professional move to Lagos
Replies: 2 - Last Post: Nov 26, 2012 7:10 PM Last Post By: Pizza_Wheel
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professional move to Lagos
Dear AllI am considering a new job with a bank that is based in Lagos. I have not been to Nigeria before, nor in fact, ever lived in such a large city. I'd appreciate any advice from expats from or familiar with the city - What neighbourhood is safe and desirable for (western) expats? Im told its very costly there; in USD, what is average rent for a modern, western 2 or 3 BR flat, or villa? My company will provide accomodation, but I want to ensure its of the standard I would expect.
Are there modern shopping malls and supermarkets where one can find international fashion and skin care brands?
Are there ladies spas there?
I am vegetarian, are there a decent selection of vegtables to buy,and international standard Asian/European restaurants?
Are there nice, safe and clean beaches to visit at weekends? What do expats enjoy doing in their spare time?
And finally, just HOW dangerous is the city?
I appreciate the advice
regards
Maretravel
1
Dear MaretravelI don't want to sound negative, yet judging from some of your questions (spa, malls, international fashion, skin care) i would strongly recommend you to avoid moving in Lagos.
If you think you cannot ,maybe you should first try to come as a tourist for some days and then you think it over.
Regards,
2
Basically, what #1 said, but to expand:My company will provide accomodation, but I want to ensure its of the standard I would expect.
It won't be. The skills are simply lacking to build and maintain western quality accommodation there.
Are there modern shopping malls and supermarkets where one can find international fashion and skin care brands?
There is one western-ish mall (the palms) which has a couple of south african chains then a few smaller boutique shops with eye watering prices. You can get fashion brands there, but focussed on the local ladies- ie black skin. Due to the security situation and general unpleasantness of the place most expat wives went home, so there's not much market for skin products aimed at white people.
Are there ladies spas there?
Yes, but again see above.
I am vegetarian, are there a decent selection of vegtables to buy,and international standard Asian/European restaurants?
Absolutely not. Local veg is cooking only, and you can imagine the price of imported stuff. I paid $2 for a tomato once (at shoprite in the palms). Mots of the restaurants are pretty poor, I guess the Lebanese ones may have a veggy option.
Are there nice, safe and clean beaches to visit at weekends? What do expats enjoy doing in their spare time?
If you're prepared to drive about 2 hours and get shaken down about a dozen times at police road bocks there are. There's a strong undertow so swimming is not advisable. Most expats stick to heavy drinking and hookers.
