Ayra Starr

Cotonou

Ci Gusta is a fun ice cream place and my favourite after-beach spot. Cotonou gets really hot, so catching a vibe with friends and eating ice-cream is like a dream sometimes.

The hotel has a huge pool and was a favourite hangout spot for students after lunch at Mimi’s. On certain days we would bring in our own food and have picnics by the pool or in the garden. It’s a quiet, serene hidden gem.

One of my favourite things about living in Cotonou was being so close to the water. Cite Beach was a student favourite and almost everyone celebrated birthdays and other special occasions on the beach.

This Jamaican and French fusion restaurant has the Caribbean vibes in Cotonou. They always come through with the best Afrobeats and Dancehall music. The food is amazing as well.

My favourite thing about the hotel is the HUGE pool. There's also a beautiful restaurant with a rooftop view. It has the best pizza in Cotonou.

One of my favourite memories is riding to class with the smell of freshly brewed beer from La Beninoise Brewery around me.