Common things to avoid in Lagos
Are you a Tourist or in for business? Welcome to the commercial nerve of Nigeria! A city with a growing population of over 21 million people is the second fastest growing city in Africa. Lagos, also called by ”Eko”, is a home of businesses and many tribes. The city is regarded as no man’s land because of how it accommodates people from different culture – who all make a living in Lagos. However, its size and scope can make it a challenge and sometimes, you are faced with certain experiences that make you wonder at a traveler’s love with such an elusive town.
To avoid these experiences, we at Marble Brand Hotel present a list of things you should avoid in Lagos.
Put your wallet in your wallet: While most Lagosians are nice and helpful there are always folks looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists (and locals!). Never place your wallet in your back pocket, as you are bound to lose it – sometimes without even knowing.
Be smart, use common sense and keep an eye on your wallet is, particularly when you’re in crowded places such as Obalande, Oshodi and Ikeja, Balogun market.
Pay a hawker before collecting the purchase
Despite the ban by the state government, the traffic in Lagos ensures that there are hawkers lurking around to meet the needs of stressed and tired commuters.
If you are looking to buy anything from a hawker, never give them the cash before you receive the item as there is a huge chance they will disappear with your cash and the item. Also, if they need to give you some change after purchase, do not hand them the cash. Instead, ask them to return with the change you need before you make the purchase.
Try to cut in line
With so many amazing things to do in Lagos, sooner or later you are going to have to wait in a line. Whether you’re queuing up to snag rush movie tickets, trying to grab a meal at a popular eatery or waiting to use an ATM in a shopping mall, you are going to have to wait along with everyone else.
If you stealthily try to make it to the front, you will be caught and blessed with the wrath of a crowd of scary, impatient Lagosians…and this is not something you want to deal with.
Taste street food with no intention to buy
In some part of the country, street vendors will encourage you to have a taste of what they are selling, even if they know you may not end up buying.
Some people actually eat to their fill by tasting street food from numerous vendors. However, in Lagos, if you are going to taste it, you better be prepared to pay for a portion, even if it is as small as 50 Naira worth. Most street vendors will reign insults and curses on you, while some other will take a step further and cause an embarrassing scene if you refuse to make a purchase.
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