Happy New Year, guys! I hope everyone is off to a fantastic start so far for 2020. I am finally well-rested from my Amazing trip to Lagos, Nigeria. This December, I got to travel back home with my family and 14 friends. Yes, we were a total of 20, and some who have never been to Africa before. For me, this was my first time back in 5 years and my 5th time visiting Lagos. This was my first time really exploring and going out in Lagos. If you have never been to Lagos, add it to your list of places to travel during December because December in Lagos is a whole vibe. I honestly don’t even know where to start without making this post a full novel, because there is so much I want to share about my trip. First and foremost, let’s start with how far out to plan this trip and all the things you should get before stepping into Lagos.

Getting There:

Like any other trip planning in advance is the best way to go. Planning for a trip to Lagos, the earlier, the better. If you are planning to go next December, I would start to finalize your dates now, and look to book your flight in the summer or earlier. Since a lot of people travel back to Nigeria during December, the flights can be expensive. You can find a trip anywhere from $1200-$2200. Prepare yourself because the flight is long, but a good layover will help you break it up. The flight travel time can be anywhere up to 15/20 hours, but once you are there, it is so worth it!

Do you need to get shots? Or Bring any medicine?

Whenever you travel outside of the United States, always make sure you connect with your doctor first. I only had to get Malaria pills, but this was also not my first time traveling to Africa or Nigeria. I also have a Nigerian passport, so my requirements are much different for those traveling with a Visa. You will need a visa to go to Nigeria, and please start this process as soon as you confirm your travel plans. You should apply for a visitor visa, which will last you for a year, and you will not need a letter of invitation. If you do have a letter of invitation, you can apply for the tourist visa as that is good for two years. There are different travel sites that you can google that can help you with your travel visa. If you are traveling with a visa, you will need to have your yellow fever card. Your Visa card will be good for two years

Where to Stay:

During our trip, our group stayed between the mainland in Ikeja and also on the “Island” Since traffic is insane in Nigeria, I would suggest you stay on the island. There are plenty of beautiful hotels that you can stay in that have reasonable, affordable rates. Our group spent some time at the 4 Points by Sheraton hotel. I would recommend this place, and make sure you book your room with the option for breakfast as the breakfast buffet is fantastic. There are also maybe some events that happen at 4 points. We stayed around NYE, and there was live music on the rooftop bar. The rooftop bar is a great place to chill and have some drinks.

Things to do:

Traveling in December, there is so much going on during Lagos, Many parties, concerts, and events. You will not find yourself bored. I traveled to Lagos from 12/26-1/7. I would travel earlier as many concerts and events start to happen earlier in the month. The shows start on Dec 1 and go all the way until the 30th. As soon as November hits and you search #DettyDecember, you will be able to find loads of schedules and parties to attend. Detty December is a month of partying and enjoying. Make a budget and stick to it is my advice!

Nike Art Museum– All the art here is beautiful and breathtaking. What I loved most about Nike Art Gallery is all art is made by African artists. The owner of the gallery is very welcoming and gives visitors hugs upon welcoming you into her space. All the art in the gallery is up for sale. If you have the coins for it, you should definitely inquire!

Landmark Beach– Miami in Lagos? That was my thoughts exactly when I got to the beach. There are so many activities for you to do on the beach. You can also rent out chairs and cabanas and have your beach party. At night I was able to attend a beach party hosted by Hardrock cafe. Amazing music and good vibes, you are sure to have a fantastic time.

Lekki Conservative Center– Come here early in the day as this place gets PACKED. We waited almost close to an hour before it was our turn. Sadly I did not get to go, but some people in my group attend, and its a great experience.

Eko Hotel (Cute bar, and pool to swim at): Looking for a place to cool off and have some drinks. Eko hotel is a great spot to stop by get a bite to eat and swim here for the day.

Lekki Market: You can get all of your souvenirs here from Ankara ready to wear, fans, art pieces sculptures you got it. Make sure you bargain on every item you get.

The nightlife in Lagos is crazy; there are many lit clubs all throughout the island. You will not have a hard time finding the right place to party, but be prepared to stay out past your bedtime.

During my trip, I got to visit the Little Saints, Orphanage which is the orphanage I donate a portion of my company Dabira Candle sales to in Lagos, Nigeria. I was so excited to get to meet the children at the orphanage and getting to spend the day with them. I was able to use the money donated to help buy food items that were needed. This is the third trip that I have gone on that I am able to add a volunteer aspect of some sort, and I’m going to try that going forward on each of my trips if possible.

Let’s Talk About Food:

Food: The food in Lagos is amazing! I ate good every day, and I’m craving all the dishes I would eat on the regular. Some of my favorite places to check out would be Ocean Basket:

I ate at Ocean Basket 3 times during my trip and thinking about it now. I don’t think it was enough 🙂 Ocean Basket is an excellent place to go to if you are a lover of seafood. There are plenty of different options for seafood to choose from calamari, fish, Mussels. You have the opportunity to decide how you would like your dish to be prepared: fried, Cajun, grilled. My favorite choice was to have my fish and calamari fried to golden perfection. The portions are a great size, and also great for sharing. Ocean Basket has 3 locations. The fish, in general, in Nigeria, was terrific. During our first night out, we went to Casablanca Night club. When heading out for nightlife, note that Lagos doesn’t get popping until late. We were a little excited and wanted to get out of the house ASAP and get to the partying. We got to the Casablanca around 1130, and it was chill, but the club inside did not start to get packed until around 2/3. At that point, we were ready to eat, and no lie, our group had about 7 of the fresh grilled fish.

Some of my other favorite restaurants we attended were Shiro Lagos. The vibe in that restaurant is so chic, and the food is amazing. I had one of the most amazing lamb chops and some great margaritas!

Another Spot to check out is Danfo. It is a fun, fast-casual spot with great drinks and a cute rooftop as well.

The Chicken Suya from this place is some of the best I’ve had during my trip! Chicken Suya is traditional Nigerian street food. Think of a kebab with a delicious spicy peanut seasoning that is rubbed into the meat. The meat is then charred to perfection. This dish can be found all throughout Lagos.

There are so many good food places, and unfortunately, I did not get to try them all. I’m saving the below places to try out during my next trip to Lagos!

Food Places to try next time:

• Cactus
• Shawns bar
• Barazahi
• Casper and Gamno
• Iloeros
• Flowershop
• Z Cafe
• Yellow Chilli
• Dan

I’m still in awe that some of my favorite people got to come to Nigeria for the first time and share in my culture with me. We had such a fun time, and I can’t wait for ait for my next trip back next year. If you are planning to go next year, let me know how I can help!

Until next time