Eat, Play, and See Calabar this December

Would you like a unique holiday this December? Spend a week or two in the culturally rich and colorful city of Calabar. There is so much to see, learn, do, and eat. From a major city carnival to resorts offering family fun, no moment in this city is boring. Its pivotal role in the Atlantic slave trade comes alive in museums and relics that you have to go experience yourself. Why don’t you schedule a vacation to Calabar and let this list of seven be your guide.

1. Calabar Municipal Garden is the newly inaugurated location named by the current Governor of Cross River State as the 2016 Calabar Carnival Village. Did you ask what the Calabar Carnival is? Now in its 10^th year, it is a month long of festivities that culminate into Africa’s biggest street party. Tourists numbering into the tens of thousands are expected this year. There will be motorbike runs, dancing, concerts, and colors. If you are not afraid of crowds, this is an opportunity to play in Calabar.

2. Tinapa Resort has everything fun you can ask for. Built as a progressive step towards eco-friendly tourism, guests can pick and choose activities from the entertainment strip. From a bustling water park to a cinema experience, there is something for everyone in the family. The Tinapa Lakeside Hotel is a few minutes away. This can be an ideal spot to enjoy some snacks, local cuisine, and continental delights.

3. 

   Calabar Harbour Resort & Spa may be Calabar’s best kept accommodation secret.Its location tucks you away in a quiet area with well-maintained facilities The cozy size of the hotel keep the numbers down and you do not have to worry about that noisy group of 30 having a party downstairs at the bar. Lodging here means you get the best of two worlds; a quiet getaway and proximity to Calabar town.

 

4. Slave History Museum at Marina Resort: Calabar with its river and port was a major slave trade route during the Atlantic slave trade. At this museum, you will learn more about the slave trade era and how the slaves were treated. Prepare for an educational, but emotional experience. The museum also houses exhibits that showcase the tradition of the Efik people.

5. Duke Town: This town is located in Old Calabar. It is famous for housing the tomb of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary woman who halted the killing of twins in this region. The Palace of the Obong of Calabar is also here. Duke Town is the highest point in Calabar, so have your camera ready to get a panoramic shot of the city.

6. 

   Kwa Falls: Stemming from the second river in this state, Kwa Falls runs through the Cross River National Park. It is situated 25 kilometers east of Calabar city and is a great location for picnics. Wear comfortable shoes if you are would like to brave its 234 steps. If you love lush greenery, be prepared to be absorbed by its tropical mangrove forest.

7. 

   Local Delicacies– Calabar is known for its finger licking delicious soups, so make sure you try every one of them. From Afang with goat meat to Edikaikong, you can get your necessary daily intake of vegetables and simultaneously satisfy your taste buds. The variety of pepper soups will delight you if you step out of your eating comfort zone. To top up your Calabar culinary journey, experience the comfort dish of Ekpang Nkwukwo, a cocoyam based meal.