FinTec:


Nice review.
OP,have you tried writing reviews on a website like 'tripadvisor'? I have used reviews there while making travel choices outside Nigeria e.g where to visit,eat or lodge. Your review will reach a wider network

Thank you, would give it a try

*smiles* What other establishment do i want to start my reviews and ratings from, if not from intercontinental hotel. It is said to be the best hotel and most expensive hotel (in terms of construction) in Nigeria. Before i proceed, let me give you a brief summary of Intercontinental hotel; as obtained from their website.
InterContinental Lagos is located on Victoria Island, in the centre of Lagos, home to major consulates and multinational companies, making it the perfect residence for affluent business and diplomatic travellers. Built on an elevated terrain overlooking Lagos’ port, the hotel offers uninterrupted spectacular views of the Lagos Skyline, ample meeting space and grandiose accommodations. Our restaurants offer an array of delicious dining options from cosmopolitan to Nigerian delicacies.

RESTAURANT & LOUNGES
Our dining options vary from an all-day dining for local tastes, to specialty restaurants serving Chinese, Italian and more, in stylish and inspiri...
AMENITIES & SERVICES
Premium amenities at the luxurious InterContinental Lagos include a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa and infinity pool; an executive lounge; co...
SPECIAL PACKAGES
There's always something special happening at an InterContinental hotel. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled getaway or a place to host your n...
PROPERTY
AT-A-GLANCE
352
Guest Rooms
34
Suites
8
Meeting Rooms
4
Restaurants


So I decided to have dinner at intercontinental hotel Lagos (would this be enough to review and rate a hotel? I do think so). On arrival at the gate of the hotel; the security men on duty were quite professional and helpful (√), they directed us to the basement, where the car park was located; I must say that parking the car alone took about 5minutes (X), this was quite annoying. We disembarked from the car and headed straight to the lift, where two young men assisted with the operation of the lift; another (√) for Intercontinental. Now at the reception/front office of the hotel; which I must say is quite big and well organized (√) but was short staffed (X), as there was only one lady in the reception. The restaurant and bar was also well arranged, while overlooking an artificial colourful water fall. The restaurant and bar was also short staffed. Some of their food was quite good but others weren’t. I will advise you to stay away from the stew and sauce from intercontinental‘s restaurant while

Read more here: http://knowaboutnigeria..com/2015/08/my-reviews-and-ratings-of-some-of.html

The hospitality industry can be categorized under the service industry and refers to the provision of lodging services, restaurants, event planning, theme parks, transportation, cruise line, and additional fields within the tourism industry. The world over, hospitality industry has provided high yields in returns to investors, being an important part of development and economic emergence and attractiveness.

As the world continues on its recovery path, the Nigerian Market has seen an influx of international brands, as well as expansion and additions of more rooms in the al-ready established hotels. As expected, security is a major determining factor for these often experienced investors, therefore, the favourite destinations are Lagos, Port Har-court, Abuja, Calabar and Enugu.

Indeed, Nigeria’s macroeconomic expectations bodes well with a continued expansion in this sector over the immediate to medium term. According to a report by W Hospitality group, Nigeria has c.7,500 rooms under contract for 2013 only and has been experiencing a visible growth trend over the last three years.

We hereby present an analysis of the Nigerian hospitality industry’s attractiveness based on Porter’s five forces for discerning investors.

A. THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS

An industry is attractive if there are entry barriers that reduce the rate at which new entrants can spring up. We believe that entry barrier is high for the hospitality indus-try, as it is capital intensive and has become more technology driven than was previ-ously required in the industry. Hence, this factor increases the attractiveness of the Nigerian Hospitality Industry.

B. COMPETITORS’ RIVALRY

A high level of rivalry within an industry usually leads to ‘price war’ among the cur-rent players. This will in turn increase the cost of doing business and put downward pressure on margins and profitability. Though the hospitality industry has a large number of competitors with very low customer loyalty and low switching costs, these issues do not decrease the attractiveness of the industry. We believe rivalry can be effectively managed through quality differentiation, innovative technology, style and exquisite service delivery.

C. SUPPLIERS’ POWER

When an industry’s suppliers have bargaining power, they dictate price which will in turn reduce margins of the industry players. The suppliers to the hospitality industry are numerous and can easily be replaced, hence are unable to exert any significant power on the industry players. This makes the industry very attractive for prospec-tive investors.

D. BUYERS’ POWER

In the hospitality industry, customers are afforded a variety of options based on costs, quality of service, product categories, and special offers. Indeed, the customers’ power is high, which ordinarily should make the industry less attractive however, due to the seasonality of the hospitality business, customer can only meaningfully take advantage during off-peak period. However, in peak seasons like December, when the demand for hospitality industry services is high, the customers’ power is low, giving the firm an opportunity to set prices and increase profits, recovering most of the off-peak short falls.
Overall, we consider the buyer’s power on the industry to be average.

E. THREAT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS

A substitute can be regarded as something that meets the same need, but currently outside the specific industry being reviewed. The threat of substitute though present is moderate at best and does not affect the attractiveness of the industry.

OVERALL SUMMARY:

Based on our analysis of the industry, we consider the industry to be an extremely attractive one for prospective investors. The only known alternative for the industry under review is squatting with relatives, which has proven to be more expensive qualitatively. Therefore, the industry scored eight ( out of ten (10) on our in-house industry attractiveness grid.

Source: http://knowaboutnigeria..com/2015/08/how-attractive-is-nigerias-hospitality.html

Here are some short and concise 15 reasons why you should use a travel agent

1. Save Money!
Travel Agents have access to the myriad of airfares, hotel rates, package tours, and cruise vacations worldwide and are Internet savvy. Accompanied by strong working relationships with travel suppliers, often the best deal lies with the people who know where to look.
2. Save Time and Trouble!
Agents clarify the fine print on cancellation penalties and restrictions thereby preventing headaches later on for travelers unaware of the terms and conditions of their purchase.
3. Convenience.
Agents provide one-stop shopping for all your travel arrangements. This includes travel insurance, passport and visa applications, dining and shopping tips, and destination information.
4. Service.
Travel agents understand that repeat customers are the best form of advertising. That is why agents make themselves available and respond quickly to customer needs.
5. Clout.
Agents know how to interact with suppliers and have the proper contacts to get things done. Agents have more buying power.
6. Personal Relationships.
Like a good doctor, attorney, or accountant, your travel agent knows you, your lifestyle, and tastes. Armed with this knowledge and statistical information stored confidentially through state-of-the-art technology, an agent becomes a trusted advisor.
7. Knowledge.
Travel agents stay abreast of the most current promotions and timely industry news so that they can translate and explain what it all means to you.
8. Experience.
Travel agents become travel experts through their first-hand knowledge of a destination, continuing education, and customer feedback.
9. Investigation.
No single travel supplier could advise a traveler with competitive information. Nor would they.
10. Evaluate and Analyze.
Travelers can price shop on the Internet, but what is a good deal? Travel Agents can sort the details, assess the facts, and decipher the pros and cons of a vacation offer.
11. Making the Best Match.
Travel Agents are adept at matching the right destination and the right hotel with the traveler. Understanding a customer's needs and knowing a customer's lifestyle, agents are in a unique position to send you on the perfect vacation.
12. Recommendations.
Because good agents know their customers so well, their expert guidance can put your mind at ease and make you confident with your selections and purchases.
13. Consumer Advocate.
Always looking out for your best interest, travel agents demand that customers get fair treatment from travel suppliers.
14. Problem Solving.
When things go wrong or plans change, a travel agent is always there to seamlessly straighten it out—a live person with a friendly face.
15. Enhancing the Trip.
Agents offer value and amenities by providing inclusions or extras at no cost. These may come in the form of gifts or special promotions not available elsewhere.

Source: http://knowaboutnigeria..com/2015/08/15-reasons-to-use-travel-agent.html

Azumini Blue River Rose
Azurnini Blue River is located in Abia State towards its boundary with Akwa lbom State. The River has become a resort for tourists because of the pleasantness it offers. The attractive features of the River include its crystal-clear blue water; canoe rides; sandy beaches with such relaxation facilities as chairs and tables. At the beach also, BBQ grill are delicacies provided for picnickers.

The Long JuJu Shrine of Arochukwu
Arochukwu is a famous tourist destination with the cave of the famous long juju oracle as a particular attraction.The cave is believed to hold the long metal pipe through which the gods speak to the people. A traditional religionist would find the oracle quite an attraction. It is, first and foremost, a religious centre with a well-laid down administrative structure headed by a Chief Priest.

Yola Municipality
Yola is the capital of Adamawa State in the North Eastern part of the Country. The most striking impression about the town is its undulating topography of hill chains particularly the three sister hills which are so-called because they stand side by side and share the same height. The cultural manifestations of the town get to their climax between the months of March and May when the city celebrates its fishing festival at lake Njuwa..

Ibeno Beach
One of the numerous fine beaches in Nigeria is the Ibeno Beach in Akwa lbom State. A lover of water sport finds the Beach which stretches to James town on the Atlantic most inviting.

Ogbunike Cave
Ogbunike Cave can be described as the very wonder of nature. The Cave, segmented into sections, is found in Anambra State, some few kilometres away from the Onitsha market town. There are different stories about the various sections that constitute the cave. The stories are better told by the native tour guides.

Rojenny Tourist Village
In Anambra State, just at the outskirts of Onitsha market town is found Rojenny Village, one of the leading tourist resorts in Nigeria. Among the many attractions of the village are amusement park, joy rides and sporting/relaxation facilities

lgbo-Ukwu
lgbo-Ukwu is an ancient town which has remained an attraction to tourists because of its bronze artifacts. The bronze which was first noticed in 1938 was later excavated by Thurstan Shaw, an English archaelogist. The bronzes which date back to about the 9th century are of high value because of their historic relevance.

Yankari National Park
Yankari National Park has become the most developed Wildlife park in Nigeria with a lot of attractions for visitors. The park is famous for its variety of animals available for viewing round the year, though the animals are better watched between November and May period of the dry season when the animals converge around the Gaji River, Baboons, Waterbucks, Elephants, Crocodiles, Bushbucks, Duikers, Warthogs, Hippopotamus are among the anirnals commonly seen at the park.

Wikki Warm Springs
is a famous attraction in the Yankari National Park. It is particularly prized for its warm water. It is available both night and day for tourists who cherish swimming. The National Park is located in the South-Eastern area of Bauchi, the capital town of Bauchi State in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria.

The Hills of Benue
Located in the middle belt region of Nigeria, Benue State shares boundaries with Taraba State on the East; Plateau State on the North and Edo State on the West; and Anambra, Enugu, Cross River States on the South. The entire landmass presents hills of various shades and touristic appeals. lkyogen Hills exude mild weather condition which ensures steady green vegetation and a round- the-year grazing of animals in the areas which is also known as Ikyogen Cattle Ranch. Ushogbo Hills in Ushogbo town also offers clement weather condition that makes it most fulfilling spot for tourists and adventures. Bassa Hills, like the Ushogbo Hills, are worth visiting especially for their satisfying scenery; and Swern Hills are valued for their historical linkages. The hills are believed to be the place for origin of the Tiv people.

Lake Chad
Lake Chad occupies a strategic location serving not only Borno State of Nigeria where it is located but serving also the three neighbouring countries of Niger, Cameroon, and Chad. The lake, apart from serving the agricultural and economic needs of the people, attracts a great number of tourists. Of paramount interest to tourists is the boating opportunity and visits to the numerous fishing villages in the area.

Obudu Cattle Ranch
Obudu Cattle Ranch is located in Cross River Slate towards the Nigeria-Cameroon border in the South-East. The Ranch is over 1,524m, has temperate weather condition to ensure green vegetation and grazing of cattle round the year. The Ranch is a tourist delight as a result of its divergent attractions. There are a natural swimming pool, horse riding, beautiful waterfall to behold, gorilla camp, bird watching, sporting facilities and accommodation.



Read the rest here: http://knowaboutnigeria..com/2015/08/60-exciting-tourist-sites-in-nigeria.html

Olumo rock is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria, Its peak is at 137 metres above sea level. It is located in the ancient city of Abeokuta – a name which means “Under the rock”. Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the egba people who found refuge at the Olumo rock during inter-tribal wars in the 18th century. The rock provided sanctuary to the people as well as a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance leading to eventual triumph in war.

In summary, oral traditions have it that Olumo rock was discovered by a hunter named Adagba, who retreated to the safety of the rock with his wife, whenever the need arose. Egba reconnaissance men (consisting of three hunters) who met with Adagba where brought to the rock and were convinced that their search for a new secure home base was over. With the surrounding fertile wooded savannah and the presence of Ogun River, they believed that they had arrived at the promise land. People from far and near began to seek refuge at the rock, and within a short period of time the inhabitants of the surrounding low lands had greatly increased. In 1830, shoeke, a hunter and leader of Egba refugees from Ibadan area founded the town of Abeokuta which means “beneath the rock”. The rock was later named “Olumo” which had two levels of meaning. The first is “Olu” (God) “Mo” (Molded) the second is “Oluwa fi mo” (God has put an end to our wandering and suffering).Several other interesting stories surround the tales of Olumo rock.

I as a person has visited olumo rock four different times and I must say that all the visits had different experiences.In the time past, the road leading to olumo rock was in quite a distasteful condition but this anomaly has been rectified. Renovation of this road was necessary due to the fact that majority of the foreign tourists coming to olumo rock come from Lagos state, and would be spending around three hours on the road; two hours from Lagos to Abeokuta, and about an hour within Abeokuta. Good transportation network as we all know is key to tourism development in any country.

Within my four visits to olumo rock, I witnessed...
Read more here: http://knowaboutnigeria..com/2015/08/an-experts-review-on-olumo-rock.html