5 tips for keeping valuables safe in a hotel room

Are you planning a trip and thinking of how to safeguard your valuables in a Nigerian hotel? Whether you are spending time at any of the resorts in Lagos or even the best hotels in Nigeria, the same security tips are applicable. It is always better to limit the amount of valuables you carry when travelling, as this decreases the amount of loss you are likely to suffer if you are unlucky enough to be robbed.

However, if you have to travel out of town with valuables, leaving such items in your hotel room isn't without its own potential risks. From hotel room burglars to occasional dishonest staff member, a number of potential liabilities exist if you keep valuables in your hotel room.

Here's a post on safeguarding your valuables in a Nigerian hotel room.

1.       Use Suitcases with locks:

Carry luggage’s equipped with combination locks or keys during your travel. Lock valuable items inside it and ensure your keys are with you at all times. There is hardly a chance that someone will steal the entire box and get past security. At more secure hotels, use the safety deposit to keep small sized valuable items.

2.       Keep your luggage out of site:

Ensure that all luggage’s without locks are kept out of sight, as you invite tampering when your luggage is open, on your bed or lying on the floor. Re-pack your luggage daily as extensively as you can and keep it inconspicuously hidden in a wardrobe, closet or under the bed to reduce the chances of someone finding it and stealing from it.

3.       Find Obscure spots:

Inspect your room for obscure spots where people would hardly search. These are the places in the room where you can hide your valuables from burglars. You can keep your money and any important documents hidden under the carpet corners, pinned between drapes and taped to the bottom-side of your drawers. Choose areas of your hotel room that are not cleaned regularly and avoid keeping all valuables in the same place. Splitting them around the room, makes it less likely to lose all your valuables incase someone finds one of your hiding places.

4.       Avoid inviting Strangers into your room:

It is better to spend time with strangers or unacquainted persons in public places. Be selective of whom you invite into your hotel room and gauge the trustworthiness of people before allowing them access into your hotel room.

5.       Use the dnd hotel sign:

When stepping out for the day, put the “Do not disturb sign” hanging on the door and leave the television on, this is to create a false impression that you are in and it discourages uninvited guests from trying to step into your room. It is advisable to invite room service only when you are available to supervise their activities.

Travel tips: How to travel on a budget to Nigeria

Regarded by many as one of the most expensive places to visit in Africa. It is safe to say that with proper planning and discipline, you can have the vacation of a lifetime during your visit to Nigeria, the giant of Africa.

The city of Lagos, the major industrial hub of Nigeria and Abuja, the capital city are perceived as expensive places to visit when travelling to Nigeria. However, you wouldn’t want to miss out as these cities are the entertainment and tourism capital of the country. 

A list of the top 5 budget travel tips on how to spend less and get the best accommodation in Nigeria during your visit has been put together to help you keep your finances in check while ensuring you still enjoy a great time in town.

·         Money Logistics:

The local currency in Nigeria is called the Naira.  The currency works out to be about 450 Naira per USD.  You can change CFA, USD, Euros and British pounds easily. The Hausa money changers (popularly called Mallam) can easily be found around town or close to a mosque, they are reliable and you shouldn’t have any problem with them.

It is advisable to use mainly cash and cards as bringing traveller’s cheque book to Nigeria is a waste of time. Several banks and of ATMs are also available in Nigeria, you shouldn’t have any problem getting cash out as most cities have a reliable banking system.

·         Transport:

The transportation network system in Lagos is greatly improved. For tourists who would love to mingle with the locals, you can hitch the famous BRT ride or Lag Buses, a public transport system known to cover various areas in the city. It is one of the most affordable and easiest way to move around town. Local cab drivers are known for unnecessarily raising cab fares when they figure out you are new in town. Hence, it is better to use Uber service, as you are assured of comfort and speed at surprisingly low rates.

·         Accommodation:

Getting a place to stay during your trip to any part of Nigeria has just become easier. You can enjoy great deals on various classes of accommodation to suit your budget type. Check out hotel portals like Jumia Travel to get the best deals. You can pre book even before arrival in town. Look through the list of affordable hotels in Abuja and several other cities to get great deals and offer.

·         Food:

A number of hotels offer complimentary breakfast options. Be smart when making a choice about the right place to stay, as some of the restaurants at many hotels in Lagos or Abuja boast of great meal options at reasonable cost. There is an assortment of street meals you would love and they are ridiculously low priced; roasted plantain and groundnut, roasted yam served with sauce, suya, fried yam and potatoes, akara (bean balls), noodles and egg.

·         Activities:

You can visit the popular Ikeja city mall to shop, see a movie at Silverbird cinema, Leisure Mall or Ozone Cinema. Free popcorn and drinks are available on selected days of the week. Some beaches in Lagos are open the public at no cost, visit the Lekki Beach to have a picnic with your family or check out others like the Atican Beach Resort or Oniru to enjoy the leisure life in Lagos.

Jabi Lake, the Arts and Crafts Village in Abuja, Abuja Wonderland & Park and the Abuja Zoological Park in Asokoro District are some the places you can also visit during your next trip to Nigeria, if you are visiting Lagos or Abuja.

A number of tourist centres are spread across Nigeria, the Obudu Mountain Resort in Calabar, Ikogosi Warm Spring, Osun Sacred Groove, Oguta Lake, Old Oyo National Park are some of the places you can check out depending on your location in the country upon arrival.

Written by: Mariam Banwo Barry, a self-motivated, goal oriented individual who is passionate for quality and result. She believe the best way to preserve knowledge is by constantly passing it off to a new generation of individuals who would help shape the future of our society. Hence, the invaluable importance of social media and the web on conserving useful information. A content development and marketing connoisseur who specializes in creating SEO friendly web contents to increase conversion rate. She works with the SEO team at Jumia Travel.

Top 5 Restaurants and Hangout spots in Abuja

The capital city of Nigeria is fast assuming the status of a mega city like its rival city of Lagos, attracting tons of expatriates, industrialists and government officials due to rapid expansions and a sizable number of ongoing developmental projects. Ultra-Modern structures, world class hotels and restaurants can be seen springing up in the Federal Capital Territory.

Abuja has become one of the top cities to look forward to during business or leisure trips, as it boasts of one of the world’s best culinary experience. Get a taste of local Nigerian Cuisine and various continental dishes at some the best restaurants in town.

Are you planning a visit to the capital city, a list of some of the best restaurants to visit and treat yourself to mouth-watering meals during your stay in Abuja has put together just for you.

1.      Oriental Restaurant:

Photo source: hilton.com
The Oriental Restaurant in Transcorp Hilton Abuja is frequented by businessmen and socialites alike, spend some time feasting on Oriental cuisine, Thai fare and Mongolian specialities amidst a number of classy cuisine buffs. Housed in one of the 5 star hotels in Nigeria, the restaurant has become a favourite amongst locals and business guests. A themed buffet is usually organized on selected evening, enjoy a perfect dining experience in this tastefully furnished restaurant on your next trip to Abuja.

2.      Papillion Restaurant:

Photo source: papillonrestaurantabuja.com
A visit to the Federal Capital Territory will be incomplete without a trying out an Al Fresco dining at the Papillion Restaurant in Sheraton Hotel Abuja. The restaurant offers amazing meal options in a scenic garden setting. It is one of the best buffet restaurants in the city which offers a blend of African and international cuisines. The Arabian themed buffet organized every Thursday night is worth trying out.

3.      Tulip Bistro:

                    Photo source: goabj.com
Tulip Bistro is fast becoming a favourite for casual dates and intimate parties. The restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy excellent meals in Abuja. Treat yourself to juicy lamb chops with grilled or mashed potatoes, delicious cakes, tarts and sandwiches as well as excellent Fettucini Alfredo.

4.      Woks and Koi:

Photo source: woksandkoi.com
Woks and Koi is an upscale contemporary styled restaurant in Abuja which offers an assortment of excellent Asian cuisine.  Enjoy an exquisite dining experience in a restaurant with be spoke artworks while feasting on steamed Dumplings or Shredded Calamari with green pepper sauce.

5.      The Nile Place Restaurant and Lounge:

Photo source: tripadvisor
The restaurant offers value for your money and an unforgettable dining experience. Both local and international dishes are served, the classy interior complemented by contemporary artworks is just perfect for a date night with friends or a business date. The Moroccan section of the restaurant provides Shisha, flanked by rugs, low chairs and throw pillows, the atmosphere is perfect for a cosy time out with loved ones.

These restaurants are just a few of the many amazing places available to wine and dine during your stay in Abuja.

What could be better than enjoying fine dining and getting the perfect and most affordable accommodation in Abuja on your next visit, check out the list of 5 star accommodation and cheap hotels in Abuja only on Jumia Travel.

Written by: Mariam Banwo Barry, a self-motivated, goal oriented individual who is passionate for quality and result. She believe the best way to preserve knowledge is by constantly passing it off to a new generation of individuals who would help shape the future of our society. Hence, the invaluable importance of social media and the web on conserving useful information. A content development and marketing connoisseur who specializes in creating SEO friendly web contents to increase conversion rate. She works with the SEO team at Jumia Travel.

Top 5 Destinations fit for Family Vacations in Nigeria

With the hike in fuel price, incomprehensibly high foreign exchange rate and the cost of cooking ingredients in Nigeria at the moment.

A lot of people are shying away from the mere thoughts of having any form of celebration, throwing parties or planning a trip to any exotic location outside the country but as it often rightly said “black don’t crack”. So I implore you to make the most of these situations, albeit how negative they may seem, to explore the beauty and hidden resources of Nigeria.

Take some time out with family members and friends, stick to visiting some of the best resorts in Lagos and taking a well-deserved weekend treat at some of the hidden beauties in Nigeria, rather than splurging on a vacation outside the country.

Here is a list of 5 of some of the top holiday destinations ideal for a family vacation in Nigeria:

Erin Ijesha Waterfall:

Photo source: iamchasewordz

Erin Ijesha waterfalls also known as Olumirin waterfalls is a scenic natural sauna located in Ijesha, Osun State. The seven step waterfall layer offers an awe striking view of nature with each layer featuring its own flowing fountain.Enjoy the mystical beauty of Erin Ijesha Waterfall with your family and friends on your next vacation.

Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort:

Photo Source: cometonigeria.com

Ikogosi Warm Spring is one of the major tourist attractions in Nigeria. It is a natural wonder of a pure warm water spring that flows side by side with a cold spring. There is a local myth surrounding the history of the spring.

An interesting version states that the two springs (Warm and Cold) were the wives of the same man, they turned into spring water after the rivalry between them resulted in a rift. The ill-tempered wife is believed to have turned to the popular warm spring while the cool-tempered wife turned to cold spring water. The husband is also believed to have turned into the undulating hills that surrounds the springs.

Many of the villagers worship the springs as their deities. The point where the two springs meet is a main centre of attraction. The resort situated around the warm spring has various accommodation and recreational facilities suitable for family vacation.

Olumo Rock, Abeokuta:

Photo source: Logbaby.com

Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, Ogun State is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Nigeria. The massive granite outcrop is a natural wonder that served as a hideout and stronghold for the indigenes of Egbaland during a civil war in the 19th century. The rock sheltered many of the war survivors, who were reported hidden in caves located inside the rocks to evade enemy attacks.

With a modern elevator available for tourists who have a hard time climbing, a relaxation spot at the top of the rock and an aerial view of the city of Abeokuta at its peak, Olumo Rock is definitely one of the best places to visit on next family vacation.

Lekki Conservation Centre:

Photo source: mylekki.com

Lekki Conservation Centre located in Lekki Peninsula of Eti Osa Local Government in Lagos State is one of the most important conservation sites and wildlife reserve in the country. The Conservation Centre which covers an area of 78 hectares was established to serve as conservation site for Nigeria’s southwest coastal mangrove resources, protect wildlife and a centre for procuring information’s for environmental education and public awareness.

Tourists can view the vast resources of the nature reserve by using the 2 km trail boardwalk or the spectacular 401 metres long Lekki Conservation Centre Canopy Walkway. Attractions along the trail includes a swamp outlook, trees with ladders that enables nature enthusiasts reach up to the tree houses, bird hides for avid bird watchers and rest stop suitable for picnics. Other attraction at the centre include a handful of animals and birds, floor games, a fish pond that contains colourful Koi fishes, a Jungle Gym, Gazebos and beach volleyball courts.

A nature station awaits tourists at the end of the trail, it is a recreation facility that lies in the middle of the forest, made up of a semi enclosed block structure for indoor picnics, outdoor game facilities for children and conveniences. It is the ideal vacation spot for nature lovers from around the world.

Obudu Cattle Ranch:

Photo credit: Diplomatravels

Obudu Cattle Ranch also known as Obudu Mountain Resort is the number one tourist destination in Nigeria at the moment. The beautiful resort lies on the Obudu Plateau close to Cameroon border. With various tourist facilities in place, the resort boasts of both local and international tourists. It is the number one holiday and tourist resort centres in Nigeria. The mountain resort boasts of some of the best luxury accommodation in Calabar close to nature.

Written by: Mariam Banwo Barry, a self-motivated, goal oriented individual who is passionate for quality and result. She believe the best way to preserve knowledge is by constantly passing it off to a new generation of individuals who would help shape the future of our society. Hence, the invaluable importance of social media and the web on conserving useful information. A content development and marketing connoisseur who specializes in creating SEO friendly web contents to increase conversion rate.

Top 5 Lagos Airport Hotels fit for business travellers

Murtala Mohammed International Airport Ikeja is the major airport serving the entire state of Lagos and the busiest Airport in Nigeria. The airport is usually flocked with both locals and foreigners coming into the country or traveling out of the country for both business and leisure purposes.

The city of Lagos is fast becoming a treasure trove for foreign expatriates likewise tourists who are regularly admitted into the country. Thereby, increasing the number and quality of accommodation that has to be provided within the state and especially around the airport.

There has been a recent upsurge in the number of hotels around Lagos airport ready to provide world class service and standard, as various investors and stakeholders in the hospitality industry have seen the need to provide the best accommodation and living experience in Lagos at highly competitive rates.

During any of your trips, you can get a suitable place to stay by checking out some of the best Lagos Airport hotels where quality meets service extraordinaire:

Sheraton Lagos Hotel:

The prestigious Sheraton Hotel Ikeja is one of the best hotels around Lagos Airport. The hotel lies in close proximity to the local and international airports. With over 325 guest rooms and 7 suites luxuriously furnished suites to offer, the hotel facilities has been tailored to provide superior comfort.
Guests can enjoy Buffet styled meals, Italian dishes, home-made pizzas and wines at the La Giara Italian restaurant located at the hotel. The Oasis Pool Terrace Bar is also available for guests to relax and enjoy refreshing drinks. Sheraton Hotel Ikeja can be easily accessed from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja City Mall and Computer Village.

Ibis Lagos Ikeja:

Ibis Hotel Ikeja is one of the hotels near Lagos airport, it lies at about 3 km from Ikeja City Mall. The hotel boasts of a conference hall, a business centre and an onsite ATM. The rooms at the hotel are fully air-conditioned, well equipped and feature full length windows. A restaurant is available at the hotel for guests to enjoy both continental and local meals, outdoor dining option is also available.

A gym and an outdoor pool are available for leisure purposes. The hotel can also provide free airport pick up, car-hire and concierge services.

Best Western Plus Hotel:

Best Western Plus Hotel lies in the heart of Lagos' business district, Ikeja. The hotel is just about 4 km from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport and very close to Ikeja City Mall.

Free WiFi service is provided for all guests, complimentary breakfast is served and the hotel rooms boast of comfort facilities and ornate lamp shades and reading tables.

The hotel offers a daily complimentary breakfast service. A fitness centre and outdoor pool is also open to all guests. Conferencing facilities are available on site while laundry and luggage storage service can be arranged.
The hotel features an event facility. Airport pickup, car hire, concierge and laundry services can be arranged. On-site parking is available and security personnel guard the hotel premises.

GrandBee Suites:

GrandBee Suites is a luxury four-star hotel located just about 15 minutes’ drive from Lagos Airport. The hotel boasts of state-of-the-art facilities, an onsite restaurant and a fitness centre. Free WiFi is available for guest’s use, an onsite restaurant where guests can enjoy local and continental menu or buffet options. 24 hr room service is available, airport pickup, car hire and laundry services can be arranged at the hotel on request.

Genesis Sojourner Hotel:

Genesis Sojourner is one of the hotels in Ikeja close to the airport. The hotel is also about 3-minutes’ drive from Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. Meeting and banqueting facilities are available at the hotel to host social and corporate events. The hotel features a business centre and provides free internet access to cater to the needs of business guests.

Airport pickup and car hire services are available on request. The hotel offers parking, laundry/dry cleaning, safety deposit boxes and concierge services.

The Cost Effective Way to Save on Luxury Accommodation

Top 5 Lagos Luxury Hotel Deals

As we all know, things haven’t gotten any better economically for the country but let’s face it, this isn’t just the case with Nigeria. It is the same all over the world, several countries are faced with the fear of a global recession and the best thing to do will be to cut costs as much as you can.

The effects of a recession lasts a lot longer than the duration of a recession. Ultimately, almost everyone suffers during an economic meltdown. Families can survive by adapting to a new lifestyle, working together, and making changes to improve their future.

We curated a list of the top Lagos hotel deals to help Lagosian save as much as they can during this economically trying times:

The Avenue Suites:

The Avenue Suites is a 5 star luxury apartment located in Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel lies in close proximity to the Bar Beach and the Palms Mall in Lekki.  Its classic room is offering a 20% discount deal. Here is an opportunity to enjoy affordable luxury, well equipped with the state of the art facilities, it features a swimming pool and a gym. Guests have access to complimentary WiFi internet service and its restaurant boasts of surrounding skyline views and complimentary breakfast is served daily.

Hotel Bon Voyage:

Bon Voyage Hotel is a luxury beach hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel rooms offer a spectacular view of the ocean. Its onsite restaurant serves a variety of local and continental meals in menu and buffet options. Guests can also order a variety of drinks from the bar.

Bon Voyage Hotel is about 10-minute drive from the South African Embassy and very close to Afri Towers and Zenith Bank headquarters. The hotel offers 50% discount on its standard room.

Ibis Lagos Ikeja:

Ibis Hotel Ikeja is one of the coolest airport hotels in Lagos. You can easily access Murtala Muhammed International Airport and the popular Ikeja City Mall from here. The hotel is also fit for business travellers as it is equipped with conferencing facilities, a business centre, an onsite ATM and well-groomed rooms. Outdoor dining is available for guests and a gym and an outdoor pool are also available for use. The standard room at Ibis Hotel is available at 44% discount only on Jumia Travel.

Protea Hotel Victoria Island:

Located strategically close to the Eko Hotel Roundabout, Protea Hotel is one of the best hotels in Lagos. It boasts of an outdoor swimming pool and wireless internet access for all guests throughout its premises. The hotel offers daily complimentary breakfast service. Luggage storage service, laundry, conferencing facilities and an on-site parking are available provided.
Airport shuttle, car hire and city shuttle services can be provided on request. Enjoy the comfort of this prestigious hotel by taking advantage of the 24% deals on its classic rooms.

Maison Fahnrenheit:

Maison Fahrenheit is a luxury hotel in Lagos situated within the corporate and social hub of Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel is well equipped with various comfort facilities. Free wireless internet service is available for all guests and the restaurant at the hotel serves both local and continental meals. A rooftop bar is also open for guests to enjoy cocktails, variety of wine and spirits.

Maison Fahrenheit offers car hire and laundry services on request. Its conference hall is suitable for workshops, seminars and meetings. Enjoy deals as high 32% off hotel rooms in Maison Fahnrenheit.

The Cost Effective Way to Save on Luxury Accommodation

Top 5 Lagos Luxury Hotel Deals

As we all know, things haven’t gotten any better economically for the country but let’s face it, this isn’t just the case with Nigeria. It is the same all over the world, several countries are faced with the fear of a global recession and the best thing to do will be to cut costs as much as you can.

The effects of a recession lasts a lot longer than the duration of a recession. Ultimately, almost everyone suffers during an economic meltdown. Families can survive by adapting to a new lifestyle, working together, and making changes to improve their future.

We curated a list of the top Lagos hotel deals to help Lagosian save as much as they can during this economically trying times:

The Avenue Suites:

The Avenue Suites is a 5 star luxury apartment located in Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel lies in close proximity to the Bar Beach and the Palms Mall in Lekki.  Its classic room is offering a 20% discount deal. Here is an opportunity to enjoy affordable luxury, well equipped with the state of the art facilities, it features a swimming pool and a gym. Guests have access to complimentary WiFi internet service and its restaurant boasts of surrounding skyline views and complimentary breakfast is served daily.

Hotel Bon Voyage:

Bon Voyage Hotel is a luxury beach hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel rooms offer a spectacular view of the ocean. Its onsite restaurant serves a variety of local and continental meals in menu and buffet options. Guests can also order a variety of drinks from the bar.

Bon Voyage Hotel is about 10-minute drive from the South African Embassy and very close to Afri Towers and Zenith Bank headquarters. The hotel offers 50% discount on its standard room.

Ibis Lagos Ikeja:

Ibis Hotel Ikeja is one of the coolest airport hotels in Lagos. You can easily access Murtala Muhammed International Airport and the popular Ikeja City Mall from here. The hotel is also fit for business travellers as it is equipped with conferencing facilities, a business centre, an onsite ATM and well-groomed rooms. Outdoor dining is available for guests and a gym and an outdoor pool are also available for use. The standard room at Ibis Hotel is available at 44% discount only on Jumia Travel.

Protea Hotel Victoria Island:

Located strategically close to the Eko Hotel Roundabout, Protea Hotel is one of the best hotels in Lagos. It boasts of an outdoor swimming pool and wireless internet access for all guests throughout its premises. The hotel offers daily complimentary breakfast service. Luggage storage service, laundry, conferencing facilities and an on-site parking are available provided.
Airport shuttle, car hire and city shuttle services can be provided on request. Enjoy the comfort of this prestigious hotel by taking advantage of the 24% deals on its classic rooms.

Maison Fahnrenheit:

Maison Fahrenheit is a luxury hotel in Lagos situated within the corporate and social hub of Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel is well equipped with various comfort facilities. Free wireless internet service is available for all guests and the restaurant at the hotel serves both local and continental meals. A rooftop bar is also open for guests to enjoy cocktails, variety of wine and spirits.

Maison Fahrenheit offers car hire and laundry services on request. Its conference hall is suitable for workshops, seminars and meetings. Enjoy deals as high 32% off hotel rooms in Maison Fahnrenheit.