THE FOOD !!!Me Before the Party. Dress code was green and orange Party Album. Top Left is the Magnificent hall Album pt 2PARTY
Many times when people write about visiting Africa, it tends to be about a missionary trip. The term ‘Africa’ is usually synonymous with poverty, dirt, corruption and illness. Africa is often portrayed as an uncivilized mass in need of donations. Yes, just like any other nation, there are parts of Africa that could use some help. However, it would be a huge lie to say the entire continent is identical. The Africa I know is bursting with riches, culture, flavor, heritage and opportunity. My Africa is diverse yet united, and I was grateful to learn about it last summer.
As I stepped off the Delta Airlines plane and my foot touched African soil, the sweet aroma of fresh buns quickly filled my nostrils. My ears were engaged to the various languages and dialects Nigeria has to offer along with the infamous honking of cars. It sounded as if the drivers were musicians, and they were performing with the horns, their prized possession. My eyes were blinded by the bright colors and prints from the traditional attires, and my skin was glistening as the warm sunshine smiled down at me. I was in the real Africa.
After arriving in Lagos on that June afternoon, one of my uncle’s drivers drove us to his house. In Africa, any male older than you is your uncle and for females, aunty. Doing so unites us as a family. At his house we were greeted by the gatekeeper; notice I said house, not hut. African houses are built with bricks and cement for durability. The style of a home is selected by the owners, so the number of bedrooms can range from one to fifty. My uncle’s house had ten bedrooms, four restrooms, a built in pool and was completely fenced. Every African home is also equipped with a maid, driver and gatekeeper. The great part is this way of living is available to medium income families; one doesn’t have to be rich to live luxuriously. I believe ‘house’ is an understatement, and the term ‘mansion’ plays a better fit.
Later that week, my family was invited to a birthday party of a mutual friend at which I learned more about the real Africa. Africans love to celebrate every/ any accomplishment; what’s life without celebrations? When I reached the location, I was in disbelief. The celebrants rented a party hall called “Jade Hall” part of The Atrium in Port Harcourt. The hall was beyond magnificent; it was color-coordinated and fully decorated. There were DJs, entertainers, servers and about 800 guests; there also wasn’t a fee for admission. The catering was glorious; there were fried plantains (dodo), okra soup, assorted meats and fishes, a variety of rice: jollof, fried and white, pounded yam , yam porridge, amala, eba, asaro, akara, meat pie, and much more. My favorite was suya; it tastes like pork chop but with a ton of ground pepper and fresh onions. The people were varying shades of brown and had hair ranging from tight and curly to flowing and straight. The attire was also breathtaking; the women donned expensive gold jewelry with dresses that sparkled with shiny stones and shoes from Italy. The men showed off their designer accessories and advanced technology. It was completely different from what I expected.
My trip to Nigeria exposed the Africa that is never portrayed. A trip like this is needed for everyone In order to expand one’s knowledge from stereotypes. I witnessed a glowing and happy Africa. I witnessed an Africa full of prosperity and life. That is the real Africa; the one I call home.
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0 Replies to “The Africa They DON’T Tell You About”
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There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
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This is such helpful information! Traveling with minors can get complicated, and having all the required documents ready makes the process so much smoother. Thanks for breaking it down so clearly!
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I haven’t checked in here for a while as I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my daily bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
I had the chance to experience Denmark during the Christmas season, and it’s something I’ll always hold close to my heart. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen felt like stepping into a storybook. The way the entire park was dressed in soft, glowing lights, handmade decorations, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air made every moment feel special.
There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
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This article is incredibly informative and well-structured. It offers clear, practical guidance on a topic many travelers often overlook—traveling with minors. The detailed breakdown of required documents and the emphasis on consent letters provide much-needed clarity for parents and guardians planning a trip. A must-read for anyone traveling with children!
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Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like this before. So good to search out anyone with some unique thoughts on this subject. realy thanks for starting this up. this website is one thing that’s needed on the internet, someone with a bit originality. helpful job for bringing one thing new to the internet!
Thank you for such praise, I am glad I could present the material in a way that made you want to see and experience St. Augustine’s Black history for yourself.
Of course, this beach town has lots more to offer but if you are willing to walk the lanes and dig a little bit, the history of the first Blacks and how much they contributed to protecting the colony is fascinating.
Hope you get there and enjoy your trip.
Your trip sounds absolutely incredible! Lisbon is truly a magical city, and your experience during the EuroCup must have made it even more special. If anyone reading this is planning a trip to Lisbon, I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to explore the city’s rich history, charming streets, and hidden gems with a local guide. You can check out this great option: https://www.guruwalk.com/lisbon. It’s a fantastic way to get an insider’s perspective on the city!
It’s iin reality a great and helpful piece oof info.
I’m satisfied that you shared this helpful information with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing
Great content for cruise lovers !! One of the most advantage of cruising is you do not have to pick your luggages every day , and every day you discover a new country. Although one day is not enough to see everything it gives an idea about a country ! With my experience since 2007, 99,9% of my guest said that Kusadasi/Turkey is their favorite port among all the other ports. Because we have a lot of options for every traveler. The most popular places , if your ship is docking at Kusadasi, is Ephesus ancient city which is only 25 min. drive away. Ephesus was the 4th largest ancient city of the world in 2 c AD.Most of the ruins are reconstructed and gives an idea about Roman’ glorious times. If you ever visit Ephesus, I suggest you to see Terrace Houses , where the rich were living and houses are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes from 3rd c AD.If you want to add a spiritual break , thats House of Virgin Mary is there. It is believed that she was taken by St. John the apostle to there.Another place you must see Ephesus Museum.. Forget all that boring museums you have seen . While guiding , I explain the most interesting artifacts , including original staue of Artemis. BTW. did you know that one of seven wonders of ancient world was located there? Well… not so much left , but it is still worth to be seen. If you ever visit Kusadasi,and want to have private tour, please feel free to contact with me ! I am very happy to answer your questions and customize your trip to Ephesus. Please visit my website,not only for Ephesus trip but also to get an idea about my beloved country Turkey/Turkiye. You can see different types of tours that I organize. Archaeological , culinary or lets customize your tour to Turkey together!! luxurytoursofturkey.com/