Whenever I read articles about Africa, one out of five will always mention what a diamond in the rough Africa is. The perception of many who have never been to Africa and only just heard stories (and never really took the time to learn more about this incredible continent), is often that we walk around covered in loin cloths and armed with spears with lions and the rest of the animal kingdom roaming freely by our sides.
The most surprising thing about this relatively “undiscovered” continent is that some cities are even more modern than that of its first world counterparts. Yes, we most certainly have tarred roads and high-rise buildings, breathtaking views and malls to rival some of the best in the world. In fact, there are some very wealthy countries among the 54 sovereign states like Nigeria, Morocco and South Africa that are thriving business hub spots creating opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure thus increasing employment.
Africa should, in my opinion, be described as the rarest diamond in the earth’s bejewelled crown since it shimmers and sparkles at certain angles, has its flaws in others but on the whole, it is unlike any place, forged over millions of years like lump of cold dark coal only to reveal a myriad of colours and diversity and unique beauty.
You will be pleasantly bewildered by these four fascinating cities in the midst of its natural wonder that is Africa.
- ABUJA, NIGERIA
Abuja replaced Lagos in 1991 as the capital and centre of political administration and is for most, the starting point for travels into Nigeria. Much of the city is still under construction giving way to eye-catching architecture. It is less populated than Lagos but surrounded by shades of manicured landscapes intertwined with wide newly tarred roads and high-rise office and apartment buildings.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Abuja is Zuma Rock, also known as the “Gateway to Abuja”. This colossal monolith towers proudly over the north of the city on the expressway connecting Abuja to Kaduna. There are plenty more sights to indulge in including the National Mosque with its soaring minarets and the Millenium Park, the city’s largest park which was inaugurated by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2003.
In a city evolving as rapidly as Abuja, there is no doubt that you will find a range of accommodation to suit your needs. My favourites among them are the Fraser Suites, The Nordic Hotel and the Envoy Hotel. You simply cannot go wrong with any of these five star getaways.
As far as nightlife goes, Abuja has an array of vibey spots so club crawling is definitely one way to take in the experience. The most popular nightspots like Play Lounge and Moscow Underground offer a mix of music so you can relax and take in the atmosphere or dance the night away.
TIP:
Have cash on hand or opt to draw from the ATM during the day as they are closed at night.
Getting around the city is quite easy and reliable. There are plenty of taxis as well as Uber and Bolt (Taxify).
- CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Hands down, in my opinion Cape Town is definitely the most beautiful city in all of Africa. It encompasses everything you would normally expect your ideal city to have, spine-tingling views of mountains and oceans and yes, Cape Town has not one, but two oceans; The Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean amalgamate in glorious harmony at the famous Cape Point which draws thousands of tourists round each year for the spectacular views from this dazzling natural pinnacle.
Cape Town has much and much more to offer every type of tourist be it family vacations, passing through backpackers, honeymooners and even just a quick weekend getaway to recharge body, mind and soul. Be sure to check out my two previous articles on the Mother City which will give you all the inside info you need to enjoy this spectacular coastal metropolis.
- ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT
Also known as “The Pearl of the Mediterranean”, Alexandria is the second largest city and is home to the largest port in Egypt. Although only a short distance of some 200km from Cairo, the city has a culture and ambience more suited to the Mediterranean lifestyle rather than Middle Eastern which is not surprising as its 32km coastline makes it the largest city that sits directly on this coast. I have a close friend and colleague that hails from Alexandria and whenever he posts pictures of the city, I long to be there again immersing myself in its vivacious culture and daily life. Apart from the sparkling turquoise waters there is actually much more to the city than just its beautiful beaches. This larger-than-life- city is steeped in epic history; from being discovered by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, to being the backdrop of one of history’s most iconic love affairs, that of Julius Caesar and Cleopatra. It has even made the list of one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World for having the largest and most important library in the world and for the gargantuan Pharos Lighthouse. Although nothing much remains of its illustrious past, the ruins that have survived the massive earthquakes that all but destroyed the city, is still pretty impressive and was mostly adapted to fit in with modern day Alexandria while still giving us a glimpse into its legendary past. The majestic Qaitbay Citadel built in the 15th century on the exact spot of the old Lighthouse of Alexandria was the Mediterranean’s most important and strongest fort of its time.
The Corniche remains my favourite place to hangout. Here, scores of restaurants are engulfed by a multitude of boats bringing in the freshest catches of the day. But it’s not only seafood that you can find. Whatever your tastes are, there are plenty of places that will more than satisfy any craving. I must say that I am an absolute coward when it comes to trying new foods, especially when it comes to offal, but at the same time, travelling brings out the adventurer in me and for the sake of a great story to tell, why not right?! I stumbled on (well, not really – my dear friend suggested I visit it) a little place called Farag Abou Khaled which it seems is quite popular despite it being a little hidden. This street food hamlet specializes in grilled meats including brain, and the most delicious liver! I can’t believe I had just written that! For someone who gave up eating liver a long time ago, I quite enjoyed a trip down memory lane back to my childhood but only so much better! Of course, there are plenty of non-offal options on the menu but if I could give it a try and thoroughly enjoy it, you could as well ☺. They are located at 32 Mohamed El Sayed Korayem St.
There are plenty of activities after dark including clubs in the Corniche area. There are vintage Mediterranean type pubs and bars here which give you the feeling of being on Greek island rather than actually on the African continent. I rather enjoy out of the ordinary places and Cap D’Or also known as Sheik Ali, is just one such place. It opened in the early 1900’s and is still family owned and run.
TIPS:
It is customary to tip everyone that provides you a service. Tipping (baksheesh) is considered an important source of income for most in the service industry. Bargaining is welcomed and expected, but please do so respectfully.
Recommended hotels: As you can guess, there are countless options when it comes to places to lay your head. My favourite was the Hilton Alexandria Corniche, with its spectacular sea views. It is conveniently located close to everywhere you will want to be and see…and, it has its own private beach.
- KIGALI, RWANDA
Would you believe me if I told you that Kigali has been elected as the cleanest city in Africa? Yup, it has indeed. This bustling city, although young (founded in 1907) is colourful and exceptionally clean at first and every glance. Its avenues are lined with trees and lush green hills combining nature and urban life in tranquil harmony. It is really heart warming to see a country that has suffered such a dark past, emerge to become one of the fastest growing and prosperous cities in Africa.
It goes without saying that a trip to Kigali is not complete without a trip to the Kigali Genocide Memorial where visitors can not only delve into its ominous past and pay tribute to the more than one million Rwandans who perished in the 1994 tribal war, but also leave with a vision into its glowing and prosperous future.
Kimironko Market is alive with sights, sounds and smells wafting from the vendors in this biggest market in Kigali. Find anything from second-hand clothing to spices, coffee, fish and the popular woven baskets. You can definitely haggle for any of the goods and have fun doing so!
Don’t forget to check out the dome-shaped Convention Centre which stands out from afar as it is completely lit up and vibrantly colourful. It is attached to the Radisson Hotel and just across from the Kigali Heights Mall. A great way to get to know the city is by taking a half or full day tour of the city which will include all of these sights.
Surprisingly (at least for me it was) Kigali caters to very cosmopolitan palates. There are plenty of Asian restaurants along with French, Indian and more but be sure to pay a visit to Repub Lounge which has breathtaking views of the city. It is adorned with cultural artefacts, striking colours and a menu that offers both traditional as well as contemporary cuisine. The Pondu Ya Capitaine (fish steamed in cassava leaves) and the Matoke Stew (traditional stew with green bananas) stand out as favourites.
There are plenty of great hotels in the city. Check out Airbnb for some great offers such as the luxury Hotel des Mille Collines.
One of the most popular clubs is located on the outskirts of the city, called Passadena Murugo Bar & Restaurant in Gikondo. It has a great vibe and you could also learn to salsa from professional salsa trainers. Another hotspot is the Class Club aptly named as this is where you will rub shoulders with the rich and famous.
TIPS:
Do not litter – anywhere, ever!
The Rwandan people are warm and friendly and the city is safe.
Motorcycle taxis are the most popular and fastest way to get around.
I hope that you enjoyed our little blitz tour around some of Africa. I will be sure to focus on a more in-depth feature on the cities in future articles. My aim was to peak your curiosity into discovering new places in these new times we are living. Happy planning ☺