Welcome to InterContinental Lagos Hotel

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2 Welcome to InterContinental Lagos Hotel This Handbook is designed to help you to settle into your new work environment as soon as possible. The Handbook includes general information about InterContinental Lagos, your benefits, general procedures & the surrounding area of Lagos, Nigeria. For more information, please feel free to ask the Human Resources team any time.

3 Our Hotel InterContinental Lagos History Of Intercontinental Lagos InterContinental Lagos is located on Victoria Island, in the centre of Lagos, home to major consulates and multinational companies, making it the perfect residence for affluent business and diplomatic travellers. Built on an elevated terrain overlooking Lagos port, the hotel offers uninterrupted spectacular views of the Lagos Skyline, ample meeting space and grandiose accommodations. Our restaurants offer an array of delicious dining options from cosmopolitan to Nigerian delicacies. The Hotel is the tallest hotel building in West Africa. It has 23 floors and 352 guest rooms. InterContinental Lagos was launched Sunday 29th September 2013 at Victoria Island, Lagos. The hotel, owned by the Milan Group had its grand opening done by His Excellency, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), Governor of Lagos State and saw celebrities, political persons and much more grace the event. The Governor in his speech commended the promoters of the event for their vision regarding the hotel as a welcome development at a time Nigeria is looking for foreign investments to grow its economy. Speaking on behalf of the owners of InterContinental Lagos, the Chairman of Milan Group, Ramesh Valechha, disclosed that the newly opened first luxury five-star hotel in the history of Nigeria has created 650 direct employments and scores of indirect employment in the hotel value chain. The grand opening event was attended by eminent persons among whom were Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi; his predecessor, Chief Joseph Sanusi; Lagos State Commissioners for Commerce and Industry,Sola Oworu; Kayode Opeifa (Transport); Engr. Taofiq Tijani (Energy and Mineral Resources); Group Managing Director of Milan Group, Rajesh Valechha; Executive Director, Milan Group, Vikram Valechha; General Manager, InterContinental Lagos, Didier Coeln; Regional General Manager Africa, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG); Maher Nasr and Regional Director, IHG; Karl Hala, Ali Baba, Omawumi, Yemi Sax and others.

4 Our Hotel InterContinental Lagos Our Managment Team Executive Office: Rooms: F&B: Finance: General Manager: Executive Assistant Manager: Director of Rooms: Front Office Manager: Executive Housekeeper: Laundry Manager: Director of F&B: Assistant F&B Director: Executive Chef: Director of Finance: Assistant Director of Finance: Human Resources: Marketing & Sales: Engineering Director of Human Resources: Assistant Director of Human Resources: Director of Sales& Marketing: Assistant Director of Sales and Marketing: Public Relations Manager: Director of Engineering: Assistant Director of Engineering:

5 Our Hotel InterContinental Lagos A UNIQUE EVENT DESERVES A UNIQUE LOCATION The luxurious Conference and Meeting areas at InterContinental Lagos includes Grand African Ball room at 1500 sq. Located on the 3rd floor with extensive pre function areas and 6 various sized meeting rooms, business center and an exclusive boardroom. HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER Fully equipped facilities include latest in technology exercise bikes, treadmills, running machines and free weights. The male and female sauna and pool facilities open throughout the day provide the perfect après workout fix. Health/Fitness Center On-Site Fitness Centre Type: EXTENSIVE SPA FACILITIES Spa InterContinental evokes tranquility and serenity. The cozy ambience awakes the senses while relaxing mind, body and soul. The spa offers a variety of treatments with natural ingredients that bring you closer to the rejuvenating power of nature

6 Our Hotel InterContinental Lagos Key Facts Our Hotel is located in the centre of Lagos, home to the majority of foreign consulates and multinational companies, making it the perfect residence for affluent business and diplomatic travellers. The 23 Storey hotel will offer uninterrupted spectacular and immaculate views of Lagos Skyline, overlooking Lagos port, the city amongst many other views. Category: Upper upscale Hotel Telephone: Fax no: Website: Address: Plot 52-54, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Date of Opening: 1st of July, 2013 Total no of rooms: 358 rooms

7 Overview of Nigeria Nigeria like any other country is filled with history and events that has shaped the nation politically, economically and socially. During the 11th century, Nigeria was inhabited by various tribes and groups that were eventually modified to form different kingdoms with rulers. These kingdoms ranged from the north-eastern region of Nigeria (Hausa city-states) to the South-western region of Nigeria (Yoruba city-states), to the southern kingdoms of Benin and the eastern region of the Igbos. In the second half of the 19th century to 20th century, the British colonised Nigeria and took charge until 1st October 1960 when Nigeria gained independence and was later declared a Republic on October 1st 1963.

8 Overview of Nigeria Today, Nigeria is filled with over 250 ethnic groups with different languages, values and customs which make Nigeria a very diverse and unique country. The dominant ethnic groups are Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo and Fulani. Other ethnic groups include Edo, Urhobo, Ijaw, Igala, Ibibio, Gwari, Kanuri, Ebira, Nupe, Itsekiri, Jukun, Idoma and Tiv. Other minority groups include Kofyar, Pyem, and Goemai Symbols The main national symbol is the country's flag. The flag is divided vertically into three equal parts; the centre section is white, flanked by two green sections. The green of the flag represents agriculture, while the white stands for unity and peace. Other national symbols include the national coat of arms, the national anthem, the National Pledge (similar to the Pledge of Allegiance in the United States), and Nigeria's national motto: Peace and Unity, Strength and Progress. National Coat of Arms National Flag

9 Overview of Nigeria Useful information Time: The local time in Nigeria is GMT +1 hour. Currency: The naira (NGN, ) is the official currency of Nigeria. It is divided into 100 kobo. You can check the latest exchange rates here. Electricity: Nigeria s electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz and round and square three-pin plugs are used in the country. How reliable is the electricity supply? Not very. Most expats have a 5 or 6 KVA petrol generator to cope with the frequent power outages. This will be enough to power your basic appliances such as fridge and air conditioner. Communications: The international outgoing code is 009, followed by the relevant country code (eg for South Africa), while the country code for Nigeria is GSM 900 and 1800 mobile phone networks cover Lagos, Abuja and some other major towns and Internet cafes can be found in major cities. How good are internet and cell phone services? Mobile phone services are plentiful, cheap and reliable. South African based operator MTN operates the largest cell phone network and offers good value and great coverage. Internet access typically runs off the wireless cell phone network using 3G or similar protocols. Transmission speeds of 300kbps are possible. Be warned though: internet access is very expensive in the region of US$150 per month Cost of living According to the annual Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Lagos ranks as the 30th most expensive expat city, well behind the top three of Moscow, Tokyo and London. For 90% of the Nigerian population the cost of living is around $1 per day. Therefore, the divide between rich and poor is very pronounced. Cigarettes, petrol and local beer are very cheap, while groceries, rent and any imported goods can be very expensive. Personal staff, such as driver, guard or domestic helper, cost from $150 per month. Utilities are relatively cheap but very unreliable. Rental agreements generally require two years rent as deposit, with a further 10% for other costs.

10 Overview of Nigeria Embassy Contact Details Nigerian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: Nigeria High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0) Nigeria High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: Nigeria High Commission, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0) Nigeria High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0) Embassy of Nigeria, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0) Nigeria High Commission, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0) Foreign Embassies in Nigeria United States Embassy, Abuja: +234 (0) British High Commission, Abuja: +234 (0) Canadian High Commission, Abuja: +234 (0) Australian High Commission, Abuja: +234 (0) South African High Commission, Abuja: +234 (0) Irish Embassy, Abuja: +234 (0) New Zealand High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Nigeria):

11 Introduction to Lagos State Lagos is located in the south western part of Nigeria. It has the smallest area in all the Nigerian states; however it is the most populous. There are twenty local governments in Lagos including Alimosho, Ajeromi-ifelodun, Kosofe, Mushin, Oshodi-Isolo, Ojo, Ikorodu, Surulere, Agege, Ifako-Ijaye, Shomolo, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos Mainland, Ikeja, Eti-Osa, Badagary, Apapa, Lagos Island, Epe, and Ibeju-Lekki. Lagos, widely known as Eko by the Yoruba indigenes is the industrial, commercial and entertainment heart of Nigeria. Lagos was the first capital on Nigeria and derived its name from Portuguese explorer Rui de Sequeire in Today, Lagos is one of the fastest growing metropolises in the world. It is known to be a land of opportunities with people from different regions in Nigeria and beyond migrating every day in an effort to be make a living and be successful. Although Lagos state is the smallest state in Nigeria, with an area of 356,861 hectares of which 75,755 hectares are wetlands, yet it has the highest population, which is over five per cent of the national estimate. As at 2006, the population of Lagos State was 17.5 million, (based on the parallel count conducted by the state during the National Census) with a growth rate of 3.2%, the state today has a population of over 21 Million. This was corroborated by the recent immunization exercise carried out across the State, where 4. 3million children were immunized. Children within the Immunization bracket are estimated at 20% of the entire population. The UN estimates that at its present growth rate, Lagos state will be third largest mega city the world by Y2015 after Tokyo in Japan and Bombay in India. Of this population, Metropolitan Lagos, an area covering 37% of the land area of Lagos State is home to over 85% of the State population. The rate of population growth is about 600,000 per annum with a population density of about 4,193 persons per sq. km. In the built-up areas of Metropolitan Lagos, the average density is over 20,000 persons per square km. Current demographic trend analysis revealed that the State population growth rate of 8% has resulted in its capturing of 36.8% of Nigeria s urban population (World Bank, 1996) estimate at 49.8 million people of the national million populations. The implication is that whereas country population growth is 4/5% and global 2%, Lagos population is growing ten times faster than New York and Los Angeles with grave implication for urban sustainability.

12 Introduction to Lagos State Climate Lagos has a tropical wet and dry climate with two distinct rainy seasons; the more intense one occurs between April and July, with a milder one from October to November. At the peak of the rainy season the weather in Lagos is wet about half the time. Lagos experiences a dry season (when it rains less than two days per month) during August and September, as well as between December and March, accompanied by harmattan winds from the Sahara Desert, which are at their strongest from December to early February. The temperature range in Lagos is fairly small, generally staying between 91 F (33 C) and 70 F (21 C). The hottest month is March, when average daytime temperatures reach 84 F (29 C), while July is the coldest month with an average temperature of 77 F (25 C). The best time to visit Lagos is during the cooler dry season, between August and September. Victoria Island Lagos has a tropical wet and dry climate with two distinct rainy seasons; the more intense one occurs between April and July, with a milder one from October to November. At the peak of the rainy season the weather in Lagos is wet about half the time. Lagos experiences a dry season (when it rains less than two days per month) during August and September, as well as between December and March, accompanied by harmattan winds from the Sahara Desert, which are at their strongest from December to early February. The temperature range in Lagos is fairly small, generally staying between 91 F (33 C) and 70 F (21 C). The hottest month is March, when average daytime temperatures reach 84 F (29 C), while July is the coldest month with an average temperature of 77 F (25 C). The best time to visit Lagos is during the cooler dry season, between August and September. Victoria Island was originally surrounded entirely by water. It was bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the south, the mouth of the Lagos Lagoon on the West, the Five Cowrie Creek to the north, and swamps on the East. The colonial government began the process of filling in the eastern swamps to reduce mosquito breeding areas. This created a land bridge between Victoria Island and Lekki Peninsula ending its existence as a true island. After independence, successive state governments expanded this development, culminating in the construction of a highway connecting Victoria Island to Epe. This activity, along with the rapid commercialization of Victoria Island, served to stimulate residential development along the Lekki-Epe corridor, starting with Lekki Phase 1. The area of the land bridge, composed of the former swampland, became a large slum called Maroko Town which housed many of the new migrants to Lagos State. Residents of the Island complained about this problem, leading the military Governor of the State, Raji Rasaki, to forcibly remove the residents on July 14, 1990, resulting in numerous injuries. Governor Rasaki and his armed security forces caused the eviction of as many as 300,000 residents, some of whom had legal title to their property. This new area established after the evictions was called Victoria Island Annex. It was cleared and sold to residential buyers.

13 Introduction to Lagos State Subsequent reclamation expanded the area to the extent that Victoria Island Annex is now connected to the Lekki Peninsula. This new, enlarged area is referred to as Oniru Estate after the ruling family of the area. Victoria Island originally designated an upscale residential area, failing infrastructure and overcrowding in the old business district on Lagos Island and lax zoning enforcement in Victoria Island led to a mass migration of businesses over the last twenty-five years. Today, Victoria Island is one of Nigeria's busiest centres of banking and commerce, with most major Nigerian and international corporations headquartered on the Island. Victoria Island is one of the most exclusive and expensive areas to live in Nigeria. The cost of renting an apartment with luxurious amenities ranges from $48,000 to $85,000 per annum. Due to the array of world-class restaurants, shopping malls, hotels, bars, night clubs, movie theatres, schools and businesses located in VI, investing in property is a lucrative business.

14 Culture And Lifestyle Nigeria is often described as a country of unity in diversity. This description probably comes from the fact that the country is made up of over 400 linguistic groups, three principal religions, a multiple of sociopolitical opinions and organisations. The country boasts of a plethora of customs and traditions, cultures and festivals, that we believe would appeal to your tastes as an expatriate. In the Northern States of the country, the customs, cultures and traditions of the people who are mainly Hausa/Fulani, Nupe, Kanuri, Igala and Tiv are governed by the Muslim religious traditions. Most of the festivals held in these areas, such as the Durbar in Katsina and Kaduna States, are associated with religious celebrations. The Northern States of Nigeria, especially Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Kano, Yobe, Borno, Katsina and Kaduna are semi-desert and so experiences little rain within the year. The weather is generally hot during the day and cold during the night through most of the year. The common dress in these States is the Babanriga, a large, flowing top over large trousers. The dominant dress colour is white. The major means of transport, from time, and as in case in other semi desert and desert areas are the camel, the donkey and the horse. The horse, most of the times, is bred for the purpose of traditional and religious festivals such as the Durbar when they are dressed in very flamboyant colours and attires as active participants A Hausa Man

15 Culture And Lifestyle In these Northern States, education, the judicial system and other institutions are influenced by the Muslim religion. They practice the sharia system of justice and education begins with learning Arabic and reading the Quran. Despite the knowledge of Arabic, the common language used in this area is the Hausa Language. The Western states of Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Edo constitute the most developed axis in the country. The people, who are united almost by a single language, Yoruba, also constitute the most articulate of the Nigerian populace. In the area of religion, the West is divided. Less than 20 per cent are Muslims. About 60 per cent are Christians while the other 20 per cent are traditional worshippers of other gods such as Osun and Ogun. Traditional worship is very popular in the Western States so that some have been turned into festivals in Osogbo, Osun State. The Yoruba s, who are very colourful and extravagant in their dressing, are symbolised by the buba and sokoto that closely bear a resemblance to the Northern Babanriga. Notable festivals include chieftaincy installations, the Osun festival (Osogbo, Osun State) the Eyo masquerade (Lagos State) beside others. A Yoruba Woman

16 Culture And Lifestyle In the East and South Eastern States of Nigeria, Christians make up a large percentage of the entire population. These states, together, have the largest concentration of churches, which range from the orthodox to the Pentecostal, in the country. The States located in this region are Abia, Anambra, Akwa lbom. Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers. In the four states of Abia, Anambra, Enugu and Imo, the primary language of communication is lgbo. In Akwa- lbom State, the major languages are Ibibio and Anang. In Rivers State the major languages are ljaw, Kalabari, lkwerre, lgbani, Kirike and Ogoni. In Cross River State the main language is Efik while in Delta State the main languages include lgbo, Itsekiri, Urhobo and Kwale In as much as languages vary in this area, cultural and traditional norms and dress modes are very similar. Traditionally, the eastern and south-eastern women dress in simple, double wrappers, a blouse and a head tie to match. The men traditionally dress in flowing wrappers or trousers under a flowing, large shirt with cap to match. Language English is the official language of Nigeria, used in all government interactions and in state-run schools. In a country with more than 250 individual tribal languages, English is the only language common to most people. Unofficially, the country's second language is Hausa. In northern Nigeria many people who are not ethnic Hausas speak both Hausa and their own tribal language. Hausa is the oldest known written language in West Africa, dating back to before 1000 C.E. The dominant indigenous languages of the south are Yoruba and Igbo. Prior to colonization, these languages were the unifying languages of the southwest and southeast, respectively, regardless of ethnicity. However, since the coming of the British and the introduction of mission schools in southern Nigeria, English has become the language common to most people in the area. Today those who are not ethnic Yoruba s or Igbos rarely speak Yoruba or Igbo. Pidgin, a mix of African languages and English, also is common throughout southern Nigeria. It basically uses English words mixed into Yoruba or Igbo grammar structures. Pidgin originally evolved from the need for British sailors to find a way to communicate with local merchants. It is a language that bridges the communication gap between the many Nigerian tribes; it is probably the second most widely spoken language in Lagos. No longer the language of the uneducated, Broken English as it is also known is spoken by about 60 million people across a number of West African countries. If you have the desire to improve your vocabulary, a comprehensive list of pidgin words can be found on

17 Culture And Lifestyle Clothing Nigeria clothing styles depicts the Nigerian culture and tradition. There are different clothing for different places and events, unlike the western world where people dress in suits and long sleeve, whether they are bankers or governors. The different kind of Nigeria clothes often made of lace, Adire, Ankara, and lots of other Nigeria fabrics, made by strong companies in Nigeria and round the world. Most of Nigerian Clothes are made from a professional tie and dye, this is a method where some part of a large piece of cloth (mostly white) is tightly tied with a rope at the helm or centre and different parts of the body and soaked in a dye of any colour. The essence of the tying is to prevent the dye from penetrating the defined area there by creating a vigorous beautiful colour pattern. Nigerian dress styles are loved by the Nigerian people. A woman in the north would prefer a buba over a suit while the men would want to be seen in Sokoto (shokoto), Buba, Fila, Abeti-aja and Agbada. As Agbada is the most preferred by northern politician and the rich people. The Nigerian buba is a loose shirt that goes down till halfway down the thighs covering the upper part of the male trouser or skirt. Fila is a cap. Sokoto is the pant or trouser, which covers the lower part of the body.

18 Culture And Lifestyle Religion Nigeria is nearly equally divided between Christianity and Islam. The majority of Nigerian Muslims are Sunni and are concentrated in the northern area of the country, while Christians dominate in the Middle Belt and south. Christians form a slight majority of the nation, comprising 50.8% of the population, while Muslims make up 47.9%. According to CIA Fact book and other sources 50% of the population is Muslim, 40% Christian and 10% follows traditional beliefs. From the 1990s to the 2000s, there was significant growth in Protestant churches, including the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Winners' Chapel, Christ Apostolic Church (the first Aladura Movement in Nigeria), Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Evangelical Church of West Africa, Mountain of Fire and Miracles, Christ Embassy, The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Aladura Church (indigenous Christian churches being especially strong in the Yoruba and Igbo areas), and of evangelical churches in general. These churches have spilled over into adjacent and southern areas of the middle belt. Denominations like the Seventh-day Adventist and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have also flourished. Other leading Protestant churches in the country are the Church of Nigeria of the Anglican Communion, the Assemblies of God Church, the Nigerian Baptist Convention and The Synagogue, Church Of All Nations. The Yoruba area contains a large Anglican population, while Igboland is predominantly Catholic and the Edo area is predominantly Assemblies of God, which was introduced into Nigeria by Augustus Ehurie Wogu and his associates at Old Umuahia. Islam dominated the north and had a number of supporters in the South Western, Yoruba part of the country. Nigeria has the largest Muslim population in sub-saharan Africa. In terms of Nigeria's major ethnic groups' religious affiliations, the Hausa ethnic group in the North is mostly Muslim, the West which is the Yoruba tribe is divided among Islam, Christianity, and traditional religions, while the Igbos of the East and the Ijaw in the South are predominately Christians (Catholics) and some practitioners of traditional religions. The middle belt of Nigeria contains the largest number of minority ethnic groups in Nigeria and they are mostly Christians and members of traditional religions with few Muslim converts. The vast majority of Muslims in Nigeria are Sunni, belonging to Maliki School of jurisprudence; however, a sizeable minority also belongs to Shafi madhhab. A large number of Sunni Muslims are members of Sufibrotherhoods. Most Sufis follow the Qadiriyya, Tijaniyyah and/or Mouride movement. A significant Shia minority exists (see Shia in Nigeria). Some northern states have incorporated Sharia law into their previously secular legal systems, which has brought about some controversy. Kano State has sought to incorporate Sharia law into its constitution. The majority of Quranists follow the Kalo Kato or Quraniyyun movement. There are also Ahmadiyya and Mahdiyya minorities..

19 Culture And Lifestyle Mosques Available on Victoria Island Sofwat Al-abrar Dawah Mission International Address: Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Almujahiduun Society of Nigeria Address: Sabo Yaba, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Ansar Ud-Deen Society on Nigeria Address: Ebute Metta, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Ranti Oluwa Central Mosque Address: Oworonshoki, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Mssn Yabatech Address: Yabatech, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria The Muslim Congress Address: Ebute Metta, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Jama At Ul Islamiya Of Nigeria Address: Ebute Metta, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Fadeyi Jama'Át Da'Wah Ekotedo Mosque Address: Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Al Amunu Central Mosque Address: Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria Al-Jamal Islamic Foundation Address: Adekunle, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria.

20 Culture And Lifestyle Lagos Churches Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Onike Iwaya, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Address: Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Celestial Church of Christ Address: Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Mile 2, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, Nigeria Daystar Christian Centre Address: Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Torikoh, Badagry, Lagos, Nigeria Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Ilupeju Byepass, Mushin, Lagos, Nigeria Mountain Of Fire and Miracles Ministries Address: Iponri, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria.

21 Culture And Lifestyle Food Food in Nigeria is traditionally eaten by hand. However, with the growing influence of Western culture, forks and spoons are becoming more common, even in remote villages. Whether people eat with their hand or a utensil, it is considered dirty and rude to eat using the left hand. While the ingredients in traditional plates vary from region to region, most Nigerian cuisine tends to be based around a few staple foods accompanied by a stew. In the south, crops such as corn, yams, and sweet potatoes form the base of the diet. These vegetables are often pounded into a thick, sticky dough or paste. This is often served with a palm oil based stew made with chicken, beef, goat, tomatoes, okra, onions, bitter leaves, or whatever meats and vegetables might be on hand. Fruits such as papaya, pineapples, coconuts, oranges, mangoes, and bananas also are very common in the tropical south. In the north, grains such as millet, sorghum, and corn are boiled into a porridge-like dish that forms the basis of the diet. This is served with an oil based soup usually flavoured with onions, okra, and tomatoes. Sometimes meat is included, though among the Hausa it is often reserved for special occasions. Thanks to the Fulani cattle herders, fresh milk and yogurt are common even though there may not be refrigeration. There are numerous restaurants to suit every palette and budget, and an increasing number popular cafes and bistros serving quick and tasty meals in elegant surroundings. There are many top-notch, homegrown restaurants that serve excellent Nigerian fare; with fresh produce transported into the city daily, visitors are in for a treat. Whatever your taste buds hanker for; whether it s Chinese, Indian, Thai, American, European, Italian, Lebanese, Japanese/Mediterranean or Brazilian rest assured that there s a restaurant nearby Across the city are also a number of Fast Food restaurants such as, Chicken Republic, Tastee, KFC, Sweet Sensation, Domino s Pizza, Tantalizers, Mr Biggs,.

22 Culture And Lifestyle Restaurants Bangkok Restaurant (Thai) 244A, Muri Okunola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos Telephone: Mr. Chang Chinese Cuisine 126, Awolowo Rd, Ikoyi, Ikoyi. Telephone: Indigo Bar and Restaurant (Indian) 242B Muri Okunola Street Victoria Island, Lagos Telephone: , Bunyaki Restaurant (Japanese) Plot 1296 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: , Jevinik Restaurant 14b, Agoro Odiyan Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: Café Vergnano The Palms Shopping Mall, Lekki, Lagos. Telephone: Talindo Steak House 7b Karimu Ikotun Street Victoria Island, Lagos Telephone: La Veranda 17, Oju Olobun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos Telephone:

23 Culture And Lifestyle A Taste for Culture; Must Visit Culture Spots in Lagos Lagos has always been an extensive and diverse mix of peoples and ideas, and whilst it has welcomed the alternative points of view that this brings, the city itself has kept true to its own identity and exuberance. To know Lagos, is to experience what Lagosians do, where they go to connect, and to share in their expression. Quintessence (Art + Craft) Quintessence is a tasteful and exclusive art gallery and gift shop, with a wide range of authentic arts, crafts, furnishing and textiles that include woven fabrics like aso-oke, cloth from okene and akwete and various fabrics from Nigeria and other countries. An institution in its own right, this was one of the first few outlets that promoted and developed African arts and crafts by creating an enabling environment for local content produced by local artisans and college graduates. Other products offered include; jewellery, books, toys, bags, clothing for children and adults, home furnishing such as placement, throw pillows and duvets for both local and international markets, ceramics and other traditional sculpture, all, celebrating Africa. A good place to go for a souvenir Address: Plot 13, Block 44 by Parkview Estate Gate, off Gerrard Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. 69 Admiralty Way, Jack House, Lekki, Lagos. Telephone: Open weekdays and Saturdays from 9am-6pm Website: Nike Art Gallery The Nike Centre for Art and Culture is a gallery on 5 floors and is home to a rich and vast collection of paintings, sculpture and works, which are deeply rooted in the diversity of the Nigerian and African culture. For lovers of art and all things beautiful, a trip to Lagos is incomplete until you visit this place of wonder. It is owned and run by Chief Mrs Nike Davies Okundaye, a professional textile artist and painter, who at a young age was introduced into the world of art and textile making by her great-grand mother. She has had over 102 solo art exhibitions and 36 group art exhibitions and her work can be found in museums all over the world. The centre also conducts cultural tours within and outside Lagos, giving visitors a background and context to the visual expressions seen in the art, and thereby bringing some of the symbolism in those images to life. Address: No. 2 Elegushi Road, 3rd round-about, Lekki-Epe Expressway, and Ikate Cross Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lekki Peninsula, Lagos, Nigeria. Telephone: , , , Open weekdays and weekends Website:

24 Culture And Lifestyle Terra Kulture Terra Kulture is a cultural centre that provides a venue and the ambience for Nigerians and foreigners alike to learn our culture and languages. It has become a leading destination for visitors and Lagosians alike, seeking to learn about Nigerian arts, food, fashion, theatre and history. Theatre at Terra is an initiative that s meant to promote African drama and other creative performances. It has witnessed world-class performances of works by authors such as Ola Rotimi, Chinua Achebe, Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, and many others. There are shows every Sunday afternoon and evening and the multi-purpose Hall provides facilities for these drama presentations. There are ad hoc performances of live music, poetry, comedy and spoken word. Catch one of these performances and meet with other professionals and people from other cultures. The dramatic ramp that winds through the centre of the restaurant leads to the Gallery. It holds art exhibitions and art auctions as well as interactive sessions with renowned members of the art community. Address: 1376, Tiamiyu Savage, Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: , Open weekdays and weekends Website: The Jazz Hole Jazz hole in Ikoyi is a rare music store, bookstore and coffee shop all rolled into one. As the name implies, there s a huge selection of jazz music but it is also the place to go for the latest CD s by international and local artists. Jazz hole is known for its sell out intimate live music shows, and one may be in luck and meet a favourite artist. It also has its own label and has recorded compilations of urban African music, which are available for purchase. The bookstore and coffee shop are at opposite ends of the store, with an eclectic collection books, modern novels, historical texts on politics, economics and magazines running in between. The bookstore also conducts poetry readings and book launches. It holds book reviews by prominent Nigerian writers and attending any one of their monthly events is a mind-opening experience. Treat yourself to a cup of something warm and cheerful while browsing through the books. Jazz hole has great music and a great feel; look out for an event during your stay in Lagos. Address: 168 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos Telephone: Open weekdays and Saturdays. Sunday events are advertised ahead of time. Website:

25 Culture And Lifestyle The Muson Centre Terra Kulture is a cultural centre that provides a venue and the ambience for Nigerians and foreigners The Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON), amongst other things, seeks to promote the performance and enjoyment of classical music and the arts, and enhance inter-cultural relations with other nationalities through the cultural development of the Nigerian people and society. Since the first MUSON Festival of drama, art and dance in February 1997, the Muson Centre in Onikan Lagos has played host to numerous ticketed shows and concerts of classical, folk and contemporary music, drama presentations and plays. Muson has its own choir and symphony orchestra, periodically staging concerts that convey the richness and elegance of classical music. Address: Muson Centre, 8/9 Marina, Onikan, Lagos. Telephone: , Website:

26 Culture And Lifestyle Lagos Events and Shows Recreation and entertainment in Lagos revolves around, amongst other things; music, dance, drama, cultural festivals and the arts, and these characterize the numerous events that take place in the city all year round. Wherever your interests lie, there most probably is an event that will capture your attention. Lagos Black Heritage Week The Lagos black heritage week is a musical, cultural and intellectual celebration all rolled into one event. It is a celebration of African creativity, expressed through the vehicle of contemporary art, design, music, dance, film and video. Aside from the more well-known events such as the Boat Regatta and Lagos Carnival, the week also offers live shows and concerts, a children s heritage village where the dramatization of folklore and games have proved popular and visits to the town of Badagry, the major port at which slaves were once trade. Thousands of artistes and performers are involved in this weeklong event which never fails to excite and engage the heart Date: Always the last week before Easter on the Christian calendar. Lagos Black Heritage Office: Freedom Park Broad Street, Lagos Island Lagos Nigeria. Telephone: , , info@lagosblackheritagefestival.com Website:

27 Culture And Lifestyle Lagos Fashion and Design Week A dynamic crop of Nigerian designers have steadily made strong in-roads into the international fashion scene and are making a name for themselves on runways all over the world. The Lagos Fashion and Design Week is the fashion enthusiasts dream come true with exhibitions, interviews and runway shows of the best of Nigerian designers. The event features presentations of season collections, fashion art installations, exhibits of textiles accessories and other fashion products, as well as workshops that facilitate networking, and maybe even a chance to meet a favourite designer! New entrants into the industry who show promise also have an opportunity to show their work but irrespective of ones level of interest in fashion, this event is always a memorable one due to the sheer beauty and class of the work on display. Date: October Website: Lagos Jazz Series Festival The Lagos Jazz Festival is only a few years old but it proved to be a very popular event with Lagosians and visitors alike. Usually held over 3 days in November, it is staged across three open-air venues in the city. Connoisseurs of jazz no longer have to leave the city or music genres; the Lagos Jazz Festival features renowned jazz artistes from around the world, as well as talented Nigerian artistes. The month of November is referred to as jazz month. Date: November Address: 6A Abimbola Awoniyi Close Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: Website: lagosjazzseries.com info@lagosjazzseries.com.

28 Getting Around Lagos Today s Lagos is a bustling network of various modes of transportation, from the comfortable to the adventurous. A great way to see the city is to hire one of many state-registered and privately run taxis, from which you will be shown the sights from the comfort of your seat. Municipal buses criss-cross the city on dedicated bus lanes, which means you won t be spending much time in rush hour traffic. For the adventurous, who want to feel the city s buzz, the licensed hooded tricycles known as keke Marwa, may be the choice for you. Most companies provide their expat employees with a car, a driver, and in some cases, a security escort. While expats are allowed to drive in Nigeria, most prefer to employ professionals to drive them around. This is generally the safest option for expats in Lagos; the driver is able to navigate the city easily and is familiar with the local environment and road conditions. Traffic congestion is a massive problem in Lagos, and despite recent improvements to public transport and road networks to try and ease this, it can still take hours to travel just a few kilometres. Expats should therefore plan their journey well in advance and ensure they give themselves plenty of time to get to their destination. Expats wishing to drive in Lagos should note that international driving licenses are not recognised in Nigeria, so they will need a Nigerian driving licence. Most employers are likely to arrange this. Find below a list of licensed public transport companies in Lagos. Metro Taxi 89 Opebi Road, Ikeja. Telephone: Website: Red Cab Taxi 72, Oduduwa Way, GRA, Ikeja. Telephone:

29 Getting Around Lagos Itaxi Itrans Logistics Ltd, 5A Yemi Ogunniyi Street, Ajao Estate, Anthony, Lagos Telephone: Website: Hertz RENT-A-CAR Leasing House, C&I Leasing Drive, off Bisola Durosinmi Etti Drive. CBD Lekki Phase 1, Lekki Lagos. Telephone: , , , Website: Avis Car hire (Avis Fleet Management) AVIS HOUSE, 6 Degema Close, Apapa GRA Telephone: , , reservations@avisng.com Lagbus Website:

30 Getting Around Lagos Itaxi Itrans Logistics Ltd, 5A Yemi Ogunniyi Street, Ajao Estate, Anthony, Lagos Telephone: Website: Hertz RENT-A-CAR Leasing House, C&I Leasing Drive, off Bisola Durosinmi Etti Drive. CBD Lekki Phase 1, Lekki Lagos. Telephone: , , , Website: Avis Car hire (Avis Fleet Management) AVIS HOUSE, 6 Degema Close, Apapa GRA Telephone: , , reservations@avisng.com Lagbus Website: Getting Around Lagos Tips Let the time of day, destination and distance determine how you get around. A general rule should be, the further your destination, the more comfortable the mode you must choose. An evening out requires a state-registered taxi, which will wait to take you back if need be, whilst for a short trip to the local supermarket or shopping mall, a keke marwa may suffice for the more adventurous. Carry smaller denominations for the municipal buses and keke marwa, and larger notes for all taxis.

31 Where to Stay in Lagos Most hotels are situated in residential areas of Lagos and within minutes of the business hub of the city. From well-known international chains to home-grown companies, there are hotels to suit every pocket size; from the luxurious to the budget hotel, and all providing a home away from home for you. For lovers of the sea and all things marine, some hotels have superb views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Lagos Lagoon, fine dining, spacious and stylishly furnished rooms. For the corporate traveller, there are hotels a short ride away from the Lagos and Victoria Islands, the nerve centre of the city. Features can include access to meeting rooms, world class gyms and spas, and availability to high speed internet services and Wi-Fi. Comfortable suites are available for families with children and some hotels offer a baby-sitting service. Visitors who desire a quiet and more intimate atmosphere can choose from the many chic and smaller boutique hotels dotted through the city. Eko Hotels and Suites Plot 1415, Adetokunbo Ademola St. Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: /-19, /2 Website: Southern Sun Ikoyi Hotel 47, Alfred Rewane Rd, Ikoyi, Lagos Telephone: , Website: The Wheatbaker Hotel 4, Onitolo Road (Lawrence Road), Ikoyi, Lagos. Telephone: Website: Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel 1A, Ozumba Mbadiwe St. Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: Website: Four Points by Sheraton Oniru Chieftaincy Estate, Lekki Peninsula, Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: Central Reservations: Website:

32 Where to Stay in Lagos Lagos Oriental Hotel 3, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos Telephone: Sheraton Hotel 30, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos. Telephone: Protea Ikoyi Westwood 22, Awolowo Rd, Ikoyi, Lagos Telephone: Website:

33 Where To Go In Lagos Lagos offers a variety of places for you to spend some leisure time. This ranges from Beaches and Resorts, Shopping malls, Culture spots, Art Galleries, Restaurants and Out Door Recreation. Whatever your preference, you can be rest assured that Lagos has something to offer you. Beaches and Resorts Lagos is sometimes referred to as the City by the lagoon because of its geography, and with 186km of shore line, there are numerous beaches and water activities to choose from. Tarkwa Bay is a man-made sheltered beach, which is easily accessible by boat from one of the jetties on the island. Lighthouse Beach is right beside Tarkwa Bay and is named after the 110 year old lighthouse that guided the entrance to Lagos Harbour in colonial times. An evening ramble over the old railway lines and along the beach between Tarkwa Bay and Lighthouse Beach is quite refreshing. Eko Tourist Resort at Akodo Beach is sited on 10 acres and is a 40 minutes drive from Lagos, with chalets, restaurants, a conference hall and almost a kilometre of clean beach. Nearby is the Hermitage Garden Resort situated in a quiet village called Tiye. Further along the coastline is the La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, with its extensive facilities and opportunities for water sports. There's also the Eleko Beach, Lekki Beach, the Elegushi Private Beach, all situated along the Lekki peninsula. Badagry Beach is one of the oldest beaches in Lagos and the only one on the mainland. Its mature palm trees and vibrant beach life create an ambience that makes for an enjoyable day out. At the Badagry axis, you can visit the Whispering Palms Resort with its waterfront views and chalets along with a number of water sports possibilities for guests. There are also a few remote beach resorts that are only accessible by water and a short boat ride from one of the jetties on the Victoria Island will take visitors to and from the resorts. For instance, La manga Beach Villa and Casa Ilashe, both on Ilashe Island require confirmed pre-arrival bookings. Whichever beach or resort you choose; there are opportunities for safe swimming, barbeques, surfing, jet skiing and water skiing. La Campagne Tropicana Ikegan, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area Lekki/ Epe Expressway Lagos, Nigeria info@lacampneng.com Telephone: , , , Website: La Manga Beach Villa, Ilashe Island Phone: , info@lamangailashe.com Website:

34 Where To Go In Lagos Casa Ilashe Villa, Ilashe Island Booking office: 5 Gabaro Close, Victoria Island Telephone: Website: Lekki Leisure Lake Okunde Blue Water Tourism Scheme Lekki, Lagos. Telephone: info@lekkileisurelake.com Website: Ibeshe Lagoon Beach Club and Spa Premium Leisure Intl. Ltd Plot 10B, Abike Animashaun Street, Off Admiralty Way, Off Durosinmi Etti, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos Telephone: Hermitage Garden Resort Hermitage Road, Tiye Village (Near Akodo), Lekki Local Government, Lagos State Bookings: Plot Kuramo Beach, Festac Town, Lagos. Telephone: , , reservations@haastade.com Website: Eko Tourist Beach Resort, Akodo Km 11, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Ibeju, Lekki LGA, Akodo. Lagos Booking Office: 12C Akibo Savage, Victoria Island Telephone: +234 (0) , , Website: Whispering Palms Beach Resort, Badagry Iworo Village, Off Lagos Badagry Expressway, Aradagun, Badagry, Lagos. Telephone: , , Website: Kamp Ikare In Ikare Village, Badagry, Lagos Website:

35 Where To Go In Lagos Cinemas Silverbird Cinemas Silverbird Galleria: 133, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos. Telephone: , Ikeja City Mall: 174/194, Obafemi Awolowo way, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State. Box Office: , Website: Genesis Deluxe Cinemas The Palms Shopping Mall, Lekki, Lagos. Telephone: Website: Film House Cinemas Leisure Mall, Adeniran Ogunsanya Road, Surulere, Lagos. Telephone: Ozone Cinemas E-Centre 1-11 Commercial Avenue, Yaba, Lagos State. Telephone: , Website: In Ikare Village, Badagry, Lagos Website:

36 Where To Go In Lagos Outdoor Recreation Other daytime activities include go-karting at GET Arena or a game of football with friends at the Fun Turf, Lekki. If however golfing is your sport of choice, then take your pick from a number of golf courses in the city; at Ikoyi Club, Ikeja Country Club, or the Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate Lekki. There s also polo at the Lagos Polo Club Ikoyi, the oldest and the only one in the city. GET Arena Oniru Estate, Off Ozumba Mbadiwe, Opposite Oriental Hotel Telephone: info@getng.com Website: Fun Turf Lekki Block A10, Plot 4, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. Telephone: , enquiries@funturfng.com Website: Lagos Polo Club (Private Club) Enquiries: info@lagospolo.com Website: Ikoyi Golf Club (Private Club) 6, Ikoyi Club 1938 Road, Telephone: Website: Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate No 1 Mekunwen Road, Ikoyi, Lagos Telephone: ; ; info@lakowelakes.com Website: