Also known by many as ‘Igoucha’ in Igbo, Port Harcourt in south-south Nigeria,
is an affluent, cosmopolitan and animate city which can easily pass as
Nigeria’s second economic hub after Lagos. The state is best known for
having humongous oil deposits which have driven different people and
businesses to the city. These added to the pomp and glitz of Port
Harcourt.
The
oil-rich city was named Port Harcourt in honour of Lewis Vernon
Harcourt by Sir Frederick Lugard in August 1913. Featuring beautiful
coastal sandy beaches navigating through major cities and towns, it is
an appealing destination for a holistic peek into Nigeria’s colonial
past. An event that many dwellers of the city look forward to is the
Port Harcourt Carnival tagged ‘CARNIRIV’ held every December.
As
a visitor, you can access this city via the International Airport or by
road. If you want to visit Port Harcourt in the nigh future, here is how you can make the most of your trip to Nigeria’s garden city:
Tourist Attractions
Port Harcourt tourist beach
The
Port Harcourt tourist beach is located on an artificial sand beach
along the Kolabi creek east of the old township. It serves as the
perfect leisure and relaxation spot coupled with a bush-bar restaurants
selling fresh palm wine, local dishes and entertainment. The beach also
has a jetty, a restaurant, wildlife, museum and games room. A visit to
the beach offers all round fun to fun seekers.
Isaac Boro Garden Park
This
is a popular garden park located at the south end of Aba road. This
park was named after Major Isaac Boro who died during in the Biafran
war. The tomb of the soldiers here marks those who fell in the world
wars. The park is a popular venue for live music, picnic and other
events including trade fairs.
Port Harcourt Cultural Centre
This
centre is where culture meets arts. You can watch stage plays and
cultural dances while admiring beautifully carved artefacts and
handicrafts on sale. They are significant souvenirs to buy to remind you
of a visit to Port Harcourt.
Where to sleep
The era of running helter-skelter searching for a hotel to sleep in is over with entry of Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1
hotel booking portal into the hospitality industry. Travellers can now
book hotels ahead of their travels. Affordable hotels in Port Harcourt
include are – Ocabique Planet Hotel-N5,000; Clen phil hotel and suites-N6,500, Hotel Presidential-N47,600, and Beverly Hills-N10,000. You can get more exciting prices on by visiting Jovago.com.
Where to shop
The
Mile One market along Ikwerre road is a place to visit to feel the
pulse of a buzzing city. You can buy everything from fashion items to
consumer goods as well as laugh at the shenanigans of the sellers as
they attempt to poach customers. But if you do not fancy this kind of
experience, visit places like Park n’ Shop, Everyday Emporium and the
Craft Centre among other places.
Where to eat
A
metropolitan city like Port Harcourt never lacks fantastic and awesome
spots to eat. You can eat great cuisine at one of the many
well-established restaurants or ‘bukkas’ along the streets of Port
Harcourt. Chicken Calypso Fast food and restaurant, Bouvati fast food and Portofino foods are among the popular restaurants.
Fun Fact
The
oil-rich city of Port Harcourt is believed to be an expensive city
because many have the perception that everyone works in an oil company.
This is not entirely true. The city is quite affordable.
| Ogunfowoke Adeniyi | |
| Travel/Technology Writer | |
| Mobile: +2348090747241 Skype: Sleeksavvy | |
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