Everyone wants to experience a getaway without having to leave the city or travel too far. Sometimes, all you need is a nice place, good food, a little planning and two days away from your usual routine.
Have dinner at the hotel restaurant or somewhere nearby.
Here’s how to plan a great weekend getaway in Lagos without breaking the bank.
1. Find the right place
Go online and search for an affordable hotel, apartment or resort that fits your budget.
But don’t just look at the room. Look for a place that has amenities that can actually make your stay feel like a getaway.
A pool, gym, lounge or restaurant within the property or somewhere close by is a major plus.
Also check reviews and pictures from previous guests before making a decision.
Places you could visit:
I’ll share some Lagos hotels, apartments and resorts worth considering in my next article.
2. Ask questions before booking
Once you find a place you like, send them a message and ask questions.
Confirm their rates, Wi-Fi availability, check-in and check-out times, pool hours, food options, restaurant prices, gym availability and anything else that is important to you.
Ask questions for clarification rather than assuming.
This helps you know exactly what you’re paying for and, more importantly, helps you plan your budget properly.
3. Plan your budget
Now that you know the costs, create a realistic budget.
Factor in your accommodation, transportation, food, activities and any other expenses you expect to have.
The goal is to enjoy yourself without returning home wondering where all your money went. 😂
Having a budget before you arrive makes it easier to enjoy the trip without spending impulsively.
4. Create an itinerary
This is one thing I strongly recommend.
Yes, a getaway is supposed to be relaxing. You should absolutely sleep, watch movies and spend time on your phone.
But what makes a getaway memorable is also the experience.
That’s why choosing a place with a pool, gym, lounge or other activities is a big advantage. You have things to do without constantly leaving the property.
Here’s an example of what your two-day itinerary could look like:
DAY 1
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Arrive & check in
If possible, choose a place with an early check-in time, preferably around 12 PM or 2 PM.
Once you check in, settle your belongings immediately so you can properly start enjoying your stay.
2:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Free time
Have lunch, watch a movie, take pictures, create content, nap or simply relax.
This is your time to do absolutely nothing if that’s what you need. 😂
4:50 PM: Gym
Get a quick workout in if the hotel has a gym.
5:30 PM: Pool time
Change into your swimwear and enjoy the pool.
Take pictures, relax, listen to music or simply enjoy the fact that you are not at work.
9:00 PM: Dinner
Have dinner at the hotel restaurant or somewhere nearby.
10:00 PM: Lounge
If the hotel has a lounge, this is a good time to check it out and end the day there.
DAY 2
9:00 AM: Breakfast
This is usually around the time breakfast is served.
If possible, opt for room service. You can keep your food covered and eat when you’re ready instead of rushing through breakfast.
Gym & pool
If you have enough time before checkout, you can hit the gym and enjoy the pool one more time.
11:00 AM onwards: Pack & check out
Start preparing your things early enough so you’re not rushing when it’s time to leave.
And please, pack up before your checkout time.😂
A few things you should ALWAYS confirm
Before booking, ask:
* Is the Wi-Fi strong and reliable?
* Is the TV working?
* What time can I check in?
* What time is checkout?
* What time does the pool open and close?
* Is the gym available?
* What time is breakfast served?
* Is room service available?
* Can I see your menu please?
* Are there any additional charges?
Also, let them know beforehand that you would like to check in at your stated arrival time. Hotels can sometimes experience delays with cleaning and preparing rooms, so confirming this ahead of time can save you unnecessary stress.
Most importantly, always ask questions before you book.
Don’t assume that because a hotel advertises a pool, gym or Wi-Fi, everything will automatically be available and working when you arrive.
A little research beforehand can be the difference between a relaxing getaway and a very expensive disappointment. 😂
And you really don’t have to leave Lagos to have one.
*In my next article, I’ll share some affordable places in Lagos where you can actually have this kind of getaway, plus a sample 2-day itinerary.
