Former capital and the present de facto capital of Ivory Coast, Abidjan is also the largest city of the country. A banking hub and a commercial centre and also a very busy port, the city is located in the Ebrie Lagoon on various converging peninsulas and islands which are connected by bridges. The name of the place was earlier Abijean and this too has been given accidentally. Around 4 million people reside in this city and this figure has increased further due to inflow of people following the war that happened in September 2002. The city also has the highest non-African population even when it is as low as 3%. Plateau is the central part of the city which is also the business district. There are ten communes in the city and also major industries are located here like food processing, coffee, cocoa, lumber, etc.
Abidjan Weather
The dry period in Abidjan is from the months from November to February which are dry and cool. However, rainy months from May to October give better pictures to those who do not mind the water and enjoy the time. December to March is the usual time for tourists and some people even visit the place from November to April too.
When and Where Should Go in Abidjan
Various art festivals take place in Abidjan since it is considered to be a confluence of art and music. There are festivals taking place almost all the year round. These include the Concerto Festival, les Top d'or, International Festival of Black Music or alternatively the International Jazz Festival of Abidjan, Hip-hop is back festival, Festival of Urban Dances, Miss Côte D'Ivoire, Climbie beach Festival, International Comics Festival etc. the tourists can check out the exact dates which may change annually and then visit the place to enhance the fun they can have.
Entertainment Places in Abidjan
Other than the festivals that keep happening almost every month in the city, there is another favourite pastime which is sports for the people of Abidjan. Basketball, athletics, rugby, handball and volleyball are the national sports of the country. People take out time to enjoy these sports and even join the various clubs that are present in the city. Also, there are stadiums and sports complexes too where the tourists can have some fun with sports. Sightseeing can also be a great entertainer for the time you are in Abidjan.
Top Hotels in Abidjan
One of the best places to stay in Abidjan is the Hotel Tiama which is a hot favourite for the tourists. The services and food is superb and so is the staff. Novotel Abidjan is a three-star accommodation hotel in the city which provides good place to spend your nights and time too. A four-star hotel called Sofitel Abidjan is another great option for the tourists. African Queen Lodge, Golf Hotel Inter-Continental Abidjan, Ibis Abidjan Marcory, Hotel Ivoire Intercontinental which is a four-star hotel are the few other options that can be considered for your stay in Abidjan.
Tourist Attraction in Abidjan
Treichville is a neighbourhood in Abidjan that deserves a sure visit, specially at night. Since the place is a hub for pubs, nightclubs and upscale restaurants, it is certainly not to be missed when you are in the city of Abidjan. Historic details and facts of the city can be known in the National Museum of Abidjan. There are numerous artefacts, statues and ivory pieces that tell people about the past of the city and its people. Another central neighbourhood is The Plateau which is the central place of the city is also certain to be visited. There are many places to shop in the neighbourhood and also some beautiful parks where you can sit down and enjoy the sun and the weather. These beautiful places to visit make Abidjan a great place to visit whether it is business or a vacation. |
