A vibrant city, interesting people and delicious cuisine capture the essence of Nigeria’s heartbeat, Lagos. However, with these aesthetics comes the challenge of survival for many – a dance for the fittest alone. This is why many Lagosians wake up early at the break of dawn to either drive to work or catch a commercial bus popularly called danfo to their various destinations.

If you do the latter often, there are some unusual things you will spot in these buses that stand out as unsual. Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal puts together some of the weird scenarios to spot the next time you see a Lagos Danfo.



Extra front seat

In desperation to make additional cash, the driver in collusion with the bus conductor often squeeze in this hilarious contraption called ‘an extra seat’ at the front. This extra seat is either a white plastic chair or a kitchen stool and it can be extremely uncomfortable. The driver is not concerned whether you are well-seated or not as far as you pay the fare. Surprisingly, in a land where demand far exceeds supply, you are sure to find passengers scrambling for the seat.

Wires as ignition keys

Have you witnessed the moment when a danfo bus is filled out and the driver wants to start the car? At that very moment, instead of turning on the ignition with a key, he simply rubs two naked wires against each other and the bus starts. This happens a lot in Hollywood movies. But this is not Hollywood, it is reality in some parts of Lagos.

Empty Fire extinguisher

It seems safety is not in the books of many commercial drivers. Like the dysfunctional seat belts which are only fixed satisfy law enforcement agency, it is the same for the fire extinguisher. The extinguisher is just there as a disguise or show. Often times, than not if drivers have it in their buses, it is empty. They hardly ever think of what happens if a fire outbreak occurs.



Planks as seat

The bus conductor will categorically tell you that if you are searching for comfort in a bus, you should buy your own car. Aside that, you should make do with the ones on the road. These buses come with nice sofas or seats but the driver willfully removes these sofas and replace them with wooden or plank seats. They will even add an extra one that makes the journey an unpleasant ride.

Taking a smartphone along on a journey can make life easier. With applications like Google Maps and Jovago’s hotel booking app designed to provide quick hotel and travel services at the click of a button, a portable device with great internet facility is likely one of the most essential tools to carry.

Along with the convenience of choosing a phone over a laptop, there are some things to keep tips to take to heart when travelling with mobile device.



Turn off auto sync

Most mobile applications consume a lot of data when left to run in the background of a device. Rather than sinking heavy costs paying for megabytes in internet services, turn off the autosync. If it requires frequent updating or provides a news service, then it should be running all day. There’s also the added benefit of enjoying a stress-free journey without the buzzing sound of a phone rattling everyone’s nerves.

Switch to airplane mode for faster charging

In a hurry and need the battery-life to recharge at top speed? Switching to airplane mode is the answer. With limited apps making use of the dry-cell, chances of it boosting is higher. As an added advantage, get shorter cables – instead of long ones – to reduce the travel time from the power source to the phone.

SIM card

Upon arrival at the foreign destination, purchase a local SIM card. This way roaming charges diminish and call rates are cheaper. Plus, local network service providers constantly give discounts on domestic SIM cards.

Beware unprotected WiFi

Checking into a hotel with free WiFi is great but if it’s an open space, then a little caution is needed. There are viruses and phishing mails constantly looking for easy prey, so find out if the free internet access a password or some two-step authentication process required before logging in.

If you’ve ever left home on a journey to a far away land, you know there are plenty of unexpected things that can go wrong – flight delays and dead phone batteries being the most popular pitfall many experience.

To avoid travel headaches, here are a few tips from Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal!



Tip #1: Going by air? Track your flight

While putting your bags together, remember to pack your patience along with the clothes. In a world where delayed flights are a normal occurrence, it helps to prepare for this eventuality ahead of time. Find other sources of entertainment while waiting at the airport lounge and install a flight tracking app on your phone to help you figure out where the plane is and how long the delay will be.



Tip #2: Safeguard your identity

As more people become internet savvy, it’s becoming increasingly easier for identity thieves to clone personal information of people who aren’t careful. A credit card number typed on the wrong computer, passports lying idle or even a driver’s license left unmonitored can put a person at risk. Stay smart and keep all essential documents in a personal carry-on. If there are soft copies of any document on a device, download a file protection app to secure them.



Tip #3: Scan all travel documents

Why make only paper copies of vital data when you can have them equally stored in a cloud service like One Drive or Google Drive. Misplacing vital travel documents can be devastating so backing them up, is a really good move.



Tip #4: Protect all devices

If you will be participating in outdoor activities, then getting protective gear for your devices is important. Some cameras, tablets and phones come with soft-leather packaging but if they don’t, then buy one which is water and tamper-proof. Also remember to take out a warranty in case the screen goes bad or a heavy damage occurs.

Tip #5: Get direct access to TV shows

Many hotels offer cable facilities but only a few give you the luxury of choosing from an entire bouquet of channels without restrictions. To keep this from happening to you, subscribe for services like Netflix and other internet-enabled movie services to stay entertained. As long as the hotel offers WiFi service, you should be just fine.

Let’s say it’s a public holiday, Worker’s Day to be precise. You live in Nigeria as a billionaire, can’t seem to figure out what to spend your money on and teleportation is a reality far removed from the luxury of a sci-fi novel…how would you spend the most exciting 12hrs of your life?

Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal plays a bit with fantasy on this one. Enjoy!

07:00 AM – 07:30 AM | Start the morning with a few laps and a swim at the Sheraton Gym

Nothing gets you in an amazing mood in the morning like a swim in a pool so clear that its filled with the zest of an ocean.



07:30 AM – 08:00 AM | Ride the cable car at Obudu

The natural ambiance, sunlight seeping through the leaves, and the clear mix of warm and cold at over 25,000ft above sea level makes for a perfect adventure right in the jungle.



08:00 AM – 08:30 AM | Intercontinental a la carte breakfast at Abraka Turf

The smell of fresh morning air at the prestigious Abraka Turf can set a soul on fire. The scenery here is breath-taking, the dark green forest whistles in the distance, the horses stand in wait while newly baked bread and accoutrements grace the table. It’s every tourists dream to have the spring of Abraka feed their soul.



08:30 AM – 09:00 AM | Stop by Terrakulture for a delicious cup of coffee while reading a magazine

The terrace at Terrakulture is such a wonderful spot to unwind and ponder this great country’s economic wonders. The coffee is great, but we’re here for the glorious company that files in through the door from dusk till dawn.



09:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Did someone say ‘beach time’? Jet Ski on the Ikoyi Lagoon is it!

Moving into Lagos, there are very few people who know of the hidden attractions this vibrant city offers. With long sandy beaches that stretch along the coast for miles on end, Lagos has the cutest blend of blue and green ocean for jet skier.



01:00 PM – 01:45 PM | Lunch with friends on a floating boat in Calabar

Starving yet? A quick visit to Africa’s tourist paradise for a special mix of Ekpangkwokwo, Editan and African crab salad made by professional chefs atop a floating boat is perfect for some girl time.



02:20 PM – 04:00 PM | Afternoon nap with nature at Yankari Game Reserve

Heading over to the picturesque countryside of Yankari for a nap with birds chirping in the background is an adventurers dream.



04:00 PM – 04:45 PM | Shop for real leather bags in Sokoto

Woke up with a strong urge to shop? Hey, you are a billionaire, you can buy enough bags to fill a room if you want to and where better to do this than Sokoto, the home of authentic leather.



04:45 PM – 05:30 PM | Go golfing at IBB golf course, Abuja

As a billionaire, you can afford to live anywhere, so a potting game at the nation’s Federal Capital Territory is not big deal for you. Not to mention you have some equally wealthy friends with whom you’d like to strike a few business deals with.



05:30 PM – 07:00 PM | Romantic dinner on a private yacht off the coast of Ibeno

We couldn’t have chosen a more idyllic setting for romantic dinner than the beachside restaurant at the Ibeno private beach. The view is beautiful and the food, tasty. The air smells like salted palm-fronds and memories of another life.



07:00 AM – Dawn | Night cap under the stars at the Kajuru castle

Most people are still taken away by the view of the world-famous Kajuru castle from afar but as a billionaire, you get to keep the entire lot for yourself, the whole weekend!



Soak up the evening mist and read a book in a hammock swaying over the pool. Traipze around bare feet, with jazz music playing in the background…after all who says life shouldn’t be enjoyed. And when all energy is spent, listen to the sound of your beating heart and fall madly in love again with Nigeria, a land with undiscovered treasures.

A privilege that Suleja enjoys is that many people think that it is in Abuja. This perception is rubbing off positively on Suleja as tourists, fun seekers and politicians flood the town to escape the busy-life of Abuja.

Suleja is a traditional emirate in Niger State largely famous for pottery, cotton weaving, dyeing, farming, and mat weaving. It has a population of 216,518 people and was originally named Abuja but had to change to Suleja after the Nigerian Government adopted Abuja as its Federal Capital Territory in 1976. The paramount ruler is Awwal Ibrahim, Emir of Zazzau, of Suleja who ascended the throne in 1993. There is so much to see and do in Suleja even though it is not alluring as Abuja. Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal tells you more about the town.



TOP THREE SITES

Gurara Waterfall

Gurara Waterfall is one of the well known tourist attractions in Nigeria. It is 30 metres above ground level and covers as much as 300 metres. It has only one cascading fall and was discovered in 1745 by a Gwari hunted called Buba. It is a perfect recreational hub for fun seekers.

Zuma Rock

Zuma Rock feature prominently on Nigeria’s 100 naira note. It offers an astonishing view of Suleja, that is if you climb to the top. It is 725 feet tall. The rock was served as a safe haven for Gbayi people escaping attacks during inter-tribal wars.

Mayanka Falls

The Mayanka Falls is just a stone’s throw from the Palace of the Sarkin Zazzau (Suleja). It is a location replete with so much history spanning two hundred years. It is also a nice place to have fun when you are in Suleja.



Hotels

Suleja is an affordable town and the hotels located there are in line with this affordability. This should not be surprising because it is the younger brother of Abuja. Hence, many visitors to Abuja may prefer to stay in Suleja. If you take such a decisions here are some hotels you will find there City Link Palace Hotel, Agenda Suites and Resorts, Sarafina Hotel, Gold Touch Garden Hotel, Double Tee Guest Inn, Jim N Guest House, and NNPC Guest House among others.

Eating

Many of the restaurants in Suleja are small scale restaurants. Do not expect to see the more established restaurants at every stop because they are very few. Some of the small scale restaurant includes Madam Edo Restaurant, Daura Restaurant, Makas Eatery, Lace Restaurant, and Makas Eatery.



Shopping

Madakin Gini Superstore, Shebell Supermarkets and Cosmetics, Pintos Superstore and Celebraty Supermarket are some of the shopping centres which serves Suleja. There are smaller shops which you can patronize. However, if you want to do any serious shopping, you have to drive to Abuja. Aside that, the aforementioned shopping centres are Okay. If you prefer the market, you can visit Madala market or Ibrahim Babangida Market.



Fun facts

Suleja was one of the towns where the ancient sculptures of the Nok culture was discovered.

Nigeria…there’s no other place like it on the continent. Its dynamic people reveal a layer of history preserved through rich traditions handed down over time, and its breathtaking landscape couldn’t be more diverse. With an eclectic mix of wild and modern, its cities, both urban and regional alike showcase a kaleidoscope of civilization as intriguing as the ancestors that tilled its earth to yield great fruit.

Some say beauty lies in the eye of the smitten. To the wanderer seeking rest in an ever busy world, Jovago.com, Africas largest hotel booking portal reveals the 5 most beautiful cities in Nigeria they can call home.



Victoria Island

Victoria Island, the land of rich and famous, is a medley of high-rise buildings and majestic lakes. This elegant nest surrounded by blue-ocean, with a bustling cultural heritage and a high standard of living tops the show with its transformative grandeur, world-class affinity for entertainment, art, and alluring café culture.

For a land that experiences summer all-year-round, dozens of fairy-tale out-door sports mark the existence of its people. Jet skiing, kayaking, go-kart racing are a few activities that make for memorable open-air pursuits.



Abuja

Abuja celebrates its magnificent past with stunning rock formations around the seat of the Presidency. Fabulous marble palazzos and vast expanse of land yet untapped are an investors dream. The Usman Dam lakes oozes timeless sophistication with its postcard-landscape and coral-coloured seascape.

Some cities are full of artificial architectural wonders, others have nature on their side. Abuja toes the fine line on each side of the turf, offering nomads a wealth of natural splendour along with a fascinating affiliation to West Africa’s most powerful government.

Quirky huts stand side by side with contemporary façade designs along the compelling streets of Maitama, and romantic national parks resplendent with rare flora and fauna dot the central sphere of the country. It’s exquisite mix of quaintness, blue waters, and high-end hedonism, give this place an aura of the most driven city in Nigeria.



Calabar

Seductive, harmonious Calabar is everyone’s dream city. Much of the state’s originality comes from the diversity of its landscape.

Teeming with remarkable ancient memorials; its mountainous interior dotted with delightful, unspoilt villages and natural treasures which span thousands of millennia. Its coastal shores are speckled with pretty seashells and the surrounding towns forming glorious backdrops with whitewashed villages and dramatic scenery.

For nature lovers, the neighbouring Obudu National Park and Tinapa resorts is home to some of Nigeria’s highest mountain ranges, where the ancient gods are believed to have met with humanity according to Efik folklore. And then there’s the food, the art month-long annual festivals, and the rich traditions that gives the city its global fame.



Jos

The amazing tranquil city of Jos, set against natures’ glorious backdrop and with hills standing tall under the magical of the northern wind is one to behold. The mix of a dialect so unique to its people and vibrant vistas makes this a hub you’ll never forget.



Here, at the crossroads of modernity, Jos coexist with churches and mosques interwoven to reflect a common belief of love and fellowship among its people. Some of the world famous pre-historic archaeological sites are nestled in the deep forest ranges of the town. Locals are friendly, the food is exotic and possibilities are endless.

A pretty unusual phenomenon occurs in Lagos every day. When dusk covers the sky, the streets of Lekki, this new city at the tip of Nigeria economic hub, light up in a spectacular display of unified energy but as dawn breaks, the décor of this once picturesque city has its streets transformed into a never-ending glut of traffic jams drowning out the beauty of everything around it.

Originally called Leqoi, after a Portugese merchant from whose appellation the town was named, Lekki, while revered for it’s urban appeal dwells on the edge of irony for many. This naturally forming peninsula, 80 km long, adjoins Victoria Island and Ikoyi districts of Lagos, with the Atlantic Ocean and the western edge of Refuge Island. Acclaimed as the home of ‘new money’ it is considered one of the most expensive places to live in Africa yet its street are cast in stone.

Visiting soon? Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shows the complexities that makes this town called Lekki, such an oddity.



Lifestyle

We exist on a beautiful planet with amazing landscapes, tropical paradises, misty volcanoes and Lekki’s claim to surrealism is its direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. Its virgin beaches raise a toast to the explorer within. Its people are jet-setters with an affinity for high-fashion and glamour, not a surprise as a bulk of Nigeria wealthy population call this evolving peninsula home.

Just like fashion, the most innovative ideas thrive in Lekki – where else in the world would you find an exact replica of the ‘Tomb of Jesus’ built right there in the street? And there’s an actual walkway of fame, which is really cool by the way, paying respect to the national hero’s like Dora Akunyili and Wole Soyinka.



Cuisine

For traveling foodies, local cuisine is as important as the destination itself when visiting a new place. A sprawling metropolis and Lagos’ third most popular city, Lekki is Victoria Island’s bolder, grittier little sister with an affinity for the junk food and fast cars. Famous for it’s foodie philosophy of “eat until you drop, young and old indulge in Lekki’s beloved snack bars as veteran chefs dish out steaming hot, ogufe-stuffed batter balls topped with sweet peas, suya and barbequed plantain. Try the delightful pancake coffee shops piled with a wild mix of condiments, or deep-fried asun in pepper-sauce (native name for goatmeat)…Lekki’s answer to the Phillipines, Kilawing Kambing.

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Traffic jams

The traffic jam along Lekki-Epe Expressway are notorious. Building from the traffic lights at on Ozumba Mbadiwe up until the exits at Ajah, a drive which should take less than 20mins often morphs into a 5 hour journey every weekday.

For many years, commuters plying this route groan under the stress of being caught in this gridlock but in true African fashion, Lagosians find creative ways to manage this time effectively – a quick stop at a friend’s house on the way home, a long drink with friends as the grotto or a sudden need to see a movie often keeps them off the road till the vehicular movement thins.

There’s a new generation of Nigerian writers who are making waves around the world. To say the least, you will find a Nigerian name almost every prestigious literary prize from the Nobel prize for Literature to the Man Booker Prize, The Caine Prize for African writing, among others.

For any traveler who wants something to read on the road but may be in a dilemma on which Nigerian book title to select, Jovago, Africa’s No.1 hotel booking portal rounds up 5 addictive books written by authors in Nigeria to read while traveling.



Things Fall Apart

Things Fall Apart may not be classified as a new generation read but it is an evergreen book that can be enjoyed by everyone, including an avid traveler. The book was written by Chinua Achebe in 1958. It chronicles the life of Okonkwo whose craze for greatness triggered a chain of events which had a lasting impact on his life. One thing makes the book unique was Achebe’s use of proverbs complemented by its thrilling Igbo setting. Things Fall Apart is credited with unveiling African literature to the world.



Half of a Yellow Sun

This is a perfect book for every traveler. It offers an enthralling account of the Biafran war between 1967 and 1970 in Nigeria. It was written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. It takes readers through the emotional encounters of Odenigbo-a Mathematics Professor and a revolutionary at Nsukka University; Ugwu-Odenigbo’s House boy, Olanna-Odenigbo’s Mistress and Kainene (Olanna’s sister) during the war. You will be engrossed by Adichie’s sterling narration as you will be left wondering what happened to Kainene.



Joys of Motherhood

Joys of Motherhood is weaved around the terrifying experiences of the African woman. The opening chapter catches the attention of the reader which is about a young woman running like Usain Bolt to a bridge to commit suicide because she just lost her child. She was only rescued by her husband’s friend who recognized her. The story unfolds as the story drives readers through the struggles of women including her painstaking effort to provide for her children. At the end, what will the reward for her struggles? Buchi Emecheta’s Joys of Motherhood with tell you more.



Everything Good will Come

If you want a bit of inspirational read on the road or on board, Everything Good Will Come by Sefi Atta is your best pick. It is set against the backdrop of the military rule in Nigeria in the 1970s and efforts to bring down the military government and end the repression of women.



Open City

Set five years after the 9/11, it follows the life of Julius, a young Nigerian graduate doing his residency in Manhattan. He found it difficult to integrate himself into his new found Americanness, thus began to wander the streets. This aimless wandering offered him a very much deserved break from his daily routine as a medic.



It also enables him to console himself on his recent breakup with his girlfriend. These encounters during his wandering meeting different people and culture largely shapes him.

As the dry season draws to a close, everyone’s hitting the outdoors with friends and family in a bid to enjoy the last bits of sunshine before the dark cloud rain in!

With fun summer activities like kayaking on the Lagos lagoon, jet-skiing at Oniru beach and camping gaining popularity in urban parts of Nigeria, here’s a neat list of adventure essentials from Jovago.com Africa’s largest hotel booking portal, to help you live on the edge, wherever your wanderlust may take you.



Portable Juice Maker

If you feel like a fresh glass of juice, you’ll absolutely love this compact juice maker when out in the wild. Tapped as the “smallest and most versatile handheld juice extractor”, the portable mixer uses a semi-automatic ladle to squeeze out more liquid than the average handheld device. The best part is that it does not need electricity to function, just a few fruits, water and you are good to go!



Wood Burning Campstove

Sleek, convenient, and pocket-friendly, this wood-burning campstove does more than cook a good meal. It also converts the heat from a coal fire into electric energy large enough to charge a mobile phone, torchlight, and other mini-gadgets.



Professional multifunction compass

Have you seen how thick the forests at Idanre Hills are? If you get lost by chance and have no internet service, you’ll need a credible tool to help you get home safely. This is where a professional compass comes in. These compasses are waterproof, shockproof, and easy to use in the dark due to their phosphorescent illumination. If a night lost in the jungle isn’t your thing, then a multifunction compass should be on your luggage list.



Smart Watch

Popular the world over, the water-resistant smart watches are a tremendous accessory for any outdoor enthusiast looking for a great piece of wearable tech. With some having impressive dual-layer display, barometers and innovative 100-meter water resistance structure, a cool time piece can set you on the path to fun times.



Portable Water Filter

This tube is a really important for everyone who loves camping, hiking, or spending time in the great outdoors. The filter uses a 2-stage filtration process to remove bacteria, excess chlorine, weak viruses, and murky taste, giving safe and healthy water on the go. Manufactured from durable stainless steel, this water filter works works with a recyclable carbon capsule and doesn’t need electricity or battery power.

Palm wine is a local beverage which is dear to many Nigerians. Some people even believe that it is better than factory brewed drinks due to its many health benefits and those who have gulped several gourds with plates of hot pepper soup or peppered goat meat, can testify to its delightful taste. However, if you are yet to savour the sap from southeast Nigeria which doubles as the birthplace of the local drink, you need to put ordering many kegs of the sweet liquid on your bucket list.

If you are in doubt about Igbo palm wine, Jovago.com, Africa’s No. 1 hotel booking portal points out several reasons that will bolster or embolden you to drink this beverage.



It is undiluted

You cannot compare the palm wine sold or tapped in Anambra State to the one sold in Lagos or other parts of Nigeria. Many of these palm wine drinks are already fermented, diluted and adulterated, and this has serious side effects. To a large extent, you can trust that palm wine from this igboland because it is undiluted and from a credible source.

Tapped from the source

The natural taste of palm wine can only be enjoyed if you get it directly from the source. Palm wine is produced by splicing horizontal strips at the top of a palm tree and drilling a hole into the trunk. Afterwards, you attach a container held by a raffia so that the palm wine can drop into the container. It has to be collected daily. Very few people are willing to go through the stress of climbing a tree as tall as 20 metres in a city. But visit the rural areas in the South-East, you will find cheap and quality palm wine direct from the trees.



A gourd can intoxicate you

For persons who boasts that they are experts in bingeing, a cup of undiluted palmy, as it is popularly called, will definitely overrule this belief. You can consume liters of alcoholic drinks but you should not attempt this with palm wine as a gourd can get you tipsy while several gourds will get you completely drunk. You have to be disciplined to consume such a natural intoxicant.

It is healthy

It is quite risky to drink diluted palm wine because many are unaware of the condiments which have been added to pep up the taste. But for the ones directly tapped from the tree, it is very healthy. Some of the health benefits include control of cardiovascular diseases, slows aging, good eyesight, increased in sperm count and aid milk production in lactating mothers.

The beach is one of the best places to have a fantastic holiday, weekend or picnic. From Lekki, to Bar Beach, Elegushi and Sultan (all in Lagos) these beach fronts are frequented by funseekers. The soothing, cool breeze, the rhythmic movement of the waves and walking on the beachfront hand-in-hand makes a beach trip all the more thrilling. If you intend to have an unforgettable experience at any of the aforementioned beaches, Jovago.com Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares some helpful hacks.



Carry your sunglasses

Sunscreen is always useful to protect your eyes from the scotching sun. This is the same purpose it serves when you visit the beach with your lover, aside from just shielding your eyes, it also adds to your swag and makes you look good. Heading for the beach, do not leave these behind!

Hide your goodies properly

The beach is peopled by the good, the bad and the ugly. For your baggage not to suddenly develop wings, hide it properly, carry it anywhere you go or ask someone who is staying behind to keep an eye on it. Do not just go wild and neglecting your luggage while having a great time at the beach.



Do try not swim if you don’t know how

It is not compulsory for you to swim at the beach, especially if you cannot swim. The result of a huge wave sweeping you away can be disastrous. Unfortunately, many beach-farers do not heed this warning because they want to swim at all cost. If you want to play in the water, do not go too far in. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Go with a change clothes

Whether you swim better than an olympic champion or not, you should bring extra clothes. Some cannot resist the temptation of the sea waves and you cannot stop them from getting in. To stay dry after a dip in water, pack a change of clothes for the journey home.



Do not forget the snacks

If you want to save some money, you should take snacks along with you. In fact, if you can, you should take everything you need with you to the beach. It will save you the extra hassle of finding something to snack on if the food stalls open late.

Hotels provide comfort as well as serve as a sanctuary to shut down your body whenever you are on the road. It may inadvertently happen that, during your stay at a five-star hotel in Lagos, you may be unable to leave your hotel due to circumstances beyond your control.

Will you simply coil in bed or gaze at empty space lamenting your situation? No! Because sooner or later, you will get bored. You have to do something to revive or spice up your vacation notwithstanding being tied up in your hotel. Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal points you to 5 things you can do when you are stuck in a hotel.



Tour the hotel

Domiciled in Lagos are a handful of hotels that have become tourist attractions due to their popularity. There is so much to see in these hotels that you forget that you are tied down. If you are lucky, you can even buy tickets to attend a performance, show or a gig which coincide with your stay at the hotel. Eko Hotel and Suites fit this category.

Grab a few bottles

Nearly all hotels have a bar. To help you past time, you can visit the bar to down one or two bottles of soda or whatever you drink. You may meet someone to chat. Importantly, do not get tipsy while bingeing. You may find it difficult to get off your bed the following day.



Take selfies

Your phone camera can also help in melting boredom when you are stuck in a hotel. You can take nice shots of yourself with some hotel staff or at the bar and post on Facebook. If you want you can tell your followers that you are legally detained in your hotel!

Read a book

You do not have to carry a physical book while travelling. There are e-books that you have access to on your phone for little or no fee. Reading will help you pass time if you are not keen on leaving your room. Reading will also help you learn something new.



Call your spouse or family

For people who are lovey-dovey, being tied up in a hotel is an opportunity to talk to your lover or partner. You guys can video Skype. You can talk about your fears, worries, relationship and much more. They are are perhaps the best people who can keep your company despite the fact that they are not physically present with you.

In a society where personal cars are the preferred mode of transportation, traditional taxis still serve a core need and carry a local charm. Beyond being a reliable means of transportation, these vehicles licensed to commute passengers at a small fee, usually make for great storytelling on a trip home.

Just like exploring the cuisine of a place, these cars offer a broad spectrum of experiences on a personal level and in the spirit of adventure, Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal presents some of the coolest taxis to watch out for on a journey around Nigeria.



Enugu taxi

Enugu taxis are so cute you’ll want to drive around town in them all day. Their petite feel are a pleasant break from the conventional motorcars that plough the Eastern Nigeria transit route. Locally known as kabu-kabu, a fresh fleet of distinct vessels were recently introduced for general use in a public-private partnership venture arranged by the government.



Abuja cabs

Abuja is famous for its blue coloured taxi’s. Usually operated by the state government, they are an intrinsic part of the city’s rich heritage. Serving as a major form of transportation for people in the nation’s capital, they come at the most affordable prices – N200 per ride- and are only a phone call away.



Keke Marwa (tricycles)

Although these are not conventional cars, these three-wheeled contraptions offer a fun experience with every ride. Known in other parts of the world as Tricycles or Tuk-Tuk, they are popular in Lagos and other southern cities where traffic congestion is a gnawing reality and serve as a quick way of getting around town.



Lagos cabs


Lagos taxi’s are likely the most popular transport system in West Africa. Highly sophisticated, they grew in popularity after buses were introduced in the 1920s by two pioneers, namely Mrs Charlotte Olajumoke Obasa (a leading indigenous entrepreneur at that time) and W.A. Dawodu.

Some travel companions add extra convenience to our experiences, while others take us on a journey through the world of technology. These smart tools which have changed the way many experience the world are quickly becoming everyday essentials for people looking to have a memorable time on the road outside or within Nigeria.

Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shares 4 of these amazing travel gadgets designed to make each trip safer, easier and exciting.



Luggage scooter


Want to have a little more fun with your carry-on? Then the luggage scooter is just what you need. This playful accessory allows users roll their bags quickly without the stress of having to struggle with heavy lifting. Created with room for a foot or two, this innovative trolley which doubles as a kickboard scooter also has blutooth speakers inbuilt for listening to music while gliding through the airport. How cool is that!

Automatic Backpack Survival kit


Manufactured with a dual airbag system, the ABS is an absolute essential for adventure junkies venturing out across mountain ranges or slippery landscapes. In case of a storm, two big airbags filled with compressed Nitrogen gas release, protecting the body and increasing survival rate by 70%. This smart backpack also wins accolades for its durability and feather-weight, plus it has lots of room for additional equipment.

Personalized Imprint Slippers


Write out thoughts on the sand with these original flip flops! It’s a made-to-order footwear which leaves a mark everywhere it goes. They come in multiple sizes and colours and can be worn as a cool beach accessory to cheer up a cloudy mood. These slippers make great gifts and can be used to express one’s individuality or send personalized messages.

The Smallest Steam Iron in the world


This iron is so small, that it can fit into a ten-year old’s palm but is one of the most helpful gadgets to own, especially for those who travel on business trips. The mini-steam iron has a 420-watt motor, 3 heating levels and is the perfect size, even for small suitcases.

Outpacing its ancient and historic past, reflected by the corrugated roofs of homes, Abeokuta has evolved over the years to become a burgeoning city in politics, tourism and economy. It is now a choice destination for many seekers of enthralling adventure.

The rocky landscape, the hospitable people, the festival and the culture are closely knitted to the city’s past which can be described as terrifying. The rocks located around Abeokuta, which literally means under the rock, are revered for providing refuge for indigenes fleeing slave hunters from Dahomey and Ibadan as well as war.

Serving as the State capital of Ogun state with a population of 449,088, it is next door neighbours with the commercial city of Lagos. The major ethnic group in Abeokuta are the Egbas whose paramount ruler is the Alake of Egbaland, HRH Oba Adedotun Gbadebo III. He ascended the throne in August 2005. Want to know more about this antique settlement? Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal tells you more!



TOP THREE SITES
Olumo Rock

Olumo Rock is arguably the most popular tourist destination in Nigeria. The popularity of Olumo Rock was boosted when it got a deserved facelift from the Ogun State government over two decades ago. Before it became a tourist hub, the rock served as a safe haven for those fleeing from inter-tribal wars. It also offered Egba warriors a vantage position to watch their aggressors, granting them of victory in every battle. The rock is 137 meters above sea level and there are several steps you have to climb to get to the top. This will give you overwhelming and panoramic view of Abeokuta. It is a very nice place to have a picnic or honeymoon.

Itoku market

Adire is a traditional attire that is dear to the hearts of Abeokuta people. Itoku can be described as the ancestral home of Adire. In other words, the origin of this fabric can be traced to the town of Itoku. It is few metres away from the Olumo rock. For tourists who are interested in learning about how this fabric is made, then Itoku market must be on their itinerary. It is a craft that has been transferred from one generation to another and the people will never allow it go moribund. Other souvenirs you can buy at the market are local beads, sculptures, musical instruments and bracelets. Today, Adire enthusiast use this attire to make bags, shoes, earrings, pouch and other creative products.




Lisabi festival

The Lisabi festival is celebrated annually to recognise the efforts if Lisabi, a local warrior who contributed immensely to the emancipation of the Egba’s from oppression as far back as the 18th century. The festival is heralded by the booming of dane-guns on Olumo Rock by local hunters. Important features of the festival are seminars, quiz competition, football competitions among the four divisions of Egbaland namely Owu, Ake, Oke-Ona, and Gbagura, Aayo; horse riding and masquerade parade. In between, gifts are offered to the king by the people. The festival is in its 30th edition.

HOTEL
Abeokuta has an impressive collection of hotels ranging from the expensive to affordable. In case you find yourself in the city ‘Under-the-Rock’ (Abeokuta), you have Green Legacy Hotel, Park Inn by Radisson, Quarry Imperial Hotels Limited, Daktad suites, Paris Estate Palace Hotel among others to select from. These hotels are available on Jovago.com.



UNWINDING
Abeokuta is the largest city in Ogun State. Although, it is an evolving urban center there are so many places to relax, and unwind. For example, if you want to watch a movie, you can go to the Olusegun Obasanjo Cinema House at Oke-Mosan or Capricorn Cinema at the Cultural Centre in Kuto. If you decide not to check out the cinema, there are nice restaurants you can go with your date like Mama Cass Restaurant, Maryland Restaurant, Predave Restaurant, Right Choice Restaurant and Iwe Iroyin Food Canteen.



SHOPPING
Some of the shopping centres are FCE Osiele Shopping mall, Alhaji Ayeni Shopping Complex, Saraki Shopping complex, Molade shop, Divine Supermarket, and Ayoola DPM variety stores. You can walk into any of these shops for shopping.

FUN FACT
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB) was a former campus of the University of Lagos. The campus was opened in 1984 to focus on science, agriculture, and technology. It became a degree awarding institution the following year.

There are few things worse than getting caught in the rain without notice. Hopping around in soggy socks, muddy shoes and drenched clothes can put a damper on what should be a bright day.

Although rain can be incredibly challenging to dress for in a country like Nigeria where summer clothing stay in fashion all-year-long, there are tips for getting that simple, smart rainy day look. Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shares nuggets on dressing stress-free for the next downpour.



Keep it sturdy in dark colours

At this time of the year, wearing white shoes may not be the best choice. To stay clean all day, pair darker coloured pants with shirts or dresses. Go for black, as it will show little signs of debris. Long-sleeved outfits and lightweight sweaters in quick-to-dry materials should also be a frequent choice, especially when living in a city like Lagos where the cloud turns dark at the snap of a finger.

Stay dry in longer jackets

Ever been walking in the rain and seen a car splatter water on everyone using the side walk? Upsetting right? Exactly! While the umbrella can fend some of the rain away, it can’t cover the entire body, so try a jacket for full protection. Since classic trench coats are not popular this side of the Atlantic, a trendy mid-thigh jacket will shield the body just fine.



Wear comfortable boots

Traditional rain boots can look a little awkward on the streets of Nigeria especially as rubber does not breathe as well as other materials such as leather and can leave your feet feeling smelly. However, it helps to stick to covered shoe-styles that are short and sleek to keep the feet out of puddles.

Carry the right accessories

If well selected, accessories can be a lifesaver on a wet day. Trade in soft leather handbags for an all-weather nylon-based satchel, invest in a strong umbrella and tone-down the number of metal jewelry to prevent them from rusting quickly.

Dating a typical Nigerian lady can be a topsy-turvy experience especially for a man who is just wetting his feet in the dating game.

Normally, women are complicated beings let alone a Nigerian woman who has so many challenges to deal with like an unstable economy, family, tradition, ethnicity, religion, peer pressure, biology and much more. All these factors conspire to influence whoever she will date.

The average man with his chauvinistic African mindset or perception does not understand this and expect this type of woman to accept him hook, line and sinker. Little does he know that the days of parents marrying wives for their kids is old skool and that most women know what they want. If you want your relationship to blossom with a typical Nigerian woman, Jovago.com, Africa’s No. 1 hotel booking portal shares tips that can make this dream a reality.



Give her money to make her hair

Didi, Shooku, and Patewo are traditional hairstyles in Nigeria but young women prefer the Brazilian hair, the deft Ghana weaving, and attachment because it makes them appear sophisticated. They rarely wear their natural hair, adorning these foreign hairstyles cost money and time and she expects her man to foot the bill for her hair. If not always but once in awhile. In other cases, if you notice she is wearing a new hairstyle, it will not kill you to compliment her and perhaps pay for it. Afterwards, it is because of you, she spends that much time at the salon anyways.

Accept the invite to her church

Nigerians are very religious people. A typical Nigerian lady will always scheme for ways to invite you to her church especially if she really likes you. Importantly, do not reject the offer even if you not a ‘churchy’ person. It is an opportunity for her to show you off especially if you are smooth and suave, to her family, friends and even her pastor whom she relies on for spiritual guidance.



Do not surprise her with a home visit except…

A Nigerian woman is calculative and smart. She knows how to play the dating game. She knows the right time and the man who give a pass to her home. But some men jump the gun by paying her a surprise visit to her home. She will not be excited to see. In fact, she may not even come out at all. You are on your own as you disappointed. It is better to be patient for the invite. If she is not forthcoming, you can discuss the issue with her.

Respect her parents

If she is a woman you desire as a life partner, you must respect her parents when you eventually visit them. For example, if she is from a Yoruba home, you will be swimming in the waters of respect because the Yorubas from south-west Nigeria value respect. So, you are expected to greet not just greeting but prostrate. This will put you in the good books of her parents. Other Nigerian ethnic groups have their rules for respect.



A pathway to marriage

Any perambulating relationship will not last for the typical Nigerian woman. Sooner or later she will quit the relationship if the relationship is aimless and does not have any direction. She will give you marriage signs but of course she will not pop the question. She will be more concerned if you are matured and she knows that ready. The question she will ask herself why the delay?

What is more exciting than boarding a plane bound for some beautiful destination where new culture lie in wait and popular natural attractions beckon? Travelling around the country is one of life’s most amazing pleasures and, judging by current trends, Nigerians will continue their love affair with taking adventurous trips to far-flung places.

While keeping your luggage small and simple is the way to go, there are some essential items every passenger should tag along to ensure a comfortable journey.

Thanks to Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal, here’s a checklist of 6 important things needed to make any journey a relaxing experience.



Quick change of underwear and day-clothes

Most people only carry an extra change of clothing when going on long trips but when what was supposed to be a daycation turns into a week-long charade, that extra knicker will come in handy. Plus with the erratic weather changes, a shirt-soaked through from the rain will not leave you feeling sunny for most part of the journey.

A small notebook and pen

Ideal for those memorable moments when you are handed immigration forms on board an international flight by attendants or given the address to a hotel location so remote that Google Maps goes blank and the phone battery dies.



Travel toiletries

It’s always a great idea to carry basic toiletries like toothbrushes and lotion in pouch if you’ll be away from home for more than 12hours. Dental decay and flaky skin are real issues! However, note that airlines only allow liquid containers with sizes 100ml or less and stored in transparent bags.

Snack and water

In a place like Lagos, there will always be a place to grab a bite, however at if you’ve got a really early flight, chances of finding something exciting are usually slimmer. A canister filled with water and a few granola bars in the bag can be a lifesaver.



Personal entertainment

For most people, good playlist is a priority! If reading is more appealing, rather than sitting idle, get lost in a novel. Many transport companies provide some form of entertainment but the options on offer may not be pleasing to listen or watch. So carry a book, phone or computer with a selection of personal movies, shows and music. Works each time!

Looking good is good business. Whether you are travelling on a date, leisure or attending a business meeting at Tinapa Resort, the type of shirt you choose to adorn says so much about your style. The quality and versatility of your shirt is also essential. To give you that added boost of confidence at your next meeting, Jovago.com, Africa’s No. 1 hotel booking portal share 5 ways for choosing the perfect travel shirt for any occasion.



Stain Resistant

While hanging out with friends or your partner, you may mistakenly spill wine or oil on your shirt. But if your shirts are not stain resistant, the stain will be conspicuous and can be embarrassing. To prevent the stain from sticking to your cloth use synthetic fabrics which are fairly more stain resistant than cotton shirts which are worse when it come to staying stain free.

Colour

When packing for your trip, you should pick neutral colours like blue, grey-white, and black. Neutral colours can easily be paired with any trouser and shoes of your choice. In addition, if you pack brightly colored clothes rather than neutral, dark patches as a result of perspiration from your armpit can form around the underarm area, giving you an unkempt look.



Fitting

A fit shirt is the best choice for any traveler. However, in your bid to choose a fitted shirt, ensure that it is not too tight but comfortable. This may be risky in the event of an incident as it may easily quicken suffocation. Also leave out over-sized shirts which are a no-no for any trendy traveler.

Quick dry

Most of the things you engage in on while traveling are mainly fun activities and dry cleaning your clothes is usually not on your to-do list. When handing your clothes to hotel staff for dry cleaning, it’s best to give them clothes that do not take forever to dry. Polyester shirts dry quickly because they soak up less water. So, pack more of polyester shirts, especially if you may get caught up in the rain.

Lightweight

If you want to a pack light and do not want to pay additional fee for your luggage, do well to pack light weight shirts.

Every Nigerian undergraduate heaves a sigh of relief the moment they write the last paper of their final exams, no matter what part of the world they find themselves. They tend to think the worst is over and they are pumped up with enthusiasm for the future. Most of them who are not in the country immediately return home with copious optimism despite the fact that most of them have little or no knowledge about the Nigerian job market and potential careers for them.

Fortunately, life does not start and end within the four corners of the classroom. It is important that you are properly prepared – mentally and otherwise- before jumping into the labor world, that way you are prepared for every possibility. If you have just graduated from university and you have decided to move back or migrate to Nigeria to start a career, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking site suggests 5 things you should keep in mind.



Slow your roll, it is not a race

You have just graduated, you have so many dreams to achieve, your goals and vision seem so feasible, and because you have so much positive energy, you are possessed with the strong urge to achieve them all immediately. You then find yourself comparing your strides with those of friends and thus filled with self-loathing when most of them seem to be ahead: they are already in Law school, graduate school or have landing a great job while you are still at home still watching reruns of Jenifa Dairies.

While it is fairly common to justify your worth immediately after graduation, you need to keep in mind that life is not a race. Give yourself time; your path does not necessarily go in the same way as others. Take your time in forge your path…and remember, the race is not for the swift.



Your degree does not guarantee a job

Yes, you worked your heart out at the university, studied every night, attained excellent grades and graduated Magna Cum Laude. However, these achievements in school, no matter how laudable, do not entitle you to a six figure job, with full benefits and a corner office.

You need to get your head out of the sand and realize that your mental ability and hands-on skills are what sets you apart in the real world. Forget the degree! Take personal responsibility and equip yourself with the courage to shape your future with your own hands.



Experience is worth more than the pay

Do not be too fixated on how much you earn. You are just starting out so be smart, take the first few years to gain the best possible experience that and equip yourself for opportunities to make all the money you need in the future.

Do not stay idle waiting for the job with the huge pay, it may never come, as in Nigeria, experience matters a lot. Take the internships, the unpaid jobs and use the opportunity to build a network of contacts. Spend your days and nights gaining valuable working experience and marketable skills. The experience and skill will eventually separate you from all the others who graduated with you and set you apart.



Your Social Media page has a huge influence on the opportunities that come to you

Social Media is huge and almost everyone has an account on either Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat.

While you have free reign over your account and can post anything you want on it, you need to be cautious when sharing stuff online as you cannot regulate the number of people who visit and view your wall. One of them could be your prospective employer or someone who is linked to a company you have applied to. Avoid immature comments and foul language as most times, companies use their potential-employees social media profiles in order to know them better…and you want them to get a good impression. Create a social media profile that reflects your ambitions, and provides a link to your resume for potential recruiters.

Africa is known for its vibrantly colored traditional dresses, worn by both men and women. While there has been a high adoption of Western clothing introduced by modern designers, most African countries have in one way or another preserved their cultural dress codes. Some have become very popular not only in the continent but in the world as well.

Popular designs such as the Kaftans and Wrappers of Nigeria have become global signature outfits. Jovago.com, Africa’s leading online hotel booking company presents you an infographic showcasing African traditional couture’s from countries across the continent.

If you are comfortable to travelling alone, you should be on the lookout for a travel companion. It may probably be an arduous task finding someone because of the differences in attitudes, values and beliefs but if you eventually meet that person, it can add some spark to your travel within Nigeria and beyond. In light of this, Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares tip on how to get a fit travel companion.



Run away from people who nag

The nagging traveler complains about any and everything. Their tongues are very lethal and these are not the kind of people you really want to have as a travel companion. Both of you may even end up taking different paths home because you cannot seem to understand them.

Have something in common

Two people cannot move together unless they agree. If both travelers do not agree or have anything in common, it is a recipe for disaster. So, if you cannot agree on visiting Ikot Ekpene, and reach a compromise; both of you have no business travelling together. Travelers must have shared interests to make the travel worthwhile.



Agree on the same budget

A budget is a clear and unambiguous outline of your travel expenditure. A well-planned budget will largely help you check your spending. If you are shrewd and the prospective travel companion is extravagant, there will always be a problem in agreeing to a budget. Before, you settle for anyone, ensure that you can agree on the same budget. You may not consent to everything but at least on important items in the budget.

Road-test your travel companion

Before you commit to long distance travel, you should road test your travel companion. You can offer to take them to a place like Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC). On the journey, consciously observe their habits, spending, and enthusiasm. You can even book a hotel to determine if you can stay in the same room with them or not especially for a person who snores. If they tick all the right boxes, you can then decide if you want to travel with them or not.



Make conversation with the person

Prior to travelling, you should have a conversation with the person so that both of you can be on the same page. Making conversation, helps you address any potential travel problem. But if you cannot interact with the person, it is advisable to shelf the idea of traveling with such a person.

Lagos’ fascinating capital, and the administrative capital of Lagos state, Ikeja is historic yet modish, bureaucratic yet malleable, and multicultural to its roots. It has all the advantages of a big city: rich culture, lively nightlife, international restaurants and good transport- although quite rowdy with a lot of road traffic. Wherever else you go in Lagos, allow at least a little time for Ikeja, undoubtedly a thriving, cosmopolitan metropolis, with top-flight architecture, and is eternally a trendy spot for weekend getaways and holidays. It is a center of Lagosian culture that you cannot afford to neglect.



TOP 3 SITES

Kalakuta Republic Museum

This fascinating museum is the former house and revolutionary headquarters of music Legend, Fela Kuti. It still features most of his property in its original form, from Fela’s bedroom to his underwear.

Computer village

Also popularly known as Otigba, Computer village which was created in 1997 is a large market for computer sales and repair services, as well as various types of office equipment and electronic devices.

Ikeja City Mall

One of the largest malls in Lagos State and certainly the Largest in Ikeja, Ikeja City Mall attracts a lot of visitors, both locals and tourists. Aside from shops, hair salons and eateries, it also has a cinema.



LODGING

Lodging in Ikeja is cheap compared to Victoria Island and Ikoyi, with a touch of charm and elegance. Hotel accommodation includes luxury hotels, star-rated hotels, boutique hotels, motels/inns and apartments for rent. Hotels can be booked online before you arrive at very reasonable prices via Jovago.com.



DINNING

Ikeja can hold its own with any intercontinental city when it comes to eating out, and whatever your taste, price range or preferred type of cuisine there is almost always for you. As for where to eat, the distinction between the city’s bukkas, fast food joints/eateries, café-bars and restaurants is quite clear, and there are number of great places around the city. For visitors who enjoy drinking, many of the more distinctive bars are handily located in the G.R.A area. Some of the favourites include Red lounge and Pool terrace Bar.



SHOPPING

Ikeja is a city of contrasts with enormous diversity when it comes to places of interest and where to shop. The city has a supreme selection of small, independent shops, a marvelous range of open-air markets as well as covered shopping “streets” and a number of charming galleries. Alade market located on Allen avenue Ikeja is known to be one of the most expensive markets in the city. Shops and stores are open from as early as 8am to 6pm or 7pm Monday through Saturday. Some tourist-oriented shops open on Sundays as well.

FUN FACTS

“IKEJA” is an abbreviation meaning Ikorodu and Epe Joint Administration. It was coined by colonial administrators for ease of administration. It is also said to be from Ikehdia a Benin word meaning Watch Station (military).

Thanks to online shops and digital retailers, independent bookstores in Lagos are suffering a significant demise. Luckily, there are some stores that are yet to succumb to the online competition and still have a robust selection of books to offer buyers who wander into their shops.

If you are visiting Lagos and searching for places to get books – whether for school, leisure or personal development, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking website, highlight 5 bookstores in Lagos that offer bestsellers in every category.



Terrakulture

This gorgeous store has a solid reputation, rightfully earned by its well-rounded selection of bestsellers and favorite fiction from the near and distant past. There are also generous sections for mainstream titles and children’s literature. Art exhibitions here are frequent, as are readings and other literary events. They also sell CDs and the staff is always helpful with first-timers who have no clue as to where to find what they are looking for.



The Hub

Located inside The Palms shopping mall, Lekki, The Hub is so deeply woven into the fabric of Lagos that it is routinely listed as one of the city’s essential book stores. From Novels –African and foreign fiction- to classics, kid’s books, cookbooks, rare titles, art books and even signed first editions, this spot offers a lot of choices for the ardent reader. Again, a lot of the books available here are suitable for both the old, young and the young at heart.



CSS Book shop

Opened since 1869, CSS Bookshop has been around longer than most of the neighborhood’s residents and is the oldest bookstore in the city. Located in the Bookshop House, Broad Street, Lagos, expect to find a mix of educational books, academic textbooks, contemporary fiction, classics, magazines, and children’s books. The bookstore’s reputation often attracts tourists, and once inside, it is easy to understand the attraction as the building alone is huge landmark in the city.



The Jazz hole

A popular location on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, this small store offers a sanctuary from the usual commotion that pervades the area..If you think you are well-read, you you are bound to have fun time being challenged by not just the staff in this store but by others who visit the place. The Jazz Hole certainly is the best place for readers interested in picking the brains or other avid readers. A perk is the music that resounds in the location and occasional literary events.



Glendora

A great place for book lovers to browse and look around, Glendora offers a wide range of books, from modern paperbacks to forgotten classics. Located at Ikeja City Mall, It is a great place to buy a one-off present, including collectibles like limited editions and signed copies. Prices are reasonable, and it is a lovely place to stand around browsing for an hour, before carrying on with your shopping or rendezvous at other stores in the mall.

The desire for a lifetime adventure is only satisfied by visiting a destination which offers a unique travel experience. Calabar in Cross River state is one of such destinations that leaves you yearning for more.

If you have the slightest opportunity to get away from your daily routine, book a comfy room and a flight or whichever choice of transport and head over to Calabar. Your family will welcome this time-out and love you for it.

Sharing tips on fun things to do on a trip to Cross River, Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal reveals five creative ways to enjoy a Calabar vacation.



Do not leave without tasting Edikaikong

You must have tasted Edikaikong prepared in Lagos. But if you taste the one cooked by a Calabar woman in Calabar, you will leave Lagos for Calabar every weekend to taste this nutritious cuisine. Edikaikong is Calabar’s biggest export when it comes to cuisine. You should eat this tasty soup with Akpu (Cassava starch). Yummie!

Ride Africa’s longest cable car

The experience of riding a cable at an incredible height leaves tourists with mixed feelings. The cable car is 4 kilometres long and it is located at the Obudu Mountain resort. The overwhelming temperate weather, and the picturesque scenery of the resort is just right way naturally detox.



Tour the Tinapa Resort

The Tinapa Resort Free Trade Zone is a place to go for sightseeing even though it is yet to be completed. The resort was set to boost the tourism potentials of the state. Nonetheless, there is so much to do. There is the nightclubs, Cinema, restaurants and children’s arcade.

Go Mountain climbing

Climbing the Obudu Mountain is not for the faint-hearted. But if you want an ultimate travel experience, make sure you climb the 1576 metres high mountain. The reward for your effort will blow you away as you are welcomed by the Obudu mountain resort-a resort that sits on the mountain, breathtaking views and awesome sceneries.



Milk a cow

Obudu ranch dairy farm is located at the Obudu Mountain Resort. Hence, after the energy-sapping climb of the Obudu Mountain, you can visit the dairy farm to milk cows which no doubt add to the experience.

When Nigerians travel abroad some of them may not want to identify themselves as citizens of our beloved country. Why? Because of the negative stories peddled about the country by the media. Some Nigerians immediately they alight from a flight from Lagos to London, change their accent. They speak and act British or American depending on where they are.

Fortunately, a leopard cannot change his skin. A Nigerian will always be a Nigerian with certain perks which is why no matter how polished they are or the efforts to hide it you can identify them. Jovago.com, Africa’s No, 1 hotel booking shares tips on how to identify a Nigerian anywhere in the world, Do not forget to say hello whenever you meet one on your travels or vacation.



The heavy Nigerian accent

There are over 250 ethnic groups in Nigeria. Some of these tribes have their dialect. With these dialects comes an accent. You can easily know a Nigerian who is of Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba extraction by their accent. The accent cannot be wished away no matter how a polish you are.

They are hustlers

Nigeria is country that certainly agrees with the parlance No food for lazy. They always hustle to survive. You just need to drive across different parts of Lagos to have a first hand experience of how hard Nigerians work to eke out a living for themselves. When you see Nigerians excelling in anywhere of the world, do not hesitate to offer them a gracious handshake. However, the shortcoming here is what the Nigerian is doing to survive abroad?



Proud to speak their mother tongue

England is said to be the second home of many Nigerians. There is a sizeable presence of Nigerians in Queensland. So, do not be surprised when you hear any of the three major languages especially Yoruba on the street of London. Meeting a fellow citizen abroad gives you sense of security and belonging. Nigerians do not shy away from speaking their dialect.

The Green passport

This is perhaps the easiest way to spot a Nigerian. The Green passport certify you a Nigerian. Holla at them when you spot a Nigerian passport. Nigerians should be proud of their passports.



You cannot miss the taste of Nigerian cuisine

You may be shocked at how some Nigerians stay ‘Nigerian’ even though they do not reside in the country. They still keep the local cuisine. So, when you perceive the aroma of pepper soup, Akpu and egusi soup, Fufu and efo riro. That is definitely a Nigerian home or a Nigerian restaurant. You can walk in to have a feel of Nigerian cuisine.

They love Nollywood movies

If you are in Nigeria, you may not really appreciate Nigerian movies. But Nigerians living abroad definitely love Nigerian movies. You find piles of Nollywood movies at their homes. Perhaps, these movies connects them to Nigerian culture, values and traditions. Just maybe.



They Love to Party

Nigerians love to party. They have transmitted this partying character abroad. They proudly adorn their Buba, Iro and Gele. In fact, they select Aso-ebi for their party. Partying is a trait that not be sapped from the bloodstream of an average Nigerian.

Abuja, the capital of Nigeria – and thus seat of government, is one city every Nigerian strives to visit and possibly settle in as there is the assumption that the city holds lucrative financial opportunities for all and sundry.

No doubt, Abuja is metropolitan and has a lot to offer in the area of business, leisure and even culture, however, there are certain unique truths that every prospective person planning to migrate here should keep in mind before moving. Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking website lists 4 solid truths about living in Abuja.



Rent is expensive

Abuja is one of the most beautiful cities in Nigeria, but the cost of living is very high. It is even more expensive than Lagos when it comes to housing and rent! For younger people who are unpaid interns or have entry level professional jobs and are supporting themselves, the city is pricey and it may be difficult to find a good area to live in within the city that will meet your budget. In fact, half a year’s pay will likely go towards a shoebox-sized mini flat somewhere far from the city’s center.



Safety is a huge deal

Owing to its status at the seat of power, there is a high presence of security operatives around the state. You do not need to live in fear while inhabiting the city anymore as both the police and Army officials have been deployed to keep guard. Basically, you can live your life freely within the city, but it is important to keep your wits about you and refrain from giving anyone the opportunity to approach you in a threatening manner.



Transportation is surprisingly affordable

For a city that is as sophisticated and elite like Abuja, it is surprising to find that transportation is well structured, organized and super affordable. At least when compared to cities of similar caliber. Unlike Lagos, Port Harcourt or Benin where the minimum rate for taxi cabs is N 1,000, one can get a cab for as low as N200 for a short distance in Abuja. Note that these cabs are not dilapidated or faulty. There are also buses that go to certain destinations and they are affordable as well, from as low as NGN50. Public transport is very safe and there have are barely any reported incidents of “one chance” in the city.



The weather can be extreme

Abuja may be mid-central, but the weather is similar to the weather in other Northern regions and the temperatures are usually at the extremes. The city experiences three weather conditions annually, including a warm, humid rainy season and an extremely hot dry season. In between these seasons, is a short period of harmattan accompanied by the North East Trade Wind, with the main feature of dust haze, intensified coldness and dryness. The high altitudes and rolling terrain of the FCT act as moderating influence on the weather of the territory. If you hate extreme heat and cold equally, you maybe want to think about living elsewhere.



It is a transient city

There are plenty of families, who have settled and lived a long time in Abuja, and there is no shortage of community and shared history in here, however, the city remains one of the most transient cities in Nigeria. Whether due to the city’s economy, the constant change in political appointments, flexibility of business in the area or religious reasons, a large number of people move in and out yearly basis.

While it is a great place for young people because it has a ton of very good jobs and holds opportunities for a position in the government, as they get older, they move back to the place they came from. So, chances are you will not be living in the city for long.

Traveling is filled with so many unforeseen circumstances, especially for persons who go by road. The car could break down, there could be an accident or you could have a deflated tire.

You have to anticipate these things in order to successfully navigate them. Hence, there are some important items you are meant to carry in your car. Jovago.com Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares some of these.



Spare key

Car owners must have been agitated because of misplaced, stolen or forgotten car keys. There is a high tendency of this happening especially when you visiting a festival like the Osun-Osogbo festival in Osun. It may be an unnecessary precaution not until you cannot open your car. Then you disrupt your vacation. The best you for is to have a spare key kept somewhere safe.

First Aid kit

The first aid kit helps you temporarily attend to medical emergency before the ambulance arrives. This will always come handy when there is a roadside accident. You do not have to be the one to involved in the accident. You may be a good Samaritan to assist an accident victim.

Map

When you are traveling, there are some places you may be unfamiliar with. If you do not want to get lost, you need a map. This is not a GPS map but a physical man because there are some places that may not be covered by the GPS.



Spare tire

You can have a flat tire at any point in time when driving. It may be worse if this happens in the night and if you do not have a spare tire, you will be distraught because you may be stranded. Whether you are traveling or not, you should always have a spare tire.

Fire Extinguisher

You may be driving and your vehicle may suddenly go up in flames because of engine overheating. Thankfully, the fire’s damage will be limited due to the presence of a fire extinguisher in your car. In addition, you should learn the proper use of the extinguish.

The idea of going on a road trip out of Nigeria to other West African countries can be exciting for adventurous people but, while people travel every day to other west African cities such as Cotonou, Togo, Accra and Douala, either by public buses or private cars, very few of them are prepared for the experience they eventually face on the road. They leave excited and return discouraged, determined never to go on another road trip.

The truth is, travelling to other West African countries from Nigeria by road can actually be rewarding as long as you keep these things listed below in mind and prepare yourself for them. To help you prepare appropriately, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal suggests 6 things every traveler must know before setting out on this journey.



Your Nigerian Passport and Yellowfever Card are essential

Most people assume that they can just freely travel from Nigeria to neighboring West African countries without their International passport as they are all members of ECOWAS nations and have their visa waived, but that is not the case.

Every traveler is expected to provide their passports for stamping, as well as the Yellow card for proof of health before they are allowed to pass the border. Travelling without these documents can ruin your trip with border delays and denied entry.

Adult diapers will not work

Most cross-country trips can take from as long as 5 to 24 hours, depending on where you are going to and where you take off from.

A lot of travellers are skeptical about using the toilet on the bus, stopping by the road side to ease themselves or using public toilets along the way, so they resort to wearing adult diapers. Unfortunately, adult diapers are of no help when travelling outside the country to West African countries. Not only will it be utterly uncomfortable, thanks to the long distance and bumps on the way, it could arouse undue suspicion from the officers at the border or even the NDLEA staff.



It is cheaper to change currencies before setting out

The Naira is only relevant for buying and selling within the country, and so, you will need to use the currency of whatever country you are visiting to be able to make purchases there. As a result, you have to ensure you visit any bank of choice or ‘bureau de change’ to trade the money you need for the trip before you set out. Some would advise that you wait till you get to the border before you change your money, but the truth is that the exchange rate at the border is always higher and less beneficial. You best bet is the bank. Alternatively you can decide to use your ATM card, if your bank allows that, but the charges for such transaction are also usually very high.

There is are different time zones

We may all be West African countries, but different countries operate in different time zones. For instance, Nigeria is 1hour ahead of Ghana and Benin Republic. Ensure you research to note the time difference between Nigeria and the country you are visiting, that way it is easy for you to keep track of time.

Also, some people are affected when they migrate into different time zones. If you are one of those, you may want to prepare yourself and pack whatever remedy you need to keep your body in check.



You will cross most borders by foot

Before setting out on your trip, ensure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes as aside from several stops that the bus will have to make for you to stretch your legs and buy food, you will have to cross most borders by foot.

For most of these borders, especially the Ghana border, it is a long trek which will be very difficult if you are not prepared for it. It is advisable to carry a small handbag where you can keep your valuables, so that when you are crossing the border, you only need to hold it and leave the other entire luggage in the vehicle.

Prepare to stay offline for most of the trip

The beauty of a road trip is taking random pictures and posting them online on making instant videos for Snapchat and Instagram.

If you are travelling out of Nigeria to West African countries, you may not be able to do these as the roaming rates are very high. Sending a text from Togo alone is as high as N300 per text message and the data rates are outrageous. Also, unless you are an MTN subscriber you may not even have access to any of the mobile networks. The only way out may be to buy a new SIM card that works in the country you are visiting at the border and insert it on your phone.

Ilorin is located in North Central Nigeria was founded in 1450 and is dominated by the Yorubas’, one of the three major Nigerian ethnic groups from South West, Nigeria. In spite of the large presence of the south-westerners, you will find that other ethnic groups especially of Hausa extraction call this quiet town home.

Officially known as the capital city of Kwara, it is a predominantly Muslim community and is a major destination that many Muslims from other parts of Nigeria who visit to learn the about Islam. The people are hospitable and warm and this is why it is tagged the ‘State of Harmony’. It is a choice destination to escape the buzz of Lagos and Abuja and has a population of 847,582. Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal unveils Ilorin, Nigeria’s state of harmony.



Top 3 destinations

Owu Falls

Owu Falls is arguably the biggest tourist attraction in Kwara state. It is 112 kilometers from Ilorin. The wonderful fact about this fall is that the water pours from about 330 ft and the hill from which the water falls from is about 120 metres.

National Museum, Esie

The Esie National Museum, was set up in 1945 which makes it the oldest museum in Nigeria. The museum holds about 1,500 soapstones whose source is unknown till today. The stones were discovered in 1933 and the museum’s purpose is to preserve these stones. The stones are images of children, men, women and animals.

Sobi Hills

Sobi hills is 394 metres above sea level. Its lush green vegetation and spectacular landscape makes it a premium destination in Ilorin. There are different points from which water gushes out to the delight of visitors. The hills derives its name from the town of Sobi.



Hotel

Ilorin offers a mix of urban and rural life. Many of the hotels are in the city centre and these hotels are quite suitable for everyone no matter their taste. There are over 140 hotels on Jovago.com which you can select. Some of the hotels include Kwara Hotel, Princess luxury hotel, Sity Inn, and Fairyland hotel ltd. You also get as much as 15% discount if you use the these hotel booking portal.



Shop

Kwara Mall where Shoprite domiciles is the biggest and best place to shop in the city. Other spots you can shop are Adisco shopping mall, Ramond Best boutique, Silvertex boutique, and Kalia Ventures.

Unwind

Most of the restaurants are located in Ilorin. One of many classy restaurants is Chronicles Restaurant situated along Ahmadu Bello way, Ilorin, Kwara state. You can also walk into Yinkus Canteen, Lox Chaws, and T and K restaurants to have a taste of Ilorin cuisine or take a stroll by the Niger river running through the city.

Fun fact

His Royal Highness, Ibrahim Sulu Gambari is the 11th Emir of Ilorin emirate. He has spent 20 years on the throne of his father since 1995.

Imbibing good habits may take time but regular practice will make it part of you. To put uncomfortable setbacks at bay and help you have a hitch-free journey, Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares some travel habits to have a smooth vacation.



Carry original copies of your documents

This does not mean you should physically carry all your original travel documents along with you. Rather, you should have the originals uploaded to either your email or saved to any cloud storage website like Onedrive, Dropbox or GoogleDoc for easy accessibility. If at any point, you cannot find photocopies of your travel documents, you can quickly retrieve them online.

Hide your money

With the cashless policy in Nigeria, travelers rarely carry large amounts of money. Today, ATM cards are used to settle travel expenses. But this does not rule out the fact that some people still carry cash. If you are junketing with cash, you should hide it in unsuspecting places. If you misplace your wallet, cash will come handy!



Pack as lightly as possible

Whether you are going on a short or long vacation, you should not overpack. You will not only be weighed down but will also be paying more especially if you are flying. Packing light is to make your travels exciting and less stressful.



Reduce your alcohol intake

Some people cannot do without gulping alcohol. The side-effects of alcohol intake while traveling are that it makes you fatigued, dehydrated and unstable. To stay healthy all the way, can replace alcohol with a fresh glass of water and you’re good to go!

Charge all your devices

Your phone is as important as your travel documents so it’s important to keep them on always. It is not advisable to rely on charging at the hotel or airport which is a regular practice among many travelers. The consequence of charging your iPad or Smartwatch at the airport is that you may forget your device, and this is even worse.