Abidjan

Abidjan: A city of contrasts

Abidjan is a city of contrasts. It is a bustling metropolis with a rich culture and history, but it is also a city with its fair share of challenges. Despite these challenges, it is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Abidjan is the main financial centre of French West Africa, although is not the capital of Ivory Coast.

If you are planning a trip, here are a few things to see and do:

Visit the Plateau

The Plateau is the central business district and is home to many of the city's most important landmarks, including the St. Paul's Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the National Assembly. It is also a great place to people-watch and experience the hustle and bustle of Abidjan's city centre.

Take a walk along the Corniche

The Corniche is a long seaside promenade that is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a great place to enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and watch the world go by.

Visit the Cocody Market

The Cocody Market is one of the largest markets in Abidjan and is a great place to experience the city's vibrant culture. The market sells everything from fresh produce to handicrafts to clothing. It is also a great place to try some of the cities delicious street food.

Explore the Banco National Park

The Banco National Park is a rainforest park located just outside of Abidjan. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, chimpanzees, and crocodiles. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a bit of nature.

Visit the Musée National de Côte d'Ivoire

The Musée National de Côte d'Ivoire is a museum dedicated to the history and culture. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the country's pre-colonial and colonial periods. It is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Côte d'Ivoire.

Enjoy the nightlife in Abidjan

Abidjan has a vibrant nightlife scene with something to offer everyone. There are bars and clubs to suit all tastes, from trendy rooftop bars to lively nightclubs. If you are looking for a night out on the town, this is the place to be.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Abidjan:

• Abidjan is a relatively safe city, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Avoid walking alone at night and be careful with your belongings in crowded areas.
• It has a tropical climate, so it is important to pack light and comfortable clothing. Be sure to also pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Abidjan is a francophone city, so it is helpful to know a few basic French phrases. However, many people in Abidjan speak English, so you should be able to get by even if you don't speak French.
• Abidjan is a relatively expensive city, so it is important to budget accordingly. Be sure to factor in the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Here are some specific activities that you can do in Abidjan:

• Visit the St. Paul's Cathedral: The St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Abidjan. It is a beautiful cathedral with a unique design.
• Take a boat trip to Assinie Mafia: Assinie Mafia is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Abidjan. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach.
• Visit the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire: The Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire is a museum dedicated to the traditional cultures of Côte d'Ivoire. It is a great place to learn more about the country's rich cultural heritage.
• Go shopping at the Marché de Treichville: The Marché de Treichville is one of the largest markets in Abidjan. It is a great place to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing.
• Enjoy a night out at Le Loft: Le Loft is one of the most popular nightclubs in Abidjan. It is a great place to dance and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

Abidjan is a city with something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Abidjan.