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Detty December in Lagos, Nigeria: What no one tells you!

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As a travel lover, I’ve always dreamt of visiting Africa. I had the please of experiencing Detty December in Lagos, Nigeria since my husband was born and raised there. This festive season is renowned for its vibrant celebrations, parties, and atmosphere that draws people from all corners of the globe. The holiday season in Lagos is a very anticipated time. Most people choose to wait and visit at the end of the year because it such a good time, a festive time and non stop celebrations. The African culture full with endless parties, the best jollof rice, local people, an influx of tourists and what some consider to be an unforgettable experience. But let me tell you, my first trip to Lagos was a whirlwind of excitement, surprises, and some unexpected realities. So, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to expect when visiting Lagos during this festive season!

Getting Ready: The Essentials

Before diving into the fun, let’s talk about the preparations. If you’re planning a trip to Lagos, especially during Detty December, there are a few health and travel essentials you should consider. You’ll be a long way from home so you’ll want to be prepared. 

1. **Yellow Fever Vaccine**

This is a must! Nigeria is on the list of countries where yellow fever is prevalent, and proof of vaccination is often required for entry. Make sure to get this sorted well in advance. 

2. **Malaria Prophylaxis**

Mosquitoes are no joke in Lagos! Primarily during the wet season. Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis to ensure you’re protected during your stay.

3. **Visa Requirements**

Nigeria requires you to have a visa before entering the country as a visitor. Depending on where you’re from, you may need to apply for a visa before your arrival. 

4. **Packing Essentials**

– **Mosquito Repellent:** Stock up! You’ll want this handy.

– **Lightweight, Breathable Clothing:** The Lagos heat can be intense, so pack accordingly.

The Lagos Experience: Highlights and Hidden Truths

Christmas Lights and Festivities

Arriving in December means the streets are adorned with twinkling Christmas lights, and the festive spirit was palpable. I was able to capture some great videos of the decorations! 

The Realities of Lagos

Now, let’s talk about what NO ONE tells you about visiting Lagos. While the city is lively it’s not at all glamorous and there are some aspects to be aware of: 

– **Extortion:** Be cautious; it’s not uncommon to encounter instances of extortion, especially when using taxis or dealing with street vendors. 

– **Armed Guards:** Seeing armed security personnel can be startling, but it’s a common sight in certain areas. It’s even more prevalent during December as they know many people visit Lagos during that time of year. Their presence is meant to ensure safety, but it can be intimidating. These armed guards will definitely try to instill fear in order to get money from you. This is one of the main reasons I recommend only traveling to Lagos if you are with locals. 

Exploring the City

Our Lagos adventure took us to some fantastic spots:

RSVP Lagos is a great spot. The ambiance is chic, the food is good and the cocktails are divine. Be sure to sit outdoors near the pool and the DJ for vibes. 

The Palms Shopping Mall is a good place for shopping and grabbing a bite. There are a few US based stores inside as well as a lot of local brands. Since it’s the mall and not street shopping it tends to be more expensive so I held off on buying anything there. 

Milk and Honey Lagos is a one stop café that serves gourmet treats and sips. If you’re hoping to get the best treats then be sure to go in the morning because once they run out of something it won’t be available for the rest of the day. I had the best donut of my life here! Fluffy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. I also really enjoyed the chicken pie (similar to a large empanada-fluffy crust filled with chicken and veggies) 

I tried traditional small chops for the first time from Uncle Stan’s and it was a delight. The variety of finger foods was perfect! We got the platter so that I could try it all. The platter came with puff puff ( traditional snack made of fried dough eaten across Africa, especially in west africa ) samosas, spring rolls, and barbecue chicken. I skipped the gizzard that was included but I really enjoyed the puff puff and the barbecue chicken wings! SO GOOD! 

Nightlife Adventures

Lagos is known for its vibrant nightlife, and we made sure to dive in headfirst!

ZaZa in Lagos was a great nightlife experience and made #1 on my list for sure. It is truly an experience with food, drinks, live entertain and great music. We danced the night away to local beats and international hits. A must if you’re in Lagos. We opted for a section so that we could be comfortable, enjoy the show up front and indulge in a full experience. It was a great time and well worth it in my opinion! 

Kaly for Dinner and Nightlife: Kaly has both a restaurant area and a lounge space. First off Kaly was stunning. The decor and ambiance was unmatched when it came to all the other places we dined at in Lagos. The indoor/outdoor space made for great ambiance. Also the food was good and the entertainment was nice! Another place that I highly recommend for dinner or nightlife…luckily I was able to experience both!  

Culinary Delights

My taste buds had a  journey:

– **Chicken Suya:** A must-try! The spicy, grilled meat was perfectly seasoned. Go to Norma for the best Suya! 

– **Traditional Boli and Epa:** grilled plantains paired with peanuts! This is a traditional Nigerian snack so I had to try it…when in Rome right? It was different but I enjoyed it and I would eat it again! 

Brunch at BRISK: A lovely spot for a relaxed meal before diving back into the hustle and bustle. BRISK is a must visit brunch spot in my opinion. The food, the service, the DJ! EVERYTHING was on point. Highly recommend for brunch in Lagos. 

Family Gatherings and Local Culture

We also attended a family Christmas party, which was heartwarming. Sharing stories, laughter, and traditional dishes made for unforgettable memories. 

Shopping and Souvenirs

Lekki Arts and Crafts Market is a treasure trove for unique handicrafts and art. I picked up beautiful and unique pieces for myself as well as souvenirs for family and friends. 

Lagos City Mall: Another place for more shopping, and I couldn’t resist grabbing some jewelry from Deinte Fine Jewelry.

Final Thoughts

My first experience of Detty December in Lagos was one to remember. The city is a blend of culture, vibrant nightlife, and unique culinary experiences. 

It was not at all the typical kind of vacation that I’m used to but while there are challenges and realities that come with visiting, if you’re someone that loves to travel, experience other cultures and you get the opportunity to go (with locals) you should! 

So, if you’re planning your own adventure to Lagos, keep these tips in mind, and get ready for a journey! I wish you a truly gratifying time and happy travels! 

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