André, a curious traveller, has always wanted to experience the vibrant city of Lagos. On a sunny morning, he set off full of anticipation and took a short trip to the bustling Nigerian metropolis...
As my plane touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, I was simultaneously filled with anticipation and a sense of wonder. As I left the airport, I was immediately surrounded by the energy and diversity of the city. The honking of cars, the smell of street food and the colourful sight of the markets – all of this greeted me at the very beginning of my journey.
First, I headed to the Lekki Conservation Centre, which is a haven of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle. I strolled along the covered walkway, enjoying the lush greenery and expansive views of the city skyline. Birds chirped overhead and the rustling of leaves was a soothing contrast to the bustling streets I had just left behind.
Next, I headed to the heart of Victoria Island, where I discovered a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles. I feasted on a variety of Nigerian dishes, from spicy suya to hearty bowls of jollof rice. In the evenings, I went to lively nightclubs, where I danced to afrobeat rhythms and chatted with locals who were happy to share the secrets of their city with me.
One day, I visited the Lagos National Museum. There, I was able to immerse myself in Nigeria's rich history and art. I was truly impressed by the elaborate traditional masks, sculptures and artefacts that told of the country's past. Each exhibit told a story of generations long gone and awakened my appreciation for the culture to which I now belonged, even if only for a short time.
I didn't visit the polluted and dirty beaches on the coast. I preferred to laze in the sun in my hotel room and try to imagine the sound of the Atlantic waves. I dipped my toes in the pool on the hotel roof and felt connected to the vastness of the ocean, which reflected the vastness of Lagos.
As my trip came to an end, I reflected on all the impressions I had gained in Lagos. The city's contrasts, from the hectic pace of urban life to the quiet areas, had made a strong impression on him. I realised that the memories I had gained and the connections I had made would stay with me forever, even though my trip had been short. I realised quite quickly that there are social injustices and contradictions in Lagos. The gap in Lagos society is wider than in any other city in the world. The proportion of losers in Lagos is extremely high.
I said goodbye to Lagos with mixed feelings. I knew that I would carry the spirit of the city with me wherever my journey would take me next. As my plane took off, I looked out the window and thought of the unforgettable chapter that Lagos had written in my life – a chapter called ‘Lagos Adventure’.