Lagos, recognized as the 19th best city to visit globally by Time Out, renowned for its guides and magazines, has earned a prestigious spot on the international travel radar. Standing alongside African counterparts, Cape Town in South Africa secured the second position, and Accra in Ghana clinched the 44th spot in this exclusive list.
Time Out derived its rankings from a comprehensive survey involving over 20,000 urban residents worldwide and input from its network of editors. The evaluation encompassed diverse criteria such as the quality and affordability of food, cultural richness, vibrant nightlife, overall emotional impact on residents, strong community connections, green spaces, historical sites, and more.
The report emphasized Lagos’s inclusivity, catering to diverse tastes, whether one identifies with the mainland or the upscale Lekki area. It spotlighted the city’s expansive growth, citing the Eko Atlantic City’s live-work-play concept and the burgeoning development in Epe, situated on the north side of Lekki Lagoon.
Lagos’s standard of living received accolades, with an impressive 96 percent of locals expressing happiness, 98 percent endorsing the city’s beauty, and a 92 percent friendliness rating. The narrative also underscored the allure of Victoria Island’s trio of upscale resorts, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife. Kuti’s Bistro in Ikeja, owned by the legendary Afrobeat family, was commended for its consistently delicious offerings, while Oniru Beach was spotlighted as a serene relaxation spot.
Interestingly, this positive recognition stands in contrast to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s assessment in 2023, which deemed Lagos the fourth-worst city to live in globally. However, the recent acknowledgment by Time Out positions Lagos favorably above cities like Algiers, Tripoli, and Damascus, showcasing the dynamic nature of urban experiences and perceptions.
