Travel
Expert Tricks To Budget Travel For Nigerians
You do not need to be a millionaire to enjoy travelling or to have a vacation.
There are many ways to be part of the traveling population, whatever your status is. You actually need to purge some believes and blocks out of your system -that vacation is for the rich or middle class only, it is not a necessity or its almost a waste of money, it is expensive, it must be Paris, Milan, or other popular sounding destination, it must be luxurious, it deeps huge hole in your finances, I won die if I don’t do vacation, and loads of other thoughts that are inhibitive. Never forget this popular saying: work hard, play harder!
You also need to agree first that vacation is for your own good- better health, clear head, rejuvenation, education, meeting new people and networking (great for business), better quality job on return, bonding for couples, family and friends, re unions for old school boys and girls. The list is endless. On a cruise holiday or water destination like Zanzibar, do you know how much clean air (no fumes, no dust, no industrial waste etc) that you get into your system? That adds to your number of years on earth, and helps your mental health as well. Come to think of it when you are eighty, what are those things you want to look back to with your partner and smile- the wild holiday, getting lost in a new city that you don’t speak their language, tasting a new delicacy or that adrenalin vacation? There is that special excitement and happy hormone that your body pumps into your blood stream, they are great for you.
If you can’t run marathon, then start with hundred meters or less. Start with domestic tourism and do baecations, daycations or groupations. Nigeria is blessed with so much places to visit which city you are, so my friend if you have no reason not to do anything. This means that your vacation can start from two thousand or five thousand naira! I know the beach is clichéd but go! Get that good air into your system, get your feet on the wet sand, immerse yourself in the water, and for God sake wear something appropriate for the beach. If you are based in Lagos- from Olumo rock, Lekki conservation, Ado awaye, Idanre, Nationa Museum, usually entrance fees is not more than a thousand naira, and Nike art gallery is free for individuals. If you have a group and you would like to explore more to other parts of the country like Yankari game reserve for Safari, Obudu cattle ranch etc, or Paris, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Dubai, www.butterflytourismng.com will put the magic wand for your group and make it a lingering experience.
So you are thinking cruises, vacation in Paris, Milan, FIFA or UEFA Champions league final hospitality, , Bali, and other pristine sounding destination, if you do not have a fat account, you need to get your acts together on time. In other parts of the world, people save up for their holiday, similarly you do not have to wait for a windfall or manna from heaven! One of the first rules for affordable or cheap travel is ‘BOOKNG AHEAD’. If you book eight months to one year ahead or where possible way more than that, you are like to get almost half of the cost, so your flight, hotel, tours, cruises should be booked ahead. For cruises booking ahead does huge wonders, spouse free, children free, upgrade and loads more. So never forget that you can start planning your vacation more than a year ahead. So that honeymoon, anniversary vacay, family holiday, family re union should not necessarily be over expensive and out of reach.
It helps a lot if you have a capable agency like Butterfly Tourism handling your travel. You will get loads of advice on where your budget can go, discount availability, prime hotels but medium budget, new exciting destinations, what you should do on your vacations and most importantly many cost cutting advice to make it all worthwhile.
A lot of Nigerians mistake vacations for luxury travel, they are not the same, luxury travel is luxury travel, a five thousand dollars suite per night, limousine pick up at the airport, front seat at the games expensive resort, and first class flight is luxury. For affordable travel two or three star hotel is great, economy class flight ticket, tours that are non-expensive, and keep looking out for best places for shopping, malls are not always cheap. For example in Dubai, you may just want to do the desert safari, dhow cruise, and city tours. Inclusions of the likes of IMG, Sky Dubai, Water parks, dining in the sky, helicopter rides, Burj Khalifa prime tickets, cost a lot. There are loads of things you can do on a holiday all by yourself!
Depending on your personality, if you are spending from seven days upward on a vacation, and you are on a tight budget, I will advise you stay in a self-catering apartment (Airbnb preferably) so you can cook. It runs down cost for you, and allow you eat what you want. Eating out can be expensive! Accept it, those lobster, fine wine and caviar serving restaurants are not for budget travel, be happy with what you can afford and create a unique experience for yourself, even if you have to use hostel. Not many Nigerians love the idea of hostel, but it is perfect for people who don’t mind, and with sole aim of ticking off bucket list, and having the fun of their life regardless of low budget.
Beware of taxis, especially metered taxis, the accumulated cost will kill you! Keep to public transportation, except you are in group of three to four upwards, and you can all split the cost. The same reason you should share hotel rooms, splitting the cost help your budget travel a lot. You will probably need to get a map, and must ask lots of questions from locals, and make new friends, they come in handy. They will take you to the best places to buy great souvenirs but at cheap costs.
If you have a large group (sizeable groups starts from ten persons), try to use a travel agency. The stress of travel planning is under estimated and may spark frictions between you and friends, especially with mistakes. A group gets you discounts, and all manners of cost reduction, only an agent will know this tricks. Do you know that before now, some airline offer one ticket free for every ten?
Once you agree within yourself or with your friends and family on a vacation, and destination is agreed, it is time to start planning. Possibly the longer you start booking, the less expensive your booking is. Agencies like ours also allow instalment payment to make things easy. It takes huge loads off your neck.
What of road trips around three or four West Africa countries along with your friends, sleep in your bus, cook, and the balance is mostly fuel cost. Fellow Nigerian, just pulling your legs. If you are up to it, let me know!
Now that you know some of the tricks, when are you going for your vacation?
Hafees Keshinro is the Founder of Butterfly Tourism Nigeria, and you can follow him on twitter @hafeeskeshinro
When I tell people I visited Bordeaux for my first trip to France, I’m usually met with surprise. “Not Paris?” they ask. And honestly? I have zero regrets. Bordeaux completely stole my heart, and here’s everything you need to know about this stunning city.
Why Bordeaux?
I’d been seeing Bordeaux pop up on my feed more and more the 18th-century architecture, the wine culture, the UNESCO World Heritage city centre. As someone who loves history, good food, and beautiful cities that aren’t overly touristy, it seemed perfect.
Spoiler alert: it absolutely was.
Getting There
I flew into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, which is about 12km from the city center. The airport is well-connected, and getting into town was straightforward. I took the a taxi from the airport to my hotel.
Pro tip: Book your accommodation in the city centre. Bordeaux is incredibly walkable, and staying centrally means you can explore on foot.
Best Time to Visit
I visited in August, and the weather was warm. From what I’ve learned, the best times to visit Bordeaux are:
- Spring (April-June): Mild weather, fewer crowds, everything in bloom
- Fall (September-October): Harvest season for wine lovers, still warm
- Summer (July-August): Warmest but most crowded and expensive
- Winter is quieter and more affordable, but some attractions have shorter hours.
Getting Around Bordeaux
The city centre is compact and incredibly walkable. I did 90% of my exploring on foot. Bordeaux also has an excellent tram system if you need it, and the entire network is modern and easy to navigate.
My advice? Wear comfortable shoes and just walk. You’ll stumble upon beautiful buildings, hidden squares, and charming cafes that you’d miss otherwise.
What to See & Do
1. Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror)
The highlight of my trip. Miroir d’Eau is the world’s largest reflecting pool, located on the Place de la Bourse. It’s a shallow pool that creates stunning reflections of the surrounding 18th-century buildings.
When to visit: Sunset or early evening. The golden hour light makes it absolutely magical, and it’s less crowded than midday.
What to know: The pool alternates between a mirror effect and a mist effect every 15 minutes. Both are beautiful, but the mirror phase is perfect for photos.
Cost: Free
2. Cathédrale Saint-André
This Gothic cathedral is over 900 years old and absolutely breathtaking. The architecture is stunning both inside and out, and it’s one of the most important religious buildings in Bordeaux.
What I loved: The sheer scale of it. Walking inside and seeing the soaring ceilings and intricate details reminded me why I love historic architecture.
When to visit: Mornings are quieter. Afternoons can get busy with tour groups.
Cost: Free entry (donations welcome)
Pro tip: Climb the Pey-Berland Tower next door for panoramic views of the city. It’s 231 steps but worth it.
3. Place de la Bourse
This is arguably Bordeaux’s most iconic square, built in the 18th century. The symmetrical buildings, the fountain, and the proximity to the Garonne River make it incredibly photogenic.
Best for: Photos, people-watching, and just soaking in the atmosphere
When to visit: Evening when everything is lit up
4. Historic City Center (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Bordeaux’s entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and honestly, just wandering is an activity in itself. Every street has beautiful architecture, charming shops, and that quintessentially French atmosphere.
What I did: I just walked. No map, no plan. Some of my favorite moments were stumbling upon beautiful buildings, small squares, and local cafes.
Don’t miss: Rue Sainte-Catherine (one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets great for shopping)
5. La Garonne River
The river runs through Bordeaux, and walking along the riverfront was one of my favorite things to do. There are beautiful views, benches to sit and relax, and a lovely atmosphere especially at sunset.
Pro tip: Walk along the right bank (Quai des Chartrons) for the best views of the city.
6. Hire a Local Guide
This was hands down one of the best decisions I made. I hired a local guide for a walking tour of the historic center, and it completely transformed my experience.
Why it’s worth it:
- You learn the stories behind the buildings and streets
- You discover hidden spots you’d never find on your own
- You get insider tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to experience the city like a local
- It brings the history to life in a way guidebooks can’t
I learned about Bordeaux’s role in the wine trade, its 18th-century golden age, and so many architectural details I would have completely missed on my own.
Cost: Varies depending on length and type of tour (mine was around £12 for 2hours)
Where to book: I found mine through GetYourGuide, but you can also ask your hotel or search online.
Where to Eat
Le Bordeaux
The experience: This was my splurge meal, and it was absolutely worth it. Le Bordeaux is a fine dining restaurant with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city.
What I loved: The views, the ambience, the attention to detail. Even the elevator was aesthetic! The food was incredible, and dining with that view at sunset was unforgettable.
Reservation: Book ahead, especially for the rooftop
Perfect for: Special occasions, romantic dinners, or treating yourself
General food tips:
- Bordeaux is known for wine (obviously), but also canelés – small pastries with a caramelized crust. Try them!
- Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service (typically 2:30pm-7pm)
- French dining is leisurely – don’t rush it
- “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” = “The bill, please”
Overall: Bordeaux is more affordable than Paris but still a mid-range European city. You can do it on a budget (stay in hostels, eat street food, skip wine tastings) or splurge (nice hotels, fine dining, wine tours).
Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, 100%, yes.
If you’re looking for a French city that’s beautiful, historic, cultural, and not overwhelmingly touristy (looking at you, Paris), Bordeaux is perfect.
You’ll love Bordeaux if:
- You appreciate architecture and history, enjoy wine (or want to learn about it), prefer walkable cities, want a more authentic French experience
Where to Next?
Bordeaux has left me wanting to explore more of France. I’m planning trips to:
- Lyon – for the food scene
- Nice – for the beaches and French Riviera
- Strasbourg – for the Alsatian culture
But honestly, I’m already thinking about when I can return to Bordeaux. There’s something about this city that just stays with you.
Have You Been to Bordeaux?
I’d love to hear about your experience! What did you love most? Any recommendations I missed? Drop a comment below or find me on Instagram @ekomiamiblog, TikTok @ekomiamiblog, Youtube @ekomiamiblog
Nigerians have been banned from participating in the US Visa Lottery for 2022 by the United States government. This was contained in a document, ‘Instructions for the 2022 diversity immigrant visa program (dv-2022)’ obtained from the US Department of States website on Thursday, October 15, 2020, that can be accessed by reading the 19 page document by clicking here.
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The reason given was that because more than 50,000 natives of Nigerians have immigrated to the United States in the previous five years and for DV-2022, persons born in Nigeria is not eligible to apply for the US Visa Lottery for 2022. Other countries affected by the ban apart from Nigeria are Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (including Hong KongSAR), Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories, and Vietnam.
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It should be noted that the only African country affected by the ban is Nigeria. This might also affect foreigners born in Nigeria as well since the document states that persons born in the following countries are not eligible to apply with Nigeria being among the listed countries.
Travel
Nigeria Lifts International Flight Restriction After Barring Several International Airlines From Airspace
The Nigerian Government had earlier postponed the resumption of international flights earlier scheduled for August 29th to September 5th. On Saturday, September 5, 2020, there was joy as the first international, non-essential passenger flight landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, for the first time in over three months. The Middle East Airline (MEA) was the first international flight to land anywhere in Nigeria after the international flight restrictions had been lifted earlier, taking off from Lebanon. President Buhari had in March 2020 suspended international flights due to COVID-19.
Earlier, the Nigerian government had released the list of international airlines denied approval to operate in the country. The Aviation Minister listed some airlines that were denied entry into Nigeria. They include Air France, KLM, Etihad, Rwandair, Lufthansa, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Namibia, and Royal Air Maroc.
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Out of the 10 airlines barred from flying into Nigeria, some like Air Namibia was barred because the country of origin of the airline has not resumed international flights or because there were was no COVID-19 Health Protocols yet for the country. The Aviation Minister gave the reason Airfrance and Lufthansa were not approved was that Swiss visa owners are not allowed entry and the same reason applied to KLM. The aviation minister also noted that passengers who fail to present a valid COVID-19 test or refuse to go for a repeat test may be placed on a travel watch list for six months. The Nigerian government had in August 2020 vowed to implement a reciprocity clause by banning flights and airlines from countries that had put similar bans on flights from Nigeria as nations open their airspace amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The aviation minister said only approved airlines will be allowed into the country’s airspace.
Approved Airlines In Nigeria
Some approved international airlines that have been given approvals to operate within the COVID-19 protocols in Nigeria include Middle-East, British Airways, Delta Airlines, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Egyptair, Air Peace, Virgin Atlantic, Asky, Africa World Airways (AWA), Air Cote-d’Ivoire, Kenya Airways, Emirate, and Turkish airlines.
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Airlines permitted into the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja include British Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian, AWA, and Middle East Airlines while Egyptair, Virgin Atlantic, Turkish Airlines, AWA, Kenya Airways and Middle East Airlines airlines are allowed to operate at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Criteria used in approving or denying operation of the airlines include
- Foreign carrier operator permit: This is a requirement by the law
- Guidelines by COVID-19 Presidential Task Force
- Other guidelines including restrictions that came from other countries that will affect Nigeria operations in Nigeria.
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