Bogobiri House Lagos: Nigeria's Hidden Literary Gem (You NEED to See!)
Bogobiri House Lagos: My Love Letter to a Literary Oasis (and Occasional Headache)
Alright, listen up, wanderlusters, culture vultures, and anyone remotely intrigued by the real Lagos. Forget those sterile, soul-sucking hotels that could be anywhere on Earth. You need to know about Bogobiri House. This isn't just accommodation; it's an experience. Think: artsy loft meets bohemian writers' retreat meets, well, sometimes a chaotic Nigerian adventure.
Accessibility & Safety: Navigating the (Sometimes) Uneven Terrain
Let's be real, the accessibility at Bogobiri is a mixed bag. Wheelchair accessibility? Not top-notch. The website doesn't explicitly mention it (a red flag!), and my own ramble through the place suggests a lot of stairs and uneven surfaces. Elevator? Yes, there is one, thank goodness. But navigating the walkways can feel… like a treasure hunt, honestly. Air conditioning in public areas? Yes! Crucial for surviving the Lagos heat.
CCTV in common areas and outside the property, 24-hour security, and fire extinguishers give you a solid feeling of safety. Speaking of which… Safety deposit boxes are available, which is always a plus when you're carrying around your prized possessions or a wad of cash (more on that later). Smoking area? Yes, there is one, thankfully away from the rooms.
Cleanliness and Safety - The New Normal
The pandemic changed everything, and Bogobiri's taking it seriously – more or less. Hand sanitizer is everywhere, and they're doing the daily disinfection in common areas. Staff are supposedly trained in safety protocol, and there are individually wrapped food options. They even have professional-grade sanitizing services and room sanitization opt-out available. The emphasis on anti-viral cleaning products is reassuring. Though I will say, on my recent visit, I got the feeling the "opt-out" was less of a thing… but hey, they're trying!
Rooms & Amenities - The Good, the Bad, and the Unpredictable
Okay, let’s dive into the rooms themselves. You get the usual suspects: air conditioning, thank god, or you’d be sweating like a pig in a poke. Free Wi-Fi (mostly reliable! More on that later), blackout curtains (essential for those Lagos sunrises), and a desk for getting work done (or pretending to). Many rooms offer air conditioning, safe box, hair dryers, and a scale – which, after all the delicious food, I was grateful for!
Internet access – LAN & Wireless: Free Wi-Fi (yes!) and they also offer Internet access – LAN as well if you are looking for something more stable.
In-Room Goodies
- Air conditioning (A MUST in Lagos!)
- Alarm clock
- Bathrobes
- Bathroom phone (For emergencies, I guess?)
- Bathtub (Oh, the luxury!)
- Coffee/tea maker (Bless them)
- TV (For those late-night movie binges)
- Daily housekeeping (Hallelujah!)
- Desk
- Extra long bed (Tall folks, rejoice!)
- Free bottled water (Essential!)
- Hair dryer
- High floor
- In-room safe box
- Internet access – LAN Yes!
- Internet access – wireless YES!
- Ironing facilities
- Laptop workspace
- Linens
- Mini bar (Always a temptation)
- Mirror
- Non-smoking (Thank goodness!)
- On-demand movies
- Private bathroom
- Reading light
- Refrigerator
- Satellite/cable channels
- Scale
- Seating area
- Separate shower/bathtub
- Slippers
- Smoke detector
- Socket near the bed
- Sofa
- Soundproofing
- Telephone
- Toiletries
- Towels
- Umbrella
- Wake-up service
The Internet, the Internet! Wi-Fi Woes (and Occasional Victories)
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: the internet. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! they boast. And it is free. But the strength? Well, let's just say it's a character-building experience. Sometimes it's lightning-fast; other times, you're staring into a loading screen abyss, questioning your life choices. Internet [LAN] is an option for those who need a more reliable connection. Just be prepared to embrace the chaos, okay?
Dining, Drinking, and the Art of the "A La Carte" Experience
Ah, the food! This is where Bogobiri truly shines, though even here, it's not all sunshine and roses. The restaurants offer a delightful mix of international and Asian cuisine. The breakfast [buffet], when available, is a feast for the senses (though I wish there was the option for Western breakfast). You can also order breakfast in room, which is a nice touch. The Coffee/tea in restaurant is a godsend to start a long day. You can get salad in restaurant, soup in restaurant, desserts in restaurant to end your day! The Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. The Poolside bar is a lifesaver on a hot day!
The Pool: Let's just say it offers a pool with a view!
The "A La Carte" in Restaurant The Asian cuisine in restaurant, is something I recommend you must try! Their vegetarian restaurant is awesome and also offers bottle of water!
Here's the thing: service can be a bit… relaxed. Be prepared to wait. Be prepared for the occasional mix-up. But the staff are generally friendly and trying their best.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Finding Your Zen (Or Just Surviving the Day)
Bogobiri gets the need for relaxation. There's a swimming pool (outdoor, thankfully!), and it’s a lifesaver in the Lagos heat. They offer a Spa/sauna for those who want the ultimate relaxation. The spa offers the services of Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage. There's a gym/fitness area if you're feeling energetic. I haven't personally tried the steamroom or the sauna.
For the Kids
- Babysitting service
- Family/child friendly
- Kids facilities
- Kids meal
The Heart of Bogobiri: The Atmosphere & Experience - The Soul Searching
This is where Bogobiri truly comes into its own. It's a haven for artists, writers, and anyone who appreciates a little creativity with their coffee. The walls are adorned with art, the air hums with conversation (sometimes a bit too loudly, I might add!), and you're just as likely to stumble into a poetry reading as you are a late-night jam session.
Side Note: Real-Life Anecdotes & Imperfections
My first experience? Let's say, it wasn't perfect. My room key didn't work, the Wi-Fi was down more often than it was up, and I'm pretty sure the bedsheets had seen better days. The staff? Bless their hearts, they were clearly working hard, but let's just say efficiency wasn't their strong suit.
But here’s the thing. Despite the occasional hiccup, there's a vibe at Bogobiri that's hard to replicate. It's chaotic, it's imperfect, it's real. It's a place where you can connect with people, be inspired by the art, and feel like you're part of something bigger than a sterile hotel room.
Services & Conveniences – Navigating the Lagos Landscape
Bogobiri offers a range of services, from daily housekeeping to laundry service. They have a concierge to help you navigate the city, and a currency exchange for when you inevitably need to deal with the Nigerian Naira. Car park [on-site] is something, but navigating Lagos traffic is a whole other adventure. They also provide Airport transfer can be a lifesaver, and taxi service is available.
The Quirks and the Charm – That’s Bogobiri
Meeting/banquet facilities, you might be tempted to use it. Business facilities are a mixed bag, the projector/LED display might work, it might not. Invoice provided, but don't expect it quickly! Cash withdrawal, you may need it, but the fee might be expensive
Genting Highlands' EPIC Windmill: Breathtaking Views You WON'T Believe!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, pristine travel itinerary. This is a Bogobiri House Diary, and trust me, it's gonna get messy. Lagos, here we freakin' go!
The Bogobiri House Blues & Brews: A Week of Chaos (and Maybe Some Culture, Too)
Day 1: Arrival & Sensory Overload (or, How I Learned to Love the Traffic Jam)
- 10:00 AM: Finally, Lagos! Touchdown at Murtala Muhammed International. I'm trying to be cool, collected, travel-blogger chic, but the Nigerian heat hits you like a physical blow. I swear, the air itself is yelling.
- 11:00 AM: The taxi ride to Bogobiri House. Forget the "smooth transfer" fantasy. It's more like an exhilarating rollercoaster of honking, dodging, and survival of the fittest. My driver, bless his soul, is also a walking encyclopedia of Lagos gossip. Apparently, everyone knows everyone. I learn the word "wahala" pretty quickly.
- 12:30 PM: Arrive at Bogobiri. Okay, BAM! This place. I knew it was supposed to be cool, but the reality is… electric. This is art, and energy and a whole lot of people! The courtyard is alive with conversations, laughter, and the scent of something delicious frying. I'm immediately captivated. I'm already starting to love it.
- 1:00 PM: Check in (eventually). Apparently, "Nigerian time" is a real thing. I love it. We're greeted by a guy named Emeka who seems to know everyone in the world.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at the Bogobiri restaurant. Jollof rice. Jollof rice. Jollof rice. The debate rages on, but for me, it's love at first bite. The spice, the smoke, the… perfection. Now, the pepper can pack a punch! I'm sweating and smiling at the same time… that's a good sign, yeah?
- 3:00 PM: Settle into my room. Let's just say it's… characterful. A little worn around the edges, but brimming with charm. The artwork is incredible, the air conditioning is working fine so far, and the view from the balcony! I can already tell I'm going to spend way too much time there, drinking star beer and people-watching.
- 4:00 PM: Wandering the streets around Bogobiri. I'm a little lost. Maybe a lot lost. The energy is intense, and every corner is a picture. So many people are selling, buying, working, living. It's chaotic and beautiful at the same time.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Bogobiri. Live music! This is why I came. The band is incredible, the rhythms are infectious, and I'm pretty sure I accidentally started singing along to a song I've never heard before. Good sign? I think so.
- 9:00 PM: Star beer on the balcony. Watching Lagos "breathe." Trying to process everything. Feeling incredibly overwhelmed and utterly captivated.
Day 2: Art, Markets & My First Real "Wahala" Situation
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. Still obsessed with that Jollof rice. Also, the coffee is black and strong enough to wake the dead. Perfect.
- 10:00 AM: A visit to the Terra Kulture. (The art center is so cool). I try not to sound like an art-museum-cliche-dork, but honestly? I'm blown away. The Nigerian artists are incredible.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at a local spot. So much food. The locals are friendly and talkative. I try some local snacks. They’re spicy. Seriously spicy. Tears are running down my face, happy tears. And then…
- 3:00 PM: My first official "wahala" situation. I get a bit confused about currency exchange and am accidentally short-changed by a street vendor. I can't speak any Yoruba. My attempts at negotiation are laughable. I'm frustrated and annoyed, but a few of the locals step in and help me sort it out. Lesson learned: Always double-check your change, and embrace the fact that you will probably make a few mistakes.
- 5:00 PM: Back to Bogobiri. I'm feeling a little bruised emotionally, but I can't stay down for long. This place has a way of lifting your spirits with its art, music, and spirit.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. The food is great, the music is great and I'm feeling ready for another day.
- 9:00 PM: Maybe a little more Star beer on the balcony. It is the best way to chill.
Day 3: Lagos Island, Lagos Traffic, and a Lot More Jollof Rice
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:00 AM: A boat ride to Lagos Island. The view is truly amazing and the experience is something I will never forget.
- 12:00 PM: Street food! I'm trying everything. Puff-puffs, suya, plantains… I love Nigerian food.
- 2:00 PM: Traffic. Lagos traffic is a beast.
- 3:00 PM: Back to Bogobiri.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. More Jollof rice? You bet.
- 9:00 PM: Drinks on the balcony.
Day 4: The Sunday Service (and Me, Trying Not to Sing Off-Key)
- 10:00 AM: Breakfast.
- 11:00 AM: I get invited to a church service in a nearby neighborhood. This is a HUGE culture shock for me, but also incredibly moving. The music is amazing, the energy is electric, and everyone is so welcoming. I try to sing along, but I quickly realize my voice is probably not cut out for gospel.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant. I tried another new dish. Still have no idea what it was.
- 4:00 PM: Back to Bogobiri, relaxing.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner.
- 9:00 PM: Drinks and music.
Day 5: The Art, the Heat, and a Final, Deep Breath.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast.
- 10:00 AM: Wandering around Bogobiri, taking in the art.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch.
- 2:00 PM: More shopping.
- 4:00 PM: More relaxing at Bogobiri.
- 7:00 PM: The last dinner.
- 9:00 PM: One last beer on the balcony.
Day 6: Goodbye, Lagos…for Now (and the Airport Run That Almost Didn't Happen)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast.
- 10:00 AM: Saying goodbye to the people, places and the vibes of Bogobiri.
- 11:00 AM: The airport.
- 12:00 PM: The plane.
- 1:00 PM: The goodbye.
Emotional Afterthoughts:
This trip was a whirlwind. Lagos is a city that throws everything at you at once – the chaos, the beauty, the heat, the food, the people…and it's absolutely addictive. It's a place that challenges you, frustrates you, and then embraces you with open arms. Will I be back? Absolutely. Already planning it. Because, as they say, "Lagos never disappoints." (Or so they tell me)
Escape to Paradise: Serenity Awaits on Hastings Street, Noosa
Bogobiri House: You HAVE to See This (But Maybe Not for the Reasons You Think) - A Messy FAQ
So, Bogobiri House... What *IS* it, Exactly? Because the internet is a minefield.
Alright, buckle up, because the answer is...complicated. Everyone calls it a "hotel," and sure, it's got rooms you can crash in. But it's SO. MUCH. MORE. Think of it as a gloriously chaotic, artistically-inclined, slightly run-down (but charmingly so!) art space in Lagos. It *claims* to be a hotel, but honestly, it feels more like crashing a vibrant, sprawling, and occasionally eccentric family reunion. There are art installations everywhere, from the lobby (which is more of a "zone of potential interaction") to the "rooms" (more on *those* later). It's a place where writers, artists, and generally interesting people seem to congregate. And you, my friend, are invited to the party. Maybe.
Is it Actually a Good Place to *Sleep*? Because I Need Sleep. Like, A Lot.
Okay, here's the truth bomb: if your sleep is sacred, Bogobiri might... test you. My first night? Let's just say the "soft jazz" drifting from the bar until 3 AM didn't quite lull me into slumber. The rooms, while aesthetically interesting (think repurposed everything and brightly colored fabrics), aren't exactly soundproof. And the air conditioning? Variable. Sometimes it works like a champ, sometimes it's a gentle suggestion.
BUT.
There's magic in the imperfection. Waking up to the sounds of Lagos bustling outside your window, the smell of suya wafting up...it's an experience. Plus, if you're lucky, you might hear a spontaneous poetry reading at breakfast. (Or, in my case, the resident parrot squawking a surprisingly articulate greeting at dawn). So, pack earplugs and an open mind. You've been warned.
Okay, Fine, I'll be Open-Minded. What Makes Bogobiri Special? What's the Big Deal?
It's the *vibe*, honestly. It's infectious. It's that feeling of stumbling into a secret, knowing society. It's the chance to meet someone completely fascinating while you're eating jollof rice. It’s the art, obviously - bursting from every corner. I remember seeing a sculpture made entirely of discarded car parts...a literal mountain of discarded memories. It was breathtaking. Then there's the way the staff, or, rather, the "extended family," interacts with you. They are friendly, quirky and helpful (often). It wasn't always a smooth process, but never the kind the sort of customer service that feels polished, detached, and programmed.
My most potent memory of Bogobiri? It was actually a disaster at first. The power went out (inevitable, in Lagos!), and the water stopped running. I was *livid*. Then, one of the guys, maybe a security guard, started telling stories about his childhood. He spoke about the resilience that you just have to have in this City. He was funny, and kind. He had a genuine warmth - and suddenly, the power outage wasn't the end of the world. The problem was we were all in the same boat and could only laugh. The best and worst parts of this experience were shared.
Food? Jollof Rice Is a Must. Is the Food Good?
The food is *good*. Expect traditional Nigerian fare, lots of it. Jollof rice, yes. Suya, yes. Moi moi, yes. Breakfast seemed to be a buffet of deliciousness, all cooked with that special Nigerian touch. This is what I call "food with heart." And the portion sizes? Massive.
So, Should I Go? Or Should I Run Screaming?
Look, if you're the type who needs everything to be perfect, pristine, and predictable...run. Run far away. Go to a bland, generic hotel chain. You'll be safer, sounder (probably), and less challenged.
However… if you crave genuine experiences, if you're drawn to creativity, if you're ready to embrace the beautiful chaos that is Lagos, and if you're willing to roll with the punches...then YES. Go. Book a room. Prepare to be charmed, challenged, and changed. Just...bring earplugs. Seriously, please.
What About Safety? Lagos Can Be... Intense.
Lagos *is* intense, no question. Security in this area is fairly good, but always be aware of your surroundings. The hotel seemed to be well-guarded. Stick to areas with good lighting, especially at night. Don't flash expensive jewelry, and be mindful of traffic (the roads are definitely… an experience). But honestly, Bogobiri itself felt relatively safe and secure.
Okay, I'm Convinced (or Maybe Terrified). How Do I Book?
Good luck with that! Booking can be a bit of an adventure in itself. Online presence is... variable. Try searching online (but don't expect slick functionality). You might have better luck emailing or calling directly. Be patient. Things are a little laid-back. Like, *very* laid-back. But persistence pays off. Trust me on this one.
Anything I Should *Definitely* Pack? Besides Earplugs?
Earplugs, yes. A portable power bank (power outages happen!). A good book (you'll have plenty of time to read). Comfortable shoes for navigating the (sometimes uneven) grounds. And...a sense of humor. You *will* need it. Also, maybe some mosquito repellent. Those little guys are notorious. And, above all, bring an open mind. It's more valuable than any guidebook.
Is it Worth the Hype?
Here's where I get personal... yes. Absolutely, unequivocally, and wholeheartedly yes. It's not perfect, it's far from refined, and sometimes it's frustrating. But it's REAL. It's a glimpse into the soul of Lagos, a place where art thrives, stories are told, and life justComfort Inn
