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Travel agency in Nigeria, Visa Processing and Travels

everything about nigeria

Everything you need to know about Nigeria

Travel,  Travel Tips

Nigeria is well recognized as a home for all, with welcoming citizens and innovation at its peak. It is the giant of Africa, the most populous black nation and the home of creatives, in technology, arts, fashion, filmmaking and sophistication. Whether you are new to Nigeria or you have visited at one point in time, there is a lot to know about her cultural heritage and civilization. Nigeria is distinguished by an abundance of resources and beautiful attractions that will give you an unforgettable tour experience. Location of Nigeria Nigeria is located in Western Africa, very close to the bay of Guinea and shares borders with Benin Republican and Cameroon, Chad and Niger Geography of Nigeria Nigeria has a mass area per square kilometre of 923, 788 sq. km. About 910,768sq. km is occupied by land and 13000 is occupied by water. Nigeria has a land boundary of 4047km and shares a 773km boundary with the Benin Republic, 1960km with Cameroon, 87km with Chad and 1997km with Niger. Nigeria shares borders with Niger in the north, Chad in the northeast, Benin in the west and Cameroon in the east. Longitude and Latitude of Nigeria Nigeria lies between the coordinates 10000°N and 8000°E. Geopolitical zones Given below are the six geopolitical zones, also listing the states included in each zone. North Central: which consists of Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau States as well as the Federal Capital Territory. The North East: Consisting of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe State. North West: Consisting of Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. South East: Consistingof Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States. South-South (also known as the Niger Delta region); Consists of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers State. SouthWest: Consisting of Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo State. Population of Nigeria According to the World Bank in 2020, Nigeria has a total population of over a 260million people present in her country at that time. Climates in Nigeria Nigeria has a tropical climate, a semi-arid climate for northern regions, a tropical savannah climate for the central regions and a tropical monsoon climate for the southern regions. The climate in Nigeria is divided into two major seasons; the wet and dry seasons. The wet season is between April to October and the dry season falls between November and March The coldest state in Nigeria is Jos with a temperature between 48°F-97°F, while the hottest state in Nigeria is Sokoto with 45°C Cross River, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states amongst others record high rainfall from April to July annually. The city that experiences the least rainfall is Jos, Plateau State. Nigeria is a home for all, with welcoming citizens and innovation at its peak. It is the giant of Africa, the most populous black nation and the home of creatives, in technology, arts, fashion, filmmaking and sophistication. Whether you are new to Nigeria or you have visited at one point in time, there is a lot to know about her cultural heritage and civilization. Nigeria is distinguished by an abundance of resources and beautiful attractions that will give you an unforgettable tour experience. Population of Nigeria According to the World Bank in 2020, Nigeria has a total population of over a 260million people present in her country at that time. Everything you need to know about Nigeria Nigeria is home for all, with welcoming citizens and innovation at its peak. It is the giant of Africa, the most populous black nation and the home of creatives, in technology, arts, fashion, filmmaking and sophistication. Whether you are new to Nigeria or you have visited at one point in time, there is a lot to know about her cultural heritage and civilization. Nigeria is distinguished by an abundance of resources and beautiful attractions that will give you an unforgettable tour experience. Official Languages in Nigeria The official language in Nigeria is English, other native languages are Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba. There are over 200 languages in Nigeria.  There are over 520 other dialects spoken in Nigeria but the reason why English is selected as the official language is that Britain colonised Nigeria. Other major languages spoken in Nigeria include: Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Tiv, Ibibio, Kanuri, Nupe, Ijaw, Idoma. Religions in Nigeria The major religions in Nigeria are the Traditional, Christianity and Islamic religions. Northern states are occupied by a higher percentage of Muslims and a lower percentage of Christians, Eastern and Western regions share the religions accordingly. However, states in the South-South and South East regions have a lower percentage of Muslims compared to other religions. Religion  Nigeria is a very religious country with three main religions Christianity, Islam and traditional religion. It is made up of Muslims who are majorly from the core north and part of South West. Christians from the South East and South West and others who hold indigenous beliefs and are scattered all around the country.  Educational system Primary; available for 6 years from Basic 1-6 Secondary; from Junior Secondary School 1 to Senior Secondary School 3 Tertiary institutions (university, polytechnics, college of education, vocational training centres) Tertiary education is from 4-6 years, depending on the course of study. Also Read: History of the First Primary School in Nigeria The official Nigerian currency is the Naira. There are coins and notes. There are several denominations of the notes which include five Naira, ten Naira, twenty Naira, fifty Naira, hundred Naira, two hundred Naira, five hundred Naira and One thousand Naira. Though the coins are no longer common.  Currency of Nigeria The currency of Nigeria is the Naira (₦) with the code: NGN. The Central Bank of Nigeria issues bank notes ₦5, ₦10, ₦20, ₦50, ₦100, ₦200, ₦500, ₦1000 Visiting Nigeria A valid passport and visa are required when visiting Nigeria. West African countries are exempted from visiting Nigeria with a visa. If you are from Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte D’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria,

13th October 2022 / 4 Comments
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fake travel agents

How to identify Fake Travel Agents In Nigeria 

Travel Tips

With the influx of millions of travellers who need help with travel plans, reservations, and visa applications travel agents are the most sought after. However, several people have been victims of fraudulent or fake agents and you do not have to fall for extortion and deceivers if you know what to look out for. Hence, you need proper confirmation and recognition before employing the service of a travel agency. Here’s all you need to know about fake travel agents and how to identify one; Also Read: List Of Travel Agencies in Nigeria General functions of travel agencies A travel agency is responsible for any details regarding your journeys. This begins with advice on what to do and the next step as regards your travel. A certified travel company or agent will always provide the following major services Offer Travel advice Help in Visa application Travel plans and itineraries sorting Evidence of funds and travel intentions Airlines ticket reservations Summer or vacation plans with discounts when necessary Hotel or accommodation reservations Updated travel information and requirements Major accreditations of legal travel agencies in Nigeria A legal travel agent in Nigeria should have a registered company with any or all of the following; Registration With The Corporate Affairs Commission National Civil Aviation Authority International Air Transport Association Also, there could be additional certifications, depending on the extent of services to be provided by an agent. The services of an agent extend to ensuring safe travels even after you have boarded a plane. This might even include help with your luggage or cargo. What is a fake travel agency? A fake travel agent appears real, but there is something shady about the services they offer. Besides, fake travel agencies profess unrealistic expectations to you without any certified backup or recognition. However, there are efforts made by members of the public and even the government to tackle fraudulent activities across all sectors of the country. Indications to help you identify a fake travel agency Wondering how to find out whether you are employing a legitimate travel medium or not, here are signals that can help you identify one easily; Outrageous recommendations First, most people love free things or cheap 0ffers known as “awoof” by Nigerians. Very funny, you might be in for fraud if you are in this category. This is because most fake travel agents in Nigeria offer heaven on earth with mouthwatering offers and deals that are not real. Similarly, when you eventually ask other people who have toured the same country or applied for the same travel documents, you will be told a different story. Be informed that no matter the travel packages a travel agent is proposing to you, they should never be far from reality. Visa applications, hotel bookings, summer destination packages and many more services they provide, should always be thoroughly investigated from other sources before you weigh your options and conclude reasonably. If it is too good to be true it probably is. No legal certifications In Nigeria, there are accreditation standards for travel agencies. This should be on the company’s website or social media sites. Further, an illegal travel agent most times will not be able to prove any form of travel certification or license to practice. Hence, you need to be careful. Very! Also, when you discover a change in promises made by these travel agents or a twist of conversations especially when you request their legal backing then it is a warning signal that you have just hit a fake agent. Informal approach A fake travel agent most times, does not have valid contact information such as official websites or office locations or online recognition. Thus, there are no official means of communication in any way and you have to watch out if they come to you this way. Moreover, an authorized travel firm should have either a valid online communication channel like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc or a base from which all duties and responsibilities are carried out. This is one of the things that you should be alert for to identify a fake travel agent. Interestingly, a counterfeit travel agent sometimes will not even have a permanent phone number to call you with. Thus, you might receive calls for unofficial meetings in private settings and this could be done with diverse telephone numbers. To add to everything, in most cases you will never find an illegal travel agent with a verified website or online recognition. While some of these agents can deceive you into inactive handles or websites, it doesn’t last long as it could change at any moment too. Public assessment/ Online Reviews Frankly, this could be all you need to point out a fraudulent travel agent. We often underestimate public views and feel that people are only being judgemental. However, this should not be the case for travel guides. You need all the assessments of their services from the public space whether online or offline. How do you get this? First, look out for critiques on their pages, and social media comments made by customers on their pages. You can never be able to tell, somewhere hidden from the crowd, you might spot a shady deal. Also, a certified travel agent should have a company website validated by Google and at least reviews from other websites too. Any appraisal from four to five stars with genuine comments about services rendered is a positive sign.  Incomplete travel packages In almost all cases, a travel agent should be able to first give you the right travel information and then guide you on how to go about it. Plus, sometimes you even pay the legal travel agents and everything you need for your trip is sorted out. Therefore, there’s a lot of research you have to carry out personally. Read the contents on the website just like this one and discover all you need for a successful trip or travel documents. This will help you know whether a travel agent is offering

5th September 2022 / 1 Comment
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book lovcal flight in Nigeria

How to book a local flight in Nigeria Online

Travel,  Travel Tips

There are different websites where you can book a local flight in Booking a local flight is the first step when travelling within Nigeria. If you are travelling within any state in Nigeria you can book a flight online. There are so many airlines in Nigeria that offers this service.  What are local flights? A local flight is also known as a ‘domestic flight’ or an ‘internal flight’. These are flights within the boundaries of a country. Flying from Lagos to Kastina in Nigeria is an example of a domestic flight as it is in the same country.  How to Book Cheap Flights in Nigeria Documents required to book a local flight in Nigeria Booking a flight is quite easy with the right documents. Not just the right documents, but with valid documents. It is essential to note that before booking a local flight you would need a valid means of Identification.  You need a valid means of identification is an essential requirement before booking a local flight. Below, is a list of recognized and acceptable means of identification for local flights.  a. Driver’s license: This is a document that shows the legal authorization of an individual to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It is one of the recognized and acceptable means of identification for local flights. b. National identification card: This is a portable plastic ID card issued by the National Identity Management Commission. This ID is issued by the government of a country to keep a detailed record of its citizens. The card holds a unique number used to identify the holder.  c. Voter’s card: The Permanent Voter’s card enables registered voters to exercise their civic rights to vote in the General Elections. You can also use this as an identity document in domestic travel. d. Student identity card: This means of identification is for children who are under the age of 16. They are minors. Any valid school identification is acceptable for them. some airlines also allow the ID card of students in higher institutions.  Also Read: List of Tourist Attractions in Nigeria Other acceptable means of identification include  ECOWAS travel certificate, work identification card etc. Furthermore, a valid ID must contain certain information like your full name, photograph, identification number, date of birth, contact address, expiry date of ID, gender, place of issue, next of kin etc.   Once you have all these documents and vital information you can now proceed with booking your flight ticket. However, it is essential to know that you can get domestic flight tickets from domestic airlines. Domestic airlines are airlines that fly within the boundaries of Nigeria. There are several domestic airlines in Nigeria. Some of the airlines fly locally and internationally, while others do only domestic travel only.  Nigeria has 23 functional domestic airlines and 20 airports.  Book Shortlets in Lagos How to obtain a local flight ticket in Nigeria You can also get Local travel tickets from online travel agencies or at the headquarters of the airline. Booking a local flight isn’t expensive.  Sites to Book Local Flights in Nigeria 1. Travelstart 2. Konga Travels 3. Wakanow 4. Travelbeta How to book a local flight in Nigeria To book your local flight easily, knowing the right steps and requirements make it simple, secure and convenient. To book an online ticket, you need to visit the website of a trusted travel agency and follow the steps below. Also Read: List of Resorts in Nigeria Also Read: List of Tourist Attractions in Lagos Step by Step Process to booking a local flight in Nigeria Visit the trusted Airline booking website   Once the page loads, Enter departure and arrival city or country Select travel date and return date Also Select seat preference Select the number of travellers and specify if they are adults or children Go through the flight options and the flight that’s suitable for you  Fill in your passenger details (ID) carefully, this often includes your name, email, phone number and personal information.  If you have travel insurance or extra baggage you should select additional add-ons Select your preferred mode of payment  You should choose online payment or cash transfer   You will then receive your e-ticket either on your dashboard or sent via email Different Options to Make Payment For Local Flights in Nigeria Having all the necessary details and essential requirements, you can now go ahead to pay for your flight. Here are some convenient payment options you can choose from; Cash payment at your desired travel payment office Payment through POS  Online credit/debit card payment Bank transfer EFT To use any of the online options, you need to provide the debit/credit card number, the name on the card, the card expiry date as well as the 3- digit CVV code which is usually behind the card. Making payment for flight ticket online has some advantages Convenience Saves time and energy You have the option of comparing prices It’s quite simpler to cancel flights or change tickets Things to note when booking a local flight in Nigeria Now you’ve known the top ten best domestic airlines to travel within Nigeria. It is also essential to know that you do not need a passport to book a local flight in Nigeria. Any valid means of identification would suffice. Except you’re applying for a visa you do not need a passport. However, a valid form of identification is enough to travel within Nigeria. It is essential to find out from the airline itself or check the policy of the airline for confirmation of the requirements. Also, recommended that you input the right details when filling in on the flight booking site or carrier website. Whatever details you give will show on your flight ticket. The general information required may include your travel type, travel class, destination, travel date etc.  When booking your local flight ticket you also need to note that there are different travel classes each class has its peculiarities the price range depends on the class chosen

31st July 2022 / 0 Comments
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honeymoon in nigeria

The Best Place for Honeymoon in Nigeria

Travel,  Travel Tips

If you are looking for the best place for a Honeymoon in Nigeria, this post is for you. Ever wondered if Nigeria has amazing places where you can spend your honeymoon? I mean incredible honeymoon destinations in Nigeria where you can spend quality time with your lover. Memories made during honeymoon are highly cherished and we all want to have that experience. This is the time when newlyweds can have a romantic moment with each other. This article will show the best honeymoon destinations that you can visit on a budget. Factors To Consider When Looking out for The Best Place For Honeymoon in Nigeria When looking for the best honeymoon spots in Nigeria with glamorous sceneries and breathtaking views. There are some factors to consider when choosing a honeymoon spot. Budget: Budget is one of the first factors to consider when choosing a honeymoon spot in Nigeria. You must first consider the cost attached before you can settle for a destination. Some destinations are affordable while others are much more expensive Security: Another important factor to consider when choosing a honeymoon spot in Nigeria is security. You must ensure the location is secured and provide 24 hours security around the facility. In addition, you must also ensure that the environment is safe and secure. Season: You should also consider peak or off-peak seasons. During peak periods most honeymoon destinations are to be highly-priced and cheaper during off peaks. Amenities: You should also consider the amenities available at the resort. Some resorts have few amenities while some are facilities packed. Weather: Some resorts are located in temperate regions while some are in cold regions. Always ensure you select resorts that offer the best weather condition. Also, you must consider the rainy seasons. Privacy: This is another factor to consider when choosing a resort. A resort should provide enough privacy for lovers to have fun and not feel like they are being monitored. Proximity: When choosing a resort, you must consider proximity to the city. Some resorts are within close distance from the city. While some are several hours’ drive from the city. This is another factor to consider when choosing a resort. Accessibility: You must consider the accessibility of the honeymoon destination. Some spots are not accessible by road, others are accessible by land. Some resorts are located in a remote areas with bad rugged roads while some are easily accessible. Serenity: This is another factor to consider, some resorts offer a peaceful, quiet and serene environment. This is another important factor you must consider. Top Honeymoon destinations in Nigeria Just in case you ever thought that there are no lovely resorts in Nigeria. We are about to blow your mind with some exotic honeymoon destinations in Nigeria. Let us serve you some “made in Naija” honeymoon destinations, here we go; Sencillo Beach House, Lagos Sencillo Beach house is one of the best places for a honeymoon in Nigeria. It is one of the best-kept secrets in Nigeria. Sencillo is one of the fascinating places to visit in Lagos for a honeymoon. Sencillo is a beach house located on Ilashe Private beach. A beautiful and serene island off the coast of Lagos lagoon. It is about thirty minutes boat ride from the famous Victoria Island in Lagos. To access Sencillo directly from Victoria Island, there is a need for a boat ride. Afterwards, you can now take a quad bike from the jetty to the beach house. In less than five minutes you should arrive at your honeymoon destination.Scencillo is a three-bedroom beach house that provides all the space you need for a romantic honeymoon, private gathering or beach party. This entire space is painted white to give you a touch of class. Everyone deserves better and that is the idea behind Sencillo. If you are looking for an abroad-like honeymoon destination, this is one of the places to consider.For couples seeking privacy, that is one of the things a honeymoon destination should be about. Sencillo has got you covered.The private beach and lounge facility can be accessed anytime during your stay. You can therefore decide to prepare for an unforgettable beach affair with your darling.To add to the above, see the impressive features that Sencillo has to offer; Facilities At Sencillo Jacuzzi Swimming pool Private lounge Volleyball area Ping pong table Dining amenities Dance pole Uninterrupted electricity Outdoor surround speakers Sunbeds Internet Pool table This top-class honeymoon destination gives you a feel of home, away from the wedding vibes. All of the features are exactly what you need to have a great time in the arms of your lover.The cost of Sencillo ranges between 750,000 and 1,250,000 Naira per night.Being a beach house, it is a comfortable spot for couples seeking time out to solidify their union. Epe Resort and Spa Epe Resort and Spa is also one of the best places for a honeymoon in Nigeria. Having won the traveller’s choice award in 2018, Epe Resorts have lived up to standard for years. This resort is situated in the Epe area of Lagos State, far from the hustle and bustle of Lagos. It is an hour’s drive from Lekki phase 1. Epe Resort and Spa has been the perfect honeymoon destination for years. To secure a spot in this 40-room resort, you need to make at least 48 hours in advance during offpeak and two months reservation during the peak period. In 2022, a room at the resort varies from between 50,000 to 100,000 Naira per night. This is dependent on your allotment and the class of room you choose. The spa section provides deep massage therapy that soothes your nerves and muscles. What a great way to relax after the stress of planning for your big day! The beauty of it all is that you have access to free WiFi, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a tennis court and a dining area. It provides a lovely indoor and outdoor restaurant. It is time to get dressed

28th July 2022 / 1 Comment
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Reasons why visa applications are denied

Unbelievable Reasons Why Visa Applications Are Rejected

Featured,  Travel Tips

Just in case you are wondering what are the possible reasons why your visa application may be denied. This post will address the possible reasons why your application may be rejected. Visa application denial can sometimes be painful especially when you have made the necessary plans and expenses. Most countries have minimum criteria that you must meet for your visa to be granted. The requirement varies from country to country.A visa gives you access to enter and exit countries. It is a seal that the embassy or immigration officials provide for individuals who apply to visit their country. Though there are countries in the European Union that provide their citizens with maximum travel benefits. This includes the opportunity to travel to countries in the European Union without the need for a visa or obtain a visa on arrival when you arrive in the country. This also applies to West African Countries. Countries in West Africa are free to enter any West African country without a visa. If you do not have access to a visa-free or visa-on-arrival. It implies that you need to get a visa to travel. It is better if you ensure that you do all it takes to get a successful application prompt from the embassy.Visa processing is done online in most cases, except any country demands otherwise based on specific reasons. Visa Application Process There are two major feedbacks you can receive from the embassy after you apply for a visa. This includes: Visa Granted / Approved Visa Denied / RejectedYour visa application is approved when you have fulfilled the requirements to get a visa. This means that; You have provided accurate answers to the questions you were asked by an immigration officer or consular at the embassy You submitted the documents required with full evidence. You gave no room for the immigration officer to doubt your moves or reasons for relocation. You fulfilled all the requirements for the visa to be granted There are so many reasons why a visa application process is approved, it could go as far as the decision of the officer to grant approval based on an intelligent overview of your applications. Whatever it is, do well to play your part and await the final decision from the embassy. Reasons why visa applications are Rejected Just in case you are wondering why a visa application could be denied. Perhaps you have been denied a visa before. You were confident that you filled the application the right way, followed all instructions and did everything right? Then why was your application denied?These are the top reasons why applications are rejected by the embassy; Failure to translate documents to the required language before submission This is one of the reasons why a visa application may be rejected. If you are applying to a country that speaks a foreign language.When asked to submit specific documents during your application, you have to make sure that it is translated into the official language of the country. If it was previously in a local or native language. Specific to the requests of the country you are applying to, you could be told to translate to a language different from English or leave it the way it is.Ignoring this vital step could result in a visa denial. You have failed to do the right thing and also the immigration specialist will not be able to take any step regarding this. Considering a large number of applicants, it is quite tasking even with the aid of technology to review several applications given the time frame. Therefore one cannot overemphasize the importance of keeping to instructions during this process.To find out what the embassy requires per application, you can make enquiries and be on the lookout for the official language of the country you are applying to.This is not to say that countries with different official languages asides from the English Language might not inform you to translate all documents into the English Language before submission though, just read all instructions carefully when applying. Leaving a required field empty when applying For some websites, when you omit an important question and do not provide answers in the space(s) provided, you get stuck and will not be able to move to the next stage. This is quite different from some online visa applications. Omitting or leaving out a piece of important information may result in the refusal of a visa.For instance, if you are applying for a tourist visa and an option pops up to enter educational information. Though this information may not relate to your visa type. It is advisable to enter such information.Before you ignore any required field, be certain that you have checked the other available options and selected your preferences accordingly. Error or Inaccurate data submission This is another reason why your visa may be refused. There are quite some things to note in this aspect, a few are:i. Errors with basic information such as name, age, date of birth, marital status, gender and so on. This implies that you have provided false information and do not show clarity. For example,a. When you fill in a different date of birth from the one on your birth certificate or your international passportb. Dissimilar names without documents to back up your claimsii. Misspellings and insufficient informationA name or detail that was not properly spelt, ignoring the prompt to provide additional information as required. Several presentations of ignorance can lead to visa denial.While filling out the form, it is good to go over it again till you are sure that no unnecessary letter or information was added.In a situation where you have entered information and the proof is required, there must be a document uploaded in the right format to genuinely show that you have not submitted the wrong information. Insufficient Proof of funds. Countries such as the UK, New Zealand, Switzerland, Netherlands and even Canada request proof of funds along with the documents you are presenting during your application.

19th July 2022 / 2 Comments
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relocation in Nigeria

These Are The Legal Ways To Relocate Abroad From Nigeria

Featured,  Travel,  Travel Tips

The word relocate has become a norm in almost everyone’s vocabulary. Crossing borders to make your dreams come true can be quite tasking. Well, why not? You have to leave a geographical location, bear expenses, understand time zones, consider latitudes and just affirm to yourself over and over that you have taken the right step. There are a lot of things that quite influence this big decision to relocate, ranging from personal development to collective goals(family, company). Other factors include security, ability to unleash potential, seeking greener pastures and other profitable motives. Considering medical needs, quality education, a decent lifestyle and a means to relax and explore can be added further to the reasons above. It is just fundamental to know that before building your house, you need to count the cost. Getting this right from the start can save you a lot of stress and unnecessary spending to cover for irresponsible actions committed earlier. What do legal means of relocation imply? A legal means of relocation refers to any route an individual decides to take to leave a country for another that is verified and approved by the government or immigration services of the countries involved. This means that different countries issue permits based on the travel laws within their country. Requirements for relocation are always peculiar to any country. Only confirm that you have a passport, the right knowledge and enough money to move on with your plans. Have you been looking for detailed information on how to relocate abroad legally? The answer to your questions are thoroughly explained below: Different Ways to Relocate  1. Express Entry/ Entry Points Programs The Canadian government has a lot of conditions in place for individuals who want to leave the country in this regard. The Canadian Express entry program requires that one is young, is well educated with at least two or more degrees and can speak and write the English language (you will prove this with IELTS results). All of these will be calculated and recorded based on an overall rating system. It is a point-based system and the highest scoring applicants will be selected and granted access to obtain a visa to enter the country. This program seeks to address the needs of professionals who desire to add to the skilled labour of the country. Other countries such as New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom also permit skills. This is targeted at individuals less than 55 years of age. This depends on the decision of the immigration service provided you have adequate funds to support yourself in a foreign country. If you have been employed by a company in the country, you can apply for a work visa. This work visa permits applicants to work for a specific period ranging from 6 months to 3 years in the country. After which, you can then apply for permanent residency or citizenship in the country afterwards. 2. Provincial Nominee Programs:  Another way Canada offers provisional entry into the country is by nominating selected candidates based on their requirements. Provinces within Canada nominate eligible professionals who possess skills in thriving sectors of technology, health, engineering and so on. It is believed that their presence in the province is for a purpose. Major requirements for selection on the Provincial Nominee platform Any of the ten provinces in Canada consider applicants who: Have an employment offer in a Canadian province. You must Possess skills in increased demand within a province. You must have recently graduated from any institution within a Canadian province and have a job opportunity. Have passed the qualifications stage of any application process Therefore after submitting a fitness certificate and other documents, a province selects you according to the annual slots. This way, you can move to the country and apply for permanent residency after some time. 3. Study Visas You might be thinking about how secure this path is to becoming a permanent resident of a country. However, applying for a study visa could be a great way to kick-start your journey to citizenship in a country. Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom and Canada are countries that have proven to have the best study visas that provide leverage to permanent residence. Apply as a student, select your preferred institution according to available resources and finish in four years or less, then you can take the next step. This means that these countries consider those who hold study certificates to prove that they have been to any institution in the country can apply to stay back, search for a job and find a way to remain in the country. There are details you have to know when applying for a visa, this will enable you to find out whether the final destination of residence or citizenship can be accessed when you are done studying. Certain countries give room for recent graduates to apply for jobs after a specific time and then make efforts to become citizens. Sweden, Finland, Netherlands and Austria amongst many other countries permit students to stay back after studying. Anyone who has studied in the country or has gotten a degree can stay for a few months, from 6- 12 months. This depends on the country, every country has their own process. You can start applying for jobs or start processing your permanent residence. You might also be sceptical because you do not have enough resources, but it is great to know that there are scholarship options. This implies that you will have to pay little to zero fees to study in some of these institutions. 4. Obtaining a family reunion visa Marriage to a citizen of a foreign country, being parents to citizens of a foreign country or any other ties you have that are legally recognised by a country is acceptable. The U.S. allows adult citizens 21 years and above to invite their parents over for citizenship processing. Canada regards family members even down to grandchildren and gives them relocation privileges. In all, adequate

17th July 2022 / 1 Comment
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citizenship by birth

Countries That Offer Unconditional Citizenship by birth

Travel,  Travel Tips

There are so many countries that offer citizenship by birth. This process is known as citizenship by birth under the English Common Law in North and South America. Popularly known as jus-soli, which means the right of the soil. It automatically gives anyone born in the country the right to become a citizen. It states that any child born in the country is a citizen of a country based on the fact that the individual was born in that country or within its territories.Several nations/ countries offer citizenship by birth, naturalization, marriage, descent and so on. Recently, some countries had to refrain from granting people access to become citizens just by birth.There is a term known as birth tourism, this explains the reason why a lot of people find all means to relocate to countries that offer automatic citizenship for their newborns. It also comes with other benefits attached.Citizenship by birth comes with a lot of advantages. You will have access to social programs within the country without any hindrance, the right to vote and be voted for as a citizen, opportunity to live a better life in a stable economy. It also offers better education, health, career opportunities and many more.For countries that even try to reframe the laws attached to citizenship, there is still hope for anyone born there to become full citizens either by choice as they grow older or the citizenship is offered to them at a particular age.In the United States of America for instance, a child born there automatically becomes a citizen, once the child is 21 years old, the child can file for the parents. Nevertheless, for countries that offer this birthright citizenship, it is either restricted or unrestricted citizenship by birth. Countries That Offers Citizenship By Birth – Jus Soli The focus of this article is list of countries that offer unconditional citizenship by birth, therefore a list of countries that offer unrestricted citizenship includes: Canada Citizenship by Birth Canada is one of the countries that offer unconditional citizenship by birth to anyone that is born in Canada. Located in North America with ten provinces and three territories, this country has a population of over 38 million and a stable economy. Canada offers high quality of life, security, health insurance, affordable cost of living and quality education. In line with the above, a lot of people seek to give birth to their children here to provide them with access to a better and more promising life.Based on the constitution of Canada, a child born in that country is automatically a citizen by birth. This has nothing to do with whether any of the parents are citizens at the time of birth or not. The only exclusion is given to children born to diplomats. How to give Birth in Argentina Being the 8th largest country in the world and the second largest in South America. Australia is another country that offers unconditional citizenship by birth. It has a population of over 47 million occupants. It is also the largest Spanish-speaking nation in the world.Citizens of Argentina can travel to 154 countries without a visa or get a visa on arrival. Popular countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia are also included in this benefit. Also, the country offers citizens the opportunity to access high-quality healthcare and education, job opportunities in all regions of the country and an affordable cost of living.It is no longer news that pregnant women strive yearly to get access to birth to their children here, because of the advantages that come with being a citizen of Argentina.Anyone born in Argentina or within her territory has unrestricted birthright citizenship. This exempts children whose parents work for foreign agencies or are diplomats or work for a foreign government. United States of America (USA) Citizenship By Birth A country with 50 states bordered by Canada to the North and Mexico to the right, it is the third largest country in the world.Citizens of the United States can travel without a visa to about 185 countries. They also have an exemption from deportation, ability to vote and be voted for, access to quality healthcare and education, eligibility to apply for government jobs and can bring in relatives at a particular point.According to the fourteenth amendment of the constitution, the United States offers citizenship to anyone born within her territory. Several people have taken advantage of this opportunity to birth their children here, even those with illegal occupancy and those who are visitors to the country.Though citizenship in the US can be acquired either by birth or naturalisation. The main conclusion is that one is a son of the soil. Different arguments have ensued as to why illegal immigrants are granted citizenship in the US but to date, the courts have not visited this case and tourists still have the opportunity to birth their children in the US and get the citizenship tag without restrictions. You can apply for American Tourist / Business visa to give birth. Citizenship by Birth in Peru Being the third largest country in South America and the 19th largest in the world, this is the right spot. If one is considering the costs of housing, Peruvian citizens have the advantage of the cost of living, because it is cheaper compared to other countries in South America.Peru offers unconditional birthright citizenship to individuals born in the country. This citizenship is based on the jus-soli law that most countries in South America operate with. This order on citizenship was passed in 1997 and has been in full operation since then. You also do not have to renounce your previous citizenship as the country allows for dual citizenship. Ecuador Ecuador is another country that offers unconditional citizenship by birth. It is also located in South America, the country offers its citizens the privilege to travel to countries in South America at any time. Though a small country with a population of over 18 million, investment opportunities are surplus and it

14th July 2022 / 0 Comments
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early appointment for us student

How to Book Early Appointment Date For US Student Visa in Nigeria

Travel,  Travel Tips

Getting US student visa interview dates in Nigeria has become a problem for many intending/prospective students trying to study in the United States of America. It has led many people to defer their admission and some have lost their admission in the process. If your resumption date is getting close, the earliest you can get the date, the faster you can start the application process. Getting an early US appointment date requires the right timing and also ensuring you have all the requirements.  Lagos or Abuja for US student Visa Interview dates People often ask which is better for an early US appointment date, Lagos or Abuja? Although Lagos seems to have more traffic than Abuja, however, from experience, you need to be open to the two options. Sometimes, dates may be available in Lagos and not in Abuja, while other times, dates may be available in Abuja and not Lagos. This is one of the reasons why you should be open to either of the two options.  Need Help Booking Early interview dates in Lagos or Abuja After trying all the tips listed above and you do not seem to get an early date or if your date is getting too close and you do not want to risk losing your admission.  Please Call 0817-309-1370 Website: www.travelwaka.com/contact_usInstagram: www.instagram.com/travelwaka_toursFacebook: facebook.com/travelwakatoursTwitter: www.twitter.com/travelwakatours Why You Need An early USA Student Visa Appointment Date Since the pandemic, students have been having issues getting early appointment dates for the US embassy. Depending on your resumption date, you need to get an early interview date weeks before the resumption date. This is to ensure you have enough time to book the earliest possible date. The Don’ts of the US Student Appointment date 1. Do not book a date when your resumption date has passed. If your resumption date is August 26, do not book dates after the resumption date, if you do, your chances of visa denial are high.  2. Do not over refresh the appointment page, refreshing the page too many times could lead to your account being blocked for up to 72 hours.  3. Do not input wrong information.  Reasons for US student Appointment Date Scarcity  There are so many reasons for US Appointment date scarcity, these are some of the reasons: 1. Covid 19: Since Covid 19 started in 2020, it has created scarcity, this is because most people that were supposed to go for an interview in 2020 were rescheduled to 2021. Also, this has caused so many backlogs. 2. More people applying to the US: With the current situation in Nigeria, there seem to be more people applying to the United States of America. More people are trying to relocate to the US and considering migrating to the US through the US study visa route.  3. School Resumption date is close: The resumption date for most schools is fast approaching. It has led to the late hour rush causing many students to be seeking an appointment date. 4. Too many people trying to get a limited Date: There seem to be more people applying for a US visa appointment date than ever. We now have so many people competing for a limited spot. Cost of US Visa Receipt  The cost of a US student visa is 67,200 Naira. It can only be purchased from GTB/GTCO bank. It could either be done via the app, internet banking or GTBank Branch.   US Student Visa Expedited Date If you need help Booking the US embassy expedited date for student visa, kindly reach out to us.  US Student Visa Available Appointment date in Nigeria Getting the earliest US early appointment date can be tasking. What is available on the US appointment date is usually not favourable. Therefore, getting the earliest appointment is the only way to meet up with resumption.   To get the earliest date, it is always better to start your application on time to avoid the rush. Ensure you start processing your admission months before the resumption date. Also, look out for updates on the embassy sites. Sometimes they give priority to a student visa. This is usually announced on their website. What is US Student Visa Appointment Wait time in Nigeria? Right now, the US Student Visa appointment wait time is about 6 to 10 months. To avoid the long wait, you should start seeking the appointment date on time. Where Can you Book the Earliest date? Booking an early US visa appointment date can be done on the appointment profile, which can be assessed at www.ustraveldocs.com  Once you create an account, fill in your personal information  Input the MRV receipt and other requirements Book the earliest date  Tips for Booking US early appointment date  Start your application early Start looking out for a date immediately after you start your DS160 Ensure you get your I20 and pay for your SEVIS fee on time Check the website every day for an early date Check at odd hours  Be open and try Lagos and Abuja simultaneously  Employ the service of a professional Requirement for Student Visa Interview in Nigeria When looking for an early student appointment dates in Nigeria, you need to ensure you have the following document: A completed DS160: One of the most important documents is a fully completed DS160 form. A DS160 form is an online form where you input information about yourself, your reasons for visiting the United States and other related information about you. Data page of your International passport: Another important document is your passport. It is important for two reasons. It is the document through which you will be identified, secondly, it is the document where your visa will be stamped.  Visa Fee receipt or MRV Receipt from GTB: The MRV (Machine Readable Visa) receipt number is a non-refundable payment you make to the United States embassy to purchase the US visa. It has a unique number which you will attach to the appointment profile that will let you book a date. Without the MRV receipt,

29th May 2022 / 1 Comment
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road transporation from nigeria to benin republic

Travel ban – Travel Out of Nigeria to the UK, Dubai, Canada through The Republic of Benin

Travel,  Travel Tips

Since covid 19, there has been a series of travel bans on Nigerian travellers. With the recent Omicron variant, more countries have joined in the travel ban. The latest are Canada, the United Kingdom (UK) and Saudi Arabia. For the many parts of this year, Dubai placed a ban on Nigerian travellers coming into their country. With this recent development, travellers from Nigeria would not be allowed entry into these countries. Visitors travelling to the United Kingdom will undergo a compulsory ten days paid quarantine. Some of these countries have also suspended the issuance of tourist visas to Nigerians indefinitely. Since the Omicron variant got discovered in South Africa and Nigeria. It has led to restrictions on travellers from Nigeria and South Africa. However, travellers who have been to Nigeria in the last ten days will have to undergo a compulsory ten days paid quarantine in a UK hotel. To travel from Nigeria to the UK, you need a UK permanent residency or student visa.This post will highlight the cost, requirements, the process of travelling from Nigeria to the UK, Saudi Arabia and Canada. It covers everything you need to know when travelling to either the UK, Canada or Saudi Arabia from Nigeria. Book Flight From Benin Republic to Dubai, Canada, UK or Saudi Arabia List of countries that Currently Place Travel Ban Nigerian The following countries have banned Nigerian travellers from coming into their country.Saudi ArabiaUnited Kingdom (UK)CanadaDubai (The ban has been lifted) With this recent ban, it is still possible for Nigerians to travel to these countries. However, you need to understand what to do and how to go about it. How to Travel to Dubai Through Benin Republic Countries that you can travel from You may travel through any country, provided that the country is not on the red list. I will be listing a couple of countries you can travel through to the UK, Canada or Saudi Arabia as a Nigerian. The reasons are based on the following: The ease of entering the Country: The number factor is how easy it is to enter the country you are planning to take to your destination. Also, ease of moving into the country from Nigeria. It could be as a result of no visa to visit or visa on arrival. Ease of Visa / No Visa: How easy it is to get a visa to such a country, perhaps you may not even need a visa to visit the country. Cheapest destination: Another factor is how cheap it is to live in or quarantine in that country. It is better to focus on a country with a low cost of living. Proximity to Nigeria: Another factor to consider is proximity to Nigeria. The closer the country is to Nigeria, the easier it is to get to and also travel from.Based on these factors, these are our top three suggestions. Benin Republic: The Republic of Benin has become the top choice for Nigerians travelling abroad due to the travel ban. Benin Republic is a three to four hours drive from Lagos. It does not require a visa to visit and it is the cheapest option when travelling transiting to other countries. Ghana: Ghana is also another choice when travelling from Nigeria to the United Kingdom, Canada, Saudi Arabia and Dubai. It is easy because you do not require a visa to travel to Ghana. Ghana is also close to Nigeria. Any Country that you already have a Visa: Another way to travel to the UK, Canada or Saudi Arabia is by going through countries that you already have the visa. This way, you do not have to go through the stress of starting another visa application process to get into these countries. All you have to do is travel to the country. After you do the 14 days quarantine, you can then travel to the UK, Canada or Saudi Arabia. Why Should you Consider travelling through the Benin Republic to Canada, UK, Saudi Arabia or Dubai If you are currently planning to travel out of Nigeria, you discovered that the country you are planning to travel to have placed Nigeria on a red list. It means you can not travel directly from Nigeria to such a country. You may decide to go through other countries not currently under the red list.Here are the reasons why you should consider Benin Republic or Ghana It is cheaper: Travelling from Nigeria to these countries through Benin Republic or Ghana is the cheapest means. It less expensive travelling from Benin republic compared to other countries. Lagos to Benin is less than 3 hours by road: The distance from Lagos to Benin is about three to four hours by road. Cheaper Hotels: The hotels in Benin are far cheaper than hotels in other west African options Travelling by road does not require a covid 19 test: Travelling by road from Nigeria to the Benin Republic does not require a covid test. Requirement for Travelling to the UK, Canada, Dubai or Saudi Arabia from Nigeria through the Republic of Benin. If you are travelling from Nigeria to Canada, Uk, Dubai or Saudi Arabia through any of the West African countries. These are the following documents that you need: International Passport: You need a valid International passport with more than 6 months validity. This means your passports must have more than 6 months of validity. If not, you will not be allowed entry. Yellow Fever card: If you are visiting any west African country, you need a yellow fever card. This is proof that you have been vaccinated against the yellow fever virus. This must have been done a minimum of 10 days before your travel date. Please ensure you have been vaccinated for more than 10 days before you travel.If you need information on how to get your yellow fever card, check here Valid Visa: Another requirement is a valid visa of either the UK, Canada or Saudi Arabia. Flight Tickets: You also need

3rd January 2022 / 5 Comments
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uk student visa in Nigeria

How to Apply and Relocate with UK Student Visa in Nigeria

Featured,  Travel Tips,  Visa

If you are planning to study in the UK and you are looking for the easiest ways to relocate. This post is for you. It will cover everything you need to know about studying in the United Kingdom (UK). It explains how to relocate with your family while schooling in the UK. In addition, it also explains all the basic UK visa requirements for Nigerian student applications. At the end of this Post, I will be dropping links to organizations in Nigeria that have partnerships with Schools in the UK. They will help you with UK study visa Application for free. Why You should consider UK Study Visa 1. You do not need Travel History: One of the many advantages of the UK study visa is it does not require travel history. You can travel even if you have never travelled out of the shores of your country before. 2. No Age Limit: Another advantage of the UK study visa is it does not have an age restriction. You can get into  3. Work Visa Available: Your UK student visa allows you to work for up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full time during holidays. 4. It provides a post-study work visa: After studying in the UK, you can also apply for a post-study visa. It allows you to work for two years in the UK. 5. Your spouse can work full time: You are allowed to travel with your spouse. With this, you can school while your spouse works full time. 6. Installment tuition deposit: Studying in the UK often comes with ease. You can also make an instalment payment for the tuition. It gives you a flexible payment option. 7. Access to Travel to many countries: With a UK student visa, you can travel to a couple of countries within Europe and around the world. Things to Note  The student below 18 years old needs consent from their parent You can only travel to the UK at least one month before your program, if it is a six-month course, you can travel one week before your program. You can also travel with your dependant, it can either be a partner or children. One of the major requirements is the twenty-eight-day statement of account. UK visa requirements for students Apply to UK Schools in Nigeria For Free Requirement for UK student Visa 1. International Passport: You need a valid international passport with a long expiry date. 2. Statement of Account: UK student visa requires a 28 days statement of account. The amount in the account must cover the cost of tuition, maintenance fees for up to 9 months etc. 3. Evidence of Academic Qualification: You must provide proof of academic qualification such as WAEC certificate, BSc transcript etc. 4. Tuberculosis test Result: Another requirement for UK student visa is the tuberculosis test. This test must be done by anyone staying in the UK for more than six months. Anybody staying in the UK for more than six months requires a tuberculosis test to be done only at designated UK approved centres. 5. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): This is also another important document needed when applying for a UK student visa. Before you can apply for a UK school. You need a CAS, this document is proof that you have gotten admission from a school in the UK.  6. Birth Certificate: If your parent is your main sponsor, you must provide a birth certificate or sworn in Affidavit. 7. Sponsor Letter: You must also provide a sponsorship letter from your sponsor stating that they are aware of your study in the UK and they are willing to take on the responsibility of paying your fees. 8. Completed Visa Application form: Another requirement needed is the completed UK study application form. 9. Passport photograph: You also need a recent passport photograph not more than six months old. 10. proof of payment of the visa fee: You also need proof of payment of the visa fee. The proof of payment is automatically generated and is attached to your profile.  CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies also known as CAS is another document needed when applying for a UK student visa. CAS is a 14 digits reference number from the university you are applying to. ‘  Before you apply to a UK school, you first need to get a CAS from the school. This document is proof that you have gotten admission to a UK school. The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) contains information such as CAS number Passport number Sponsor license number The fee of your course of study Start and end date UK visa requirements for Nigerian citizens 2022 These are the UK Visa requirement for Nigerian citizens for 2021/2022. If you are planning to travel to the UK for studies. These are the basic requirement for a student visa. In addition to the other requirements listed above. You need to attach other documents to prove ties and prove that you have enough resources to take yourself on this trip. Other Additional Documents for UK Study Visa in Nigeria 1. All-Academic certificates 2. Birth certificate 3. Bank statement 4. NYSC Discharge certificate 5. C of O of a landed property  6. Shares certificate for proof of funds 7. Letter of Introduction 8. Evidence of payment for Tuition Fees  If you plan to relocate with your family this is   Academic Documents for UK Study Visa All-Academic certificates Nysc CERTIFICATE Working while Studying in the UK Students can work while studying in the UK. You can work up to 20 hours per week during and full-time during the summer and Christmas holidays. Types of UK Student Visa The Tier 4 Visa that used to be known as the general Student visa has now been replaced by the Student visa. These are the different types of student visas: Short term study visa It is only applicable if you are trying to

29th November 2021 / 5 Comments
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accra national mosque

Visiting Ghana – My Experience on the Streets of Accra Ghana

Travel,  Travel Tips

Ghana is one of the West African countries you can visit. It is an English speaking country. It is bordered by Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Togo. The capital of Ghana is Accra. Ghana is a peaceful and loving country. It is the first country in Africa to gain independence. This is one of the many reasons why you should visit Ghana. It has a beautiful culture, amazing foods and lovely people.If you are planning to visit Ghana, there are so many places to visit in Ghana. Click Here to Book Hotels and Resorts in Ghana Video of Accra Ghana Facts About Ghana Also Travel to Ghana by Road from Nigeria The meaning of Ghana is warrior King It has the biggest man-made lake in the world The longest river in Ghana is the Volta river The official currency is the cedi Ghana has a population of over 30 million people in Ghana. Number of States/Regions in Ghana These are all the states and regions in Ghana.Greater AccraAshantiVoltaWesternNorthernCentralBrong-AhafoUpper EastEasternUpper West Travel to Ghana Requirements Travelling to Ghana requires two things, your international passports and your yellow fever card. To get your Yellow fever card, Please kindly read here: Or watch the Video Below Are Ghana Land borders open? As of November 2021, Ghana borders are currently not open. To travel to Ghana, you need to travel by Air. All Ghana land borders are currently shut. This makes it impossible to travel by road to Ghana from Nigeria and other West African countries.Click here to read about travelling to Ghana by Road from Lagos Nigeria. Ghana Currency The Ghana official currency is Cedi. Ghana has both the coin and the notes. To check the comparison between Ghana and the Nigerian currency. Watch the video below. Where Ghana is Located? Ghana is located in West Africa and It is one of the popular countries in Africa. It was the first African country to gain independence. It is sandwiched between Togo, Burkina Faso and the Ivory coast which are mostly Francophone countries. What Ghana is known For? Ghana is known for gold, coffee etc. It is one of the highest exporters of cocoa and coffee in the world. Kwame Nkruma Park Travel to Ghana Africa Travelling to Ghana is one of the things you should add to your bucket lists. Travel to Ghana from Nigeria Covid 19 If you are travelling to Ghana from Nigeria. You need a covid 19 test. Only a negative test will guarantee your visit to the country. Click Here to Book Hotels and Resorts in Ghana Pictures of Ghana

6th November 2021 / 2 Comments
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Ghana black star

Travel From Lagos to Ghana by Road | Everything You Need to Know

Destinations,  Travel Tips

Travelling from Lagos to Accra in Ghana by road is one of the adventurous things to do. Ghana is one of the most visited African countries by Nigerians. It is because Ghana is one of the closest countries to Nigeria. You can travel from Lagos to Ghana by road in less than 10 hours.  About Ghana Ghana is a West African country that shares a border with Togo, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. Ghana was also colonized by the British. No wonder Nigeria and Ghana share lots of similarities. In terms of culture, tradition, music etc. The official language is English. Over the years, Ghana has become one of Nigerians favourite travel destinations.  Documents Needed Travelling from Lagos to Ghana by road, you need some vital documents. These documents will grant you entry and allow you to have a smooth journey from Lagos to Ghana. The documents include: 1. International Passport/ The ECOWAS passport: The international passport is required when travelling from Nigeria to Ghana by road. The international passport is a document issued by the Nigerian Immigration Commission. The ECOWAS International passport allows you to visit all west African countries without a visa.  2. Yellow fever card: The second document is the yellow fever card. A yellow card is a card that proves that you have received the yellow fever vaccine. Travellers that are visiting any of the West African countries must have this card.   Read: How to Get your Yellow Fever Card in Nigeria Here 3. ID card: Though this is not a standard requirement. Sometimes the immigration officers usually ask for this. In addition to having an international passport, you may also have a work ID card or any other means of identification handy.  4. Proof of accommodation or hotel booking: This is also another requirement. You can always tell them you will book a hotel once you get to Ghana.  Best Time to Travel from Lagos To Accra Ghana If you are looking for the best time to travel to Ghana. There is no best time. The country is open every day to visitors. To have a smooth trip, you need to leave Nigeria early. The best time to travel from Lagos is between 6 am to 8 am. Other than this, you will be getting to Accra late at night.  First-time Travellers / Virgin Passport Holders  As a first time traveller or travelling with a virgin passport. You will pay extra for stamping your virgin passport.  What is a virgin passport? A virgin passport is a blank passport that does not have a visa. It could also refer to an international passport that has not been stamped. If you are travelling for the first time using a fresh International passport, you will have to pay extra to stamp your passport.  About Lagos and Accra Accra is the capital of Ghana and Lagos is one of the most popular states in Nigeria. It is the economic powerhouse of Nigeria. Accra is over a three-hour drive from the Aflao border.  Places To Get a Bus Going From Lagos to Ghana  These are some of the places to get a bus going from Lagos to Accra. 1. Yaba  2. Ajah 3. Iyana Ipaja  4. Mile 2  5. Festac/Amuwo Odofin Different ways to travel from Lagos to Accra When you are planning to travel from Lagos to Ghana. There are several options to consider. One of the options is to go with the standard transport companies. Another option is to drive from Lagos to Accra. The third option is to go through public transport from Lagos to Accra.  If you decide to go by road, depending on your budget and capacity, these are the various options  1. Enter Public Transportation from one spot to another till you get to Ghana. This is for budget travellers and adventurers. If you hate stress please do not try this.  2. Use standard transportation companies from Lagos to Accra: There are standard companies with air-conditioned buses that travel from Lagos to Accra. These companies will help you with everything you need from Lagos to Accra.   3. You can drive from Nigeria to Accra: If you are driving from Lagos to Accra, Please ensure you get all the necessary documentation. (Though this is highly not recommended unless you understand the terrain) 4. Charter a Car: If you do not want to travel through the public transport system. You can charter a car from Lagos to Ghana. It will be expensive that you might as well take a flight.  Driving From Lagos to Ghana Driving from Lagos to Ghana is not recommended because it will be both emotional and financial draining. In the end, you may not be allowed entry if all your documents are not complete. Documents needed When Driving from Lagos to Ghana When driving from Lagos to Accra, you need some additional documents in addition to your international passport and the yellow fever card. You need the following documents when travelling to Accra from Lagos.  1. International Drivers License 2. ECOWAS Vehicle License  3. ECOWAS third party vehicle insurance (It is valid for three months) 4. Laissez-Passer (Travel Documents that allows you to travel through the Republic of Benin and Togo by road) You can process this at the border. Cost of Bus Prices From Lagos to Ghana The cost of buses varies from company to company. Another factor to consider is if you are travelling during peak or off peak. There is usually a surge in cost during festive seasons. But due to the economic situation of Nigeria. The prices have increased and now ranges from 15,000 to 30,000. For one way trip. Since covid and the recent economic clampdown. The new rate is between 25,000 to 45,000 for a single trip.  Total Travel Budget/Cost of Travelling from Lagos to Accra More than 85 per cent of the rates you will see online are old rates. The rates are usually between 12,000 Naira and 22,000 Naira. But things have changed. You might be paying

30th October 2021 / 10 Comments
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get early US appointment date in Nigeria

How to Get An Early US Appointment Date in Nigeria

Travel,  Travel Tips,  Visa

Since the Covid 19 pandemic and lockdown, getting a USA visa application date in Nigeria has become very difficult. One of the reasons is the Covid 19 lockdown which lasted for many months. It is one of the factors for the unavailability of USA appointment dates in Nigeria. These updates have made the United States embassy reduce interview days from 5 days to 2 days a week. It doesn’t matter whether it is Lagos or Abuja. Getting a USA appointment date in Nigeria is now very difficult.  Why You need an Early US Appointment Date / Expedited Before you can visit the United States of America or get a USA visa, you need first to book an appointment date. To book the USA appointment date, you need to make payment for a USA visa fee. After that, you can then apply for a USA visa. You will have to attend the interview in person. After the interview, you can either be granted a US visa or denied.  Documents Needed for A US Interview Date  Documents You Need for USA Visa Interview in Nigeria  1. International passport  2. Two coloured Passport Photograph with white background (uS visa Standard) 5 cm by 5cm or 2-inch x 2 inch 3. DS-160 Confirmation  4. Appointment Confirmation  5. Visa Fee receipt  6. Invitation Letter  7. Hotel Reservation  1. A valid International passport with a minimum validity of six months before your travel date. What that means is this. If you plan to visit the United States of America in December 2021, your passport should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Your passport should have a minimum validity of not less than June 2022. 2. USA Visa application fee receipt from GTBank: GTB is the only approved bank for buying USA visa fees.  3. DS-160 Confirmation page  4. Appointment Confirmation which is proof that you have an appointment date with the United States embassy.  5. I-20 for students visa  6. If you have been invited to the United States by friends or family, you also need to take a copy of the invitation letter with you.  7. You can also take a copy of your hotel reservations and itinerary if you have made such plans.  These are the basic requirements for a USA visa interview. There may be other requirements for some other classes of visas.  Also Read: How to Get Dubai Visa in Nigeria Cost for a USA Visa in Nigeria For a non-immigrant visa, this includes tourism, business, student etc. The cost for a Non-Immigrant Visa is $160. It is equivalent to Sixty Seven Thousand Two Hundred Naira (N67,200). The fee covers the following classes of visa:  B – Visitor Visa: Business, Tourism, Medical treatment: This type of visa is strictly for business and pleasure.  C-1 – Transiting the United States: This is for a transit visa.  D – Crewmembers – Airline, Ship: This is applicable for airline or ship crew members.  F – Student, Academic: This is a student visa. It is applicable for applicants going to the United States for Study.    I – Media and Journalists: This is for journalists and media personnel.  J – Exchange Visitors *Applicants for J visas participating in official U.S. Government-sponsored educational and cultural exchanges: No Fee (See Exchange Visitor Visas for further detailed fee information.) M – Students, Vocational TN/TD – NAFTA Professionals S – Witness or Informant* T – Victim of Trafficking in Persons* U – Victim of Criminal Activity* Scheduling USA Visa appointment You can only schedule a visa appointment twice with the same visa receipt. That is, you can book an appointment date twice with the same visa receipt. The portal allows you to cancel an appointment once. Once you cancel, you can reschedule the appointment date to a later date.  How to Change Appointment Date If you can not make the appointment date, it is better to cancel and reschedule. However, you only have one lifeline after you cancel the date. To change the US Appointment date in Nigeria, cancel the appointment date. You can then start the process all over.  Opening time At the USA Embassy The USA embassy opens at 6:30 am every day. However, since the pandemic, the embassy opens twice a week. Between 7 am and 12 pm. The last batches of appointments are scheduled for noon.  Reasons for the Difficulty in securing a USA Visa Interview Dates 1. Covid 19 Pandemic: There was lockdown for over six months, the US embassy did not open for almost a year. All visa application interviews scheduled for the lockdown period were cancelled. Applicants will have to reschedule.   2. Interview days reduced: The United States embassy has not been working at full capacity since after the lockdown. Interview days has been reduced to two days a week.  3. Reduce the number of people visiting the United States: This may also be an attempt to reduce the influx of people moving into the United States, especially from countries worst hit by the Covid 19 pandemic.  How to Get an Early US Appointment / Expedited Date Now that you understand everything about the United States visa interview dates. Here is how to get an early USA appointment date. Kindly follow these steps if you are looking for an early US appointment date in Nigeria.   US Visa Fee: For you to get an appointment on the US portal, you need to make the payment for the US visa fee. It can be done at any Guaranty trust bank branch or using the GTB (now GTCO) internet banking portal or app. Once you make payment, you will be issued a receipt. The receipt contains the UID number which is needed on the USA visa appointment portal to book an interview.  Ways to Make Payment For The USA Visa fee 1. Guarantee bank Branch 2. Guarantee TRustr bank Internet bank  3. Guarantee Trust bank App Correctly Fill Your DS-160 form: This is the first step when starting the USA visa Application process. Once you

25th October 2021 / 5 Comments
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dubai visa for Nigerians

Important Updates on Dubai Visa For Nigerians

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This post is regarding the latest updates on the Dubai Visa for Nigerians. In the last few months, there have been several updates regarding Dubai visas for Nigerians. However, there is no official statement from the United Arab Emirates government yet regarding these latest developments. If you are planning to visit Dubai, this article is for you. Dubai Updates In the Last One Year These are some of the recent updates regarding the Dubai visa for Nigeria. These are some of the updates below: Dubai Visa Ban For Nigerians Early 2021, there was rumour that Dubai is no longer giving visas to Nigerians. The United Arab Emirates government has denied such claims. There was no formal ban, but we experienced a rise in the rate of refusal and denial rate for Nigerians. Latest Updates: Nigerians can apply for Dubai Visas, however, Dubai is still rejecting some applications. Delay in Processing Dubai Visa Usually, Dubai visas processing takes between 24 hours to 72 hours. With the recent updates, processing a Dubai visa now takes between 3 to 7 days. The processing days depends on the type of visa.Latest Update: The processing days for Dubai Visa is still between 3 to 7 working days. High Rate of Denial Before now, the Dubai visa is one of the easiest to get in Nigeria. The acceptance rate is almost 99 per cent. However, in the second/third quarter of 2021, there has been a significant increase in the number of Dubai visa denials for Nigerians. It was almost like a 30 per cent acceptance rate. Latest Updates: In the last six months, there’s been an increase in the rejection rate of Dubai visas for Nigerians. However rate of denial has reduced significantly. Denial of Dubai Visa for Nigerian Male Who are Below 35 Years Over the last few weeks, there is also a new update regarding Nigerian men that are 35 years and below. We also noticed a trend for single Nigerian men who are not married. The rate of rejection is over 95 per cent. The only exception is men below 35 who are married or travelling in the company of their parents or family. Married men who are below 35 years were granted Dubai visas. But the majority of men under 35 years were denied the Dubai visa.Latest Update: Men below 35 years can now apply for a Dubai visa. No direct Flight from Nigeria to Dubai Another related update regarding travelling to Dubai is the ban on direct flights from Nigeria to Dubai. Early this year, there was a ban on direct flights from Nigeria to Dubai. The Nigerian government and airlines flying from Nigeria to Dubai did not meet the requirement for the Rapid PCR test facility. It is the new standard requirement for airlines flying to Dubai. In addition to the regular covid test carried out, the airlines are mandated to carry out another test on passengers flying into Dubai. Latest Updates: Since the ban of direct flights from Nigeria to Dubai. Most people can only travel from Nigeria to Dubai Through Cotonou and Ghana. As of October 2021, There is still no direct flight from Nigeria to Dubai. However, you can travel to Dubai through Kenya Airways, But you have to ensure that the airline will be having a long layover. This is to give room for the instant test at the airport. Non Issuance of Work Permit to Nigerians Another recent development is the issue of Dubai work permits for Nigerians. Hundreds of people are denied work visas. Dubai Authorities has denied not granting work permits to Nigerians. But we noticed the UAE is not currently renewing nor giving work permits for many Nigerians. Most of the applications got rejected. Getting a work visa in Dubai has become harder than ever. This is for Nigerian citizens in Dubai. It doesn’t matter how long you have been working in Dubai, Dubai was not granting Latest Update: As of October 2021, the majority of Nigerians living in Dubai are still finding it hard to process or renew Dubai work permits. Also Read: What Nigerians Travelling to Dubai Through Cotonou Are Going Through Possible Reasons for these developments Increase in Crime Activities by Some Nigerians: Some people have attributed it to the recent criminal activities by some Nigerians living in the United Arab Emirates. One of the cases is the Hush Puppy cyber-criminal case. Hush Puppy is currently in a federal prison in the United States of America. He is currently facing several criminal charges. Some people claimed some of the visa difficulties Nigerians are experiencing may be related to these recent criminal activities. Cultism Activities by Some Nigerians: Another recent development is a high increase in cultism activities and gang wars by some Nigerians in the United Arab Emirates. These activities have left some people dead and others injured. These may also be related. Some Nigerians were Tagged Global Sponsors of Terrorism: Sometime in 2021, some prominent Nigerians were tagged global sponsors of terrorism. Also, this may somehow be connected to the recent visa ban for Nigerians. Issues with the Federal Government: There is a pending issue between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirate government. This issue is still pending that subsequently led to the banning of direct flights to Dubai from Nigeria. Reduce The Number of Nigerians Coming to UAE: This may also be an attempt to reduce the number of Nigerians coming to the UAE in search of greener pasture. Things to Do To Avoid Dubai Visa Ban Do a Social Media Audit: Always ensure you do a social media audit on all your social media pages. Ensure that your profile does not suggest you are into any illegal activities. Also, ensure your page does not support any form of criminal activity. You May Travel With Your Family: One of the easiest ways to get a Dubai visa is to travel in the company of your spouse, older siblings or parents. It has

23rd October 2021 / 0 Comments
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How to Process Dubai Visa in Nigeria

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This post will cover everything you need to know about getting a Dubai visa in Nigeria. Dubai is one of the most visited countries in the world, especially by Nigerians. It is because Dubai is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. For Nigerians visiting Dubai or the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you need a visa. Dubai Visa Application is one of the easiest to get, this is because it does not have so many requirements.   Dubai is one of the top tourist destinations countries in the world. It is home to the tallest building in the world and so many attractions.  Classes of Dubai Visa  There are different classes of Dubai visas: Dubai Transit Visa: This is the type of visa for travellers visiting other countries through Dubai. This is also applicable to tourists who wants to stay a few days in Dubai before heading to their final destination.  Service Visa: This is usually applicable to people visiting Dubai for work. It is the class of visa required for people planning to stay and work in Dubai.  Tourist Visa: This is the type of visas for people visiting Dubai for tourism purposes.  Visiting Visa: This is the class of visas for people who have relatives in Dubai and planning to visit them.  Student Visa: This is the type of visa applicable to people visiting Dubai to study. Work Permit: This is the type of visa for people that are working in Dubai Types of Dubai Visa for Nigerians  96 Hour Single Entry Visa: This type of visa is suitable for travellers who intend to stay less than four days in Dubai or who would like to do a stopover in Dubai for few days before travelling to their destination. 14 days (2 weeks) single entry visa:  This is popularly known as the two weeks visa. Users who plan to stay for less than two weeks. It is a single entry visa.  30 Day single entry Visa: This visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days. It is a single entry visa with a maximum stay of 30 days. 30 Day (one Month) Multiple entry short term Visa: This visa type is valid for 30 days. It allows multiple entries. This means you can visit Dubai multiple times within the 30 days duration. 90 Day (Three Month) Single entry short term Visa: This visa is only valid for a single entry and a maximum stay of 90 days. 90 Day (Three Months) Multiple entries short term Visa: The 90-day multiple-entry visa is valid for 90 days and it allows multiple entries within the 90 days. This means you can travel in and out of Dubai multiple times within 90 days. Trusted Dubai Visa Agent In Nigeria  One of the challenges in getting a Dubai visa is getting a trusted agent. If you are looking for a tested and trusted Dubai visa agent in Nigeria. These are some tested and trusted Dubai Visa agents in Nigeria. The companies can also help you process your Dubai visa, flight reservation, hotels etc. You can process tourist visas, permanent Residency, Work permits, spouse visas etc.  Travelwaka Tours –  Email tour@travelwaka.com   Facebook – www.facebook.com/travelwakatours Twitter – www.twitter.com/travelwakatours Instagram – www.instagram.com/travelwakatours or send a message via the contact form  Lacrisp Travels and Tours  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lacrisptravels Validity of Dubai Visa The validity of a Dubai visa is 58 days from the date of issue. You can also extend your visa at an additional cost. Always ensure you check the validity of your Dubai visa to avoid overstay. Dubai Visa Verification in Nigeria  Another thing you should do is to verify your Dubai visa in Nigeria.  To verify your visa application, https://smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/default.html#/applicationTracking How to Apply for Dubai Visa in Nigeria   Applying for a Dubai Visa in Nigeria is simple, these are the various means to apply for the visa in Nigeria: 1. Apply at the VFS Global in Lagos 2. Apply at the Dubai Embassy in Abuja 3. Apply through a trusted Agent To apply for Dubai Visa in Nigeria You can submit your application through the Dubai embassy in Abuja or the VFS office in Lagos. However, if you do not want to go through the stress of applying through the Embassy, you can also get a trusted agent in Nigeria to process for you. Fill the application form correctly Submit all the necessary documents Make the payment Wait for the update on the visa status.  Dubai Visa Application Requirements for Nigerians  When applying for a Dubai (UAE) visa. You need the following documents 1. Coloured passport of the applicant: You will provide a coloured passport photograph.  2. Valid International Passport: You need a Nigerian international passport with a minimum of 6 months expiry. Your international passport must be valid for at least a minimum of six months. 3. Completed Dubai Visa Application Form: You need to fill the Application form, ensure there is no mistake. 4. Proof of Health Insurance: Visitors to Dubai require proof of health insurance to visit. 5. Bank Statement: You must have evidence of work employment and proof of funds that you can visit Dubai. 6. Hotel Reservation: You will also be required to produce proof of hotel accommodation. 7. Itinerary: This is your travel plans when you are in Dubai. Things to Note When Applying for Dubai Visa in Nigeria Visa processing time is usually between 3 to 5 working days Visa fees are non-refundable It is not 100% guaranteed The validity of Dubai visas is 60 days except for the 48 and 96-hour visas which are 30 days. Dubai visa is subjected to the Approval of United Arab Emirate immigration. Dubai is not visa-free or visa on arrival for Nigerians. Nigerians visiting Dubai require an e-visa to travel to Dubai. Dubai Visa Application Centre in Lagos VFS Global, Manor House, Plot 110, Admiral Ayinla Way, Opposite Treasure Garden Estate, 3rd Roundabout, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lekki Phase I, Lagos, Nigeria. Dubai Visa Application Center in Abuja United Arab Emirates Embassy Abuja No 2, Columbia Close

20th September 2021 / 4 Comments
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things to do in Benin

List of Adventurous Things to Do in Benin Republic

Blog,  Destinations,  Featured,  Travel Tips

The Republic of Benin is a beautiful coastal country located off the coast of West Africa. There are so many adventurous things to do in Benin Republic. Benin Republic is a West African country that shares a border with Nigeria, Togo, Burkina Faso and Niger. It’s a small country with so many adventurous things to do. The country is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in West Africa. This is due to its rich historical heritage, diverse culture, nature experience, and it’s beautiful people. It is also known as the Republic of Benin. In French, it is République du Bénin. The country has a population of over ten million people. The major languages are French, Fon and Yoruba languages. There are so many adventurous things to do in Benin Republic and lots of adventurous places to visit too. Below is a list of adventurous things to do in Benin Republic. Popular Cities in the Benin Republic The capital of Benin Republic is Porto Novo however the seat of Government is in Cotonou. Cotonou is the most popular city in the country. These are the list of the most popular cities to visit in the country. Cotonou Porto Novo Ouidah Parakou Abomey Djougou Bohicon Also Read: How to Travel From Lagos, Nigeria To Benin Republic Things to Do In Benin Republic One of the things that will guarantee you a sweet stay, is to have a planned itinerary of what you are going to do when you visit. To make your visit a memorable one, we have made a list of the things to do when you visit Benin. Visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey The Royal Palaces of Abomey is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has become is one of the popular places to visit in Benin Republic. It was built between the 17th and the 19th century. It is the ancestral home of the King of Dahomey. The Royal palace is has 12 Palaces built on 20 hectares of land. It was founded by the people of Fon in 1625. The palace was home to the 12 Kings who ruled the Kingdom of Dahomey. Go on a Boat Cruise This country is blessed with abundance of water, making it a good spot for water sporting activities. The water looks clean which makes it a perfect spot for boat cruise. Shopping at the Local Market One of the things you should add to your list of things to do in the Republic of Benin is shopping at a local market. It is one of the most adventurous things you should add to your list. This country has beautiful markets where you can buy souvenirs, jewellery, clothing items etc Enjoy the Local and Street Food: Another adventurous thing you can do at Benin Republic is to try the local foods. It has an array of spicy foods which a combination of local and intercontinental dishes. Bring your taste buds to life, try out some of its local delicacies. Enjoy the Night Life The country has interesting night-life with nightclubs, lounges, bars, restaurants etc. At night, the city comes to life, you may never can tell until you try it for yourself. Attend the Annual Festivals Due to its rich cultural benefits, Benin Republic has different annual festivals. This is a must when next you visit. Watch the display of the different cultural heritage, dance, music and so on. Lodge and Enjoy the Breathtaking View of Casa Del Papa Casa Del Papa is one of the most beautiful resorts in the Republic of Benin. It is a beach resort located in the city of Ouidah. It has a lagoon and a sea view giving you access to both worlds.Casa Del Papa is the definition of crystal white sand, a well-manicured garden, greeneries, a friendly lagoon and a lovely beach view. Things to Do at Casa Del Papa, Benin Republic Lodge at Djegba Hotel Djegba Hotel is another beautiful resort in the Republic of Benin, it is also located in Ouidah. The hotel is an affordable luxury hotel in Ouidah. Djegba resort comes with a lovely pool, a beautiful garden and state of the art facilities. Djegba Hotel is also close to the ocean. It is less than a 3 minute walk to the Atlantic Ocean which makes it an awesome destination. Do a City Tour One of the things you can do when you visit the Republic of Benin is to do a city tour. The city has beautiful views, historic buildings, beautiful landscape and lovely scenes. Some of the popular places to visit include Cotonou Airport road, Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport, Porto Novo, Ouidah etc. Visit Fidjrosse Beach The Republic of Benin has so many beautiful beaches. Fidjrosse beach is one of the most popular beaches in Benin republic. It is characterised by crystal white sand, beautiful palm trees and beautiful beach huts. These stretches the length and breadth of the beach. The beach is one of the places you should visit when you travel to Benin Republic. During the weekend, it is also known for its entertainment and recreational activities. The Fidjrosse beach also comes alive at night making it a perfect destination for tourists and beach lovers. Fidjrosse beach is located in Cotonou. Learn History at Ouidah Museum The Ouidah Museum is one of the historical buildings in the Republic of Benin. The structure was built by the Portuguese during the Slave trade era. The museum is constructed on one hectare of land. It contains collections of archaeological and slave relics. It also has a rich collection of Benin history and cultural traditions. The museum was reconstructed and reopened in 1967. Beautiful artworks at Zinsou Foundation The Zinsou Foundation is an exhibition centre. It is an art gallery with different collections of contemporary African artworks. Zinsou Foundation is also known as Foundation Zinsou is an exhibition centre for contemporary African artworks and creativity. It has become one of the popular places to visit in the Republic

21st August 2021 / 3 Comments
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travel to dubai from Nigeria

How to Apply for Dubai Visa from Nigeria

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Applying for a Dubai visa from Nigeria is the first step to take when planning a trip to Dubai. Dubai offers an e-visa to Nigerian citizens. You can process your Dubai visa online. Unlike other countries, Dubai does not require so much documentation. To get a Dubai visa, you can process the application online. Dubai has become one of the top tourist destinations across the world. It is home to the tallest buildings in the world. Dubai is one of the most visited tourist attractions. Nigerians travelling to Dubai require a visa to visit the Emirate. Getting a Dubai visa takes between 24 hours to 1 week. Applying for a Dubai visa from Nigeria does not require so much documentation, statement of account, sponsor or invitation. Dubai offers different kinds of visas available to Nigerians visiting Dubai. Reasons to Travel to Dubai 1. Honeymoon: Dubai is one of the top honeymoon spots around the world. It is one of the many reasons why Nigerians love to visit Dubai.       2. Medical tourism: Over the years, Dubai has been known for its advanced medical practices. It is one of the top medical tourism destinations for Nigerians.  3. Vacation: Dubai is one of the best vacation countries around the world, it has some of the most beautiful vacation spots scattered all over the city.  4. Tourism: Dubai has a combination of natural, historical and modern tourism potentials. It houses the tallest buildings in the world, the largest aquarium, underwater experiences and so much more. 5. Conferences: It has also become one of the top places for retreats and conferences.   6. Business: Dubai is business-friendly, that is why the majority of the people have made Dubai their preferred business hub.    7. Work: Because of its enormous potentials, Dubai offers opportunities for Nigerians and other people around the world to pursue a career in Dubai.  8. Schooling: Dubai also has some of the best learning institutions offering quality education. 9. Relocation: Dubai has also become a good spot for people considering relocation out of Nigeria.  Click here For Cheap Dubai flight in Nigeria Classes of Dubai Visa From Nigeria There are different classes of visas when you are visiting Dubai from Nigeria, you need to know the best kind of visas that applies to you.  Transit Visa: This type of visa is required by passengers who are travelling to another country through Dubai. The transit visa will only be applicable if you are travelling to another country and would be passing through Dubai. It is valid for 30 days from the day of release.  Tourist Visa: This is the most common type of Dubai visa. This is the type of visa required for people visiting Dubai for vacation, honeymoon, sightseeing etc. It allows you to stay for up to 30 days, it has a validity of 58 days from the date it was issued. Validity means you must use the visa on or before the 58 days as specified. Visitors Visa: This is the type of visa used by applicants who are visiting Dubai on invitation from either spouse, friends or family. This type of visa is issued when you have friends or family who are Dubai residents    Work Visa: This is the type of visa required by employees who plan to work in Dubai or got a job in Dubai.  Student Visa: This is the visa required for students who are planning to study or studying in Dubai.  Other Kinds of Visa 96 Hour Visa: This is the type of visa available to people that are only staying in Dubai for a maximum of 4 days. It is the kind of visa only available for short stays.   2 Weeks / 14 Days Visa: The 14 days visa is only available for a maximum of 14 days stay in Dubai. 1 month / 30 Days Visa: This is a 30 days visa that allows a maximum stay of 30 days. It is divided into 30 days single entry and 30 days multiple entry visas. a. 30 Days Single Entry Visa: This visa allows a maximum of 30 days stay on a single entry. It means you can only stay for a maximum of 30 days on a single entry. b. 30 Days Multiple Entry Visa: This visa allows you entry into Dubai multiple times within 30 days 3 Months/90 Days Dubai Visa: It is valid for 90 days. It is divided into two. a. The 90-day single entry visa: This is valid for a maximum of 90 days stay in Dubai on a single entry. b. 90 days multiple entry visa: This is a multiple entry visa that is valid for 90 days. It allows you entry into Dubai multiple times for a maximum period of 90 days. Cost of Dubai Visa in Nigeria The cost of a Dubai visa varies, depending on the type of visa you are applying for.  General Requirement for Applying for a Dubai Visa From Nigeria  1. International Passport: You must have the Nigerian International passport  2. Your passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months  3. Proof of Health Insurance  4. Scanned Data page of your passport  5. Your passport photograph: You must also provide a passport photograph which will be scanned and uploaded  6. Filled Form: You must fill the Visa Application form with correct and accurate information 7. proof of Funds: You must also provide proof of funds to show that you have enough money to spend throughout your stay in Dubai  8. Health Insurance: You are required to provide proof of health insurance  9. Copy of Hotel Reservation Requirement for Student Visa  In addition to the general requirement, these are some of the other requirements for a student visa in Dubai for Nigerians.   Admission letter from the university in Dubai Evidence of payment  Birth Certificate Academic Credentials and documents  Sponsors six months Statement  Sponsorship letter from either parent or guardian  How to Apply for Dubai Visa From Nigeria Submit

24th July 2021 / 5 Comments
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Republic of Benin Airport

What Nigerians Travelling to Dubai Through Cotonou Go Through

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It is no more news that for some months, Nigerians can not travel to Dubai directly from Nigeria. This because of the issues between Emirate Airline, the Nigerian and the UAE government.  In the last few months, travelling to Dubai from Nigeria which used to be very easy has all of a sudden become a nightmare. To go on this trip, you will have to go through other countries and one of the easiest being Ghana and the Republic of Benin. This is because the two countries are our closest neighbours. I have read several stories about different issues people have had in the Republic of Benin and Ghana. One of the popular stories was shared by Derende here https://www.nairaland.com/6544747/30-days-sojourn-through-cotonou  Sometimes this month, A client contacted me to help him process a three months Dubai visa and also to plan his itinerary to Dubai via Benin republic. I processed the Dubai visa, booked the flight, then we headed straight to the Republic of Benin.   The Journey To cut a long story short, on his travel date, we got to Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport. The Benin Airport is less rowdy, less congested and looking well maintained. That was when I got the shocks of my life. Firstly, the majority of the people going to Dubai from the Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport were Nigerians.  As we were driving into the car park, I realize most of the people doing bureau de change are Nigerians. We changed some money and headed straight to the departure.  I met lots of Nigerians at the waiting area. You will almost think it is another branch of Murtala Muhammed International airport located in Lagos. Then the worst happened, as we were heading in, we saw 4 Nigerians coming out, at first I thought they were coming back. Only to get to the queue and we were told they were denied boarding. I got more curious, on further investigation, I later got to know that they backdated the date they got in, not knowing that The republic of Benin had changed their stamp. Unfortunate for them, they backdated with the new stamp.  While at the Airport, I also saw another Nigerian who was arrested at the airport because he was trying to board with a fake visa. I can not believe someone would try to do that. I think the person he paid gave him a fake visa. He got locked up for some days. This is really painful.    Then the last set of Nigerians that were rejected either have damaged passports or International passport with a picture that is not clear. The last sets of Nigerians that got denied were people who got late to the checking point.  Here are the major reasons why you could get denied boarding at the Cotonou Airport.  Also Read Understanding the Nigerian and the Benin Republic Currency Reasons Why People Were Rejected Damaged passport: Any passport with stains, a picture that is not clear, damaged on any part of the data page is automatic rejection. Please avoid any form of damage to your passport. Most of the people were travelling with the same passport in Nigeria without any issue. Someone said they are doing it to frustrate Nigerians. LOL this I cant verify yet. Fake visa: Please always try to confirm the validity of your passport.  Fake stamp: Please ensure you always stamp at the border, do not pay touts to stamp for you.   Backdated stamp: YOu are supposed to spend 2 weeks minimum at the Cotonou Airport before you are allowed to travel.  Expired covid 19 test: Please ensure you do your Covid 19 test on time so you can get the result on time.  Things to note when visiting Dubai through the Republic of Benin  1. you must spend a minimum of 2 weeks in the Republic of Benin  2. To be on the safe side, Make sure you stamp in Seme border rather than Idiroko border, I heard so many people are having issues at Idiroko when they arrive in Dubai.   3. Confirm your Visa validity online.   4. Get to the airport at least three hours before your flight  5. Do a VIP covid 19 test. You will get your result the same day.   6. If you can get an agent that is familiar with the route to help you out. It will save you lots of money in the long run. 7. Stay in a hotel that is not far from the airport 8. Get familiar with the terrain and an English speaking cab driver. It will save you lots of headache. Please ensure you follow all Covid 19 protocols, please try to do the right thing because once you are caught they will ensure you face the law. Have you had a similar experience? Please share below.

28th June 2021 / 4 Comments
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nigerian cedis

Comparing The Nigerian Naira and the Ghanaian Cedis

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The Ghanaian Cedis is the official currency of the Republic of Ghana. Ghana is a West Africa country that shares a border with Togo, Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso.Cedi was first introduced in Ghana in July 1965 by Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of the Republic of Ghana. The introduction of Ghana Cedi was to replace the British pounds, shillings and pence. Since the introduction of Cedis, it has undergone several transformations from 1965 to 2007. Understanding the Ghanaian Currency The Ghana Cedi comes in coins and notes. The Bank of Ghana is the central bank that is responsible for producing the Ghana currency.The Word Cedi comes from the cowry shell. It is a seashell and the old traditional currency which were in use in Africa before colonization and before the introduction of banknotes.After many years of inflation, in 2007, the Bank of Ghana devalued her currency from 10,000 old Cedis to 1 Cedi. This was done by removing four digits (zeros) from their currency. That is, effective from 1st July 2007, ten thousand Cedis automatically becomes 1 cedi.The Notes are Cedis while the coins is in Pesewas. A hundred pesewas make 1 Cedi. Compare the Nigerian Naira to The Ghanaian Cedis The three Generations on Cedis The cedi came into existence in 1965 as a replacement for the British Pound.The second generation of Ghana Cedis came after the coup in 1967. The new currency was introduced by the military. New notes were introduced to wipe off the face of the first president of Ghana from the Ghanaian currency.The new Ghana cedis came as a result of the devaluation of Ghana currency in 2007. It became the third generation of Ghana cedis. The reason for the introduction of the New Ghana cedi was to devalue the currency. After the devaluation, ten thousand cedis became one Ghana Cedi. Also Read: Comparing the Nigerian Naira and the Benin Republic CFA The Symbol of Ghana Currency The Ghanaian Cedi is also known as the GHC. The Symbol of the Ghanain currency is GH₵. It comes in both coins and notes. Ghana Coins The coins are in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 pesewas Notes The Ghana Cedis also comes in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 cedis. The Nigerian Currency Naira is the official Nigerian currency. The Central bank of Nigeria is responsible for issuing this legal tender. The Nigerian Naira was officially introduced on January 1st 1973. The Naira was named after Nigeria by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The Nigerian currency comes in Notes and coins known as Naira and kobo. However, due to the low economic value of the coin, the coin is currently not in circulation. The Symbol of the Nigerian currency is ₦. Comparing The Nigerian Naira and Ghana Cedis. Conversion rates Ghanaian Cedis to Nigerian Naira1 Cedi is 91 Naira5 Cedi is 455 Naira10 Cedis 910 Naira20 Cedis is 1,820 Naira100 Cedis is 9,100 Naira200 Cedis is 18,200 Naira500 Cedis 45,500 Naira1000 cedis is 91,000 Naira (1000 cedis to Naira)10,000 Cedis is 910,000 Naira Conversion rates Nigerian Naira / Ghanaian Cedi 1 NGN is 0.011 Cedis10 NGN is 0.110 Cedis20 NGN is 0.220 Cedis50 NGN is 0.550 Cedis100 NGN is 1.1 Cedis200 NGN is 2.2 Cedis500 NGN is 5.5 Cedis1000 NGN is 11 Cedis10,000 Naira is 110 Cedis100,000 Naira is 1100 Cedis

18th May 2021 / 1 Comment
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Nigerian passport and yellow fever card

The Cost of Travelling From Lagos to Benin Republic

Featured,  Travel,  Travel Tips

If you are visiting the Republic of Benin, here is everything you need to know. As a traveller, I have the opportunity to travel to different destinations. I will guide you through everything you need to know if you are planning a trip to the Republic of Benin.I will also be showing you different ways to cross the border. How to stamp your passport without involving a third party. Getting to Benin Republic From Lagos With the Lowest Budget From Ikeja board a bus to Egbada – 100 – 200 NairaFrom Egbeda last bus stop, look out for buses going to Iyana Iba, Get a bus to Iyana Iba – 300 NairaWhen you get to Iyana Iba, board a bus going to Badagry – 500 to 700From Badagry You could either take a bike, a bus or a car going to Seme borderBike – Bikes cost between 1,000 to 1500. Car cost between 500 to 1,500Bus – It cost between 500 and 1,000 (It is costlier at the garage, you may enter at the roadside). Most of these drivers will tell you they will cross you. Just tell them to stop you at the border that you will cross yourself. Once you get to the border.If you have your International Passport, you can head straight to the border to stamp it. However, if you do not have an international passport, please note this is not the legal route. You will have to charter a bike at the SEME border to take you to the other side. Sadly it is cheaper to take that route.It will cost you between 1,000 to 2,000 naira.Please note it is always better to take the legal route. Crossing The Border Once you get to the borderOnce you get to the border, ask where to stamp your passport. Do not mind agents or some custom officers asking to do it for you. You can get it done by yourself. This is how much you will payFor Virgin Passport – 1,000 NairaFor Already stamped passports – 500 NairaThen There is the SSS, customs, Port Health etc.At every stop, they will ask questions like:What are you going to do in the republic of Benin?What do you do?Where are you coming from? Do you fret, some will require you to pay something, you may either stand your ground, but be ready to be delayed or just give 500 Naira. I am just being open this is the situation on the ground there. If your yellow card is Fake, you will have problems with port health. Perhaps, if you only have the yellow fever vaccine and not meningitis, you may also have problems with them. This is why you should get the shots before you travel. Also if you just recently took a yellow fever shot in less than 10 days. You may also have problems with the port heath. You are not allowed to travel until 10 days after the shot. They are going to delay you. This is you should get all your shots before travelling LOL. This is why I am taking my time to create this. If you finally pass through these guys then you will head straight to the Benin side. They are not as troublesome as ours, there are just two stop points, note not checkpoints LOL. They will also ask you to pay some money. Once you do, you are now live in the Republic of Benin. Tips For Visiting Benin Republic Look for Bureau De Change: The First thing you want to do is to look for a bureau de change. If you are not sure of the rates, you may ask multiple people to be able to get a good rate. Move ahead and try to negotiate with another till you get a good rate and to ensure you are not being cheated. Also, you should deal with operators with shops and not the ones on the roadside.As of April 2021, 1000 Naira is exchanged for 1,100 to 1,125 Cefa. That is1,000 Naira is 1,125 Cefa. You can also read about the Benin Currency Get a Benin SIM: Once you have changed from Naira to Cefa. Get an MTN or Airtel SIM. Though you have the option to roam your lines, You will be charged about 200 Naira per minute every time you receive a call. You will not have access to use the internet on your regular Nigerian line. It is best to get a Republic of Benin MTN SIM. Once you get the SIM. It does not require registration. Tell the operator to help you activate the SIM and also activate internet services. I should let you know that Data is very expensive in the Republic of Benin. Ensure you buy enough Gig if you are a heavy user. Once you have activated your internet you are good to go. Get a Universal Adapter: At the bus park, quickly get a Universal Adapter, this is because they have a different kind of socket from the ones we use in Nigeria. I would advise you to get two in case something goes wrong or if you may need multiple slots for your phone and laptop. Get Other stuff you might need: Due to the language barrier and the location of Casa Del Papa resort. It is located far from civilisation. Getting anything would mean travelling over 30 minutes out of the resort. This is why you should get everything you need handy Get enough snacks, drinks and water: This is another thing I wish I knew before visiting. The food at Casa Del Papa can be better. It is not up to the kind of standards I am used to in Nigeria. I would rate the food 5 over 10. This is why you need to get enough snacks. You should also note that the food is very expensive. You may have to munch on the snacks. Get an English speaking taxi: From the park close to the border,

11th May 2021 / 35 Comments
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Benin Republic

Travel to Benin Republic From Nigeria – All You Need to Know

Travel,  Travel Tips

Travelling to Benin Republic From Nigeria – All You Need to KnowIf you are planning to visit the Republic of Benin from Nigeria, this post is for you. It will cover everything you need to know about crossing one of the busiest borders in West Africa. It will also cover the cost, where to stay, places to visit etc. The Benin republic/Nigeria border is in a town called Seme. The Nigeria Benin border is popularly called the Seme Border. About the Republic of Benin The Republic of Benin is one of the many countries that share a border with Nigeria. Other countries that share a border with Nigeria include Chad, Cameroun and Niger Republic. Benin Republic shares a border with Nigeria at Seme in Lagos State and around Idi Iroko in Ogun. Seme is a few minutes drive from Badagry. The country was formerly known as Dahomey. It was, however, renamed Benin in 1975. The Capital of Benin Republic is in Port Novo. However, the most popular city in Benin Republic is Cotonou. It is also the economic capital of Benin Republic. The country was colonized by France. It got its independence on August 1, 1960. The official language of the Republic of Benin is French. The Republic of Benin is home to pristine beaches, robust culture, wildlife, and beautiful tourist attractions. Requirements For visiting Benin Republic from Nigeria For Nigerians planning on visiting Benin Republic, the following are the requirements: Nigerian Passport: Nigerians visiting Benin Republic will have to present their International Passport at the border. The Nigerian International Passports is a document issued by the Nigerian Immigration Service. The Yellow Fever Card: The second requirement is the yellow Fever card. This yellow card is proof that you have received a dose of the yellow fever vaccine. The card is also for keeping records of vaccines required to visit other countries. You can only travel after ten days of getting the dose. Also Read: How to Get A Yellow Fever Card Vaccines To Take Before Visiting Benin Republic Ensure you take these two vaccines before you visit Benin republic. If you do not, you will have issues with the Port health at the border. When you go for the yellow fever vaccine, ensure you ask them for Meningitis too. They will probably fix another date for that. These are the two basic vaccines you need to take before visiting Benin Republic. Yellow fever vaccine: This vaccine is to protect you against yellow fever Meningitis Vaccines: The Languages French is the official language. The other languages include Yoruba, Fon and a Gbe languages. These are the indigenous languages of the Republic of Benin. They are all considered national languages. Currency The official currency of the Republic of Benin is Cefa, it is also known as the West African CFA Franc. It comes in the following denomination.Coins 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200Notes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20000 How to Get To the Republic of Benin Through Seme Border If you are looking for stress-free access. You can get a direct bus to the Republic of Benin from Lagos. These are some major transport companies that visit Benin Republic Efex, ABC transport, Chisco Group Transport etc. They will handle the border protocols, the stamping etc. They offer air-conditioned buses. However, if you are on a low budget or an adventurer like me, you can decide to do the stamping on your own.From Ikeja board a bus to Egbeda – 200 to 300 NairaAt Egbeda board another bus to Iyana Iba – 300 NairaFrom Iyana Iba board a bus or car to Badagry – 500 to 700 Naira Once you get to Badagry, get a bus going to Seme. Tell the driver you will stop at the border. Please note they may scare you that stamping is hard, do not mind them. Just ignore and tell them to stop you at the border.At the border, just walk straight into the complex. Ask for where to stamp, and do it yourself.Once you stamp your passport, you will go through another set of routine checks by Port Health who will ask for your yellow fever card.Then another routine check by the NDLEA and customs. Depending on where you are coming from, if you are coming from the mainland around Ikeja and environs, you can go through Egbada, Iyana Iba axis. If you are coming from Oshodi, you may have to go through Mile Crossing to the Seme Border At the park, the driver may try to charge you to cross the border, just tell them to stop you at the border you will handle the border protocols yourself. Once you are approaching the border’s small gate, flash your Passport, this will grant you entry into the premises and sometimes you may get questioned by the Immigration officers on duty. You can move to the point where you can stamp your passport.To stamp your passport, you will be asked pay some money. Well this should not be the case but it is what it is. For virgin passports, you will pay 1,000 or more depending on your negotiation power and for already stamped passports, you will pay 500 Naira. Once your passports have been stamped,You will go through the Port health who will ask for your yellow fever card, then the customs who will also try to check your luggage, then the NDLEA who will also check for drugs and other forbidden substances,Once you are clear, you will move to the Benin side where you will go through another check. Tips When you get to Benin Understand the Country: The first thing you should do is to understand the country, their currency, exchange rates etc. You should also know some basic laws of the country. Also, you should familiarise yourself with some of the beliefs and culture. Change your money from naira to Cefa: The first thing you should do is to change from Naira to Cefa. Please do not rely on

9th May 2021 / 62 Comments
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safety tips

Safety Tips When Visiting A Hotel

Featured,  Travel Tips

These are some safety tips you should adopt the next time you are visiting a hotel. When you travel, safety and security should be top on your list. This article will serve as a guide when next you travel. Travelling is one of the most rewarding endeavours you can ever get engaged. This is because when you visit a new location, you learn about the culture, the people and the most rewarding is seeing those breathtaking destinations. Before engaging on a trip, you may have read reviews, seen pictures, searched for the safest and most secure hotel in the city. After the long search, you finally settled for one and you are about to have the most exciting moment of your life. Then boom something went wrong because you threw caution in the air. No matter how safe a place is, don’t throw caution in the air. You must always ensure you observe every safety precautions even if you are visiting one of the safest places on the planet.Travelling is fun and it has become one of the most important parts of our lives. But you need to ensure some safety tips when you are visiting a hotel. This should start from the hotel bookings, down to your stay at the hotel. Ensure safety and security during your stay. Also Read: Reasons why You should Travel There is a bit of risk in everything we do. So whenever you step out of your house, the level of risk increases. This is why you need to keep some basic safety and security tips whenever you visit a hotel.There have been cases of security glitches, robberies and kidnapping in some hotels. Some have experienced identity theft, break-ins, stolen passports, lost of personal effects kept in the hotel room.This is why you should take some safety precautions the next time you visit a hotel. These are are some safety tips you should take, the next time you visit a hotel. Avoid Untrustred Travel/Hotel sites: This is one of the popular scams online. It operates in several ways, some hotel aggregator will offer you ridiculous offers to destinations you are about to visit. If you are lucky, you will you may be offered less than what you were offered. For the unlucky ones, they lose their money. Always watch out for fake hotel aggregators. Avoid Free Wifi On no occasion should you connect to a free or untrusted Wifi. When connecting to the hotel wifi, ensure you are using a VPN (Virtual Private Server). The VPN serves as extra security and ensures your information is secured on the network. Double Check the rooms Before you accept to stay in a room, ensure the windows and doors locks work well. Also, always check the locks on the windows and door every time you enter the room to ensure it’s not tampered with. If you notice any change, always speak with the hotel management. Keep Your Doors Locked Always Always ensure you lock your doors always. Please make use of every lock option for double protection. Some hotels provide security chains, deadbolts, metal locks etc. Please ensure the doors are properly locked every time. Do Not Open Doors for Strangers or Uninvited Guests Do not Open the Door Without First Confirming the Identity of the person.Ensure you use the peephole before opening the door for anyone. You should not open the door for anyone even if it is the hotel staff if you have no business with the person. If you are not expecting anyone, do not open the door. You may want to confirm from the hotel reception to be sure they are actually on official assignment. If you do not request for a service, do not open the door for the hotel staff too. Book Online Booking Online reduces your chance of giving personal information checking in. Also, it reduces the waiting time. Besides, it reduces the risk of giving out your credit card information, impersonation, credit card fraud etc. Book Upper Floors When booking a room, always request the upper floors. Upper floors are usually hard to reach for intruders compared to easily accessible ground floors. Upper floors provide some level of privacy compared to ground floors where someone can easily break in through the windows.Make it a habit to always get a room within the middle floors, if it is a six-storey building hotel or less. Compared to the ground floors, it is not easily reachable. Secondly, rooms located on the ground floor are easy targets. The rooms that are within the third to the sixth floor are recommended. Rooms within this state are high enough to prevent someone from breaking in and also they can easily be reached by firefighters truck ladder in case of an emergency. Be Security Conscious Another safety tip when you visit a hotel is to be vigilant and security conscious. When you visit a hotel, do not throw caution into the wind. Watch out for illegal movements, unfamiliar faces that looks suspicious. Ensure that the doors are properly locked and the windows are well shut. You should also watch out for any security glitch and an escape plan in case of fire outbreak or an attack. Know the Exit Points Once you check-in, take a moment to walk around the facility. This is to allow you to understand the terrain and the different entry and exit points. And in the case of any incident, you can easily access a safe exit point. Always keep the TV on As a security measure always ensure the TV set is on whether you are in or out. It gives an intruder the impression that you are inside. When you do this, it will send a signal to an invader that you are inside and awake. Always Pack For Emergency When I check-in at a hotel before I go to bed, I make it a habit to fold all my clothes into my bag. Such that if there is

30th November 2020 / 4 Comments
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kayaking

Beginners Guide to Kayaking In Lagos

Featured,  Travel,  Travel Tips

kayaking is one of the adventurous things you can do in Lagos. It is an activity that involves paddling a kayak across a river, lake, stream or the Atlantic. It is a form of water sport that involves paddling a device like a canoe known as a kayak across a water body. If you are thinking of something adventurous to do in Lagos. Kayaking should be on your bucket list of adventurous things to do in Lagos. What is Kayaking? The Definition Kayaking is a form of water sports that involves using a kayak to move across a water body which can often be a river, lakes, lagoon or the ocean.Kayaking is an outdoor activity which can easily be learned with few training and instructions. Anyone can become a professional within a short period. Kayaking is a skill that can easily be learned with little or no training. If this is your first time of hearing about Kayaking, this post will provide a detailed guide to kayaking in Lagos. Your first step will be to look out for the closest kayak centre close to you. Loking for an experience of a lifetime? sit back, relax and let’s go paddling. If you are in Lagos and looking for something adventurous to do in Lagos, Kayaking is one of the adventurous things to do Lagos. If you are a lover of adventure, water sporting activities etc kayaking is just right for you. Perhaps if you are looking for something to keep the adrenaline pumping, let’s go paddling, its adventure time. Unlike other water sporting activities that require technical skills, rigorous training or experience, Kayaking is easy to learn. With a few instructions and guidance, you are good to go. Kayaking is a form of water sport and an outdoor adventure. What is a Kayak? A kayak is a small portable boat with a hole which is wide enough to fit a human. With the kayak, you can paddle across a river, lake or sea. It is a small type of boat used for water sporting activities. Best time of the year for kayaking in Lagos Since kayaking is an outdoor activity, you need to pay attention to some external factors to ensure safe kayaking experience. Kayaking can be affected by the weather. The best time to go for a kayaking expedition in Lagos is during the dry season which spans from November to April. However, that does not mean you can not go on a kayak adventure at any other times of the year. The best time to kayak is usually between 9 am and 5 pm. These are some factors to consider when kayaking in Lagos. Ensure the weather is favourable As a beginner, you may avoid water with high current Avoid kayaking alone Dress for the weather Kayaking Equipment – Kayaking Gears The kayaking gears are an essential part of every kayaking adventure. These gears will go a long way in ensuring your safety while in the water. These are some gears you will need when kayaking in Lagos. Life jacket Kayak Kayak Paddle Helmet Whistle First aid kits Renting Kayaks Near Me – Cost of Kayaking in Lagos One of the first steps to kayaking is renting a Kayak. Renting a kayak sometimes can be difficult especially if you live far from your kayaking destination. Search for kayaking near me, you will be provided with a list of kayak centres closest to you. Kayak hire sometimes might involve you booking ahead to get a slot on the desired date. Few places offer to rent of kayak in Lagos. However, The cost ranges from location to location. Kayaking Etiquettes Kayaking etiquettes are basic guides you need to ensure to help you have nice kayaking experience and also ensuring a safe environment. These are some basic kayaking etiquettes in Lagos.1. As a beginner make sure you seek the help of an expert and follow all instructions2. Give other kayak buddies some space to avoid a collision3. Respect other sea users4. Be helpful to other kayakers5. Do not block the path for other users6. Be physically and mentally prepared for a capsize7. Avoid long-distance kayaking alone8. Always wear your floatation device eg life jacket correctly.9. Do not exceed your limit, do not try to impress anyone10. Learn the basics of canoeing, boating and kayaking11. Beware of extreme weather Health Benefits of Kayaking 1. Strengthens your core muscles2. It improves your mental well being3. Essential Kayaking Tips you should know4. It helps in weight loss5. Builds your upper body6. It reduces stress7. It helps to build the upper body8. Kayaking helps to tone the leg Safety Precautions when Kayaking in Lagos Avoid kayaking alone You are sharing the seaway with other users, avoid getting in the way of others Do not stop at unfamiliar locations or private properties to take a rest If you are a beginner, do not travel far from the reach of the lifeguard Also Read: Tips For Hiking Things to Take when kayaking in Lagos Waterproof First aid kits Bottled Water Snacks Tips for Kayaking in Lagos Make sure you eat before going on a kayaking trip Wear something light and comfortable Go with a group it is safer and fun when you have other people around Wear a face cap, sunshade to help with the sun. Bring a waterproof material to keep your valuables Wear your life jacket properly Ensure you follow instructions Check the weather condition before you kayak kayak centre – Places To Kayak In Lagos There are few kayak centres in Lagos. Here are some places to kayak in Lagos. La Campagne Tropicana La Campagne Tropicana is one of the interesting spots for kayaking in Lagos. The La Campagne Tropicana is a resort located at Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos. It has a lake overseeing the Ocean, you get a chance to kayak across the lake. La Campagne Tropicana is one of the best hiking spots for beginners in Lagos. The water is calm

17th September 2020 / 3 Comments
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hiking

Tips for Hiking – Beginners Guide to Hiking

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Hiking is an outdoor activity that involves taking a long walk along a trail or path through a valley, mountain, forest, nature reserve and other natural landscaped trails. This can often be done either for fun, pleasure, exercise, relaxation, research, etc. Some people hike to the mountain tops in some remote places for sightseeing, bird watching, crops cultivation as well as hunt for animals. Hiking goes beyond just walking through some rugged old cliffs or mountains. It involves immersing yourself into nature, soaking yourself into the beauty and awesomeness of nature as you walk through the plains. It also involves enjoying the breathtaking views, discovering new places and getting to know more about nature.  Hiking has lots of great benefits cutting across physical, mental and psychological aspects. This article features a beginners guide to hiking and everything you need to become an expert in Hiking. This article features tips for hiking some of which are discussed in this article.  As a beginner, hiking can be a hobby, a form of exercise or something you do in your leisure. However, there are few tips and tricks to note about hiking. It is not something you should just do without knowing the ins and out of it. It requires an understanding of the art, careful planning and preparation. As a beginner, before you begin hiking, you should understand some basic knowledge of hiking before you begin your expedition. This will help avoid any form of danger or bad experience during your expenditure. Following are some of the essential things you should put into consideration before you begin your next hiking adventures. Hiking Essentials for beginners How to plan and begin your hike escapades You should consider the following key factors when planning for your next hike. 1. The distance you would like to cover; As a beginner, it is recommended that you begin hiking within a short distance that is relatively close to or located near residential areas where you can easily get help if something goes wrong. 2. Understand The terrain or landscape you wish to go hiking; As a beginner, you should understand the terrain you are about to go hiking. Chose a territory with a low topography and less steep trails for the trial period, then progress to trailing steeper terrains as you master the act of hiking.  3. Know the altitude of the trail you wish to hike; the first step to having an enjoyable hiking experience is to take a yardstick of the elevation you plan to trek and gauge your physical threshold to ensure your strength can carry through, lest the hike becomes a burden. 4. Plan Your Movement and Logistics; Certain hikes require a bit more planning especially if you end up doing a hike that starts and stops at different destinations, you will need to make necessary arrangements for mobility to your start and endpoints.  5. Understand the Weather and season; When going on a tour, understand the weather condition of the area, plan accordingly so you’re not caught out unexpectedly in bad weather. You should always check for the weather forecast before heading out and do well to prepare for the weather.   Some general tips on how to begin hiking 1. Start slow and easy, then build your agility over time: as a newbie, you don’t need to begin with rigorous routines. Go easy on yourself, start short easy walks and work your way up gradually. With time, you can increase the routine as you advance.  2. Get a Partner: Find a hike companion or join a hiking club or a group of hikers with more experience. This makes your hike experience more fun, guarantees your safety in the course of your hike and avails you the opportunity to meet new people and learn some practical hiking skills and share in the experiences of veteran hikers.  Also Read – Safety Tips for Smart Travellers 3. Pack pragmatically and avoid taking heavyweight objects; for instance, use a plastic water bottle instead of one made of steel and wrap food or snacks in nylon bags rather than carrying plates to lighten the weight of your bag so your journey doesn’t become strenuous.  4. Practice moderation in the duration of hikes you make; you can decide to hike for a few hours, half a day or even one whole day, every hike you make serves as a great compliment to a short trip and always a great way to help you connect with your more natural self. Hikes can also involve a series of days. for such long hiking programs involve over 12 days and covering dozens of kilometres, you should make provision for some lightweight mobile tents for spending the camps or mountain huts. Do not hike more than your body can take at a particular time. 5. Travel Light: If you are hiking for more than one day and require carrying some cooking utensils, carry those that are as light as possible, especially when going on long hikes in hilly terrains. Ensure you make such hikes in a group and distribute implements and ingredients according to the physical capability of each hiker in the group. 6. Understand the Weather: Study the weather and determine which weather is best for the terrain you intend to hike. Weather conditions have a major bearing on hiker happiness. Bad weather can change an adventurous trip into a precarious trial, while intense heat is draining, dehydrating, and can even result in heatstroke. Before you hit the trails, check weather forecasts and while on the trail, keep an eye on the skies, especially in the mountains where weather conditions can transform rapidly.  7. Know Your Limit: There is no need to stretch your hike expedition beyond your limits. There are hikes for everyone and anyone. If you are getting started, there are easy hikes for starters. There are moderate hikes for intermediate hikers. And, of course, there are challenging hikes for those with more experience. Take it one step at a time if you want to get the best from hiking.

16th October 2019 / 1 Comment
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important safety travel tips

Important Travel Tips For smart Travellers

Featured,  Travel Tips

When it comes to travelling there are some important travel tips you must follow. Travelling is a very essential and almost inevitable activity in life. People travel at different times for different purposes ranging from events such as business or official duties, going to celebrate important ceremonies with family and friends at distant locations, going for academic research or just going on a tour to explore other parts of the world. Whatever your reason for travelling, it is of utmost importance to note the fact that travelling can be risky. That is if proper precautions are not taken. You run the risk of vehicle accidents, getting mobbed or conned and invariably stranded in a strange place, falling sick due to a change in climate or environment and foods, the list of risks posed at travellers is almost endless. Should you not travel because of the risks involved? I think the best thing to do is to find a way to manage and minimize these risks rather than succumbing to the limitations of travelling. This is why it is paramount to follow some important travel tips. This article brings you some of the best, tested and trusted travel tips that can help you shrug off travel risks and stay safe while you travel. Do not compromise your security. Remember, the general rule is safety first. Also Read: How to Save for your next Travel Important Safety Travel Tips Here are some important travel safety tips that work to keep you safe and secure as you travel. Gather Information About the Destination One of the most important travel tips to follow when travelling to a new destination is to make enquiries about the location. Gather as much information and facts as you possibly can about the place you are visiting. For example, read about security threats to travellers, the do’s and don’t etc. With the help of the internet, you don’t have to get to a place before you find out things about them. Do a search on the safety of the destination and read travel reviews from other tourists that have visited the location. Look out for information about the safest neighbourhoods, best tourist-friendly city, places to stay. With the internet, you will get as much useful information and some important travel tips would suffice which will help you stay secure. Gathering information will give you in-depth knowledge of your travel destination even before making the trip. Get a Contact at Your Embassy Another important travel tip when you travel is to Identify your national consulate in that country. You should have an active contact of someone in the embassy to call in case trouble looms and you have nowhere to go. You should also make it a point of duty to locate the nearest police station, place of worship and other local emergency divisions nearest to where you stay. So that you can take refuge when you feel threatened or there is an emergency. Tell Someone About Your Trip Confide in someone about your travel schedule and keep your family and friends informed about your every move while you are away on a journey. Another important travel tip is to maintain regular communication with your loved ones. You should always give them updates on your location, change of plans, new friends you meet at the destination if you are going ou, who are you going with etc Also brief them about your daily schedule and if you feel threatened or feeling insecure let them know. Duplicate Your Document Have multiple copies (both hard and soft copies) of important documents such as your passport, visa, tickets, identity cards, driver’s license, etc and guard the originals very jealously. Keep the duplicate copies in several different locations; in your travel suitcase, handbag, purse, mobile phone, email and leave some copies with a few trusted family members or friends for an easy emergency escape when situations call for it. Be Smart, Blend with the Locals Another important travel tip is to avoid anything that gives you off as neophyte especially a gullible one. A stranger appearance makes you more vulnerable to criminals. So you should do well to study the area, tradition and lifestyle of people where you have travelled to and make an effort to blend in as much as you can. Dress Moderately If you are visiting some low-end vicinity, travel with low-key clothing that won’t attract much attention, be discreet when looking at maps and approach people carefully but with confidence if you need to ask for directions. You should also be mindful of the kind of places and people you stop to make sensitive enquiries, be mindful not to give sensitive information when you approach people Say A word of Prayer There’s much more than just religious benefits in praying. Prayer provides some sort of physical and mental balance in the sense that your hope is heightened based on the faith that there is a supreme being looking out for you and therefore, you can go with confidence. Always Lock Your Hotel Room Safeguard your hotel room by keeping the doors securely locked at all times so that it is impossible for stalkers to tell whether you are in or out. Also, I have a practice of placing a chair to shield the door if they do not have another supporting lock inside which guarantees double-locking the door. Avoid Strangers in Your Room Avoid accommodating strangers or letting them into your room. Don’t even give the hotel attendants access to your room unless you have called for them or received a call from the reception informing you of a necessity that prompts them sending someone to you. Limit entry into your room as much as possible is an important travel tips that will keep you sage. Always be at Alert Be friendly with everyone but trust no one. Constantly check your personal belongings and look out for skeptical behaviour from people around you. Not everyone who comes smiling at

21st September 2019 / 5 Comments
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save for travels

How to save for Your Next Travel and Vacation – Tips and Tricks

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How to save money for Your Next travel and vacation – Tips and Tricks There is a popular belief that Vacation is expensive and only meant for the rich. This is a myth and it’s never true. However, travelling cost money just like every other in life but with proper planning, you could achieve your dreams and goals of touring and travelling the world. If you’ve been daydreaming about travelling to this lovely destination. You’ve done your homework of researching the place and you are probably fantasizing about visiting. Then it dawned on you that you don’t have the money to fund the trip. This is usually the case for most people. However, with proper planning, you can achieve your dream vacation. Before you do anything in life it is important to count your cost, do a budget of how much it will cost. Once you do this, you can start working on ways to fund the budget. You don’t have to be very rich to visit a destination or tour the world. You just need to be smart, creative and conservative in your spendings There is this crazy myth that travelling is expensive and only for the rich but guess what? I have good news for you. That is a BIG FAT LIE. Travel only seems expensive when you don’t plan for it. I used to feel the same way too until I started travelling and touring. Then I realized trips that I would have thought would cost me thousands of dollars only cost a few hundred dollars. Ever since my mindset about travelling has changed forever. Tips to Save Money For Your Next Travel and Vacation Here are some proven ways to save money for your next trip or vacation. Change Your Mindset About Travelling Change Your Mindset About Travelling: Firstly, before anything can be done it has to start from your mindset. If you think it is impossible it will always be impossible. However, once you think It can be done and you set your mind and work towards it, you will achieve it. Once you change your mindset about travelling then soon, you will definitely be able to save and afford such trips. It doesn’t matter whether you want to hike the tallest mountains of the world, visit the Seven Wonders of the World, stroll the ancient ruins of Rome, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites or a romantic getaway with your spouse if you believe you can do it, you will achieve it. So change your mindset Now! Count Your Cost – How Much do You Need to Save for your Travel The second step is to count your cost. You need to have an idea of how much it will cost you down to the last penny. If you will be going by flights, bus, driving, would you be staying with a friend or at a hotel? These are all the factors you need to consider when planning. Once you are done with you costing and have an average amount in mind. You should also factor in miscellaneous and extra money then you can start planning and working towards ways to fund the budget. Set up a budget Once you have an idea of how much the trip would cost. You need to draw up a budget and do a plan on how to fund the budget. Set up a monthly budget about your spending and expenses. Keep track of every expenditure and find ways to cut down your expenses by setting a monthly limit on your expenditure. This could also mean you cutting down cost and changing your lifestyle. Change your lifestyle When it comes to savings, you need to watch your lifestyles very well. We often engage in some activities that doesn’t on the long term add value to us and these activities would not ensure a proper saving culture. You need to cut off every activity that will not make you achieve your travel goals.  We all have that one bad habit or activities we engage in that are always taking money away from us. It could be excessive shopping, eating habit, social lifestyle, hanging out with friends etc. Note if this travel means a lot to you, you should be able to deny yourself some immediate gratification just to save enough for your dream travel destination. Open a Dedicated Travel Fund Account Open a dedicated travel and tourism account where all the funds you need for your travel is deposited. Based on your budget, you can break it down monthly where you set aside a particular sum of money into your travel account. Work out a plan that makes it easier to save money in your travel fund. You need to set aside an amount monthly towards your travel goals and make sure you are dedicated and stick to funding the account. You should also make it a habit to always transfer free cash into such account on a regular basis. Automate your Savings Once you are sure about the amount you intend to save on your travel account monthly. Activate a direct debit on your account where a particular amount is debited from your account daily, weekly or monthly. This goes directly into your Travel fund account. This would ease the stress of manually transferring the money into your account. It will also ensure you stay disciplined on the monthly savings. Get Rid of unnecessary subscriptions We all subscribe to one or two of those internet subscriptions that we don’t really need or can do without. You need to cut down on some unnecessary subscriptions like cable TV, web service etc. You may subscribe for a lesser package or cut it off completely. Get rid of non-active gym subscriptions and other internet related subscriptions like Netflix, Spotify, etc or sign up for lower subscriptions. Cultivate an Investment and  Savings Culture When it comes to planning for travelling you need to cultivate an investment and savings culture, this will go a long

25th June 2019 / 4 Comments
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