, swimming pools and other creative and interactive games for children. If your kids are between the ages of 1 to 10, it is the perfect place to go.

Spend good time with them

Present economic realities demand that both parents are economically engaged. They rarely have time for their children since they leave home very early in the morning and return late at night. In between, the children are left with a house help or family member. However, for Children’s day they want you to spend good time with them because it is a long children’s day.



Buy them boxes of chocolates

Children love chocolates. If you have never bought chocolate for your kids before, you should surprise them with a box. Make it more interesting by having a despatch rider deliver it to them. They will be animated and show it off to their friends. The welcome they will give when you return from work will nearly bring tears to your eyes.

Have them join the March parade

March parade is the most prominent event on Children’s day. Smart looking and well-dressed children, gather at an open ground where they show-off their marching skills to the admiration of a government dignitary – local government chairman, government or any other government representatives. The parade is for the children to have fun.



Don’t scold them

Kids are restless. Parents have to be extremely patient with them whether it is Children’s Day or not. There is every tendency for you to scold them due to their restlessness. Since it’s children’s day, you can grant them a bit of freedom and overlook some of their shortcomings.

Allow them to watch cartoons

Cartoon is one of the favourite programmes children prefer to watch on television. They know the particular time these cartoons commences. They will really feel bad if you stop them from watching their preferred cartoons, especially on Children’s Day.

You are probably wondering: Why would I be kicked off a plane when I have already spent money on the ticket, checked in and boarded? Truth is, it happens all the time! And yes, even in Nigeria. Certain individuals for several reasons are asked to get off the airplane due to actions that either go against the airline’s rules or are just unacceptable. There have even been times planes have had to make emergency stops or change routes just so they could take someone off the plane.

If you are curious to know the possible reasons why anyone could be booted off a plane, read on, as Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking site has put together 6 possible scenarios.



Singing out loud

While there is freedom of speech and expression, there is a limit to which you can raise your voice either in speech or song while on a plane…unless of course you are the only one on the plane or the rest of the passengers and crew are deaf. Some people tend to sing when there is excessive turbulence or just out of boredom. But singing out too loud could actually get you kicked off the plane.

ADVICE: contain the voice and settle for listening to music on your headphones.

Smelling badly

How bad could anyone who can afford to pay for a flight actually smell? You may ask, but hey! You would be surprised. Whether is chronic mouth odour , the stench of stale sweat…or maybe the scent of the ogiri you have packed to take with you to whatever foreign land you are headed, when the smell from your body or carry on becomes offensive to not just you but the rest of the passenger and crew, there is a high chance you would be kicked of the plane.

ADVICE: do a smell check with family or better a sniff dog, before you head to the airport. Most times, people are oblivious to the odors that come from their body.

Being sick

No one wants a sick person to seat next to them, and likewise, no airline wants a sick person on board. Aside from the risk of others being infected, there is the possible bad PR or worse litigation that may come from uncomfortable passengers. Most airline have asked people to get off the train because they were having uncontrollable coughing fit , admitted they had an allergy or they just kept vomiting.

ADVICE: if you are sick, please wait till you get better before going on a plane, and if it is an urgent trip, take something to knock you out all through the journey, that way you remain a silent passenger who poses little or no risk to others on board.

Upsetting a flight attendant

You could get thrown off a plane just by disobeying flight attendant or frustrating him/her. Usually the flight attendant states the rules of the airline once everyone is onboard and goes round to ensure everyone complies to the rules. Trying to prove stubborn would cause more harm than good. Also, using offensive words on the flight attendant or trying to start a fight could fast-track your own personal landing.

ADVICE: comply with whatever the flight attendants say and be nice to them, no matter how much it hurts.



Wearing a controversial or offensive T-Shirt

While you are free to wear whatever you want while travelling via airplane, it is important to ensure the inscription on the shirt or dress is not offensive or suggestive. For instance: wearing something like “Who says the terrorists are wrong?” or “I am loyal to BOKO” will certainly get you off the plane.

ADVICE: Stick to plain fabrics, neutral colours and comfortable clothing while travelling. Leave the funny T-shirts for later when you are in the confines of your own home.

Taking a photograph

Out of excitement you may decide to take a few pictures of yourself on board an airplane or of the flight attendants, pilot, other passengers or even of another passengers possession or actions. Unfortunately, while this may seem like a fun idea to you, some airlines do not condone it. Doing things of that nature could give the impression that you are a security risk and thus, you get thrown off.

ADVICE: Keep you camera at bay, as well as your phones. If you cannot resist the urge to take candid pictures .Wait till you have reached your destination before you start taking candid pictures or videos, so that even if they throw you off the plane, at least you are already at your destination.

Travelling seems like an activity that can only be enjoyed solely by extroverts as it involves almost all the things introverts tend to avoid: chatty airplane seatmates, group sightseeing tours, asking strangers for directions, walking into a full bar, becoming the center of attention, and generally putting yourself out there. The truth however is that as challenging as going on a trip may seem to some introverts, they are actually capable of going to new places, meeting new people, being in groups, and they even stand a better chance at getting more out of travel as they can also learn so much about themselves in the process.

If you are a hard-core introvert due to take a trip and are looking for tips to help you have as much fun as the next extrovert, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking site has selected some tips to guide you towards having a marvelous time.



Do not forget to pack headphones, a sleep mask, and a book (or e-reader).

Most introverts find lengthy conversations draining and small talk exhausting; so, unless you are travelling with a partner you are genuinely interested in chatting with, the best way to escape is by listening to music, watching a movie, reading a book or sleeping. It also saves you from seeming rude when you when someone tries to rope you into a conversation you are not interested in. You can avoid nosy neighbors and unwanted conversation by putting on your headphones or a sleep mask or burying your nose in a book.

Take a familiar item, like a pillow, with you on your trip

Introverts are generally skeptical about new things and new environments. Taking something familiar with you eases the possible tension that may come with the trip. It is bring the introvert a measure of comfort and the comfort translates to an ease of travel throughout the entire trip.



Opt for room service

Whether you are travelling alone or you are with a group of friends it may be best for you as an introvert to order in your meals than go to any of the restaurants to take your meals. While eating out would offer great opportunities to meet other people and make friends, it can be exhausting for the introvert . If you are not feeling up for the social interaction, order room service or stop at a local deli on your way back and stock up on some snacks you can enjoy in your room with all the quiet you need.

Avoid Motels and B&Bs

Introverts are not very social and so staying in a small hotel or a B&B where they would have to run into people all the time or even share space may not be the best arrangement. Most introverts are not interested in getting to know other guest, especially after a long day of travel and exploring. Introverts on the other hand like to observe from afar, so staying instead at a big hotel where people will leave them alone to unwind in peace while observing others would provide them the authentic experience they crave.



Explore on your own terms

Most travelers are encouraged to go on group tours or walks, but while this might be exciting for extroverts, it could be catastrophic for the introvert. Introverts are passionate observers, and so, they are only fine being in the midst of people when they are not part of the crowd. Wandering around on their own and catching the overall vibe of your destination for themselves, instead of having someone tell them about it is the best arrangements for them. And if as an introvert, you are travelling with friends, do not let them rope you into tours or activities that would drain you or increase your stress levels. Put your feet down and stay determined to explore on your own terms.

Keep a travel journal

Introverts love to reflect on things and process their environment and so keeping a travel journal would serves as a kind of like therapy for them while on a trip. They can download their feelings at the end of the day and express all the joy, frustration and fears they experienced, all without the additional stress of having to explain it to someone else’s understanding.

Often times, we need a break and the chance to escape the strenuous activities of our daily lives. What better way is there to get the much needed break than enjoying a weekend getaway at one of the luxury hotels and accommodation in Nigeria? Whether it’s a mini vacation with friends or some quite time to yourself, the range of luxury accommodations in Nigeria will leave you relishing every moment of the time spent at any of them.

Here is a list of 5 of some of the coolest luxury accommodations in Nigeria at the moment:



Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja:

This luxury hotel lies in the commercial district of Abuja and is about 40 minutes’ drive from the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport. With elegant suites that are sure to make you feel like you entered a fairy tale and facilities to ensure you feel well pampered, Transcorp Hilton Abuja is a great mix of comfort luxury with solitude. An experience that is hard to forget awaits you on your trip to the city of Abuja



Intercontinental Hotel:

The spectacular Intercontinental Hotel is one of Nigeria’s most sophisticated hotels. With an elegant décor, fine dining experience and luxury suites. You are assured of world class service and nothing short of a relaxed stay at the hotel.

Intercontinental affords you a healthy mix of business with pleasure, as it is an ideal location for both leisure seekers and business guests. The hotel is just about 30 minutes away from the Ikoyi Club and lies very close to a well-known cinema and various embassies.



Eko Hotel & Suites:
The prestigious Eko Hotel & Suites is one of the most visited hotels in Lagos and for good reason. The hotel offers you a view of the Kuramo Lake and the Atlantic Ocean.

Eko Hotel offers world class facilities and services. Its restaurants, the Steak house, an Italian restaurant and the well-known Sky Lounge restaurant serve amazing continental meals.



Radisson Blu:

The Raddisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, located at the water-front in Victoria Island, Lagos is a sophisticated 5-star luxury hotel that is sure to take your breath away. The 170 roomed hotel offers you a scenic view of the Lagos Lagoon and facilities that are sure to take your breath away.

You can take an afternoon dip in the large pool or work out at the state of the art gym. Pamper yourself at the Spa/Wellness & Fitness centre and indulge your taste buds with the buffet styled continental and local cuisines the onsite restaurant has to offer.

The hotel also lies in close proximity to the Silver Bird Galleria, where you can catch a movie. A tennis court and beach volley ball court is open to sport loving guests.



Le Méridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort:

Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort is a scenic accommodation and resort that offers guests a serene stay close to nature. It is located atop the rich green vegetation in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom. Its restaurants serves the best meals, the rooms are superbly furnished and warm.

At its 18-holed world class golf course, you are assured of a memorable golfing experience.

Plan your next vacation within the country and explore the spectacular luxury that awaits you at one of these Nigerian based hotels, you can also share an experience at one of the luxury accommodations in Nigeria in the comment section.

Many tourists are usually worried when visiting a new country because they do not want to fall ill or catch a disease. Adjusting to a new environment can take a toll on your physical wellbeing. If you are coming to Nigeria, here is a health guide for you.

Before your trip:

Before you arrive in Nigeria, if you are ill or on medication, visit your doctor to prepare your medication and a health card that contains your vital health information. Also take necessary vaccinations if needed.

A Health Card would usually contain the following information:

Name & contact of your regular doctor
Name & contact of your next of kin
Vaccination record
Brief medical record
Blood group
Medicine
Food allergies
A list of your medications & their dosage
Pack a first aid kit:

Your First Aid Kit is your survival emergency solution kit and should contain scissors, insect repellant, medications, plaster, hand wash, cotton wool, sanitizers, pills and wound cleanser. You should ensure you carry a first aid kit especially if you are travelling to the remote areas in Nigeria where there are little or no healthcare system nearby.

While you are here:

Practice personal hygiene – wash your hands with soap or use had sanitizer before meals and after using the toilet. Don’t expose yourself to mosquitoes, use mosquito repellent cream when outdoors and a mosquito net when you inside (if necessary).
Watch what you eat and drink – avoid drinking tap water, boil it before drinking or better still, go for well named bottled water like Eva or Nestle. Make sure your food is properly cooked; avoid roadside vendors with low level of cooking hygiene. Stay away from salads and sliced fruits if you are not sure of its cleanliness and freshness. If you have food allergies, make sure you ask if what you are allergic to is not included your meal.

Safety – always wear a seat belt or protective gear when doing adventurous activities like Kart racing. Do not drink and drive. Respect your host country and residents by following local customs and laws.
What should you do if you fall ill?

For illnesses that seem out of control, seek medical attention immediately. Always maintain hydration – drink plenty of water. You can also make your own emergency rehydration fluid with a mixture of ½ teaspoon of salt, 4 teaspoons of sugar and 1 liter of water.

After your Trip

If you were sick during your trip or symptoms persist, it is wise to visit your doctor for checkup at your home country or arrival.

Note: though there are emergency numbers you can contact especially if you are in Lagos, most are not functioning. It is advised you have the contact of a local person who can easily help you through emergencies.

Located in Lekki, immediately after Chevron, before the 2nd Lekki Toll Gate; this nature hub covers a land area of 78 hectares. The 21-year-old conservation centre is run and managed by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). The reason for this foundation is to set aside a natural habitat for plants, and animals as urbanization has lead to the encroachment of areas meant for these animals and plants.

If you appreciate nature and are in a limbo as where to take your partner or lover to, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 Hotel Booking Portal recommends the LCC. Here are the reasons why you should visit this nature park;



For the fearless climb the longest canopy walkway in Africa

Constructed by 13 Nigerians and supervised by two Canadians, the 401m Canopy walkway launched in 2015 is not a climb for the timid. The climb of the bridge is sure to bring out the other side of you especially for ladies. Hence, you have to stay close to her and as a precaution don’t look down. To climb the bridge you have to pay an extra thousand Naira in addition to the thousand naira entry fee. It is an enthralling climb and it is 100% safe. The only time you are not allowed access to the bridge is when it is raining.



See the giant turtle said to be 95 years

Want to see a 95 year old tortoise? The LCC is the place to be. The turtle roam freely as it a very slow pace. This makes it possible for tourists and visitors to take selfies. You will feel the strong and powerful shell of the turtle that is if you are lucky that it comes out during the period your visit. It is a sight to behold!

Play the game of chess

After an enthralling climb of the Canopy walkway, you can also play Chess and other games. The chessboard is designed on a floor with 16 big pieces. It doesn’t really matter if you can play chess, it for the fun of it. That is the excitement. But whoever checkmates is the winner! But be a gentleman, allow your lady to win!



Simply explore and wander around the nature pack

From Monkeys, to the beautiful Peacock, crocodiles, snakes and other wild animals, you will see all these at this reserved animal. At the same time, you will find different specie of plants. Will N1,000 you can wander and explore the Lekki Conservation Centre while holding hands with your lover.

Picnic or have an alone time at the various sheds

The shed made of raffia is a cool place to relax, rejuvenate, and recover your strength. At these sheds which numbers over eight, you can have a picnic or an alone time with your partner. Under these sheds, you will not miss the warmth of the breeze.

Despite the hustle and wild chase for survival in Lagos, the residents of the metropolitan city still love to party and have a good time. You find them at various bars, lounges, clubs, and bars downing different brands of beverages as they chat away with friends and dance to the music blaring from loudspeakers. On their tables, you will find empty bottles of drinks while outside the premises, dozens of cars owned by fun seekers are parked.

Lagos never disappoints fun seekers, not even the night-crawler. You will be spoilt for choices as there are many places where you can have an unforgettable night treat in Nigeria’s entertainment capital. Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 hotel booking portal shares 5 places to indulge in Lagos especially for persons who wants to unwind at night.



Chill and chat with the big boys at Quilox

This is the best place to have a lavish and pleasant nightlife especially if you reside on the Island. Located on the Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue Victoria Island, it offers unparalleled late night clubbing and hangouts for party lovers. It is a one-stop center for nightlife! You mingle to meet singles, network, wine and dine.

Experience real entertainment at Club Vegas

What Quilox is to the Island, Club Vegas is to the Island. It is one of the finest clubs on the Ikeja axis. It supposedly offers fun similar to what you will get in Las Vegas in America. As you know, Las Vegas is the hub for gambling and nightlife in the state. The fun at Club Vegas can sometimes go overboard. Hence, it is not a place for person who don’t know how to groove. It is situated on Sheraton-Opebi Link road.



Escape from the norm

Want to Escape and have a pleasant break from the norm? Club Escape is the place to go. It is a spot that is frequented by A-lists artiste who attend all kinds of events as well as individuals who want to have a relaxed night at a cool and safe spot.

Getaway at The Vault

At Idowu Martins in VI, The Vault dish out loud music, food and drinks to fun seekers. Every moment spent at the club is thrilling as the dancehall is filled out with men and women dancing with reckless abandon.



Run off to Road Runners at 12am

Nightlife in Yaba on the Mainland is already very vibrant. Road Runners only boost Yaba nightlife as lovers and fun seekers troop to this nightclub to indulge.

When it comes to flying abroad, there is nothing as glamorous and dignifying as sitting up front in the first class cabin. The first-class cabin at the front of the plane may be just a few feet from the economy section, but it might as well be in a different planet. Aside from the luxury treatment attached to the first class option, there are several other over-the-top benefits that are way more valuable than the lump of money spent.

If you have never had the pleasure of sitting up-front, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking site lists 5 reasons why 1st class remains the best way to fly.



Exclusive check-in lines and security

A major thing traveller who opt for air travel suffer and complain about is the long queue at the check-in counter, handling of luggage and other bureaucracies attached to the entire process the traveler has to undertake before boarding. Those who fly first class do not have to deal with this dilemma though. The first class experience starts as soon as the passenger reaches the airport. First class passengers get their own little corner at departures area, where they are offered premium check-in and security. They are also ushered into their own special waiting lounge where they are offered top-notch service.

Pre-boarding

It is normal in airport for people rush to the departure gate area once their flight is announced, in the hope of pushing their way onto the plane before anyone else. A first class passenger however does not have to join in on the race as usually they are one of the first to board the plane, probably right after families with small children are aboard. Basically, they can slowly stroll onto the plane, without the fear of running into a full overhead bin, or someone trying to sneak their way into their seat. In some flights, they are even greeted with a glass of champagne and some warm nuts upon boarding.



Better entertainment

After paying so much for the Premium ticket, better entertainment is obviously expected. From computerized videos to in-seat games, Internet access and iPod connectors and on-demand libraries, the first class passengers are offered thousands of hours of entertainment. Some airlines even offer flat panel screens as large as 15″ in the first class cabin. As regards food, first class passengers are usually handed a menu when they board, and they almost never have to worry about running out of choice order. They also benefit from a stock of top shelf alcoholic beverages.

Power ports

Every traveler knows how much difference access to a power outlet while on a trip can make, as it can be the thin line between 10 hours of boredom and 10 hours of productivity or entertainment. The first class passengers do not need to worry about power as they have power ports at their seat so they can charge their iPod or other media player. In addition to regular power outlets, some airlines have started adding USB power jacks, and even network ports.



Privacy and comfort

The first class suites have room for fewer people. Some have said that it is the seat that makes the first class ticket worth its money as they are wider and usually a highly adjustable leather recliner, with a large fold-out table, sometimes even built in massage controls, which traveler find extremely comfortable. There is also enough leg room, ample storage space, folding drink holders, several magazine pouches, and more. Again, seating is two by two and basically It is less crowded, you have more privacy.

The Nigerian passport is not only every citizen’s prized possession -as it is not only a finite means of identification for any citizen of the country, but also, it is every Nigerian traveler’s badge of honor. Without it, it is almost impossible to visit any other part of the world or even perform basic transactions within the country. It therefore seems to be a matter of common sense to keep it protected by getting a cover for it.

No doubt, a passport cover may seem unimportant to many travellers who are more preoccupied with travel details, but it certainly is not just a frivolous accessory; it can prevent problems down the road. It is no secret that Border officers abroad can reject a passport for being dog-eared, torn, or otherwise beat-up and these usually only happens when the passport is not protected.

If you are Nigeria and searching for reasons why you should get a passport holder or cover, Jovago.com, highlights 5 reasons you should not ignore.



Security

There are pickpockets and thieves everywhere, especially at travel ports and terminals, and they target anything they think may be valuable or may contain important or useful information such as the passport. Encasing your passport in a cover keeps it safer from the eyes and hands of would be thieves. Without a cover, it is clearly visible when on your person, and an easy target. A Nigerian passport with a U.S. or UK Visa can fetch a lot of money on the black market and thieves will go to great lengths to get them. It is advisable to keep a passport with a unique holder with items that do not look like valuable identification.

Easy identification

Passport covers usually come in different and unique designs that are different from the uniform passport design. Having your passport placed in a cover ensures that you can spot it amongst a large pile of identical passports, a normal occurrence at collection stations at airports and immigration centres. Also, If you are with your family, or a group of friends, it can be stressful having to open each individual one until you find the one that is yours. A cover saves time and reduces “wahala” at customs.



Prevents damage

Most passport covers are waterproof and so they protect your passport from wear and tear as well as other elements. There is less chance of it being ruined by accidental water spillage, food stains, or ink marks , Not to mention the possibility of mud and other dirt and grime getting on it. It keeps the appearance of the passport intact and ensure it does not get damaged easily.

Protects your personal information

Aside from keeping your passport from getting beat up, water-soaked or stained, some covers can also block RF readers from stealing your information. While identity thieves are not very common and the entire idea is not far-fetched. You never know who has you listed as a target.



To keep things stylish

There are different styles and designs of passport covers. Owning one that is catchy and appealing can serve to add to your overall look. Also, it can get you friends as people could accost you to ask about your passport cover: where you bought it, e.t.c or just compliment you on it. It could even be your ice-breaker; you could start conversations by asking people what they think of your passport holder.

The gender gap in tech is an open secret. Tech is currently one of the most promising fields in Nigeria, but it is not the most welcoming environment toward women as almost all of the biggest technology companies in Nigeria and their key figures are dominated by men.

It is alarming that women simply are not thriving in the Nigerian tech scene as they are under-represented- and not for lack of talent. The few who struggle to stay are underpaid, often passed-over for promotions and faced with everyday sexism so they leave after a while. The more women tech companies in Nigeria can include, the greater the chance of overcoming this culture of sexism and combat the notion that women do not deserve to be there.

Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal highlights 4 reasons Nigeria needs more women in Tech.

The Tech Industry In Nigeria Growing, And There Is Need For More Talent

There is a huge need for women in tech as there is the general need for more people in the field to quell its exponential growth. It is that simple. The women in Nigeria are just as skilled and equally as hard working as men, and can help keep the industry competitive. There have even been suggestions by tech experts that women may even be better coders than men. If as many women went into tech as men, it would be a HUGE win for the Nigeria and for the world at large actually.

To Encourage Diversity And Reduce Discrimination

Women in tech face a lot of discrimination and sexism as they are few in number and these Tech companies as well as the society at large tend to doubt their abilities, making workplaces less accommodating for them. Recruiting women in the field will certainly reduce the overwhelming majority of men, reduce the rate of discrimination and give the women a voice. Women make up half of the country’s population, if not more, and so they constitute a large percentage of tech users. They certainly should be more involved in defining the future directions for the field. This stronger diversity can lead to greater innovation and better decision making.

To Boost Innovation

This imbalance in gender hurts the technology companies themselves. Women help to bring an alternative perspective, new ideas and more voices to the table, as well as a different way of thinking and managing a team. With fewer women in tech, the tech in Nigeria will make much less of an impact. There are some products that, almost by definition, only women buy. Examples: pregnancy tests, ovulation tracking tools, etc. This is not to say that every women in a technology company is an expert in creating products for women, but then certainly tech companies can benefit from an understanding of the perspectives and needs of women.

To Encourage The Girl Child

With the women constituting a small percentage of the work force in the Nigerian tech field and even more leaving the industry regularly, it becomes difficult having a female tech role model for the younger generation. More women in tech, will encourage more girls to pursue their own interest in tech and thus, enable greater equality. It will further lead to a demise of the image of a male-dominated tech world, and end the cycle of female discouragement.

Tucked in a rural and serene part of Erin Ijesa, Osun State, the Olumirin Waterfall is one of the most prominent and magnificent waterfalls in Nigeria.

Surrounded by rocks with a lush and evergreen ambience adding to the beauty of the waterfall, it is frequented by Nigerians – couples, lovers, children, youth corp members, and adventure seekers from far and wide. If you are searching for a place to have a good time this is the perfect place to go as Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 hotel booking portal shares how you can have an unforgettable 24 hours at Olumirin Waterfall by road.



FROM LAGOS

Board a bus from Osodi
Leaving early will add to your experience as you do not need to worry about delayed arrival. But since you are not travelling alone, you have to be patient especially when you are travelling with a woman.

At Oshodi, Lagos, you will find buses hailing passengers travelling to any part of southwest Nigeria. Board a bus going to Ilesha Osun State. It is N1,700. Importantly, since, a lot of reconstruction work is taking place at Oshodi, you need to agree on where to meet. Although the bus may take some time to fill out, but as you sit waiting, the occasionally distracting chant of prayer warriors, sellers, and the banters between drivers can be quite entertaining.



IN ILESA…

The journey from Lagos to Olumirin Waterfall should take approximately six hours. That is all things being equal. So for about 5 hours you enjoy the ride to Ilesa. On arrival at Ilesa, you have another one hour ride to Erin Ijesha. The ride from Ilesha to Erin Ijesha cost N1,000.

At the magnificent OLUMIRIN WATERFALL…

You can either take a motorbike to the Waterfall or walk down. At the entrance into the waterfall, there is an entry fee of N500 required. After settling the fee, you can either pay a tour guide to take you around or find your way.

To climb the Erin Ijesha requires strength and patience. It is not for the feeble-minded. Why? Because the Waterfall cascade in seven different phases and only a handful have gotten to the seventh phase. It is a tough task but it is fun also as you climb the steps, holding weakly to the various tree trunks and feeling the warmth of the waterfall. The waterfall is a site to behold.

Your visit to the Waterfall is never complete if you do not soak yourself in the water which some say has spiritual significance. Also, you can move from one phase of the Waterfall to another while dipping your whole being in the water. It is soothing and you will be wowed!!!



Return to Ilesa to satisfy your taste buds at the African Kitchen

As the sunset, it is time to leave. You are now hungry as the fast food you ate can no longer suffice. Say goodbye to the waterfall, return to Ilesa and if you want delicious African cuisine, ask for The African Kitchen. When you arrive, settle down to a plate of rice, swallow and any food of your as well as assorted drinks.

Of course, you cannot return to Lagos that same day, You have planned everything as you have booked a hotel on Jovago. Your best option for a hotel is the Spring Hill Hotel.



Things to pack for a trip to Olumirin Waterfall

*Change of clothes/slippers

*Power bank/charger

*Shower cap for women

Visiting Nigeria can be a mind-blowing experience as there are so many places to see, cities to visit, and cultures to explore. Certainly, along with the excitement of traveling to or living in a foreign land comes the possibility of the visitor experiencing some form of culture shock.

A number of tourists who have visited or lived in Nigeria have testified to being shocked and overwhelmed by the lifestyle, customs and practices of its people. Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal reveals the top seven things tourists often find strange about Nigerians.



The loudness

Nigerians find it hard to believe, but they are exceptionally loud, especially those from the western region. Some have stated that the loudness is a consequence of their local dialect and their cultural practices, while other believe that the average Nigerian lous because is is their heritage to be boisterous. A typical Nigerian will not hesitate to belt out a song in crowded street in the bid to sell potions or win souls, and most locals will not even try to reduce the pitch of their voice, as long as they feel the need to air an opinion. While locals see these as normal, most visitors find it utterly alarming.

Church buildings every couple of miles

Nigerians are very religious people and a larger part of the country actually practice Christianity and they are very zealous in their faith. It is hard to find a street in most parts of the country (excluding the northern regions which are saturated with muslims)without at least one church or meeting place. Visitors find it remarkable and some have wondered how these churches maintain their members.



Nigerians tend to carry large amounts of cash

For most people who live outside the country, ATMs and credit cards are the way to go when it comes to buying or purchasing. Most wander about with wallets utterly devoid of cash, they do not see the need to carry cash around as it even creates opportunities of getting robbed or maimed. They find it amazing that Nigerians on the other hand seem to love the scent of raw cash and carry money around with them at all times, despite the fact that there ATM machines around and most stores and spots have POS for credit cards. Nigeria is slowly becoming a cashless society, however they are finding it hard to give up the feel of paper money in their hands.

Bold requests for tips

Nigerians are not shy, not when it comes to money. Most visitors not only find it weird that they may have to paying extra for someone to do their job , they are baffled that waiters/waitresses do not hesitate to hint at or outrightly ask for a tip when it is time to collect the bill . Unlike it is in the UK, there’s no set arrangement for tipping at restaurant and bars and so there is set amount or percentage one should tip neither is it clear, who should get tipped. The locals however do not see anything wrong with the whole situation as basically, it is the norm. When in Rome, act like the romans.



Liquor for everyone
Most countries around the world have a legal drinking age of 18 and so does Nigeria, so, many tourists find it astonishing when they see teenagers who are obviously below the age limit buying alcoholic drinks or spirits. The most commonly purchased are the NGN50 satchet liquor sold by women who carry them around in trays and basins. Nigeria has a much more liberal stance on public drinking, and while most visitors find this delightful, there are who consider it unacceptable.

Locals eating full meals in public buses

The public buses, from BRT to Moluwe and Danfo are a major means of transportation for most locals in Nigeria, and while it would generally be considered unhygienic or just improper to eat while in motion or in public spaces that are not meant for eating, a lot of Nigerians flaunt the etiquette anyway and you cannot blame them really as desperate times call for desperate measures. It is no secret that certain large cities in the country are plagued with the incessant traffic jams, and the locals basically cannot stifle the need to stay on the hustle, so, they save time by eating on the bus. Do not be surprised to see someone eating not just gala and coke, but full blown meal like jollof rice, fried yam and sauce or even Amala and Ewedu.



Their strong belief in superstition

Nigerians generally believe in superstition. It is an aspect of almost all the culture in the country and so it is generally accepted. There are so many signs and events that they believe are consequent to how things would turn out and they tend to read meaning to certain things visitors may consider as normal. For instance, Nigerians tend to think that the right eye twitching is a sign that the person would see something good, while the average tourist see it as a sign of stress. Nigerians take their superstition so seriously that they could change their plan for the future or just for the day for something as simple as a black crow perching on one’s roof.

Looking at the name Ilesa (Iléṣà), you will think it is one of those rural, rustic and pastoral Nigerian communities. However, a visit to the city will definitely make you abdicate and purge yourself of such a perception. Although the pace of the city cannot be compared with other vibrant Nigerian cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Aba, and Kano, it has some measure of peace, order, hospitality and warmth which are visibly absent in the aforementioned city. This is what makes Ilesa standout from others and it is a destination every tourist must checkout on a visit to Osun state.

Ilesa, is a city located in Osun State, Southwest, Nigeria. People from Ilesa are referred to as Ijesas. The towns which make up Ilesa include Erin Ijesa, Ipetu-Jesa, Ijebu Jesa, Esa-Oke, Ibokun, Ifewara, Ipole and Idominasi among others. Ilesa is a 6 hours drive from Lagos. It is a day’s journey if you leave early. Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares how you can experience and negotiate the home the of the popular Olumirin Waterfall.



Top three sites

The Olumirin Waterfall

This is the most popular tourist destination in Ilesa. Any tourist visiting the city is most likely to visit the Olumirin Waterfall. The Waterfall is located in Erin Ijesa, one of the local divisions of Ilesa. The waterfall has 7 layers from which it cascades from and visitors only need to pay N500 to gain entry. Climbing the Waterfall is a different experience. Although it is enthralling, it takes only the strong and the patient to climb. If you are able t get to the 7th layer, you will have a panoramic view of the locale. However, it is a whole different challenge coming down. Importantly, do not forget to enmesh your whole being in the water which is said to have spiritual significance. And if you want to really enjoy your time at the Waterfall, arrive early.

Kiriji war Museum

The Kiriji war was sour phase in the history of the Ijesas. It was a war between two powerful Yoruba groups which share the same lineage. They are the Western Yorubas (Ibadan and its allies) and Eastern Yorubas (Ijesas and Ekitis’). According to findings, the war was as a result of the crash of the Oyo Empire as well as the domination of the Ibadan soldiers despite the collapse of the Oyo Empire. This led to bitter rivalry and eventual war. The war lasted for 16 years. Thus in order not to forget this important part of Ilesa history, a museum was established. This is a museum featuring the ancient weapons and history behind the Kiriji war.

Iwude festival

For 11 days in December, persons who trace their heritage to Ijesaland, return home to celebrate the Iwude festival. The festival showcases the culture, dance, music and tradition of the people. It also features game and a procession which affords the people to see their king, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, His Royal Highness, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II. In addition, it brings the six local government that makeup Ijesaland together. According to reports, it was first celebrated by Owa Obokun Owari on a small scale. But over the years, it has become an elaborate festival and one of the most anticipated in Ilesa.



Where to eat

In the center of the city, there are restaurants where you can have the best of Nigerian cuisines. Just ask the locals and one of the restaurants they will direct you to is The African Restaurant. Other places to eat include Bukateria, and Royal restaurants among others.

Where to shop

You may not find the high end shopping malls in Ilesa but the small scale shops can suffice. Some of the spots where you can shop include Format Ventures, Phonson Boutique, Adebambo Tayo stores, and Brainfield shopping mall. You can also visit the popular Atakumosa Market to shop.



Where to sleep

With Jovago.com; you do not need to worry about where to sleep in Ilesa. You simply walk into your hotel, settle your bills and relax. Some of the hotels on your Africa’s no 1 hotel booking portal include Spring Hill Hotel, GoldCity Hotel, Garrett Hotel, Royal Park International Hotel and Heis Hotel.

Fun fact

Ilesa is the home of the Olumirin Waterfall.

Real estate is booming in Nigeria and aside from a large number of locals, visitors and foreigners are starting to invest in the sector in rental property. Of course, becoming a landlord in Nigeria at moment would be a smart move; however, it is important to understand what the commitment entails.

While it may sound like an easy way to make money, becoming a landlord is certainly not something you should do with your eyes closed. It requires a lot of research and consideration, as it can be a costly undertaking that requires a lot of time. To assist those looking to become landlords in Nigeria, the giant of Africa, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal shares 5 key things to consider.



Financial resources

Buying or building a house for rent out to tenants is not an easy task, especially in Nigeria where the bureaucracy can be a huge bottleneck. It is important that you have enough capital as well as opportunities to raise extra funds in the case of emergency, before you delve into it. As from the cost or raw materials, the possible cost of paying contractors and workers legal fees, as well as administrative charges (costs related to interviewing potential tenants, running their credit histories and checking references), there are a lot of hidden costs to tackle. In addition to personal savings, you could consider taking a loan from the bank or seeking out investors. Bottom line; evaluate your finances and ensure you have enough financial resources necessary to complete the project.

Target Tenants

Before you decide to become a landlord; you need to decide on the sort of tenants you are aiming for. Are you looking for the upper class, middle class or are you looking to build something for those on low budget. The type of tenants you are aiming for will help you know the kind of property you will be building in the first place, and it will help you know the kind of marketing plan you may need to adopt. For instance, if your target tenants are dignitaries and people of high class, the rental property has to located in a high-brow area and must be built and decorated with high-end equipment, so they can attract quality tenants.



State and local laws

Nigeria is a large country and while there are national laws, certain parts of the country have their specific state and local laws which either directly or remotely affects real estate as they regulate tenants’ and landlords’ rights and responsibilities and dictate the things that must be covered in your rental agreement. Ensure you know every important detail listed in the local and state laws and guidelines. Some areas require that you pay special fees or taxes for building rental properties. Thanks to technology, you can get all the information you need online.

Property management

Before you even start the process of building or buying a rental property, you need to first decide on how the property will be managed. The property will require repairs/maintenance at intervals, the tenants will require a point of call and a system will have to be in place for rent collection. You can either decide to manage the property on your own (if you are certain you have time to dedicate to the role) or you could consider using an agent or hiring a property management company to manage it for you. If you chose any of the latter, ensure you put them on a contract, and ensure you peruse the term of the contract carefully.



Insurance

The importance of buying insurance for your property cannot be overstated. From buildings and contents cover, to liability insurance, loss of rent protection, and even home emergency cover, it essential that you protect yourself and your property with these insurance.

Almost every traveler would love to carry less luggage on a trip. The idea of minimalist travel transcends the concept of just limiting yourself, either in terms of comfort, style, adaptability, or whatever while on the road. It is more about efficiency!

While minimalism can often be quite a challenge, it brings with it a number of exquisite benefits: you travel easier and with much more comfort; and you have tend to have a much more marvelous travel experience generally. If you are looking to travel the minimalist way, Jovago.com, Africa’s no.1 online hotel booking services offer 5 tips on how to do so.



Draw a budget and stick to it

A sure way to guarantee you are travelling the minimalist way is to draft a very shrewd but feasible budget for your trip. You also need to follow the budget to the letter, making sure you refrain from impulse buying or going into any sort of debt.

Pack light

Travelling with a lot of baggage can slow you down and basically take out the joy from the enite journey. Travelling the minimalist way implies that, rather than pack so many suitcases; you stick to just one carry-on and maybe a back pack. This means that you minimize what you take with you and ensure everything fits in one bag no matter how long your trip is for.



Buy or borrow certain items as you go

A minimalist traveler understands that he does not need to pack every single thing he believes he would need at his destination. Pack only the essentials and buy or borrow whatever else you may need as you go. For instance, you may not need to pack towel, soap or creams as the hotel already provided those. You also do not need to pack your own food/ingredients as you may be able to buy what you need at local shops in the destination. Basically, pack twice the money and half the gear.

Stick to One Credit Card

Yes, you will want to have access to cash and it is safer to travel with credit cards or ATM cards rather than physical cash, but when travelling the minimal way, travelling with just one credit card is the way to go. Keeping a second card for back-up may seem like a wise decision, but it is actually unnecessary. Just ensure the one you travel with has the a decent amount of cash in it.



Wash clothes in the sink

Traveling with a few possessions and clothing would require regular laundering. Rather than spend a lot of money on laundry services or dry cleaning, the minimalist travel will certainly improvise: do every kind of washing in the bathroom sink, or bucket if provided, and hang to dry overnight. It saves a money and the possible risk of your clothe being damaged or ruined.

An exciting part of a road trip for me are the goodies I get to buy and munch along the journey while enjoying the view of the dancing trees, scenic views, skies and sun that seems to be following me.

A road trip can be stressful or exciting – if you are an enthusiast. And exciting and promising road trip can end up being a disaster because one needs to frequent the rest room to empty their bowels every now and then.

To avoid stopping often on the road in search of a convenience to use, the best option (from experience) is usually to stick with light meals that will not get one easily constipated. For this reason, I have designed a perfect meal guide for you – it works great for me, especially when I had to journey to and fro Lagos and Calabar during my NYSC scheme.



I go with Snacks

Most people often confuse snacks with junks. There are healthy snacks that do not harm the body and play as much role as a regular meal, just that they may be less filling. Below is a list of some snacks you should consider – some are regular snacks you would find in small chops.

Scotch egg
Meat Pie
Chin Chin
Puff Puff
Donuts
Buns
Fish rolls
Egg rolls
Popcorn
Cookies
Chips –Plantain, Potatoes or yam.



I love Fruits:

Fruits are highly nutritious – not to sound like a cliché. Asides their nutritious value, they also help one feel more comfortable and less stressed maybe because of the specific nutrients they provide or the steady, reliable source of energy they give. You can make a fruit salad out of the listed fruits below. Fruits you should go for are:

Grape seed
Berries
Apples
Bananas
Carrots



I stay hydrated with Drinks:

You need to keep yourself hydrated, and there is a high chance you will need a drink to control your body temperature and cool off. Sticking with natural fruit drinks is the best option, taking too much of sweetened drinks may make your stomach ache. You should go for drinks like:

Lemonade
Natural Fruit Juice – no additives or colorant.
You can never go wrong with water.
An added tip is – try not to take too much water, so you do not have to pee too often.

Also note that there may be snacks, fruits or drinks listed above you have tried and got you constipated, it is best to stay away from them. Cross out meals constipate you from the list of what on eat of the road and do not also take them a night/day before your trip – no matter how tempting.

What type of meals do you prefer to have on road trips?

For me it’s Banana, Chips and water!

Nigeria is a country blessed with all forms of resources ranging from an abundance in its human populace to rich oil wells and a booming agricultural sector.

A country believed to be the giant of Africa and the largest country on the continent based on its population density, Nigeria is blessed with a population of over 150 million people including about 150 ethnic groups with richly diverse cultural practices and beliefs.

In spite of the tremendous influence of modernization and western religion, the relevance of the indigenous culture and traditions of the people has in no way lost its relevance. Hence, there is no better no way to explore the rich cultural diversity of the Nigerian people than taking part in the celebration of its cultural festivals.

These festivals celebrate tradition, heritage and the rich history of the people through colourful attires, artistic expositions and intriguing traditional rites.

To explore the rich heritage of the Nigerian people through cultural events, plan your next trip to Nigeria around the period when one of these festivals will be in full swing;



Eyo Festival:

The famous Eyo Festival is unique to Lagos, it is traditionally known as the Adamu Orisa festival and it usually held on Lagos Island.

The festival attracts thousands of tourists from across the world who come to see the Eyo masquerades clad in white regalia and large hats as they perform a play representing the spirit of the dead, it is widely believed that the festival is an expression of the customary African fanfare that precedes the modern carnival in Brazil.

Major highways in the heart of the city are usually closed to traffic on Eyo day to make room for the procession’s parade. The large procession usually pays homage to the reigning Oba of Lagos and spectators are expected to take off their shoes to show respect.



Argungu Fishing Festival:

The four day Argungu Fishing Festival first started in 1934 and has since become one of the most popular cultural festivals in the country. Held in the north western part of Kebbi State, it is an all-men affair where participants are expected to compete in the Matan Fada River for the grand prize of N1 million naira and a new bus, by catching the biggest fish in the river.

Competitors are only expected to search the river within an hour after which the fishes are carried to the scales, the competition is usually held on the final day of the four day cultural Argungu Fishin Festival.



Calabar Festival and Carnival:

Calabar Carnival has been tagged Africa’s biggest street party, the carnival kicks off at the end of the annual Calabar Festival held in celebration of the rich and diverse culture of the people. Calabar carnival attracts about two million people annually, dancers are usually decked in colourful, vibrant costumes with feathered head dresses and the street parade showcases about 50,000 people.



Osun Oshogbo Festival:

The Osun/ Oshogbo festival is one of the most revered festivals in Nigeria. It takes place in the month of July and August annually, the festival is a week-long event held inside the Oshogbo sacred Forest, a World Heritage Site, in honour of the river goddess Osun. Several people participate in the festival, where the riverside is usually dotted with sculptures and shrines for Osun. Many people believe in the power of the goddess to provide solutions to their problems.



Ojude Oba Festival:



The spectacular Ojude Oba Festival has placed Ogun State on the map as a major tourist attraction in Nigeria. This famous festival is usually celebrated in Ijebu Ode on the third day of the Ileya Festival (Eid-el-Kabir). During the event several citizens and visitors alike pay homage to the king, the Awujale of Ijebuland. A large procession of gaily dressed citizens are usually seen on the streets including a parade from several societies and clans accompanied by the recitation of traditional songs and rapid gunshots in the air.

Aside from the cultural influence, the festival also serves as a platform to solicit and agitate over major issues in the state.

Benin, an urban center located in the southern part of Nigeria is such a cosmopolitan city! It can be stressful, messy and chaotic sometimes, but its diversity, food, art and music scene are just incomparable with other parts of the continent. Benin is beautiful, unique, and it is certainly one of the best capital cities in the country.

If you are planning to move to Benin or are simply paying a visit, here are a few reasons from Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal, on why you should love this place.



The exquisite arts and culture

Benin City is known as one of the most ancient cities in the whole of Africa. From its rich history to traditions, culture, festivals and arts, it really is a culture enthusiasts haven! The Igue festival which is held towards the end of each year is one event that any lover of great culture around the world would not want to miss.

Laid back lifestyle

Benin City is surely not as fast-paced as several other metropolitan cities in its category. The lifestyle in the area is laid back, and it is as though its inhabitants live with the mantra: work hard, play harder. The bars are always spilling onto the streets (especially after payday), and restaurants are packed. Also, there always events going on all the time that it is almost impossible to get bored of the city.



A bounty of gastronomic delights

The people of Benin are not lacking in the area of local foods and snack. Not only are there bountiful options, the ingredients on each recipe ensure that each meal is mouth-watering. Again, the city is full of good places to eat- even vegetarians get well fed! Local favorites are local bukka like Mama ebo pepper rice where food is not only authentic and tasty, but also affordable.

A taste of royalty

The Benin City is a kingdom. Its royal family is one of the oldest and most recognized in the world. From the Omo N’Oba to the royal chiefs and of course, the royal palace, as well as the Holy Arousa cathederal, there is enough to keep you enthralled. You really do not even need to be a fan of Monarchy to be fascinated by all of it!



Famous Sites

Visiting or living in Benin will give you the chance to see famous sights and attractions in Nigeria without rushing them. From the royal palace to the Benin moat and the Igun-Eronmwon Quarters -listed as a Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, you will become so familiar with the area that when you next watch a documentary on the Benin Royal dynasty you will easily recognize where they are going.

Affordable transportation

Not everyone in Benin feels the need to own a car as the transport system ensures that vehicles are easily accessible and affordable. The traffic in the city is not excruciatingly heavy either. You can actually cover half of the city in 2 hours and without spending much. The private cabs /taxis also are open to haggling, but usually will not go below N500, no matter how short the distance.



The best markets are tourist free

Unlike some markets that are eternally crowded with tourists, a good example is the Lagos Island market, most of the best markets in the city are tourist free. Whether it is Ekioba, Ekiagbado, Uselu or even New Benin market, you can easily mingle with the locals and make purchases from select destinations without being fleeced or treated like a tourist also.

It is no secret that Lagosians love them some pizza…and if you think about it, who doesn’t? It’s crusty and tasty Italian delight is unanimously regarded as “happy food”! Following the path of burgers and hotdogs, Lagos has seen a boom in gourmet pizza restaurants of late, and there is no doubt that the city has started in an eternal love affair with the magical medley of dough, sauce and melty cheese.

Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal has searched the city far and wide to come up with a list of the very best spots. Whether you are lactose intolerant or just a person who likes cheese, we are confident you will find your perfect pizza at one of these restaurants that have really earned their dough. Happy gorging, Lagos-style!



Pizza Rhea

There is something infectiously fun about this pizza spot .Pizza Rhea is one of the places you can find an array of pizza you cannot resist in Victoria Island! Not only is the pizza is good, its authentic flatbread pizza made without yeast cooked in a big stone oven outdoors, has the best thin crust style Italian pizza in town. Again, the service is super speedy despite its laid back atmosphere; the staff is friendly and the pizza are freshly made and offered at a very good price. A favorite for locals in the city is the pizza Quattro Stagioni.

Domino’s Pizza

Tied to the popular Domino’s chain in England, Domino’s pizza is a mini-chain with outlets in almost every key area in Lagos. While it has not exactly lived up to the kind of cool-glam you would expect from an offering by the international Domino’s group, it has become a household name in Lagos and is a good place to sate a craving for genuine, Neapolitan-style pizza, with a flavorful slow-rise crust and a variety of traditional and innovative toppings. Their menu even reflects local Nigerian tastes with specials including Suya and Jollof rice. With its top-notch, speedy and friendly service, as well as affordable prices and rapid turnover, Dominos remains a great pizza joint in Lagos.



Taverna Milano

If authentic Italian pizza is your thing, then you will struggle to find a better spot than Tarvena Milano in Lagos. Although owned and run by a Chilean (who is also the chef), the stretchy pizza bases are pleasingly chewy and laden with fine Italian produce. They serve other items on their menu- Chilean and Latin flavoured dishes; however, they have special Pizza nights on Wednesdays. Their large pizzas are also discounted every Wednesday and Sundays. Try the buffalo mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil.

La Pizza

A major lure to this spot is the dough-scent that fills the air as you approach. La Pizza place sells the best pizza for miles around. A fast-food restaurant with two locations in Lagos: City Mall, Onikan and Allen Avenue, Ikeja, it is a contender for the best original-style italian pizza. The floury bases, pleasingly thin, taste sensational, and a special mention must go to the Pizza Milano.



Pizza Lounge

Pizza lounge shows that the beauty of pizza is not just in how big it is, but in what you do with it. With two locations in Isolo and Ajao and free delivery, this pizza pub whips up an impressive line of pizzas with thin, robustly flavored bases and fresh toppings. Locals delight in their unique African flavors which are a proof that the Italian staple has been elevated far beyond its humble roots.

Jovago in collaboration with Google is happy to announce their first case study focusing on use of Hotel Ads by Africa’s N°1 Hotel Booking website. In order to reach certain set benchmarks, the company utilises Google services to boost its performances.

Lagos, Nigeria, 12th May, 2016 — Jovago in collaboration with Google has released a case study about the use of Google Hotel Ads in Africa. The research lets tech enthusiasts and analysts assess the impact of Google Hotel Ads on Jovago’s objectives, one of which is to connect more travelers looking for a hotel to their vast inventory of 25, 000 hotels in Africa.

“The case study by Google enables us to boost the great customer-centric approach of the business. We have noticed the immense growth and key changes with the use of Google Hotel Ads in our strategy. Google is a giant search engine and we are delighted to partner with them to further ensure that Jovago caters to the hotel-booking needs of travellers in Africa.” said Paul Midy, CEO of Jovago.

In the past five years, mobile phone subscriber growth rates in Africa have been skyrocketing, to more than twice the global average. With a prediction of a 20-fold increase of smartphone users in the continent by 2019, Jovago hopes that the use of the Hotel Ads will double its traffic (from mobile devices) from the current over 30%. Jovago’s users do “everything, I mean everything with mobiles,” says Guido Mancassola, Chief Marketing Officer for Jovago. “At certain times – such as the second half of each day and the later days of each week – up to 75% of Jovago’s website traffic comes from mobile devices,” he adds.

The case study therefore shows the possibility of growth of Mobile use in Africa, particularly in the hotel booking business. As the foremost hotel-booking company of Africa, Jovago has, as a result, recently launched its customer friendly Apps – including the Extranet App for Hotel Managers which enables them to manage their rates and inventory right from the top of their palms.

With a conversion rate 88% higher than comparable channels, Jovago considers Google Hotel Ads the most effective of all its paid channels. Besides, the company has improved its overall paid search conversion rate by 8 points, while consequently its site-level ROI has gone up by 4 points.

“The conversion rate with Google Hotel Ads is one of the highest we’ve ever experienced. You can capture a lot of demand with Google Hotel Ads. It’s been a tremendously effective acquisition channel,” says Mancassola.

Highlighting the upward trajectory of online mobile services offerings such as Jovago, Kushal Dutta, Managing Director of the Nigerian arm says, ‘We have witnessed internet penetration grow at a rapid rate across the country since the entrance of open-access android devices. And the ease of adoption of Jovago services, inspite of the current economic realities has largely been supported by the platform Google provides.”

To help the company acquire new customers in these market conditions, Jovago started using Google Hotel Ads as a tool for reaching new consumers. The launch of its iOS and Android App places further emphasis on the company’s commitment towards innovation and development.

Jovago is a hotel booking website with over 25,000 hotel listings in Africa and over 200,000 across the globe. Present in 48 countries, the company holds the largest hotel inventory in the African continent and offers content in local languages including Yoruba, Ibo, Hausa and Swahili.

This first case study about Jovago and Google Hotel Ads is available here for public view.

About Jovago

Jovago.com is an online hotel booking service with offices in Kampala (Uganda) Lagos (Nigeria), Nairobi (Kenya) and Dakar (Senegal) founded by Africa Internet Group and has Rocket Internet, MTN, Millicom, AXA, Orange and Goldman Sachs as its investors. Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 booking portal, facilitates the booking process for its users to provide them with the best hotel booking experience with fast, transparent and easy-to-use services. Jovago.com has over 25,000 local hotel listings across Africa and over 200,000 hotels around the world.

Travelling smart has been made easier with technology. There are so many downloadable travel apps as well as devices which every traveler can use to make their vacation stress free. One of such devices is the Apple smart watch. This watch has some interesting features that will be useful to any tech savvy person or anyone who wants to travel smart. Jovago.com, Africa’s no. 1 hotel booking portal, gathers five reasons why every traveler needs an apple watch.



Catch a ride

Mobile taxi services now in nearly every country of the world, you can book or request a cab with your Apple watch in Lagos or wherever the service is available. The watch also provides you with information about the time your ride is expected to arrive, the name of your driver and the car’s plate number. And when the car eventually arrives, the watch immediately alerts you.

Helps in monitoring your home

Keeping your home safe is paramount for every traveler. You cannot employ a security guard to watch your home because you are travelling for a few days. You do not need to worry about this if you have your apple watch with you. It has an app from alarm.com that can provide live camera feeds of your home, and it can also help you lock or unlock your door or open your garage even if you are miles away. Just enjoy your junketing.



Tour like a local

It is good to have a tour guide when you find yourself in a new city. But if you cannot get a tour guide as soon as possible, what will you do? You cannot be stuck to your hotel room because you cannot move around. But with the help of your apple watch, you have no problems finding your way. It has a watch map which makes it easy for you to walk through any street like a local.

Know the local currency

For quick conversions to the equivalent to the local currency of your destination, you can use the your apple watch. Wherever you are buying Forex from, you can use your watch to make the conversions so that you will never be scammed. The most reliable app is the XE conversion app.



Offers you real time flight updates

To get real-time flight updates on your apple watch, you must download the app of your favourite airline. Many airlines have apps compatible with the apple watch that you can use to keep tabs with your flight status like time changes and delays.

Travelling by air is supposed to be the safest and quickest means of transport but at the same time, it is also the most tragic when a crash occurs. With this in mind, some travelers board their flights and have a very terrible, unpleasant and awful trip. This is mostly for first-time flyers.

Notwithstanding, this should not be the case. Even if there is turbulence while flying, you can still enjoy your flight. However, if flying freaks you out, Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal gathers 5 ways you can have a thrilling flight. A smooth flight helps you have an impeccable, and hitch-free vacation.



Arrive early at the airport

Lagos traffic is the main excuse many travelers give for arriving late not only at the airport but also to a date or workplace. Two things will happen to you if you arrive late at the airport, you will either miss your flight or have an awesomely terrible flight due to the pressure that comes with late arrival. This should perhaps be the first step to take if you want to have a thrilling flight.

Use your phone as your source of entertainment

You cannot receive nor make calls on board. Despite this, your phone can do other things with your phone like playing games, listening to music, watching videos, and much more. If there is WiFi on board, you can chat with your sweetheart, friends, and family.



Do your makeup

Makeup during a flight? Yes of course. Why not? It will distract you from your mind’s indiscriminate thoughts which may sink you into depression. For the women, if you could do your makeup, do not hesitate to whip out your makeup kit and make yourself up. Women cannot do without their makeup.

Strike a conversation with your seatmate

Since both of you will be flying for the next few hours, it is not out of place to chat with your seatmate. It will get your mind off the flight. Whether your seatmate is male or female ensure that you have a tangible conversation and ensure that you exchange business cards.

Don’t forget your favourite novel or comic book

Soaking yourself in your favourite novel or comic book is another way to thrill yourself while flying. Ardent readers can understand this. For travellers who are not too keen on reading hundred of pages novels, a comic book can stand in.

A city in the south-western part of Nigeria, Ibadan is the capital city of Oyo State and the third largest metropolitan area, by population, in Nigeria, after Lagos and Kano. Better known in Yoruba as Ẹ̀bá-Ọ̀dàn, meaning ‘the city at the edge of the savannah’, it is also the largest and most populous city in the country and the third in Africa after Cairo and Johannesburg.

Ibadan is very old as it was the centre of administration of the old Western Region since the days of the British colonial rule. The city has stood the test of time and while it has developed into a metropolitan city today which is home to about 3.5 Million people, it shows more than just scars of history. It has got a strong combination of tradition and sophistication, and is still driven by its ancient heart. Its location and persistence has made the city a nexus of culture and Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shares all the details.



TOP 3 SITES

Bower’s tower

An over 60 feet tall tower located on the hill top of Oke Are in Igbo Agala (Agala forest) area of Ibadan,the Bower’s tower is the highest hilltop in the city and it has about 47 spiral staircases. It is not only ancient but unique as it offers a panoramic view of the whole city from the top .

Mapo Hall

A remarkable structure commissioned during the colonial era by Captain Ross in 1929, Mapo hall is located right beside Bere Market in Ibadan and is a symbol of the ancient’s key roles in Nigeria politics.

Agodi gardens

The most popular of the city’s six parks, Agodi Garden is a lovely park which spreads over 13 acres of land is a lovely park right at the center of Ibadan city. Most tourist flood the location for different forms of entertainment and recreation.



LODGING

Ibadan is quite metropolitan and as such, most of its hotels can compete with hotels in cities like Abuja and Lagos. Visitors can choose from over 300 hotels within the city via Jovago.com. From ultra-chic and luxurious to, quaint and charming or affordable and basic, No matter your preference and even budget, there is a perfect match for you. For budget travellers, there are decent midrange options on the ground.

SHOPPING

Like true Nigerians, the people in Ibadan love to buy and sell. Shopping is taken seriously around the city and visitors who visit find a lot of options. There are several major areas to go shopping in Ibadan- from the local and bespoke to the mega shopping center. There are also many craft, books and souvenir shops in the Old City. Most visitors love to buy the adire – “tie-dye” cloth dyed locally in large pots of indigo is popular in the city- as souvenirs



DINING

People in Ibadan love to eat. A lot. And there are plenty of terrific restaurants in and around the city. One of the first places locals will take you is to a get amala, ewedu or efo — basically, their most favorite local meal. The local foods are best gotten in market areas and bukka around town. There are also opportunities for fine dining either at the top hotels including Owu crown hotel and Premier hotel.



FUN FACT

Located at the hub of Ibadan’s commercial centre, Cocoa House is the first skyscraper in Nigeria.

Staying in a hotel in Nigeria can be an extremely rewarding experience as it offers a wide range of comfort unique to a person’s situation. However, while great hotels often come at steep a cost, there are certain times where people do not only have to stay in hotels for long periods of time, but practically live in them.

If you are always on the move and are wondering what benefit you stand to gain from living at a hotel. Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal reveals 5 perks.



Stable Wifi

WiFi is gradually becoming a basic human need as most people need it to survive in the world that we live in today. While a lot of people in Nigeria cannot afford their own routers, and the few who do tackle issues of network connectivity on a daily basis, most of the hotels in the country offer stable and most times, free WiFi. This is a huge perk that is most beneficial to business travelers as they can connect all their devices without extra charges. Also, foreigners who do not have local lines can depend on Skype to keep in touch with friends and family, without racking up cell phone minutes or room-phone charges.



Room service

Who does not love room service?! Very few people who live in their own apartments can afford maids cater to their every need or have their requests brought to them right to their rooms. Living in a hotel ensures that you have room service. This means that you can have your food delivered straight to your room, you do not need to clean up after yourself or make your bed and basically, you do not need stress yourself at all…unless you want to. The thing about this perk though is that you may have to pay a little extra for it, depending on the hotel’s regulations.



Free newspapers or breakfast

Hotels offer a lot of freebies to lodgers. From free gym service swimming lessons and babysitting, to newspapers, coffee or tea, and continental breakfast. Basically you can use every single facility in the hotel or take advantage of their amenities for free. The breakfast fee as well as electricity and even water bills are included in your total hotel bill, but it sure feels like free as you are not bugged down with the stress of paying so many extra/separate bills…and actually, if you really consider how much we spend on our own home on a regular basis, it comes close to basic.



You meet a variety of new people

Hotels attract all sorts of people, from tourists to celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries. Basically, people come and go all the time, so living in a hotel a hotel exposes you to people from all walks of life. It expand your knowledge about the world and human race, and it also creates room for different kinds of opportunities…so long as you are the social type who will not hesitate to mingle.