As I stepped onto the bustling streets of Lomé, Togo, I could feel the vibrant energy of this coastal city enveloping me. My senses were immediately awakened by the colourful sights, vibrant sounds and scent of exotic spices wafting through the air. My trip to Lomé was to be a memorable adventure, a mix of culture, nature and contemplation.

My first stop was the Independence Monument, an imposing structure that stands tall as a symbol of Togo's history and resilience. As I looked at the monument, I couldn't help but reflect on the struggles the people of this country had gone through to gain their freedom. The stories of the past seemed to echo in the whispers of the wind, making the monument more than just a statue - it was a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Togolese people.

Strolling through the labyrinthine alleys of the Lomé Grand Market was sensory overload. The stalls were teeming with colourful textiles, elaborate handicrafts and an abundance of fruit and vegetables that were almost too colourful to be real. The market was a microcosm of life in the city, a place where locals haggled and told stories. I couldn't resist sampling the local cuisine and indulging in dishes bursting with flavours and spices I had never experienced before. Akpan, a fermented corn dough, was a unique delicacy that left a lasting impression on my taste buds.

My days were punctuated by visits to the beaches along the coastline. Lomé beach, with its golden sand and crystal clear water, was a tranquil oasis where I could relax and watch the waves dance. But the contrast I experienced was unmistakable - the beauty of the beach contrasted with the reality of the fighting in the city. While the beach offered solace, it was impossible to ignore the plastic waste littering the coastline - a stark reminder of the environmental challenges facing communities. In many places it was also impossible to sit down in the sand as it was teeming with bacteria and microbes just waiting to choose us as their new host. My walk on the beach was nevertheless indescribably beautiful.

As I explored further, I encountered the warmth and resilience of the people themselves. Despite the economic challenges, the Togolese greeted me with genuine smiles and open hearts. Their stories painted a complex picture of life in Lomé, of dreams and hopes woven into the fabric of daily life. The determination and kindness I encountered profoundly changed my own perspective.

My journey through Lomé was a story of contrasts - a city where past and present coexist, where beauty and challenges are interwoven. As I said goodbye to this captivating city, I took with me not only memories of its landscapes, but also a deeper understanding of the human spirit. Lomé had shown me that beauty can be found even in the face of adversity, and that there are stories waiting to be told.