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Dakar is a city located on Cape Verde, the most extreme western point of Africa, which is the seaport and the largest university and industrial center in the country. Also, Dakar is the most important trade, financial and transport center for West Africa.Dakar is the largest rail and road hub of Senegal, which also has an international airport.
In the western part of Dakar, there is the oldest business quarter, where a large number of shops and workshops of local artisans are concentrated. Dakar was also very famous for the Paris-Dakar international motor rally, which took place in the capital of Senegal with the finish of the route.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN DAKAR

Renaissance of Africa: the city has one of the largest and most impressive sculptures in the world, which is called the “Renaissance of Africa.” The opening of this monument took place in 2010, it was timed to the 50th anniversary of the independence of Senegal. The monument depicts a married couple with a child, their gaze is focused and full of hope. This huge monument is made of concrete and covered with bronze, and it looks very impressive.

Historical Mamella: To see one of the main historical sights of Dakar, it is worth going to Green Cape. Here is the historic lighthouse Mamella, which was built in 1864 and is still active. This is the oldest lighthouse in the city, which is maintained in impeccable form by the efforts of the locals. Its height is 16 meters, in the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse there are several excellent viewing platforms, with a magnificent view of the peninsula.

Walk in the surroundings of Lake Retba: in the immediate vicinity of the city there is a world-famous natural attraction – Lake Retba. The main feature of the lake is the colonies of cyanobacteria that reside in it, which stain water in various shades, from soft pink to deep purple. The best time to visit the lake is considered to be a dry period, at which time the water in the lake acquires a rich scarlet color. In the immediate vicinity of the lake is a popular souvenir market, where you can buy interesting crafts made by local residents. Here they sell beautiful figures of wood and stone, wicker amulets and a lot of other interesting accessories in the national style.

Wander along Saint-Louis: those who like to stroll through historical places most of all should go to the picturesque area of Saint-Louis. Once the territory of this area was an independent city, in the 18th century more than 10,000 people lived here. Now there are many beautiful monuments of colonial times in the district, including the luxurious mansions in which the wealthiest citizens once lived. The entire territory of the historic district is a World Heritage Site. However, the area offers tourists all the prospects for an unforgettable vacation. In historic buildings today are located luxury hotels, restaurants and casinos, as well as other entertainment facilities.

TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING

Accommodation – The cost of renting an apartment per month 1-bedroom apartment in the city center $ 636.98; 1-bedroom apartment outside the center $ 262.03; 3 bedroom apartment in the city center $ 1,679.32; 3-bedroom apartment outside the center of $ 547.23
The cost of buying an apartment / property prices
The cost of an apartment in the center (price per square meter) $ 9,492.82; the cost of an apartment not in the center (price per square meter) $ 9,067.71

Food – Eating (lunch / dinner) in an inexpensive restaurant $ 5.21
Lunch / dinner for two, 3 courses, middle class restaurant $ 26.06
McMeal at McDonalds or a similar combo lunch $ 6.95

Transportation – Single ticket (public transport) $ 0.30
Monthly travel (cost without benefits) $ 17.37
1 hour taxi ride (standard fare) $ 1.74

Suggested daily budget – The average cost of accommodation is 65 USD, one meal in not expensive restaurant costs nearly 5 USD, while one-way ticket in public transport is $.26 USD. Consider excursions and taxi fees, as well, and you will get an amount of nearly 100 USD. However, if you choose a hostel, the price for accommodation is going to be much less.

MONEY SAVING TIPS

1 Rent budget class cars: Self-confident tourists will be able to find rent-a-car easily: in Senegal there are both large international (Avis, Hertz, Budget and others) and local rental offices.Local rental companies have lower rates, quality and reputation. To avoid misunderstandings, it is worth taking a car along with “full insurance.” On average, the cost of renting a budget vehicle means approximately USD 103 per day plus USD 0.2 per kilometer in excess of the agreed 50-100 km. Higher-class cars, as well as SUVs, will ease the tourist’s pocket somewhere around 172USD.

2 Be selective while choosing the dish of the day! Going to Dakar, without fail try a few local dishes. It is better to write it down just in case: travelers &gourmets, I assure you that you that missing even one dish from the list would be an unforgivable folly. So, the first dish: the Senegalese maffe – meat in coconut milk sauce, baked in a special pit lined with sago-tree leaves. Two: spicy fish soup – served in a pot, “sealed” corn tortilla. Finally, last but not least, baobab juice! It is much better to try these dishes than spendingmoney on meals you can have in your own country.

3 If you wish to drink, buy local production alcohol! Alcoholic drinks are available here everywhere: both local (palm wine from Casamance) and imported. A bottle of Senegalese whiskey costs much less than imported whiskey so enjoy some of the local offerings.

4 Go fishing! Many high-level hotels have their own fishing clubs where you can rent equipment and rent a boat. The first fishing trip for hotel guests is often arranged for free.

ON THE SCENE?

The nightlife has something to offer everyone – so, if you want to visit a cozy bar with a special atmosphere, many prefer the L’impala Bar Lounge, and Complexe Loisir Five will delight those who love tasty and hearty food. Black and White Beach Dakar is a great place for those who want to spend time outside and not indoors, and prefers great cocktails. The bar Le Maquis des allées fascinates with the beautiful setting reigning here, and the Golden Night Club will be a great place for those who want to dance the night away. Another fine bar is called Le Khorbi, which will definitely appeal to those who prefer a divine frothy drink to everyone else.Be prepared to party all night because they don’t go home until daylight breaks.

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