Nwaanyi Ije

Here Comes the Sun , But Will It Shine on These Women?

April 12, 2024

Ah! brace yourself! Prepare to embark on a whirlwind journey of a heart gripping tale of love and woe, struggles with self esteem, survival and the abandonment of marginalized communities by their governments in “Here Comes the Sun.”

This book was recommended to me by the ever wonderful OpinionsOfaBookLover, who is simply brilliant at recommending interesting reads. She goes through the fluff so you don’t have to. Thanks Sis!

In the vibrant setting of Montego Bay, Jamaica, Dennis-Benn immerses us in the lives of her characters residing in the River Bank shanty town. Through their stories, she unveils the raw reality of Jamaican life, peeling back layers beyond the picturesque facade of tourist attractions. With unflinching honesty, Dennis-Benn delves into themes of race, class, sexuality, and gender, painting a compelling portrait of the complexities that shape the island’s society.

“Here Comes the Sun” revolves around the dynamic of a family: Delores, the mother, along with her daughters Margot and Thandi, with Margot being the elder sibling. Their narrative not only exposes the harsh realities of poverty within the black Jamaican community but also delves into the profound effects of colorism and the exploitation of women within the tourist industry.

There’s a pithy saying that “morality is a luxury good”, indeed Margot’s character exemplifies this notion. As a determined young woman, she grapples with life’s challenges, striving to break free from the constraints of poverty and patriarchy. On the flip side, Thandi serves as a reminder of the importance of allowing children to experience their own struggles and hardships.

The stoic advice on parenting & children is to “understand that your children are their own persons, with unique thoughts, experiences, and desires. They must find their own way in life, and it may not always align with your vision”

Delores, on the contrary, is a character I struggle to extend forgiveness to. While it’s often said that hurt people hurt others, there’s no justification for a mother who robs her child of innocence under the guise of financial struggles. The narrative vividly illustrates the cycle of generational trauma, handed down from Grandma Merle to Delores, and then to Margot.

I found Verdene to be a highly dispensable character. It was challenging to justify her significance to the overall plot. Despite having a strong bond with her mother, the backstory didn’t suggest a particularly close relationship that warranted her complete abandonment of her life in England to return to her mother’s house in Jamaica. There, she endured being treated like a leper, encountered continuous hostility, and had no source of income except for the insurance money left by her mother.

From the exploitation of women in the tourist industry to the devastating impact of colorism on the lives of black Jamaicans, Here Comes the Sun exposes the ugly underbelly of paradise with vivid clarity that is both heartbreaking and illuminating.

For Bibliotherapy:

If you don’t understand what Bibliotherapy is, you can go ahead to read my post about it here.

We will explore the themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom through this book which offers insights and lessons that can resonate with us on our own personal journeys.

Identity and Self-discovery
- As we follow Margot, Thandi, and Delores on their journey, we come face to face with the complexities of identity. Margot navigates her sexuality and desires, while Thandi battles with her self-esteem in a society that idolizes values Eurocentric beauty norms.
- Think back to those moments in the book where characters wrestles grappling with their identities. How did their struggles resonate with your own journey of self-discovery?
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
- You can’t help but be moved by the resilience shown by the characters in “Here Comes the Sun” when life throws them curveballs. Just look at Charles – despite the odds stacked against him, he never gave up. He drew strength from his love for Thandi and his unwavering determination to carve out a better future.
- Reflect on moments in your own life when you’ve had to dig deep and summon resilience in tough times. What tactics did you use to overcome obstacles? And how can you draw inspiration from the characters in the book to navigate your own challenges?
Pursuit of Freedom and Liberation
- At its heart, “Here Comes the Sun” is all about the quest for freedom and breaking free from the shackles of society. Margot dreams of escaping the confines of poverty and patriarchy, while Thandi seeks to defy colorism and societal expectations. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder to fight for our own freedom and agency, no matter the obstacles.
- Think about those pivotal moments in the book where characters boldly pursued liberation. How can you channel their courage and determination into your own pursuit of freedom?

Whether you’re embracing who you truly are, finding strength when life gets tough, or chasing after your dreams of freedom and liberation, I hope this book sparks inspiration and empowers you on your journey of healing and self-discovery. Always remember, you’re not alone, and your story is important—it’s worth sharing with the world.

Until our next conversation,

Nwaanyi Ije

Shaped by Our Past, Healed by Stories: A Look at “The Housebroken Women”

April 10, 2024

I got sent this book by the author to review and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect when I saw the book cover but my curiosity was piqued because what story could be told about four housebroken women?

The plot delves into the raw and complex realities of four women: Itunu, Stephanie, Ekomobong, and Rose, each navigating their own struggles and aspirations in a world that demands conformity and perfection.

King’s strength lies in her ability to craft characters that feel achingly real. One might perceive Itunu as ungrateful for having a husband who showers her with gifts and money, Ekomobong as selfish for wanting to have her cake and eat it too with Alex, Rose as a spineless doormat under Ike, or Stephanie as a wannabe social climber. However, fate is neither a wicked goddess nor a benevolent deity; it just is.

Sometimes in life, we consider ourselves to be better than our neighbours in one way or another, but this book holds a mirror to our faces, showing that especially as women, we share more in common than we might think, education and pedigree notwithstanding.

Beneath the public personas we present are our real selves, flaws and humanity exposed. The biggest takeaway from this book is that we should all have more compassion for ourselves and for others.

The book is available for purchase here.

For Bibliotherapy:

If you don’t understand what Bibliotherapy is, you can go ahead to read my post about it here.

We don’t choose our families or childhoods, yet they profoundly impact who we become.

In a world that favors strength, grit, and hustle culture, admitting emotional damage feels like weakness. Self-awareness is the first step towards personal change, and bibliotherapy provides a window into others’ experiences, helping us to better understand our own challenges.

This novel goes beyond physical abuse, revealing the scars left by verbal attacks and unmet needs. Rose, once vibrant, withers under Ike’s constant belittling. Brume’s self-esteem crumbles under his materialistic wife’s relentless criticism.

More importantly, the book explores how parenting styles ripple through generations. Ekomobong’s inability to confront her past prevents her from being the mother her child desperately needs. We also see how Rose’s clinging to a broken marriage hinders her child’s development, while Jamike’s mistreatment of Itunu drives their son to a desperate act, out of fear of turning out just like his father.

“The Housebroken Women” reminds us that self-awareness in parenting is crucial. It also highlights the power of stories to illuminate our choices and the importance of loving others for who they truly need to be loved, not how we expect them to be.

By acknowledging our emotional wounds and learning from others’ struggles, we can break free from the past and build a brighter future. Ultimately, it’s up to us to be aware of our own choices, the impact they have on our lives, and learn to love people in the way they truly need.

Until our next conversation,

Nwaanyi Ije

Finding Purpose in Unexpected Places: A Gentleman in Moscow Review

April 2, 2024

If there ever was a book that could transport you effortlessly through time and space, “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles is it. From the moment I picked up this novel, I found myself immersed in the captivating world of Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov, a man sentenced to house arrest in Moscow’s Metropol Hotel in the wake of the Russian Revolution. And let me tell you, dear readers, what a journey it was!

Towles’ writing style is nothing short of exquisite. With prose so rich and evocative, you can practically smell the scent of freshly baked pastries wafting through the hotel’s corridors and feel the chill of the Russian winter creeping in. Every page is a delight to read, drawing you deeper into the opulent yet confining world of the Metropol Hotel.

But it’s not just the setting that makes this book so enthralling; it’s the characters. Count Rostov is a true gentleman in every sense of the word – witty, charming, and possessing a quiet resilience that is simply admirable. As we follow him through the years of his house arrest, we are treated to a cast of unforgettable characters, from the precocious Nina to the enigmatic Anna Urbanova, each adding their own layer of intrigue to the story.

What struck me most about “A Gentleman in Moscow” is its exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Despite being confined to the walls of the hotel, Count Rostov manages to find beauty and meaning in every moment, teaching us valuable lessons about grace, resilience, and the importance of human connection.

In conclusion, “A Gentleman in Moscow” is a literary masterpiece that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of exquisite prose, or simply someone in search of a damn good story, this book is not to be missed. So do yourself a favor and embark on this enchanting journey through time – you won’t regret it.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

For Bibliotherapy:

If you don’t understand what Bibliotherapy is, you can go ahead to read my post about it here.

This book is best for people who are at a crossroad in life, whether some midlife crises, dealing with frustration in their personal life, career, a loss of status/identity coupled with economic upheaval.

There’s no shortage of difficulties in the human existence but then, we are, because these three virtues, faith, hope and charity have assisted and carried man through the most harrowing times.

Life is full of struggles but alas, as long as there’s movement, there’s almost always light at the end of the tunnel. In the first few years that Count Rostov was imprisoned in the Metropol hotel, he took it in stride but later was on the verge of committing suicide. By some divine providence which he allowed lead him, he found love, true friendship, a sense of purpose and even a daughter, all in a restricted space, proving that perseverance can lead to a bright future.

Let us learn from Count Rostov and persevere in the face of adversity. Our existence adds color to the world, and we should rejoice and be glad in our days, even if it may seem like our lives are confined and limited.

With Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

March 17, 2024

This book literally held me by my neck until I was done reading.

I didn’t want to drop it!

Its captivating storytelling ensnared me in a web of intrigue and emotion, compelling me to stay engaged until the very end.

If there was anything greater than 5 stars, I’d give it to this book. Wilkerson’s masterful narrative skill effortlessly guides readers through the intricate lives of the book’s diverse characters, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

We can actually learn a lot about real life from reading fiction.

One important lesson I took away from this book is the importance of having conversations with your loved ones no matter how difficult the level. It does take two people to build and mend a relationship but when the two aggrieved parties are full of pride and ego waiting for one or the other to reach out and apologise, days, months then years go by and the chasm that ruptured the relationship gets wider.

Another lesson is that we also can never truly know what kind of hurts/burdens that people carry, that’s why “Be Kind” is just not a suggestion.

It was sad that Covey didn’t get to know what really happened to her mother but thankfully for us readers, we had some sort of closure 😄.

The most compelling aspect of “Black Cake” was its portrayal of the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the weight of their pasts, Wilkerson’s characters found redemption in the bonds of family and community, offering a message of hope and healing in the face of adversity.

Thumbs up to Charmaine once again for such spectacular writing. I wish her more successful publications. If you want to get lost in a book, I’d recommend you pick this up and read. Instagram review is right here.

With Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

Exploring Paradise: My Unforgettable Summer in Cape Verde (2)

July 5, 2023

Welcome to part 2 of my Cape Verdean Adventures. If you haven’t already read part 1, I suggest you do that here.

Now time for some tourism!!!

CAMPO DA MORTE LENTA (THE CAMP OF SLOW DEATH)

The most famous concentration camp is Auschwitz in Germany, but there was also one in Tarrafal (located in the village of Chão Bom) called the “Slow Death Camp,” where political prisoners from the liberation movements in Angola, Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, and some anti-fascists from Portugal were sent.

The harsh conditions of the camp were meant to demonstrate that the repression would be taken to the extreme, as expressed in a famous quote from Esmeraldo Pais, the field service physician: “I am not here to heal, but to sign death certificates.”

NATURE CONSERVATION

When it comes to biodiversity conservation, the people of Cape Verde did not come to play! I love the way they take conserving nature so seriously, whether flora, fauna or land and sea resources. Every country should follow their example and prioritise conservation efforts!

THE TREE OF LIFE

In Park Poiläo, near the village of Boa Entrada, stands the tallest tree in Cape Verde, a Kapok tree also called “The Tree of Life” because no one knows its origin. The tree is more than 500 years old, while some claim it is up to a thousand years old.

Descending from the serene heights of the Tree of Life, we bought some mangoes grown everywhere in the fertile valley lands of Boa Entrada. We also stopped for some grilled corn along the way. Although I’m generally not a fan of grilled corn and prefer boiled, like everything in Cape Verde, the corn was very sweet and not too hard on the enamel.

ESPAÇO PAJUDO

For lunch, we visited Espaço Padjudo where I enjoyed some cold kriola (local beer) along with bread and meat. My tour guide had Kaxhupa, which to Cape Verdeans is like rice to Nigerians—it’s the most ubiquitous meal in the country.

ESPINHO BRANCO VILLAGE

The Rabelados, only surviving native indigenous tribe of Cape Verde, still adhere to traditional religious practices. They were among the groups that revolted against the Portuguese colonialists and the Catholic Church, isolating themselves from the rest of society to preserve their culture.

In recent years, they have become more open to the outside world and more accepting of some Western influences. The population of the village, where the largest community of Rabelados currently resides, is less than a thousand, and more efforts are being made to preserve their traditional way of life. They primarily engage in agriculture, fishing, and handicrafts, but unfortunately, they have been without a community chief since 2010, resulting in the cessation of some traditional practices.

Nwaanyi Ije and a local Cabo Verdean artisr

Despite the language barrier, I had a very enjoyable time being shown around by a village inhabitant. She kindly played some music for me with traditional pipes, and I purchased a beautiful traditional painting (Rabel Arte) from her.

BEACH, BOATS, BONFIRES AND BARBEQUE

If I could, I would spend all my time on a boat on the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Verde. Interestingly, at night, I observed many boats scattered on the ocean where private citizens either launched to sea because they preferred the gentle rocking of the ocean to the sturdiness of land, or fishermen hoped to get a good catch at the crack of dawn.

Cape Verde provided me with many first-time experiences. It was my first time fishing on the ocean, actually catching a fish, and my first time seeing a black sand beach.

Away from the picturesque mountain views and sandy beach of my hotel in Tarrafal, I found solace in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, where I had a blast frolicking on pebbly cave beds, picking sea shells, and singing to myself as our boat sailed along. At one point, the profile of the only active volcano on Fogo Island was visible from the ocean.

One scheduled activity was fishing, and my tour guide handed me a line with some fish guts to be used as a lure. I flung the line into the ocean and patiently waited for the bait to attract a bite. Before long, a good-sized Muraena fish took the bait. I was informed that such a catch would fetch about $10 in the market. The fish was taken to a nice restaurateur on the shore, where it was cleaned, grilled, and served to us with some local beer for lunch.

My last night in Cape Verde was spent around a bonfire with local fishermen who barbecued some fresh fish caught during the day. We swapped stories, drank some local rum, and gazed at the starry skies while singing and clapping

FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO IN CAPE VERDE

1. Dancing on the beach

2. Eating Mango Ice Cream

3. Street Art

4. Warm and very friendly people

5. The clear waters

The official currency of Cabo Verde is called Escudo, they’re some of the most colourful notes I’ve seen. 1 escudo equals 100 centavos.

Point to Note: The Unofficial motto of Cape Verde is “No Stress”.

P.S. “Don’t forget to always wear sunscreen as life in Cape Verde is more outdoors than indoors

STREET ART/MURALS

Below are some pictures I took of beautiful street murals in Tarrafal

Street mural of Cape Verde first prime minster

Street mural of some prominent African leaders

Street mural of a local Cape Verdean man

Until next time from your top guide in fine living.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

Exploring Paradise: My Unforgettable Summer in Cape Verde (1)

July 5, 2023

Call it Cape Verde, Cap Vert, or Cabo Verde, whichever variation you choose, Chills, Enjoyment, and Relaxation are the three top thoughts that come to mind when considering this island destination.

Cape Verde encompasses 10 islands: Santiago, Fogo, Maio, Brava; Boa Vista, Sal, São Vicente, Santo Antão, São Nicolau, and Santa Luzia (which is uninhabited). I visited Santiago, the largest of all 10 islands. Fun fact: Fogo still hosts an active volcano, with the last eruption occurring in 2014.

Travellers, be warned: I encountered some of the nastiest immigration officers during my visit. Even American immigration, known for its strictness, didn’t exhibit such a negative attitude. An immigration officer accosted me, practically holding my phone hostage, and demanded that I recite my itinerary and hotel reservations from memory. Furthermore, she made me count about $1,000 in cash in her presence to ensure I had “sufficient funds” for my trip.

After clearing immigration, I expressed extreme annoyance to my tour guide, informing him that due to the negative encounter, I have no desire to revisit their country after leaving Senegal, where I had the best time. He acknowledged that I wasn’t the first to complain about their attitude but mentioned it’s a frequent feedback from his foreign clients.

KAZA KAXHUPA

Upon landing at Praia International airport, we felt famished, so we headed into town to dine at Kaza Katxupa, a place named after the country’s most famous dish “Katxhupa”. Katxhupa is a slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, cassava, sweet potato, and your choice of fish or meat (sausage, pork, beef, goat, or chicken), which can be served either dry or wet. It’s recommended to enjoy it as a stew, so please keep that in mind if you decide to try the dish.

My tour guide and I embarked on our journey to Tarrafal, which was the main destination for my vacation. Exhausted, I slept throughout the car ride after engaging in some polite conversation.

The drive from Praia to Tarrafal takes about an hour and 30 minutes by car. One aspect of Cape Verde that I strongly disliked was the long winding roads made of pebbles around the mountains. With the country enveloped by mountains, little can be done about the winding roads, but I wished my head didn’t shake like a rattlesnake’s tail on the cobblestone roads.

Tourists should note that many countries now impose a tourist tax for each day spent in a hotel. Please factor this into your budget if you intend to visit Cape Verde. I stayed at ALFÂNDEGA SUITES which was very very close to the ocean (and I absolutely loved it!).

The windows of my hotel room offered the most picturesque views of a mountain feeding into the clouds and the ocean kissing the beach. I could have stayed there longer. The views significantly boosted my mental health, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of Lagos, where I currently reside.

Side note: Cape Verdeans have an insane love of sugar, which sometimes made eating very unenjoyable for me. I experienced eating a sweet baguette for the first time in my life in Cape Verde. If you’re looking for food tourism, Cape Verde is not the location for you; come here for the views and water sports because the food might disappoint you.

More adventures exploring paradise in Cape Verde coming up in next blog post.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

Everything in Senegal is beautiful!

June 30, 2023

Everything in Senegal is beautiful! My colleague had raved about Dakar, but I never imagined falling so deeply for this vibrant city. I would move to Dakar in a heartbeat if the opportunity presents itself.

I honestly can’t tell you what I loved the most about Senegal because the whole country looks like a sequoia filter. The landscape so beautiful, amazing art doting every corner, really really really good food, friendly people and fantastic music.

Of course there are always bad eggs who want to take advantage of tourists, just like the taxi man who demanded I give him money when I decided not to go with his taxi again, his reason being that he had already put my luggage in his car boot even though we had not yet gone anywhere. He hadn’t even started his car! Yet insisted that I give him 1,000 CFA for no service rendered, while the previously agreed fare was 3,000 CFA. So of course, the Lagosian in me had to jump out to show him small craze, but generally, the Senegalese are a fine breed.

Camel Market

I started my exploration with Camel market. You’d find the freshest vegetables, seafood and meat in this market. Just make sure you go early enough. The sight of monkfish flying off the shelves surprised me. I wouldn’t have guessed this “ugly” fish was such a hit, but apparently, taste buds trump looks!

Gorée Island

Stepping onto Gorée Island was like stepping back in time, Portuguese presence etched in every stone. But nothing could prepare me for the raw power of the Point of No Return. Standing there, the weight of history pressed down, a sobering reminder of the human cost of colonialism.

Nwaanyi Ije at Door of No Return — Door of No Return

Many countries with a history of slavery especially in West Africa all have different points of no return. And honestly, there’s still some eerie feeling in those places like the ghosts of embittered slaves roaming around restless. I remember when I visited the point of no return in Badagry, Lagos Nigeria. The paranormal atmosphere sent shivers down my spine, and I couldn’t get out of there fast enough. I needed to escape the creepy vibes and find some peace. May the souls of all enslaved people rest in peace. Amen 🙏🏾

African Renaissance Monument

My next visit was to African Renaissance Monument and honestly, that structure is humongous! And very very beautiful too. Determined to leave a lasting legacy, the Senegalese sought a monument that would endure for centuries and embody the spirit of Africa. North Korea, responding to their vision, gifted them with this magnificent structure. Interestingly enough, at the inauguration of the statue, many African countries did not attend because of their allegiance to the United States as the US has North Korea on its black list. While this is understandable, I also thought it was very silly because it’s just a monument? Why wouldn’t you attend the unveiling of such an important piece of art on the African continent for all Africans just because it was a gift from North Korea? I still think it’s the silliest thing.

Mosque of Divinity

Close to the African Renaissance Monument and guided by a heavenly vision, a Guru’s dream planted the seed for the Mosque of Divinity. Today, its towering minarets pierce the sky near the African Renaissance Monument, a testament to the enduring power of faith and the transformative touch of dreams. He rallied the religious to build the mosque according to the vision he had and at the same spot. The members of the community built the mosque themselves, working entirely on a volunteer basis. Nobody received any payment for their involvement in the construction.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories

Here’s me at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories. Would’ve loved to attend mass here but unfortunately didn’t have enough time.

One thing I very much liked about Dakar is how safe it felt. Of course there’s crime everywhere but the feeling of safety as a foreigner is priceless, especially as a woman foreigner. The Senegalese government operates on the principle of knowing and understanding each individual within its society. There’s a district officer in every section of town where before you get employment or even open a bank account, you’d have to get proof of address from the district officer. So everyone basically knows everybody, which helps keep crime rate low.

Culinary Delights!!!

Now to the most fun part: Food!!! Senegalese cuisine is so delightful! I’m not exactly sure why Nigerians and Ghanaians take pride in their jollof wars because none comes close to Senegalese jollof rice. The Senegalese have won two hands up with their Thieboudienne. I couldn’t eat enough of it. Made with the freshest ingredients and very wonderfully plated.

Thieboudienne and White Rice with Peanut Stew

Everything in Senegal is an art, even if you were just going to eat at a food shack down the road. They take plating of food very seriously. Every meal is a celebration! I ate the best Thiébou Yapp at Chez Loutcha. Started by a Cabo Verdian woman and now run by the 3rd generation, you’ll find locals here during lunch hour in Dakar.

One thing that surprised me a lot was how much the Senegalese ate. These people can eat! And shockingly, they still remain thin as broomsticks but that’s because as much as they eat, they also take exercising very seriously. In the evenings you’ll see everyone, woman, man, old and young people doing various forms of exercises. I absolutely love it!

My tour guide and I went to a seafood shack where we picked out clams, shellfish, murex and mussels to be eaten. I shocked myself by finishing a whole bowl of the seafood I’d picked and still had room for some grilled fish, tiger prawns, fries and plantain. So delicious!

Griled grouper fish, tiger prawns and fries

I also enjoyed some fresh coconut water straight from the coconut. And then it was time to visit Plage de la Pointes des Almadies is the westernmost tip of Africa and Dakar if you look at the map. The place gave me some great pictures.

Next stop was Phare des Mamelles or Mamelles Lighthouse where the caretaker was kind enough to turn on and spin the light for me (a powerful 1000 halogen watts).

Ngor Island!!!

In the spirit of ecological preservation, this island is not electrified. While the island lacks a central grid, some residents embrace renewable energy, harnessing the sun’s power to illuminate their homes. Akon, the Senegalese-American music star also has a house there. Vive la Senegal! I enjoyed some serenity watching the waves beat on rocks from the hills on this island.

Sandanga Market

A visit to Dakar is never complete without some shopping. Visited Sandanga Market for some beautiful clothes and Soumbédioune market to buy bags and some lovely art. If you want amazing clothes for men and women then look no further than Ndiambour Couture et Textile. Abdou (+ 221 78 186 40 82) will be very glad to assist. They ship internationally too. I got the most amazing boubous from them

In Soumbédioune market and artisan village, the relentless hustle of the artisans, urging me to buy their wares, wore down my initial understanding of their non-aggressive policy. I couldn’t help but feel pressured and uncomfortable.

cross section of bags at Soumboudioune market

cross section of paintings at Soumboudioune

Art Galleries

Popular art galleries I visited were Galarie Arte and Loman Art House.

I loved Loman Art House more because it wasn’t just a regular art gallery but an actual art house. Loman Pawlitschek, a remarkable artist with no professional training, has transformed her house into a living gallery. Each room is a unique masterpiece, and I had the pleasure of meeting this lovely lady and marveling at her creations. Loman art house is also a guest house and has a cafe. So if you’re ever in Dakar and want to stay in a place that looks like an artist heaven, Loman Art House is the place for you.

Outside Loman Art House — Loman Art House

Jus de Bouye (Baobab Juice) and Jus de Bissap (Bissap Juice)

Baobab trees are everywhere in Senegal and I mean everywhere! Embodying the spirit of Senegal, they serve as the nation’s chosen symbol, revered by its people. And true to character, the use of baobab is ubiquitous, from cooking to cosmetics. One of my favourite things to drink in Dakar was Jus de Bouye (Baobab Juice) and Jus de Bissap (Bissap Juice) combined.

Bissap is also called Zobo in Nigeria and Sobolo in Ghana. But like everything Senegalese, I definitely prefer the taste of their Bissap. The drink always soothed my parched throat after a long day of touring.

Below is bissap chocolate and baobab lip balm.

And of course, no visit to another country is complete without perusing the different snacks they have in that country. Below is a picture of some snacks sold in a supermarket in Dakar.

My trip to Dakar was a 10 over 10 over 10. I didn’t believe it was that possible to fall so much in love with a city at first visit, but Dakar truly stole my heart.

My heart has already booked its return ticket to this captivating city. With its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and soul-stirring beauty, Senegal is a bloom-inducing paradise I can’t wait to revisit and share with anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure.

P.S. My tour guide – Pape Ndiaye was completely amazing. Please book him for your upcoming trips to Senegal @Visit-Senegal.

Until next time, from your top guide in fine living.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

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Bogobiri House

May 1, 2023

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Bogobiri House located in the heart of the Ikoyi is authentic African art scene in the heart of IkoLagos with a place to rest your head, fill your stomachs and listen to sonorous music. What more could you ask for?

Inside Bogobiri. Scuplted chairs and table

What first catches your eye about Bogobiri is the heavy afro-centric art all round sourced locally in Nigeria, from the sculptures at the entrance down to the chairs, tables and even the lighting casing.

It is a 16-room boutique hotel with an art gallery and a restaurant. There’s live music on certain days of the week as well as comedic performances.

Bogobiri entrance - yellow date and graffiti wall

Do stop by if you want something different to do in Lagos.

Until next time, from your top guide in fine living.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

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Rapjoint Lagos

July 12, 2022

Website | Instagram

Ever heard of a hiphop cultural centre before? Let alone one in Lagos? No? Ok, come and let me introduce you to Rapjoint Lagos (@rapjointlagos) located at 4 Norman Williams St, Ikoyi.

A haven serving music nostalgia and modern tastes, Rapjoint Lagos serves your mind and your belly. From the eye-catching wall mural featuring music legends like Notorious B.I.G and Fela to a compendium of books, CDs and tapes in cassette players, walking into this space is sure to fill you with a sense of calm and a feeling of happiness especially if you’re a music/book buff.

The books are available for sale but considering that all fingers are not equal, it is allowed for one to sit and read any book of your choice to your heart’s content.

Inanimate objects though lovely aren’t the only thing that contributes to a pleasant atmosphere, the most important ingredient is the people who give a good vibe or not to the place and the founders of Rapjoint did a fantastic job in picking their staff. I had just wanted to breeze in and out but spent over an hour in great conversation with the staff especially Aderonke, talking about everything and anything.

I loved the staff uniforms featuring black dungarees over a white shirt which contributed to the hiphop vibe of Rapjoint. Rapjoint also has a well-curated menu with items paying homage to fallen music acts like Dagrin.

I left with some very happy book purchases and will definitely stop by again.

Until next time, from your top guide in fine living.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije

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The Adeline Gallery (TAG)

July 10, 2022

TAG | Instagram

An art gallery with a knowledgeable and interesting curator is always a delight to the guest.

On my visit to @theadelinegallery (TAG), I had simply thought to quickly hop in and hop out but wound up having close to an hour’s conversation with the curator, a very wonderful lady with much pride in her work.

As inside any art gallery worth their salt, alluring pieces dotted TAG from one corner to the other but my favourite pieces were China Achebe’s bust and a wooden sculpture from Epe which is about 100 years old. I will definitely return for another visit and recommend as one of the art galleries to visit while in Lagos.

Until next time, from your top guide in fine living.

Love,

Nwaanyi Ije