Golden Tulip Festac Lagos

A newcomer’s guide to Nigeria...

by Rob47

A newcomer’s guide to Nigeria

Arriving in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, is a little different from arriving at other airports. After shedding a few layers of clothing in preparation for the climate change, we shuffle out of the aircraft along with the other visitors, expatriates, and returning Nigerians. “You are welcome,” the smiling faces greet us.
Although the ensuing half an hour may be a little trying, in fact the processing of incoming arrivals is fairly well organized. Waiting in line, we fan ourselves with the necessary documents: a valid passport, a visa (obtained in the country of origin), and a document revealing the appropriate inoculation against yellow fever required for entry.
Unless you have pre-arranged transportation from the airport, you may find yourself amidst a confusing bustle of offers.
To the taxi rank.
If you wish to avoid the countless taxi propositions and a ride in rather dubious vehicles, contact one of the major hotels to arrange a pick-up.

Hotels which meet business standards are the Federal Palace and the Sheraton. Major credit cards are accepted at these hotels, but the good old American dollar - undoubtedly a staple for life in Nigeria - is preferred. Exchanging it at banks, hotels and bureaus is no problem.

Domestic air travel can be tricky, and the private local carrier Bellview Airlines is usually the expat’s choice.
Lagos is as cosmopolitan as any major city.
It has energy and excitement but can be dangerous.....

Hard case luggage and bags

by AC1

Most airlines from Europe into Lagos allows baggage limit up to 65kg per passenger. This is mainly due to request from local passengers who usually do BIG shopping from London, Paris, etc.

The baggage handling in Lagos Airport is known to be poor. Extra attention needed when packing your stuffs. Lagos International Airport was once filmed by National Geograhic Channel as world's most dangerous airport.

It is recommended that you travel with strong hard case luggage with locks on each edge of the bad. Canvas luggage are usually been broken into by sharp objects while it is in tarmac.

Put extra locks or luggage crossover belt if you are carrying heavy stuffs.

Beach gear...

by AC1

You will probably not doing any camping or much of outdoor activities here except probably a visit to the Atlantic Ocean facing beach.

Some beach wear will be useful if a beach visit is in your itinery. Don't have to carry your surf board, sails, etc though as it might be difficult for you to clear the customs in the airport. You can rent one of those at the beach if you really into it.

Don't Let the Okada crush you like Cockroach!

by Zarasher

"MY FIRST TIME"

I first visited Lagos in December 2008 and then returned in April 2009. It can be a very fun and fantastic place if watch your back and are with the right people. I would no way recommend Lagos just to visit if you do not no anyone. Noooooo way! That would be disastrous. It is not the kind of place that you can just roam the streets freely and explore, so if you are the adventurous type you would be better off somewhere like Accra.

"V.I"

Having family and friends that are Nigerian I was hosted by a plethora of people and staed everywhere from Surulere to Ojodu to Yaba to Victoria Island. Victoria Island is the safest place, in comparison to the mainland. There are many many clubs, bars and restuarants here.

"BRIBERY"

Bribes are common on Nigeria roads and if you ar enot familiar with this way of life it can take some getting used to. In fact let me scratch that statement bribes are common in Nigeria PERIOD. From the airport to the random guy lurking around your car in the car park outside MR Biggs that claims he was "watching" your car. Pretty much everyone will try and take advantage, you just have to not let them!

Not What You've Been Told!

by dedan1975

"Don't Drink the Kool-Aid!"

I was warned about how dangerous this city was. From reading the internet blogs I thought it would be on par with Baghdad in terms of chances of being murdered. Perhaps this place was dangerous back in the day, but if you can handle North Philly or Southeast DC you'll be more than okay here!

Of course I'm African-American and blend in a little better than the typical "foreign investor" from Denmark or Provo, Utah so maybe my opinion isn't valid for most of the readership here. Not sure.

I found the people to be friendly, and while the airport was a bit chaotic, it too was not as bad as what I had been told. Yes, you may have to slip a few bucks to someone here or there, but if you "act right" it will be no more than the tips you dole out at Dulles or LAX.

In other words. Don't drink the Kool-Aid! Lagos is not that bad.