Lagos

This Muslim Friendly Travel Guide is part of eHalal.io Travel Group Lagos Island - Skyline of Lagos Island.

Lagos (Yoruba phrasebook|Yoruba: Èkó) is the most populous city in Nigeria. With an estimated population of 8.8 million inhabitants in the city, or 16 million in the metropolitan area, Lagos ranks second only to Cairo as the most populous city in Africa.

Districts

The main neighborhoods are the mainland, Greater Lagos and the Islands. Three major bridges join the island to the mainland. They are the Carter Bridge which start from Iddo Island and the Eko Bridge (formerly called the Second Mainland Bridge) and the Third Mainland Bridge which passes through densely populated mainland suburbs through Lagos lagoon.

• The Mainland holds a greater percentage of inhabitants and industries. Lagos Mainland neighborhoods include Ebute-Meta, Surulere (site of two stadiums and National theater), Yaba (location of the University of Lagos) and Ikeja, site of Murtala Muhammed International Airport and capital of Lagos State.
• Greater Lagos includes Mushin, Maryland, Somolu, Oshodi, Oworonsoki, Isolo, Ikotun, Agege, Iju Ishaga, Egbeda, Ketu, Bariga, Ipaja, and Ejigbo.
• The Islands The two major urban islands of Lagos in Lagos Lagoon are Lagos Island and Victoria Island. These islands are separated from the mainland by the main channel draining the lagoon into the Atlantic ocean, which forms Lagos Harbour. The islands are separated from each other by creeks of varying sizes and are connected to Lagos Island by bridges.

• Lagos Island Lagos Island contains a Central Business District (CBD). This neighborhood is characterized by high-rise buildings and businesses. The island also contains many of the city's largest wholesale marketplaces (such as the popular Idumota and Balogun markets). It also has the National Museum of Nigeria, a Central mosque, Glover Memorial Hall, Christ's Gothic Church (CMS), and the Oba Palace. And lastly and there is the Tinubu Plaza- a site of historical importance, it was here that the Amalgamation ceremony that unified the North and South protectorate to form Nigeria took place in 1914. The few historical quarters that remain in the city are clustered around this square and in the nearby Campos neighborhood. Ikoyi is situated on the eastern half of Lagos Island and joined to it by a landfill. Ikoyi is also connected to Victoria Island by a bridge carrying a primary street over a Five Cowrie creek. Ikoyi has a great number of hotels, night clubs, a recreational park and one of Africa's largest golf courses. Originally a middle class neighbourhood, in recent years it has become more of a fashionable residential enclave for the upper middle class to the upper class.

• Victoria Island Home to many company headquarters and entertainment spots, Victoria Island (commonly called V.I) along with Ikoyi, occupies a major area in the suburbs of Lagos which boasts of several sizable shopping neighborhoods. On its sea shore along the Atlantic front and there is an environmentally reconstructed Cafe Beach.

• Eko Atlantic city is a new city under construction. It is a planned neighborhood being constructed on land reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean.Dredgers, large ships which move sand, are all working around the clock filling the area with sand where the city will be built. Expected to be around 4 square miles and the city will satisfy needs for financial, commercial, residential and tourist lodgings with a state-of-the-art high-tech infrastructure in line with modern and environmental standards. These standards will offer the city’s residents modern water, waste management, security and transportation systems. Eko Atlantic will also offer its residents an independent source of energy generated specifically for the city.

Lagos Halal Explorer

Also known as Èkó in the Edo language, and also affectionately called 'Lag', 'Gidi' or 'Las Gidi' as a form of slang-by the younger generation, is a port and the most populous conurbation in Nigeria.

• Formerly the capital of Nigeria, Lagos is a huge metropolis which originated on islands separated by creeks.
• The city is the economic and financial capital of Nigeria.
• Portuguese explorer Rui de Sequeira visited the area in 1472, naming the area around the city Lago de Curamo; indeed the present name is Portuguese for "lakes". Another explanation is that Lagos was named for Lagos, Portugal - a maritime town which at the time was the main centre of the Portuguese expeditions down the African coast and whose own name is derived from the Latin word Lacobriga.
• From 1404-1889 it served as a major centre of the slave trade, ruled over by Benin chief called the Oba of Lagos.
• Lagos was the former capital of Nigeria from 1914 up to 1991. The city was stripped of its status when the Federal Capital Territory was established at the purpose-built city of Abuja.

The city of Lagos lies in south-western Nigeria, on the Atlantic coast in the Gulf of Guinea, west of the Niger River delta, located on longitude 3° 24' E and latitude 6° 27' N. Most of the population live on the mainland, and most industries are located there too. Lagos is known for its music and night life which used to be located in areas around Yaba and Surulere but in recent years more night clubs have sprung on the island making the island especially Victoria Island and the main nightlife attraction.

Travel to Lagos

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Lagos

You can fly in from most European cities (London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Rome); from Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Istanbul, Beirut, Johannesburg, Casablanca, Addis Ababa, Kigali and Nairobi. There are also direct connecting Flights from the United States (Atlanta, Houston, New York City). There are also Flights to Lagos from most major cities in West Africa.

Lagos is close (about 100 km) to the border with Benin. Should you fly out of the International Airport in Lagos, arrive early, especially close to weekends and festive days, as the security has been beefed up significantly (you need to have your passport and ticket to enter the departures area) since the December 2009 liquid explosive incident where the terrorist started his journey from Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

For airlines operating at Murtala Muhammed International Airport see Wikipedia article on Murtala Muhammed International Airport|Murtala Muhammed International Airport

Arrivals

An oddity about landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport is that planes are required to stop short of the final parking spot and the aeroplane has to be pulled into place by a tug. This means you have to remain seated a bit longer after stopping than at other airports.

The immigration process is quite tedious and slow as there are two immigration officials at each desk (presumably to reduce corruption) and the West African passport holders receive first priority. Families with young children and disabled people are normally also given priority. When filling in the landing card for immigration you must have an address in Nigeria and a Nigerian contact number - they have been known to call this number to verify that you are expected.

After immigration you collect your bag at one of the new baggage conveyors (operational late 2013), check beside the start of the conveyor if you have fragile or oversized baggage.

If you are travelling with a multi-national corporate you will often be met by the "Protocol Officers" in the luggage collection hall. These agents will ensure you meet with the official company drivers and get safe passage out of the airport.

After collecting your luggage you pass customs and agricultural inspections and there is a pretty good chance your bag will be searched for the usual contraband.

Then a health inspector will check your yellow fever card. This has been a soft spot for many travellers as there must be ten days between inoculation and travel and the officials denied entry to passengers (i.e. put back on the next plane out).

Finally you must have you luggage tag from check-in as security will not allow you to leave the airport without producing this tag that corresponds to each bag.

Do not leave the airport if you have not made contact with your driver/pick-up as you are not allowed back in to the airport after exiting.

Departures

Many international flights leave in the evenings and the airport becomes very congested after 17:00 with long queues for check-in. The check-in process takes a long time if you are not in business class or priority check-in. Your baggage pre-weighed and if it is more than 25kg per bag you will have to reduce the weight. Then you have your passport details checked by the ground crew.

Your bags are searched by agriculture, customs and "antiquities" agents and any indigeous trinkets are likely to be confiscated, this is the bottle-neck in the check-in process.

Finally you reach the check-in counter and receive your ticket and the departure card to be filled in for the immigrations control.

At either end of the departures hall are new extensions that house immigration, security checks and passport control. Hand in your departure card and proceed to the security checks. Since the Christmas bomber|Christmas bomber the checks are very thorough. New scanners and passport control counters have made this part of the departure process very easy (previously this could take two hours).

There are quite a number of pay-access and Priority Pass lounges after passport control (after two hours in the security queue, you will want to use it if you have the time and $50 to spare). Use Oasis or Skye Lounge, both of which are good, especially Oasis which is very nice even by 1st world standards. Gabfol lounge is free, but you pay for food and fruit drinks.

Before boarding there is a final check of passport, yellow fever card and boarding pass. Your hand luggage is opened and searched and you are frisked. Finally you board the plane.

By Rail

Rail services in Nigeria are still very slow and unreliable but in recent years several routes have reappeared. Nigerian Railway Corporation have daily services from Ilorin via Ibadan as well as an overnight service from Kano via Kaduna a few times per week. A new higher speed railway is under construction and is expected to be completed in the next few years, resulting in increased speeds and frequency.

• Lagos Terminus Murtala Muhammed Road 6.469882, 3.382392Across the bridge from Lagos Island - Lagos Terminus train station A The city's hub for long distance trains, can be quite chaotic.

Travel on a Bus in Lagos

Several bus companies like ABC Transport, Ifesinachi and The Young Shall Grow offers daily services from almost all major cities around the nation as well as international destination in West Africa. While buses usually are quite comfortable, journey times are very long.

How to get around in Lagos

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If traveling around Lagos, be sure to be accompanied by a tourist guide who is familiar with the routes. Moving around Lagos has become much easier in recent times with street signs on every single street corner making it easier to locate places and monuments. With the city spending huge budgets on security and there has been a huge reduction in crime generally. For the most part, it's safe to move about during the day. If you are going out at night, be sure to go in groups, and stick to known routes.

If you are not on a tight budget, you should hire a vehicle and driver, usually available from most of the major hotels and the airport. The price will be around ₦1,000-2,000 per hour, you will be expected to negotiate. Talk to the drivers and find one you think will be able to communicate best with as they will be able to tell you things about the places you pass.

Travel on a Bus in Lagos

Lagos now has decent mass transit buses courtesy of the Bus Rapid Transit(BRT)schemes. The BRT lines run on physically segregated lanes and thus make them run faster while private cars are stuck in traffic. The system is run by two operators, NURTW Cooperative (Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers) and Lagbus, a Lagos State Government owned Asset Management Company. The Buses are coloured red (LagBus), and blue (NURTW).

The BRT is one of the three-pronged attacks the state has unleashed against the urban traffic congestion in Lagos. Buses can be an affordable and convenient option. Bus fares are relatively affordable and there are numerous routes being plied from the Mainland to the Islands.

The tickets for the BRT and the Lagbus can be purchased at the bus stops before boarding. Tickets range from 100-250 Naira( as of '16). However and the ticket vendors are seldom available in the evening even though the buses ply till late at night. It makes good sense to purchase a ticket booklet or a couple of tickets in bulk beforehand since these don't contain a timestamp.

There are also smaller yellow buses(Danfo)that ply all routes from the mainland to the island and within mainland. For a newbie and the yellow bus system can be quite confusing and it makes good sense to approach a local for help. The local Nigerians will be more than happy to help an Oyinbo(white person). The fare is fixed and starts from 50 Naira and increases as per distance.

The BRT buses are faster, cleaner and more convenient. They carry hundreds of thousands of passengers on a weekly basis.

By car

The road network of Lagos for the most part is good, but sometimes traffic congestion and limited parking space especially during working hours is rife. Be sure to be on the lookout for road signs, in order to avoid entering one-way roads or streets. LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Agency) is the body responsible for managing traffic in most of the traffic congestion areas. Make sure to follow traffic rules, and avoid driving in the BRT Bus lanes to avoid getting a fine or having your vehicle impounded.

There exists vehicle parks around in hotels, shopping malls, and some of them provide free and safe parking. But if parking in other areas around the city be ready to pay around N200 or more. (N360=$1)

Best way to travel in Lagos by a Taxi

One of the easiest ways to get around is by taxi. Taxis cost more than buses, typically. With the older taxi cabs it is expected to negotiate the price before you enter and pay on arrival. The cabs are relatively safe. The state has embarked on gradual replacement of rickety buses and taxi cabs with modern ones, fitted with good facilities to enhance comfort.

Through public-private partnerships, new cabs are being introduced regularly by licensed cab operators. With fare as low as N500, depending on the distance and the new air-conditioned taxi cabs are already creating a new image for Lagos. Taxis can be found almost everywhere, and all the new cabs have numbers on them that you can call for a pick up. There are several cab companies servicing Lagos, using both metered and fixed fares,and they generally accept cash:

• Red Cab. Taxi Service - @ileasing.com ☎ +234 802 705 2098, +234 700 073 3222
• Corporate Cabs - fafolahan63@ Plot 3A, Owukori Street, Alaka Estate, Surulere
• Orange Cabs. Taxi Service - @ng.com 18B, Ladoke Akintola Crescent,G.R.A., Ikeja ☎ +234 791 7202, +234 702 911 9504, +234 819 116 6926

By rented car

Renting a vehicle is another alternative if you are going to be staying for a few days or longer. There are numerous vehicle rental offices in the city, and therefore it is extremely simple to rent a vehicle from your hotel or resort lodging to drive around with for the duration of your stay. Avis is your best option for this,either call or make use of their online services:

• Avis Rent-A-Car - Avis House, 6 Degema CLose, Off Park Lane, Apapa GRA ☎ +234 803 718 7000, +234 1 764 6442
• Hertz Car Rental - 12 Keffi Street, Southwest Ikoyi ☎ +234 1 2703700
• Unity Global Ventures Car Rental - ☎ +1 877 810 1221 (USA), +234 809 189 5630 (Nigeria) N11,500 a day Chauffeur drivenair-conditioned SUV vehicle rental vehicle hire service.

• Novo Car Rentals - 2nd floor, UBA Building, Plot 22B, Idowu Taylor Street, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 270 2047, +234 1 271 7069, +234 1 873 0193

By ferry

Lagos Ferry Services Company runs scheduled routes between Lagos Island, Banana island, Mile 2 (Apapa axis) and the mainland,. Modern ferries have been assigned to carry both passengers and cargo on the lagoon and on some creeks. The service charge is quite affordable for a tourist.

By rail

A planned railway line running through the Lagos metropolis is being constructed with plans of completion as early as 2012.

Motorbikes

For travelling short distances, you can use motorbike taxis called Okada. These motorbikes are quick, affordable and save a lot of walking but they are also very dangerous. Okada accidents are very common but safety equipment are now provided because the state government and in fact the Federal Road Safety Commission has mandated it. If you want to take the risk, you can safely halve their first price, and usually there are lots to choose from. Before you try and negotiate, confirm the fare from a local.If you have a Nigerian friend, let them negotiate for you as the quoted fare differs greatly for local residents and foreigners(for obvious reasons). Choose an older driver as the younger ones are cowboys.

Safety Helmets are a must at all times for both the rider and passenger. Majority of times these are ill-fitting and sometimes even absent.

By law, Okadas are forbidden to ply after dark(7PM) for safety reasons. Avoid taking an Okada for long distances, while it's raining and in the night since majority of mainland is devoid of street lights.

What to see in Lagos

Badagri - The first missionary house in Nigeria at Badagri.

It is said that Lagos is for tourists like England is for food - bland and boring. It's a stereotype and not really true, but you have to put the effort in to see Lagos. There are also lots of markets to see, although it can be very tiring. Usually safe during the day.

Badagry Town The ancient slave port of Badagry - commonly called the 'Point of No Return'. This ancient town of Badagry was founded around A.D. 1425. Before its existence, people lived along the Coast of Gberefu and this area later gave birth to the town of Badagry. It is the second largest commercial town in Lagos State, located an hour from Lagos and half hour from the Republic du Benin.

• Gothic Church Church of Christ 6.4508, 3.3902 On Lagos island, at corner of Marina Road and Odunlami Street - Gothic Church Church of Christ, Lagos The oldest Anglican cathedral in the Church of Nigeria, with the foundation stone laid in 1867. However it was not completed until 1946.

Museums

• National Museum of Nigeria Awolowo Road 6.443308, 3.404129 On Lagos Island, opposite Muson Centre Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 4PM daily ₦100 for Nigerians, ₦200 foreigners Nigerian National Museum The Museum Kitchen is open on weekdays and is a good place to try local Nigerian cuisine.

• DIDI Museum - 175 Akin Adesola Street 6.432313, 3.423383 On Victoria Island ☎ +234 709 850 5052 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 6PM A contemporary art museum

• Nike Art Gallery - 2 Elegushi Road, Lekki Phase 1 6.443090, 3.458014 ☎ +234 80 330 36969, +234 802 705 2098 - Art gallery featuring the whole panoply of Nigerian arts, or see some of the documentaries that have been made about Nigerian culture. Run by Artist and Designer Nike Davies Okundaye. A great place for art lovers and buyers. Also serves as education center, students at the Nike Art Centers engage in a variety of arts. At the center, traditional arts are trainingd, such as indigo dying and sculpting, and also non-traditional arts such as painting and quilting, as well as other cultural activities such as drumming and dancing.

• National Theatre - Mainland, Iganmu-Surulere. 6.476389, 3.369444 - National Arts Theatre Located on the mainland at Iganmu, it is about a half hour drive from Lagos Island. Built in 1977 as the principal forum for the International Festival of Black Arts and Culture, it has now become accepted as the prime center for performing arts in the nation. The main auditorium has the capacity to seat around 3,000 persons and the conference hall can accommodate around 700 people. The building also houses two cinema halls, a restaurant and a café.

• Ovuomaroro Gallery - Bruce Onobrakpeya's Gallery - 41 oloje Street. Papa Ajao, Mushin, Lagos close to The Guardian Newspapers along Apapa Oshodi Expressway, Lagos ☎ +234 7056346458 One of the oldest galleries in Lagos with over 100 works on display, with some for sale by Nigeria's Human Living Treasure Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya You will also see here more than 6 decades of his work as an artist running through various phases of his creativity and development.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Lagos

• Lekki Conservation Centre 6.44195, 3.53586 On the Lekki/Epe expressway near Chevron. Run by the Lekki Conservation Foundation. It is really good for relaxation, its a dense park with a few animals and birds and there are walkways and benches to rest on. Fees: ₦500 for everyone

Beaches

There are over a dozen beaches in Lagos, making for a wide array to choose from. More beaches are found outside the city, in places like Badagry. Good for picnics and barbecues. Inside the city, Lekki is about as good as it gets.

• Lagos Cafe Beach Ahmodu Bello Way, Victoria Island - This beach is named after the sand bars that characterize the coastline of Lagos, not because of the myriad of cafes that run along the beach itself. Very popular among beach goers, it is the main inner city beach, as the other beaches provide more of a “get away” from the city. (These include Lekki, Alpha, Eleko, Akodo beaches to the east, and Tarkwa Bay, Ogogoro Island, Atlas Cove, Lighthouse beach, Ilashe Beach, Agaja Beach and Badagry beach to the west).

• Tarkwa Bay 6.39979, 3.39494 - A man-made bay and beach created during the formation of the Lagos harbour, sheltered within the harbour breakwater. Accessible by boat only. It is easily accessible by boat from Tarzan Jetty at Maroko (the fare is cheap), or under Falomo bridge on Victoria Island. Boat can be hired opposite American/Indian Embassy. You can also board water taxis for about ₦300 (as of Oct'11) per trip. The beach is a pleasant outing and has safe bathing even for children. It has its own resident community, most of whom make their living from the tourists who visit the beach. The beach is good for a one-day picnic because of the absence of hotels and restaurants on it. You can buy good paintings and handicrafts from the local vendors on the beach. There's also the possibility to surf in a corner of Tarkwa Bay. Other water sports such as jet-skiing and water-skiing are fairly common. The last boats leave Tarkwa bay at 5PM.

• Lighthouse Beach Right beside Tarkwa Bay - Named after the 110-year-old lighthouse that guards the entrance to Lagos harbour. The Lighthouse can just be seen from the beach, and is well worth a visit as well. The walk along the beach between Tarkwa Bay and Lighthouse Beach is very pleasant– and at times one can be the only person on the beach. You can watch the many ships queuing up to enter the port on the nearby horizon.

• Eko Tourist Resort (Akodo Beach) 22 kilometers, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Ibeju, Lekki LGA, Akodo ☎ +1 777 0700 (Bookings), +1 470 2865 - This place is at least a 40 minutes drive from Lagos. The resort has chalets, restaurants, and a large conference hall on 10 acres, with more than a half a mile of clean beach.

Suntan Beach in Badagry West, 15 minutes ride from the Badagry round-about. A good place for picnic and holiday. Eleko Beach 56 km, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Turn right just past Total service station, proceed to toll gate, turn left follow road to Rainbow Church sign, turn right onto dirt road. Eleko beach is at end of road.

• Lekki Beach 6.42284, 3.50927 Turn right at round-about just past estate (about 9 km), Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lekki

• Elegushi 6.42277, 3.48210 - Elegushi Private Beach, Ikate, Lekki

]] Beach Resorts:

• Hermitage Garden Resorts: Hermitage road, Tiye village, near Akodo, Lekki local government.
• La Campagne Tropicana: Lekki

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Lagos

Unless you are in a supermarket or restaurant/bar with fixed prices, you will be expected to negotiate the price you pay for an item down to the lowest the vendor would sell. When you are stuck in traffic, expect to see hawkers selling anything from potatoes to drinks . Expect any brand names in these informal markets to be fake, and should you wish to purchase them aim for a very low price.

If you hold a Visa, MasterCard or Maestro Credit/Debit card you can withdraw cash in Naira from various ATMs around Lagos. Visa machines can be found at Standard Chartered Bank. MasterCard/Maestro machines are found in Ecobank and some Zenith Bank branches.

Foreign currency, U.S. Dollars, Pounds Sterling, or Euros can be exchanged in various places, usually near large hotels and the airport. These are not formal bureaux de change and you will need to negotiate the exchange rate. It is strongly recommended that you count your money in front of the exchanger, and don't be afraid to walk away if you are not happy with the deal. Be wary of your safety in money changing areas, and take care to make sure you are not followed when leaving them.

There are formal Bureau De Change existing in the various banks, and you can be rest assured about transacting with them, although their rates may be slightly higher or lower than the rates outside.

Some of the good places for shopping are:

• The Palms Shopping Centre - 1 Bisway Street 6.435833, 3.451365 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 9PM daily
• The City Mall Awolowo Road 6.444882, 3.402323 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 9PM daily
• Mega Plaza 14, Idowu Martins Street, Victoria Island 6.433493, 3.420695 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 10PM daily
• Silverbird Galleria - 133, Ahmadu Bello Way Victoria Island 6.427599, 3.409436 ☎ +23412706361 - Silverbird Galleria With five hi-tech cinema halls showing the best box-office movies in the industry. There's also the Media Store which sells Music and Movies, Magazines and books, as well as computer and gaming consoles. The Galleria also houses restaurants, bars and gift shops. Lastly and there is Wi-Fi connectivity and a bowling alley within the premises.

• King's Plaza - No 80, Adeniran Ogunsanya 6.492536, 3.356356 Off Bode Thomas, Surulere - A large shopping mall consisting of Gift and clothing stores, restaurants, a cinema hall, and others. There is also a popular place called Computer Village in Ikeja the capital of Lagos.

• Lekki Art Market Close to the Lekki Conservation Centre - A great place to buy Nigerian and West African art. From paintings, to jewelery, to souvenirs to accessories and clothes, You'll find a great deal for your goods. Brush up your bargaining skills. The place is a bit tricky to find, take a right from the roundabout before Chevron and ask for directions. The place tends to flood during heavy rains, so try to avoid going all together or take an SUV with a high ground clearance.

Halal Restaurants in Lagos

• Mr Bigg's - The ubiquitous Mr Bigg's is Nigeria's version of McDonalds. While western fare such as hamburgers is served, Nigerian delicacies such as jollof Rice and moin moin are more popular. Look for the big 'B' with a red and yellow colour scheme - you shouldn't have much trouble finding one in Lagos

• Tantalizers - Another leading Nigerian Fast Food Chain, Tantalizers serves Nigerian fast food staples such as hala Meat pies, scotch eggs, Chicken, jollof Rice, /cp-kampung-fried-rice-frozen/ fried Rice, cake, and hamburgers. Has about 25 outlets in Lagos

Nigerian

• Thistle Cafe & Restaurant
• Yellow Chili(specialties include Fried Snail with Fries)
• Terra Kulture. Located within an art gallery.
• Whitehouse. Located in Yaba near E-centre.
• ""Natives"". Located in Victoria Island

Chinese

• Prime Chinese - Open 24 hours; By far the best Chinese food in the city!
• Marco Polo
• Mr Chang's

• Zen Garden - Isaac John Street, GRA, Ikeja - A bit on the pricier side, dinner with drinks for two approx. North 10,000 - North 12,000 A sister restaurant to Pearl Garden (VI), Zen Garden is an elegant gourmet Chinese restaurant. Tends to get crowded on weekends, so plan accordingly. Barbequed Pork is a must-have.

Indian

• Spice Cafe - Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island Opp Park North Shop - Dinner (with drinks) for two approx North 8,000-10,000 the best place to enjoy Indian food. Nice ambiance with great service.

• Victoria Palace - Danmole Street, Victoria Island
• Viceroy's - Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island - Dinner (with drinks) for two North 8,000 - North 10,000 The newest entrant in the Indian restaurant scene, Viceroy's boasts of the best ambiance among the Indian restaurants in town. The food, though, fails to match the standards set by the likes of Stanley and Spice Bar. Try the Chef's special Nilgiri's Chicken. Also has a decent continental menu.

• Cafe Bombay - Idowu Martins Street, Victoria Island - In the Food Court of Mega Plaza mall.

• Sherlaton - Has outlets in two places. One in the mainland (Hotel Newcastle, Antony Village) and another in VI (Hotel Cumberland, Adeola Odeku St)

• AAA (formerly Stanley) - Olutunda Street, Ilupeju ☎ +234 17754609 Dinner for two (with drinks) approx. N7000 Among the best Indian restaurants in town. Chef Anand makes a wicked Murg Mussalam (comes in a large plate that serves 3-4) - don't miss it. The ambiance is slightly dull, though the quality of food more than makes up for it.

• F&G Suites - Ilupeju Opp to Bazaar Shop

• Taj - IlupejuAdjacent to Shop Perfect, on the same road as Bazaar Shop

• Harzoyka - Oduduwa Cr, GRA, Ikeja - Being the only mid-range Indian restaurant in Ikeja (the other option is the extremely pricey Indian restaurant in Sheraton), Harzoyka is a good choice if you are in Ikeja and don't want to go around the city for Indian food. Food is decent with an average ambiance.

• Karma - Myanmar Road, Apapa - Dinner for two approx. N7000. Sunday buffet lunch at North 2200 per person

Thai

• Reeds
• Pattaya
• Bangkok

American/ Continental

• Bottles (Tex-Mex) - very good and reasonably authentic. Fajitas are very popular. Frozen Margaritas are a must-have.
• Cactus (Pizza & Sandwiches)
• Double Four (Pizza)
• Le Saison (Pastries and Sandwiches)
• Debonair's Pizza (Victoria Island, Opp to Park n Shop) (Pizza)
• Goodies Restaurant (Next to Goodies supermarket, near Falomo Bridge, Victoria Island)

• Chocolates Royal - American/ Bakery

• Churrasco's Ozumba Mbadiwe Road - Brazilian Steakhouse. Located inside the same complex as the Lagoon Restaurant

• Cowrie Restaurant Located in B-Jays's Hotel - Offers include the traditional goat hala Meat pepper soup. Nigerian.

• Fusion - As the name suggests, it is a fusion restaurant! Japanese/Mediterranean Cuisine. Better for Sushi only.

• Il Sorriso - Italian dining

• Pearl Garden | 137 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island 6.426093, 3.427858 ☎ +234 1 293 4473 The best Chinese food in VI and a favorite among expats. Dinner and none-alcoholic drinks for two approx North 15,000. Try the Shredded Chicken with Chili and Peanuts.

Drink

Ikeja

• Africa Shrine in Ikeja. With Femi Kuti, son of the legend Fela Kuti.
• Lagbaja's Motherland, Opebi Road (in Ikeja).
• The Night Shift Colosseum, Salvation Road, Off Opebi Road. Best Music. Well arranged. Big space for dancing and sitting. 9PM Monday - 5AM.
• Options, Allen Avenue - Toyin Street T point. Good Music, Spacious, 10PM Monday - 5AM.
• MetroPark, Isaac-John St, GRA, Ikeja.

Ikoyi

• Swe: Located at the top of City Mall, Onikan, Lagos.
• Ember Creek: Awolowo Road, Ikoyi. Pool Side drinks overlooking the Lagoon. Unnecessarily overpriced.
• Reeds: Cool, dimly lit atmosphere with light techno music in the background. Good for cocktails and small bites(Thai specialties). Nice for a romantic date.
• Waterside :Located on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, beside the lagoon that separates Ikoyi and Victoria Island. Go there to chill by the lagoon in the evening. The decor is minimalistic with plastic chairs and tables but again very few places in Lagos are open adjacent a Lagoon. Try some suya and peppe soup.

Victoria Island

• Michael's: Coldest soft drinks in town! Expatriate hangout.
• POP!: Owned by Nigerian soccer legend Austin "Jay-Jay" Okocha, it's got a nice restaurant and a trendy café.
• Pat's Bar: Ajose Adeogun Street. A sports bar with a rugby theme, Very popular with expatriates of all nationalities and the prostitutes that love them.
• De Marquee New, Hip joint atop Mega Plaza, Lagos's premier shopping mall. Smoking on the outside terrace only. (WARNING: As of Dec'13, De Marquee has been shut down temporarily for renovations)

Apapa

• Monalido: at Corner of Creek road, Entry ₦500 per person. Good music, sufficient space for sitting. Good, big dance floor. Every one welcome. 10PM Monday - 5:30AM. Drinks are at very competitive prices, Nice Food Restaurant as well open till 6AM.
• Club 21: Wharf Road, ₦500 per person. Music, sufficient space for sitting. Big dance floor. Every one welcome. 10PM Monday - 3AM. Drinks are at competitive prices.

Yaba

• Koko Lounge: Cool as it gets. Co-owned by Africa's biggest hip-hop star, D'Banj who makes frequent appearances. Wednesday night is comedy nights. Classy VIP. Reasonable prices.
• The Psychiatric Hospital : Located actually inside a real Psychiatric hospital in Yaba is a small restaurant. Tables and chairs thrown around in the lawn, you can hangout here with friends for hours

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Lagos

Lagos - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Lagos, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Lagos. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Lagos and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Lagos. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Lagos. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inLagos: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Lagos.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Lagos: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Lagos, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Lagos.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Lagos, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Lagos, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Lagos and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Lagos, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Lagos, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Lagos without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Lagos is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Lagos.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Lagos is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Lagos, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Lagos Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Lagos

eHalal Group Lagos is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Lagos. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Lagos.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Lagos ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Lagos. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Lagos, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Lagos are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Lagos

Lagos has some great hotels and many more are being built. There are many 4 star hotels for the price of a 3 star hotel. Try to get a hotel on Victoria Island.

• The Stone House Admiralty Lekki Phase I.
• Peerage Retreat & Resort Ltd, Victoria Island.
• Embassy court hotel & suites,15a Admiralty way Lekki phase 1

• Hotel 1960 - 23 Olufunmilayo Okikiolu Street, Off Toyin Street, Ikeja ☎ +2348083745991 From USD 115.00 Executive and Royal rooms, all equipped with Air-conditioning, LCD TV and Telephone. Facilities and services are Restaurant, bar, garden and Conference hall.

• WoodRidge Hotel - 2Plot 1/3 Lambert Imasuen Drive Ajao Estate ☎ +234 8032749921 From USD 126.50 All rooms equipped and included with Air-conditioning, TV with cable channels, Wi-Fi Internet access and Buffet breakfast. Some of its facilities and services are Restaurant, Bar, Swimming pool, Fitness room/ gym Airport pick-up and Shuttle service.

• Eagles Park 1960 - 7 Obokun Close Off Johnson Street, Off Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja ☎ +234 8083745991 From USD 150.00 Executive and Royal Rooms, all equipped with Air-conditioning, LCD TV and Telephone. Facilities and services are Functions rooms, Restaurant, and garden.

• Lekki Inn - @inn.com 911 Ken Uba Close, Lekki Peninsula second street to the right off Ajiron Road, off Lekki Expressway (beside Chevron) ☎ +234 1-877-0240 Caters mostly to executives from oil companies, banks, etc. Two fully-furnished chalets onsite can be rented for longer-term stays. Food is excellent, typically African or Continental cuisines. The rooms all have marble flooring, so you don't get the "wet" and "moldy" feel some of the other hotels have. The only downside is that there are just 12 rooms, albeit all large and luxurious, so you don't get to socialize too much onsite. Victoria Island with its restaurants is a 20-min drive away, and the beaches are close by.

• Hotel Palais Royal - 58, Balarabe Musa Crescent, Victoria Island
• Hotel Le Chateau - 292E Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island
• Protea, a South African group, has three hotels in Lagos, all of acceptable standard but not cheap. The prices are reduced if you hold a group loyalty card and the ProKard.

• Welcome Centre Hotels - 70 Airport Road 6.55441, 3.32629 ☎ +234 12719254 £100.00 Similar standard to Protea but not as expensive

• La Cour Boutique Hotel - In addition on Ikoyi in Glover Street is a small, new serviced aparthotel called La Cour. 2 suite hotels in Ikoyi one at 33 Glover Road and 3 Cooper Rd

• Hotel Ibis - h6708@ Airport Road, Ajao Estate ☎ +234 14483470 +234 8014615424 The well known hotel chain has a hotel on the Airport Road, a 5 minutes drive from the MM International Airport

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• Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel - 1A Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue 6.436810, 3.417209 ☎ +234 708 061 0000 +234 1461 0126 Styled by Swedish hospitality designer, Christian Lundwall and the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel is located along the waterfront area of Victoria Island and the business hub of the city.

• Sheraton Lagos - reservations.00445@ 30 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Airport Road, Ikeja 6.583490, 3.360010 ☎ +234 1 2800100 +234 1 2802280 Close to the MM International Airport in the heart of Ikeja. Offers 325 guest rooms and 7 suites with high speed Wi-Fi access

• Four Points by Sheraton - Plot 9/10 Block 2 Oniru Chieftaincy Estate Prince Alaba Oniru Road 6.433536, 3.443151 ☎ +234 (1) 448 9444 +234 (1) 448 9434 Located in Lekki close to the offices of Mobil and Chevron.

• The Wheatbaker - 4 Onitolo Road (Lawrence Road) Ikoyi 6.452841, 3.445460 ☎ +234 (1) 277 3560 +234 (1) 277 3563 Located in the residential heart of Ikoyi, 35 kilometers from MM International Airport. Owned by Legacy Hotels and Resorts, a South African hospitality chain. Members of its Legacy Lifestyle programme get a discount.

Stay Safe

In general, Lagos has become a much safer place to visit than before, with the state spending huge budgets on security with police patrol cars, CCTV cameras (though this isn't always the case). etc. But beware of deals or businesses that sound too good to be true (especially e-mails soliciting your help), and do not openly flaunt your possessions, especially in public places.

While it is common for a tourist to be a victim of a violent crime, it is still wise to stay safe and be alert, especially during late night outings. Stick to crowded streets and make sure to go out in groups as against going out alone.

Lagosians are generally nice and friendly people, most of whom will readily offer directions to you if you are lost.

Lagos still has its fair share of odd people: street beggars (both the old and young), people with psychological disorders, etc. If someone approaches you for money, do what most Lagosians do: completely ignore them or continuing to walk at a brisk pace.

There are a few police officers who are corrupt and inefficient so it is best that you stick to the law and avoid going anywhere off the beaten path without a trusted guide, especially if it is a first visit.

Telecommunications in Lagos

Nigeria has both GSM & CDMA Networks. Most of the International GSM Networks are served here on Roaming Partner Basis. Local pre-activated GSM (SIM) connection can be purchased from anywhere in entire Country at very affordable rate. Naira 200/- for a SIM.

GSM/3G

• Etisalat: Services: Calls, SMS, 4Gand some most advance feature can be found only on this network.
• Air☎Airtel is the former Zain (which was formerly CelTel). Services: Calls, SMS & 4GServices.
• MTN: Services: Calls, SMS, DATA (Internet) & 4GServices.
• Glo: Services: Calls, SMS, DATA (Internet) & 4GServices.

CDMA

• Multilinks Telkom: Services: Calls, SMS & DATA (Internet).
• Visafone: Services: Calls, SMS & DATA (Internet).
• Starcomms: Services: Calls, SMS & DATA (Internet).

In Nigeria SMS (Short Messaging Service) is known as "Text".

The networks in certain parts of Lagos can be very erratic at times. On certain days you cannot make a phone call at all or you will not be able to recharge your phone for the most of the day making business difficult at times. But its occasional and that is the reason if you want to stay for a long term,make sure that you have at least two phones or a dual sim phone.

Cope in Lagos

Embassies & Consulates in Lagos

• India 8-A, Walter Carrington Crescent, P.M.B. 80128, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1-4480876, +234 1 4480877 +234 1-4480882

{{flag|China

• China - Chinaconsul_lg@ Plot 161A, Idejo Street, Victoria Island, ☎ +234 1-2715350

{{flag|Lebanon

• Lebanon - 18 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1-2610129 +234 1-2614511
• United Kingdom - 11 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 277 0780, +234 802 705 2098 +234 1 2770789
• Germany 15, Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 280 9966, +234 1 280 9967 +234 1 280 9969
• Spain - 21C Kofo Abayomi Road, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1-461-7618, +234 1-280-5488 +234 1-461-7397

{{flag|France

• France - 1 Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi ☎ +234 1 269 34 27, +234 1 269 34 28, +234 1 269 34 29 +234 1 269 36 54

{{flag|USA

• United States | 2, Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1-460-3400 +234 1-261-9856

{{flag|Canada

• Canada - 5 Anifowoshe Street, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 271-5650, +234 1 262-2512 +234 1 271-5651, +234 1 262-2517

• Singapore - 81-A Younis Bashorun Street, Off Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 4489888, +234 1 4619088, +234 8099678888 +234 1 4489333

• South Africa - 24 Molade Okoya Thomas Street, Victoria Island ☎ +234 1 461 2050 +234 1 461 2066

News & References Lagos

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