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Benin
People travel for many reasons. While some travel for business, others travel as tourists or for leisure. Recently, many have been traveling to African countries to spend time and see the sights. The Republic of Benin is one of the African countries that attracts people from all over the world. As in other countries, people obtain visas to Benin and travel to the Republic for various reasons. The country has many cultural and historical attractions.
Benin. Author - Thierry Hanset.
Where is the Republic of Benin
Benin is located in Africa. The capital is Porto-Novô. Nigeria and Togo are some of the neighboring countries. The Republic of Benin is now a place to consider if you want to relax and enjoy a measured city life.
The official language of Benin is French, although the local population speaks the indigenous languages of Fon and Yoruba. In total, around 50 different languages can be heard in Benin.
Regarding currency
Benin is a cash-based society. The currency used is the West African franc, written as CFA or XOF. In conversation, money is referred to as ceefa.
When traveling in Benin, it is best to take cash (euros are the easiest to exchange) and bank cards with you. Traveler's checks are not accepted anywhere, nor is Mastercard. There are ATMs everywhere, but keep in mind that the daily withdrawal limit is quite low.
Benin's country code is 229. Mobile coverage is very good and quite cheap. The two main networks are Moov and MTN. If you wish, you can buy a local SIM card upon arrival in Benin and use it for mobile data. Vouchers for topping up your account are widely available.
Where to stay
Benin has accommodation to suit every budget, most often guesthouses and small hotels. Of course, there are no luxury hotels in Benin, but you can stay in simpler ones that are just as good. Benin often experiences power outages and sometimes water shortages! Keep in mind that you are in West Africa, so don't expect Western-style amenities all the time.
Benin. Author - Robertino.
Why visit Benin
History and heritage
Every country has its own heritage and history. The first place to visit is Porto-Novo, the capital of the Republic of Benin, to learn all about its fascinating history. The country, known as the Kingdom of Dahomey, together with its inhabitants, went through the creation of Dutch and Portuguese trading posts. The country was colonized by France and went through many battles before gaining independence in 1960. If you are interested in history, then you should definitely get to know Benin.
Benin has a sad history, as it was a place where slavery flourished. More than 2 million Beninese men, women, and children were sold into slavery. The kings of Dahomey were behind this. Many were unable to return after being sold at the slave market.
Before traveling to Benin, travelers often check the cost of transportation. Unlike most countries in the world, traveling to the Republic of Benin is affordable.
Cultural vacation
When people visit a new place, they learn something new, explore the area, and interact with other people. Benin is simply ideal for getting to know a new culture. It is an opportunity to learn about local customs, try new foods, and learn a new language.
Lush nature and protected species
In the Republic of Benin, you can see many wild animals. Here you can see up close:
- hippopotamus;
- African manatees;
- Ridley's olive ridley sea turtles and sitatunga;
- a species of water antelope.
The state has taken care of environmental protection.
Proximity to other countries
Many countries are located not far from the Republic of Benin. This is one of the reasons why people travel here. You can get to know Togo by going there for just one day. It is also possible to stop in Ghana and Nigeria. You can be completely sure that you will have a lot of pleasant emotions when you visit cities such as Grand Poa and Ouida during your trip.
La Pendjari, Benin. Author - Rangi 52.
What's interesting to see in Benin
The beautiful Pendjari National Park
No visit to Benin would be complete without a couple of days in Pendjari National Park. It is the best place in West Africa for wildlife viewing. The park is home to the following animals:
- elephants;
- endangered West African lions;
- hippos;
- buffalo;
- warthogs;
- civets;
- baboons;
- hyenas;
and many species of antelope, including kob, chala, western antelope, bushbuck, and waterbuck.
It is also believed that there are a few cheetahs left in North-West Africa, although they are rarely seen. There are also 460 species of birds living here.
A fascinating introduction to Voodoo
Voodoo is the official religion in Benin, with more than 60% of the population identifying as followers. It is a unique religion that affects all areas of life, including culture, music, dance, and medicine. It is most prevalent in the south of the country. Here you can also visit the fetish market in Abomey, go to the Python Temple in Ouidah, and attend a Voodoo ceremony in Grand-Popo.
Discover the Kingdom of Dahomey
Tourists should definitely visit Abomey to learn about the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey, a power that thwarted colonial powers for centuries. Every visitor here can thoroughly study the history of the Kingdom itself and its inhabitants.
Visit the Tata-Somba region
The Tata-Somba region is located in the north of Benin and Togo because the colonial powers that established the country's borders did not consider the indigenous population that had their homes there! “Tata” is the unique home of the Somba people, designed as a fortress. It is found nowhere else in the world. Visiting this place is a lesson in a disappearing way of life.
Relax on the beach in Grand Popo
When you've had your fill of history, wildlife, and culture, end your trip to Benin with a few days of relaxation on a palm-lined beach. Although strong currents in the Atlantic make swimming in the sea difficult, most resorts have swimming pools for this purpose.
Traditional and local food
Food is one of the basic human needs. Its importance cannot be overestimated. In the Republic of Benin, sweet potatoes are the staple food. While sweet potatoes are often found in the northern part of Benin, corn is more popular in the southern regions. There are also standard foods that are common to all:
- onions;
- fish;
- tomatoes;
- meat — beef and lamb.
The cuisine in this country is delicious, and everyone can find something original for themselves when they visit Porto-Novô. Here you can eat your fill of exotic fruits, including tangerines, oranges, guava, papaya, bananas, and oranges.
Of course, you can also try delicious homemade palm wine, baobab juice, carbonated drinks, and superfoods rich in vitamin C.
Food in Benin is considered the best in West Africa. A starchy product here is boiled yams, mashed into a dough. It is dipped in soups and stews. In this area, it is used in the same way that we eat bread.
In Benin, you can try soups with palm and peanut oil. Golden pâtés, tomato and corn tortillas are in high demand and widely available as street food. Beninese people do not eat much meat, but chicken is usually on restaurant menus. In the south of the country, fish is the highlight of the local cuisine. It is usually bream or sea bass, served grilled or fried. Dried fish, similar to salted cod, can be found in every village market.
Benin produces a lot of lager-style beer, which is refreshing after a long day in the sun. Local moonshine, usually made from millet and served in shots, is best avoided, as tourists' bodies are certainly not used to it.
Local residents — Beninese
People in Benin are caring and friendly. They welcome tourists and foreigners to their country, helping them to settle in well. Kindness and happiness are the main attributes of the people of Benin. You have nothing to worry about if you want to spend your vacation here. Their main language is French, although the locals also understand English well. Nevertheless, travelers should familiarize themselves in advance with some commonly used words used in greetings.
In conclusion
Traveling from one country to another for any reason is always interesting. People may decide to go to another country to become a permanent resident, go on vacation, do business, or visit a country as a tourist. There are many reasons to visit Benin, and one of the main ones is that it is easy and, most importantly, inexpensive to obtain a tourist visa. The country has a rich culture and offers a wonderful opportunity to learn more about local customs and culture in general. The people are friendly and easygoing. Benin is a unique opportunity to experience wonderful emotions from an unforgettable tour.
