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Summer is that time of the year that we all look forward to. I am super excited that we are able to go out again. ( Thanks to the vaccines, have you taken yours?). There are so many places I want to cross off my bucket list. However, vacations is incomplete without a visit to the beach or a swim in a luxury hotel. It is now time to pull out our swimwear or shop for new ones. If you’re you need to shop for new swimwear, I am sure you would want to go for what’s on trend this year. So, in this post I will be sharing the best summer swimwear options you need in 2021. My best being the Tie-dye bikini options. I know this trend started last year but it is still in for 2021. You can read my post 5 easy beach coverups for a modest look.

Tie-dye Bikini set

Tie-dye bikinis are in for me this year. I love it a lot. There are so many options you can choose from with different patterns. I love tie-dye prints on bikinis because each design is unique. So, if you need a stand out bikini for your beach hangout opt for tie-dye prints.

There are so many options for tie-dye prints to choose from. You can opt for a tie-dye tankini so you can get as much use from your swimwear. Also, you can opt for other variations like the halter tie-dye bikini or high waisted bikinis.

Shop it for $10.99

Animal prints Bikini sets

Another of the top best summer swimwear trend you need to add to your closet is animal prints bikini sets. Animal prints bikini sets are in for summer 2021. This option of bikini sets is all over Instagram as the ladies options.

Animal prints are a classic. So, opting for a animal print bikini sets is one the best choice. This style is always on trend. So, if you’re looking for a style that will keep on trend each year, opt for Animal prints bikinis. You can opt for a subtle cheetah prints or Zebra prints for your summer swimwear.

Bandeau top bikini sets

Another the best summer swimwear trends you need to know is the bandeau top bikini sets. Bandeau styles are super fun. I love this unique style for a full coverage of the boobs.

Bandeau tops in a swimwear is modest. This is because it gives your boobs coverage. Also, you can wear the bandeau top with other outfits for summer. You can wear the top with denim shorts and a jacket. Also, you can wear it for a casual outfit on pants and kimonos. So, I love this option for its versatlity.

We all know that I am all about getting as much use for fashion hauls. I am a serial repeater of my outfit. So, naturally I love this option of swimwear.

Shop it for $12.99

Cut-out on swimwear

This year’s trend is all about the cut-out. We have all been indoor for the better part of 2020 into the early part of 2021. Finally, we able to go out to have fun again. So, it time to show off some skin. The cut-out on swimwear are subtle like the key hole cut-out. I am also in for cut-out details on one-piece at the sides.

If you’d love to show off some skin in subtle way, opt for this swimwear option. I love this swimwear options for a date at the pool. Also, if you are on vacation and want to get attention, opt for this swimwear trend.

High waisted Bikini sets

High waisted bikini set is a great alternative for the usual thongs that comes with bikini sets. I love this trend because it very comfy at the bottom. The focus of high waisted bikinis is the bottoms.

Also, it gives the bottom full coverage. So, if you can wear it without thinking about showing too much butt cheeks. Although, this is a trends for summer 2021. It is not suitable for everyone. This is because, it draws more attention to your legs & thighs. So, if you are no so confident about those areas of your body, this is not for you.

Of course, I support body positivity. However, you want to wear an outfit that you’re not so confident in. I love the high waisted trend a lot. I would recommend it for you if you want to wear bikinis bottoms that are not thongs. With the high waisted bottoms, I don’t have to worry about beach coverups. You can shop for high waisted bikini bottoms on Zaful.

I love to recommend Zaful a lot. It is an online fashion brand that offers trendy swimwear pieces. So, if you need a brand to shop trendy swimwear, check out Zaful. I also love this brand because the options are very affordable. You cam shop a full swimwear set for as low $11.

Zaful ships to a lot of countries. However, they do not ship to Nigeria. So, if you want to shop for Zaful swimwear from Nigeria, you can ship your orders to US. You can then ship it from US to Nigeria using HOR logistics. I use this brand a lot to ship from US to Nigeria with ease. You can read my post on how to shop from US and ship to Nigeria without hassle. Use my exclusive coupon code: HJDW at check out to get 17% off your order site wide. This code is at no extra charge to you but will save you some cash as a reader on my blog.

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Shop it for $20.99

Subtle tie detail swimwear

This year, the subtle tie detail swimwear is making hits. I love these bikini sets with extra ropes to allow you tie them to your taste.

I call a subtle tie detail because you get to choose how you want it. This type of swimwear pull the focus on your shape. So, if you’re looking for a flexible style to emphasize your hour glass shape, opt for swimwear with subtle tie details. All you have to do is to wrap the extra ropes around you and tie it as you want. You can shop for this type of swimwear trends for 2021 on Zaful. This is one my best summer swimwear options for 2021.

Shop it for $16.99

Multi use tops swimwear

Another best swimwear trends I am so excited about this year is the Multi use top swimwear sets. We all know we have been through trying times. So, the average consumer do not have a lot disposable income for shopping.

The swimwear options is suitable for you if you are seeking for multi use options. Many swimwear brands have made normal tops to go with out bikinis.

This tops are so welcome. Brands like Zaful have options with in 3-piece sets. A bikini bottom, bra and a top. This you can wear together for a modest look to the beach or for a swim. Also, the tops are made like normal outfits. You can wear the tops with your skirts or pants. Like I stated earlier, I am all in for versatile fashion pieces for my closet. So, I recommend this opt if you are looking to shop on a budget for your closet.

Shop it for $16.99

Best summer swimwear trends for 2021

Shapewear and waist trainers are now a fashion must have you need in your closet. Although, these two fashion items are used interchangeably, they are different. What is the difference between a body shaper and waist trainer? The difference is in the result that they provide. So, choosing any of these options depends on what you need in the end. Shapewears gives you temporary result. Like an instant slimmer figure. Also, shapewear gives you smooth figure in your outfit. So, shapewear is suitable for everyone irrespective your body type. On the other hand, waist trainers can help fix your body permanently. That is if you use it religiously. So, in this post, I will be comparing shapewear vs Waist trainer to enable you choose which is best for you.

Also read: Style hacks every woman should know in 2021

Shapewear: How does it work?

As stated earlier, shapewear gives your body a slim and smooth curve. You can easily wear shapewear in your outfits. So, if you want to create an illusion in your outfit, opt for shapewear. You can wear shapewear for work, dates or casual outings.

There are so many reasons you need a shapewear in your closet. Shapewear is easy to wear with outfits. Also, it gives a temporary instant result by smoothening your body. So, with a shapewear you can easily hide problem areas. There are several types of shapewear to choose from depending on your needs. You can opt for shapewear for tummy tuck, butt or thigh fats.

Since shapewear can help you hide problem areas, it boost your self confidence in your outfit. It smooths out your figure giving a slim silhouette. So, if you need an instant fix to hide problem areas in your body, opt for for Shapewear. There are so many options of shapewear you can shop for. You can shop the best shapewear bodysuit depending on your need. Whether you want a smooth thigh or sucked up tummy. You choose, and decide what’s best for you.

Waist Trainers: How it works and benefits?

Waist trainers are designed to help your body shape in the long term. It is a made with high compression material that sucks in your excess fat. Also, waist trainers helps you control the amount of food you eat. In the long run if you’re consistent helps you reduce weight.

Just like shapewear, waist trainers also gives you a slimmer frame. However, waist trainer is helps to train the waist to maintain its slimmer frame. The key to achieving great result with waist trainer is though consistent use. You are to use your waist trainer for at least 8 hours daily to start seeing result.

Waist trainer helps you improve your figure and posture. Also, achieving your desired body shape helps you boost your confidence. So, if you’re seeking to achieve a more permanent result in body shape, opt for waist trainer. You can shop for different option of waist trainer for women.

In conclusion, waist trainer vs shapewear have their uses. Both fashion pieces are beneficial to us as ladies. However, the best option suited for you depends on your needs. So, if need a temporary fix opt for shapewear. However, if you want a more permanent trained body, opt for a waist trainer.

Shapewear vs Waist trainer: which is best for you?

There are so many fun things to do in Lagos, Nigeria. One of such fun things to do is visit the beach. Lagos is close to the Atlantic ocean. So, it has many beaches spread across different areas except the mainland. I have seen several fun beaches in Lagos. Click here to check out other budget-friendly beaches in Lagos.

I am still exploring more beaches in Lagos state. So, I recently visited the Lekki Leisure beach Lagos. This beach is an affordable luxury beach with so many fun things to do. I enjoyed a walk on the sea bed as it has unique oyster shells and sea spiders. Actually, I love the beach spiders as they adapt to the environment. They have the color of the sand so it is not easy to spot them. So, here is all you need to know on your visit to Lekki Leisure beach Lagos.

Lekki leisure beach Lagos Location

Lekki leisure beach Lagos is located at lekki phase 1, adekunle Animashaun drive. How to get there is quite easy. Take a bus from Obalende or CMS, and stop at the 2nd roundabout Lekki phase 1. You can take the bus from the bus stop close to the pinnacle filling station to Lekki Leisure Lake. It is quite known by the drivers or bike men.

What is the gate fee for entry into Lekki Leisure beach? The gate fee for Lekki leisure beach Lagos is now 2000naira per adult and 1000 naira per child. The hike may be due to recent times. Also, you need your nose mask for entry into the beach.

At the ticketing booth, you are given a yellow tag before you’re given access. The security personnel will search you before entering. I love this beach a lot. My only issue with this beach is that you’re not allowed to bring in your own food.

Since this is not my first time going to a Lagos beach, I assumed that I can take my own food along. I bought some items at the Lagbus terminal at Oshodi. However, the security personnel asked us to leave it behind at their post. The only way I can take my own food in is to pay for the corkage fee. This cost about 10000naira. (why will I pay 10K for snacks that are worth just 2K plus).

I later found out that car owners are allowed to bring their own food. So, if you have your car, you can easily take your food in with ease. The sad part is that the food at Lekki Leisure Lake is not cheap at all.

The cheapest food is a suya meal or peppered gizzard is about 2,500naira. Here is my vlog of Lekki Leisure lake, I shared the menu and other costs of food.

Fun things to do at Lekki Leisure Lake

Just like any other beach in Lagos, there are so many fun things to do. However, I love this beach as they provided so many fun facilities for use.

  1. Horse riding: You can engage in horse riding activity at Lekki leisure. I love horse riding at the beach. It is so much fan. However, you need to pay a fee for a horse ride. This service is run by horse vendors on the beach. They reach out to people at the beach to enjoy a horse ride. You can also do a photo shoot with the horses. So, if you need a birthday shoot idea, take great pictures with horses at the beach.
  2. Family picnic: You can have family time at Lekki Leisure lake. This beach is open from Monday to Sunday. So, as a working parent, you can still visit this beach over the weekend with your family. Also, Lekki Leisure lake has children’s play facilities like a bouncing castle to keep them engaged. So, if you need to enjoy a couple’s time with the kids, opt for Lekki leisure lake.
  3. Enjoy beach sports: You can also enjoy some beach sports at Lekki beach. You can engage in Volleyball, beach soccer, or tug of war. I had fun playing volleyball at this beach. Although I suck at it. You have access to the pitch and the balls are already available for use.
  4. Swim at the beach: If you love to have a dip in the water, go swimming at the beach. You have free access to swim at the beach. However, if you don’t know how to swim, you can still enjoy the water close to its bank. The waves of this beach are huge that it gets so close to individuals sitting close to the water.

Facilities at Lekki Leisure beach

I love Lekki leisure beach Lagos as almost all the facilities are free to use. You only have to pay for your gate fee and food. Also, you need to pay a fee for the horse riding and quad bike ride. These facilities are run by individual vendors.

However, you have free access to the sports activities as stated above. Also, you can use any lounge chair or beach benches of your choice. So, if you need an affordable luxury beach, I would recommend Lekki leisure lake.

This makes it easier to have a family picnic with ease. So, instead of paying for beach benches or bringing your picnic needs, these are available for use there. I have visited another affordable luxury beach and this is not so. One such affordable luxury beach is Landmark beach Lagos. At this beach, you pay for everything up to the chairs, food, etc. And just like Lekki leisure lake, you can’t bring in your own food. You can read my post on Landmark beach and all you need to know.

So, if you need a luxury beach to visit in Lagos on a budget, opt for Lekki Leisure Lake. You’ll love it there. Please feel free to leave a comment. Also, you can suggest other beaches in Lagos you want me to visit.

Lekki leisure beach Lagos: 5 fun things to do and know

Have you ever felt like you have so much to do yet achieve nothing? This sometimes happens to me. I always feel like I have so much to do but have no idea how to do them. This in turn gives me anxiety and stress. You can read my post on 5 easy ways to relieve stress. However, writing down these goals into smaller daily task takes gets you closer to your goals. Back in high school, I have this habit of writing my to do list in jotters. However, getting into professional life, I stopped using planners. I use scrap sheets to take notes which get lost sometimes. Now I am back to using a planner and my productivity is off the roof. So, here I will share why need a digital planner to boost your productivity.

You will complete your task faster

Like I said earlier, I always loose the small paper that I scribble my to do list. With a digital planner, I able to break down my task to daily goals. So, it makes it easier to complete my work.

I used to feel like I needed more time from the normal 12hours of the day. However, with a digital planner, I am able to work through my task with extra time to spare for other things.

So, a digital planner help to fix in your daily task. Also it helps you track and check off task that are completed. The key is to prepare your to do list a day before or weekly as you may.

You also have to allot time for impromptu task. Like responding to an email that came in within the day.

Digital planner makes you arrange and prioritize your task. So, you know the task that are urgent and the not so urgent task. It helps you allocate time and run the task with ease.

Digital planners help you stay organized

Another reason you need a digital planner is to stay organized. Like I stated earlier, with a digital planner, you able to prioritize your task. Also, it helps you stay productive during the day.

Without a plan for the day, it is easy to get distracted. There are so many distractions nowadays. Sometimes, I spend about 1hour scrolling from instagram, Twitter, facebook etc. This makes me abandon my main task of the day before I have no plan for the day.

So, with a digital planner, you stay organized and productive. Even if you get distracted (it happens), you have your planner to refer to the task of the day.

To relieve stress

It is so easy to feel overwhelmed with so much to do. This in turn may lead to high stress levels for you. Sometimes I feel afraid that I may forget an important task. Truthfully, I have missed deadlines just because I forgot to deal the task.

So, the fear of forgetting an important task will cause you to stress. Using a digital planner makes you feel at ease. This is because you can easily refer to your journal to check your task.

I use satin journal planner to record my daily task using the monthly goal setting and tracker. So, you can plan your task for the whole and track your progress. Although there may be impromptu changes that you do within the month. However, the digital planner will make you feel at ease with the task broken down into daily achievable task.

Also, satin journal has a section where you can create your vision board. A vision board is super useful to plan the goal of the year. I love the create vision boards early in the year to kick my year. However, I still include more goals to my vision board as it becomes clearer to me. So, you need a digital planner to create your yearly vision board.

A vision board my contains goals like having 100+ blog post, visiting 3 international destinations or exploring more places in your local. This vision board makes it easy for you to research and plan yours with ease. With a digital planner, you are well prepared to achieve your goals. So, you can have a stress free year with all your goals handy in your digital planner. You can also read 5 easy ways to relieve stress and anxiety.

Improved lifestyle

Digital planners have so many benefits to us. One of such is an improved lifestyle. Satin journal digital planners have a habit trackers. This can be used to track any habit you want. Like money spending habit or daily routine that are more productive.

I am an ardent fashion shopper. Retail therapy is one of the ways that I reduce my stress levels. So, if I need a mood boost, I am online adding items to my cart. This is a really bad habit I am working on to curtails. My bank balance suffers most.

So, to track my money spending habits, I use satin journal habit trackers. This gives you an insight about yourself. You are able to see habits that are bad for you to let go off. Also, you get to adopt habits that are beneficial to your productivity. Asides the habit trackers, you get to monitor your progress on your task. So, you are able to see areas hat needs improvement to help you achieve your goals. You can shop satin journal digital planner for $7.99. To save 20% off your order, use code TRENDSENSTYLEZ.

Satin Journal Digital planner Demo/ How it works?

Why you need a digital planner to boost productivity?

The thought that you have so much to do or have a deadline to meet often causes us anxiety and stress. This type of stress is common and it is inevitable. Here are 5 easy ways to relieve stress and anxiety naturally.

Constant stress (if not managed) may have a negative impact of one’s mental health. Do you struggle with stress or anxiety? Me too. How is it possible to not be stressed as an adult? So, if you feel overwhelmed or stressed, you can manage it.

There are very simple ways to manage stress without visiting the hospital. However, this method is only useful for short term stress or anxiety. On the contrary, if you’re struggling with extreme stress or anxiety, you need to seek medical help. So, to help you manage stress, here are 5 easy ways to relieve stress. These simple things has greatly helped me to de-stress and manage anxiety with ease.

5 easy ways to relieve stress

Stress is a natural part of life. I get stressed with work, life goals that are procrastinated or new experiences. So, these tested and tried 5 easy ways to relieve stress has helped me manage it efficiently.

Listen to Music

There are days that all I need to is to listen to great music. Listening to your best songs on days that you’re feeling stressed works like magic. It takes my mind off the stress. Also, it makes focus on how to deal with the cause of the stress.

I listen to music on the bus from work in traffic. It makes me enjoy the song while being stuck in a traffic jam. So, if you’re looking to ease stress listen to good music. The key is to listen to songs that resonates with you. If you can dance to the songs to help you ease the stress or anxiety.

Get Organized

I know that I am not such that is super organized. So, this part for me is easier said than done. However, clutter may be adding to your stress. A room that has so much clutter or a disorganized kitchen cabinet may add to your stress. It is very difficult to find anything in a cluttered space. So, to help you reduce stress organize your space.

Simple things like organizing my task on my desk works. Also, clearing your desk after you’re done with task gives a sense of relief. So, if you want to relieve stress or anxiety organize space and task.

To deal with anxiety, I write down my to do list. This serves as guide as I work through each task during the day. Sometimes, anxiety may be as a result of an unfinished task. Also, procrastinating your task may cause you anxiety in the long run. Simply put, be organized in your daily task to relieve stress and anxiety.

Play online games

Another of the 5 easy ways to relieve stress is to play online games. Does playing games helps reduce stress? Of course yes. Online games are very engaging and fun. So, it takes your mind off your stress. Also, wining the games is an instant mood boost. It makes you feel good.

I play games whenever I need to relieve stress. Online games works well for me. This is because I don’t have to download the games to play them. I have young sibling that would literally drain my mobile phone battery playing games.

Also, online games is a cheap form of entertainment compared to streaming movies. There are so many online games you can play. However, to help me relieve stress I play these two games. One of such online games is the sorcerer. I love this games as it is just like the Zuma games. It is super fun. Also, winning each level is an instant mood boost for me.

The second game I love to play is tap supermarket. I love to shop for groceries in the super market. So, naturally I love this game. It is very engaging and relatable to me. As a client service personnel, I can relate to dealing with inventory as well as an angry client. So, I find this games super fun and engaging. You can check plays.org for more engaging games that is suitable for you.

Tap Supermarket Grocery Store Simulation Game

Regular exercise

Regular exercise is another easy way to relieve stress. Exercise like stretch or a quick jog is okay. So, if you’re looking to reduce stress, opt for exercise.

Exercise is the last option for me. This is because I have little stamina. Also, I don’t like any rigorous task. However, when I need to de-stress, I do exercise. It helps relieves you of stress as it soothes the body.

Regular exercise also helps you sleep better at night. Par of the source of our stress is not sleeping deep at night. So, opt for exercise to help you relax and enjoy a good night rest.

Take time out to rest

Rest cannot be over-emphasized. It is important to take time out frequently to reset and recharge. The human body needs rest as much as possible.

So, form a habit of taking time out in the year just to rest. You can have a staycation at home or within your locality. Also, since travel is back again, you opt to travel outside your own country. Although, it cost a lot to travel internationally. The key is to plan and save for this travel goals. You can read my post on how to save for travel with ease.

Stress and anxiety can be managed. All you need to apply any of these 5 easy ways to relieve stress.

5 easy ways to relieve stress and anxiety

Ikeja City is one of the busiest places in Lagos. It is the capital of Lagos state Nigeria. So, a guide on places to visit in Lagos is incomplete without its capital. Ikeja city is mostly the hub of businesses with the residentials more secluded. There are so many fun things to do in Ikeja Lagos.

One is shopping for thrift outfits. I love to shop for thrift outfits there along the railway lines mostly in the evenings. You can options for work and casual outings. If you’re new to thrift shopping, read my guide on how to shop for thrift outfits.

Another thing you need to do at Ikeja is to explore their vacation spots. In this post, I will be sharing 5 best cheap things to do at Ikeja Lagos. All these places in Ikeja are very affordable. So, if you need a fun thing to do in Ikeja, visit this 5 places.

New Afrika Shrine

New Afrika shrine is the one the most affordable places to visit in Ikeja. The entry fee is free for all. So, if you are looking for a cheap thing to do at Ikeja, visit the New Afrika shrine.

The New Afrika shrine is the place where the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti does his musical performances. Back then it was known as the Eko club. Although that built by Fela was burnt down. His children have rebuilt it.

You can visit the New Afrika shrine to enjoy some local dishes, drinks or hang out the bar. They place a lot of Fela’s songs at this bar. Also, you can shop for souvenirs at the New Afrika shrine for your friends and family.

In as much as it is free for all place to visit, I would not recommend you visit with children. The place is open to any type of person. Also, the smell from smokers in the bar is a lot in my opinion. It seems like smoking is a thing over there.

JJT park

Another of the 5 best cheap things to do at Ikeja is to visit the JJT park. This park is also known as the Johnson, Jakande Tinubu park. It is located close to Lagos state secretariat behind, the famous Ikeja Shoprite.

The park is free to access by all. It is one of the fun places to have a family vacations or hangout with friends. I love this place a lot. The park provides free Wi-Fi to all. My siblings have downloaded a full movie using Wi-Fi (it is faster with less people at the park).

You can do a lot of things at this park-like pre-wedding shoots, family picnics, and birthday parties. However, you belonging will be checked before entry by the security personnel. So, if you’re looking for a free place to visit in Ikeja, opt for JJT park.

University of Suya

Another option of fun things to do in Ikeja is to try out the University of Suya delicacies. Suya is a common food for Nigerians. Almost every area in Lagos has a suya stand at Night. One night-time food that I can’t pass up is Suya. However, one of the best Suya you need to try out is that of University of Suya.

University of Suya is located at Allen bus stop Ikeja. Its full name is faculty of Suya, Faculty of metrology. (Yes, you read right). The place is a famous spot in Ikeja. So, you should expect a queue on your visit. I had to wait in line to get my own suya.

This shop has several varieties of suya like special suya, kidney, gizzard, etc. And of course, the prices are affordable for as low as 200naira. I bought a special suya which is 1000naira. It has a unique taste to it. You can check out my vlog below for all you need to know.

Kalakuta Museum

Another of the 5 best cheap things to do in Ikeja Lagos is to visit Kalakuta Museum. This Place is the home of the Late Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The entry fee is 1000naira per person.

A tour guide is provided for you to give a tour of the museum. I love the tour as you get to learn about the life of this Icon. You can also enjoy some local drinks at the roof top bar at Kalakuta museum. The museum is located at 7 gbemisola street, Allen Lagos.

Kalakuta museum also offers lodge services. So, if you’re look for a short stay place that is affordable opt for Kalakuta Museum.

Ndubuisi Kanu park

Ndubuisi Kanu part is another of my favorite parks to visit in Ikeja Lagos. This park is just behind JJT park but it is smaller in size. It also quite beautiful.

So, if you’re at looking for cheap things to do in Ikeja, visit JJT park & Nduibuisi Kanu park. Just like JJT park, it is free to access. You have access to everything in the park. It has lovely huts and children playground. So, if you an affordable family spot, opt for Ndubuisi Kanu park.

Ndubuisi Kanu park offers free Wi-Fi. However, the Wi-Fi is not as fast as that of JJT park. You can have a birthday party, family hangout, pre-wedding shoots or picnic at this park. I would also recommend this park as a family because it has parking space just outside the park. So, it is quite easy to park your cars close by unlike JJT park.

So, whenever you visit Ikeja, opt for any of these 5 best cheap things to do in Ikeja Lagos. Also, if are new in Ikeja and need an affordable luxury hotel to stay in, opt for Kelsey Greene villa. You can read my post here on Kelsey Greene villa and why it is on my top best hotels in Lagos.

5 best cheap things to do in Ikeja Lagos

Now that we are getting back to normal, travel is back. However, the cost of travel is now high due to the impact of the pandemic. Also, you need to get a place to stay for a few days’ travel. The first thought is to book a hotel for your stay. You can either opt for a luxury hotel or an affordable hotel. However, there are several hotel alternatives that are more affordable options for your travel. So, I will be rounding up the 5 best cheap hotel alternatives to explore for your travel.

These alternatives are not just cheap but give a feel of the local. So, if you’re looking to cut costs on accommodation and enjoy your vacation on a budget, opt for these 5 best options for hotel alternatives.

Money can be a real issue while traveling. So, saving on accommodation with these 5 best cheap hotel alternatives is a must. Another way to save money while traveling is to use cashback on your hotel booking. WayAway travel aggregator will help you get up to 10% cashback on booking.com.

This you get to enjoy by signing up for their yearly membership at $49.99.This membership guarantees you cashback on your hotel bookings. Also, it is a search engine that helps you get the best hotel deals there is online.

I highly recommend you join WayAway ASAP. Click here to sign up and get an extra 10% off to be a member of WayAway user. Also, you can use my discount code: Trendsenstylez to enjoy this 10% discount. Enjoy actual cashback while traveling around the world.

Best Cheap Hotel alternatives

Want to cut cost on hotels? Here are the best cheap hotel alternatives to opt for on your travels.

Vacation home rentals/apartments

Airbnb is one of the most popular vacation apartment rental platforms. This is a great option of the 5 best cheap hotel alternatives to choose from. Airbnb is a platform where homeowners can list their houses for vacation stays. So, Airbnb serves as an extra source of income for homeowners and affordable hotel alternatives.

I love the option of Airbnb or an apartment for my travels. This is because you get a feel of a home. Also, I get to cook my own food and shop from the local stores. So, I get to save on accommodation and food too. It is super easy to book an apartment for your travel.

There are several concerns around booking apartments like cleanliness and the current pandemic. Airbnb has placed measures to ensure travelers’ safety. All listed apartment has to pass their cleanliness guidelines. Click here to read my post on tips on how to book apartment rentals as a first-timer.

There are several apartment listing options that are suitable for your budget. So, if you’re looking for an affordable hotel alternative, opt for apartment rentals. Click to book apartment rentals for your next travel.

Academic Guest houses/hostels.

Another of the 5 best hotel Alternatives you need for your travel is the Academic guest house. This option is suitable if you’re traveling to a place that has a university or college with hostels or guest houses.

However, you need to find out if your itinerary includes such an area. Also, you could reach out to such schools to find out if they have guest houses for rentals.

There are several factors that affect the availability of Academic guest houses. One of such is when students are in session or during the admission process. These guest houses tend to get filled during this period.

However, if you’re traveling during school holidays you can opt for Student hostels or guest houses. This hotel alternative is very affordable.

Before you book an academic guest house, kindly note the following.

  1. Call to confirm the availability for your travel period
  2. Go with your own beddings and toiletries: These options may be available already. I prefer going with my bed cover because that of the guest’s home may not be neat.
  3. Accessibility to restaurants, local markets, and commute options.
  4. Hostels may involve shared room options so if you need to be alone, opt for academic guest houses.

Hotel look has some listing of university hostel listings you can check out. However, this may not be available in all countries.

Homestay

Homestay options are another affordable option for accommodation for your travel. This option is perfect if you want to mix with the locals. Plus is a great option of the 5 best cheap hotel alternatives to explore for your travels.

Families list to host tourists in their homes for a cheap fee. In this setting, the guest gets to stay with them. Also, you eat and dine as part of that family.

However, this option is not available in all countries. There are no homestay options in Nigeria. Also, just a few African countries have homestay options. ( don’t know why).

If you want to book a homestay option, click here to book and confirm availability.

Before you opt for a homestay get to know the family. You can reach them beforehand to familiarize yourself with them. Also, I would recommend you go with a thank you gift for the family. ( Gifts make people happy).

Friends home

This option is a super easy way to save on travel if you have friends in the place you want to visit. Why pay for a hotel or rental?

You can reach out to your relative or friends to let them know of your visit and seek permission. I would pick staying with relatives or friends over rentals anyway.

However, everything has its pros and cons. I love my freedom to explore on my travels. But since it’s not my home, I get to abide by their rules. Some relatives will not allow keeping late nights out. So, if you’re not cut for restrictions, opt for apartment rentals or hostels.

In terms of cost-cutting costs, this is my most recommended of the 5 best cheap hotel Alternatives to opt for. You get to pay nothing to stay with relatives. You could contribute to the home upkeep while you’re with them.

Religious Housing

Another hotel alternative you need to know about is religious homes. So many religious homes offer places to stay for free or at a cheap rate.

Religious places to look out for are churches, monasteries, or mosques. These places do not discriminate what religion you’re. All you need to do is to abide by their guidelines or rules.

So, if you’re looking to spend way less on a place to stay, opt for a religious home. Also, religious homes are quite safe to stay in. I had once stayed in a religious home of Opus Dei ( a catholic home). It was comfortable and I was well taken care of.

So many cities have these religious homes available for travelers. All you need to do is to look out for such places on your travel.

Religious homes

Hostels

Hostels is another hotel alternative you can opt for on your travel. Why opt for hostels for your trip? Hostels are budget friendly options as compared to hotels.

There are several pros and cons to staying in an hostel. The pros include networking opportunity, group tours and meeting new friends. On the flip side, hostels may be crowded, your items are open to theft if not secured properly and personal hygiene issues with flat mates. If you love your privacy, I would not recommend hostels.

However, if you love to mingle and want to cut cost, one of the best hotel alternatives I recommend are hostels. One of my favorite platforms to secure my hostels is Hostel world. This platform covers a wide range of countries around Africa, Asia and Europe. You’d love their picks for your hostels. Click here to book your hostel via hostelworld.

Comment below which of these hotel alternatives you have used. Do you recommend any of these best cheap hotel alternatives? Ciao.

5 best cheap hotel alternatives you need for travel

One of the easiest ways to dress stylish with less effort is by wearing monochrome outfits. Monochrome style means wearing just one color in your style (mono-one, chrome color). However, that does not mean you have to wear just one solid color. There are several ways how to wear monochrome outfits. You can choose to wear one shade or different shades of the same color. That is for a monochrome pink look, you can opt for a solid pink top and pastel pink pants with a matching pink accessory. So, if you love monochrome styles or want to opt for this timeless trend. Here are stylish ways how to wear monochrome outfits right now.

Co-ord or set outfits

Monochrome looks are an easy way to look stylish with less effort. So, a simple way to wear a monochrome outfit is wearing a co-ord set. Co-ord sets are also known as matching set outfits. Opt for matching sets in prints for summer or solid color tones. So, if you want to wear a monochrome look, opt for a co-ord set.

I also love the co-ord set because you can wear it with another outfit in your wardrobe. You can shop for co-ord sets from Chicme or Zaful. Also, you can shop for a co-ord set from your local stores if you prefer offline shopping. However, if you’re a newbie to online shopping, read my guide on how to shop for fashion items online.

Play with color tones

Another stylish way to wear monochrome is to wear the same color in different shades. I love to play with different color shades for my monochrome look. So, if you want to try out this style, just choose a color. For example, if I want to wear monochrome blue, opt for different shades of blue for the top and bottom.

It is super stylish. You can shop for stylish tops, bottoms, or accessories from Chicme or Zaful. I always refer to these brands because they are affordable. You can read my review on Chicme. I love the outfits I got from this brand. All of them I still wear to date.

Source: Pinterest

Mix solid and prints

Monochromatic outfits look doesn’t need to be boring. You can style solid colors with matching prints. I love to mix and match prints and solid color tones. This makes your outfit look stylish. So for this look, you can wear a solid white bodysuit and white print skirts.

Prints may seem quite difficult to style. However, you can match prints with solid with little hassle. All you need to do to wear this style is to pick a common color. Check the print for a color you want to style like red or blue. Then match it with a red solid or green top or bottoms. You can shop for a print skirt or tops online or in-store.

Match your print outfits

Another stylish way to wear monochrome outfits is to mix and match your prints. Prints outfits are in this summer. Also, it is an all-season outfit you need in your closet. You can wear your prints for work, dates, or casual outings. I love print flowy dresses for summer. This automatically puts you in a holiday mood.

You can match your print outfit for a monochrome look. All you have to do is to match the prints with common colors. So, you can match your prints top with that red color with matching prints bottom. There are so many fun ways to get good use of your print outfits. You can read my post on how to wear prints in 9 different ways.

Source: Pinterest

Add accessories

Another way how to wear monochrome outfits is to match them with accessories. Accessories complete your looks. Your accessories can make or break an outfit. Another easy way to wear a monochrome outfit is to match your outfit with accessories.

This can be wearing a pair of matching heels or sneakers. Also, you can opt for a scarf or hat that matches with your color theme. I love to style my outfit with scarves. This accessory is one fashion item you need right now.

A colorful scarf can instantly style up your outfit. There are so many types of scarves you can choose from. However, I prefer silk print scarves to have versatile options for their use.

So, a simple way how to wear monochrome outfits is to match them with a colorful silk scarf. You can shop for silk scarves online from Chicme, or Zaful. These brands have so many options for this summer to choose from.

Source: Pinterest

How to wear Monochrome outfits Right now

The late Fela Anikulapo is an icon that lives on in our hearts. So, to immortalize him, his children kept his memory alive through the Kalakuta museum. You can read my post on all you need to know about the Kalakuta museum. Another such place to visit is the New Afrika shrine Lagos.

The New Afrika shrine Lagos is a re-incarnation of the famous old Lagos club founded by Fela. In this club, he did his performances. Also, as an activist, they talk about politics and other pain points of Nigeria’s leadership. However, the place was burnt down in the 1970s by the government. I recently visited the New Afrika shrine in Lagos and here is all you need to know before visiting.

New Afrika Shrine Lagos: Location and Gate fee

New Afrika shrine is Located at NERDC road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. So, if you want to visit, take a bus to Ikeja along. From Ikeja under the bridge, take a bus going to Agidingbi, stop at the technical road bus stop. It is a walking distance of this bus stop.

The New Afrika shrine is open all days of the week. Also, there is no entrance fee. However, you will be required to use your nose mask before access.

Although, tourists are mandated to use their nose masks before entry. It is not really a requirement because my sibling and I were the only ones using masks on my visit.

Also, the Shrine is accessible to people of all kinds. I almost left because there were all sorts of individuals there. You are free to do anything you want as far as you don’t hurt others.

If you can’t bear the fumes from cigarettes that were everywhere, this place is not for you. I can say that I inhaled the highest cigarette smoke of my life.

The sad part is that you can see clearly the no smoking sign in strategic places. However, it is not an issue at this shrine.

Things to do at New Afrika Shrine Lagos

New Afrika Shrine is a theatre for musical performances. As you all know two of Fela’s sons are into music like their father. The eldest Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti who is just like their father in his kind of music.

Below are some things you can do on your visit.

  1. Treat yourself to some African dishes at the NAS Kitchen: The restaurant is just inside the New Afrika shrine. I did not try out the dishes though. However, if you would love to eat while enjoying the music of Fela at this Shrine, check out NAS Kitchen. Aside from the restaurant, you can also get finger foods like suya or drinks at the bar. I went for the suya and a yogurt drink for about 1500naira ( suya-500naira, yogurt-1000naira). I have never seen such a thick yogurt in my life. It was a struggle to pour its content into my cup. Lol.
  2. Attend Felabration: The yearly celebration occurs at the New Afrika shrine. This is to celebrate Fela by hosting a lot of music performances you’d love. Felabration occurs in the week of Fela’s birthday in October. So, if you want to have a fun time at this shrine, attend Felabration. Also, you can attend type weekly performances by his sons. Seun Kuti plays every last Saturday of the month while Femi Kuti plays for free every Thursday. I would recommend you visit the New Afrika shrine on these days to enjoy the shows and get the best out of your visit.
  3. Shop for Souvenirs: I love to shop for souvenirs whenever I visit a place. So, I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to get something for myself and my family. I bought a bracelet for a friend. You can shop for artsy gifts at the souvenir shop in the Afrika shrine. Most of the items are affordable too.

The yearly Felabration is so much fun in Lagos. So, if you need a reason to visit the New Afrika shrine in Lagos, go for Felabration. Click here to book affordable hotels in Lagos if you need a place to stay in Lagos.

New Afrika Shrine Lagos: Is it worth the visit?

As i continue to explore Lagos, I am awed by its beauty. There are so many places yet to be seen. My bucket list keeps growing of places I want to see in Lagos. So, one of the places on that list is Jaekel house Lagos. It is formerly the home of first head of the Nigerian railway corporation.

Also, the building is now a museum that houses rich historical fact about Nigerian railway corporation. So, if you’re looking for one the best places to visit in Lagos on budget, opt for Jaekel house. You will love it at Jaekel house. I will also link my Jaekel House youtube vlog so you can see the place. Kindly subscribe and like the video.

Here is all you need to know before you visit Jaekel house Lagos.

Where is Jaekel house Lagos located?

Jaekel house is located at 17 federal road ebutte metta. This hidden gem is inside the housing quarters of Nigerian railwy corporation. You can get there by taking a bike from entrance of Nigerian railway quarters. I walked from Tejuosho complex close to the NTA television station office, the quarters is just opposite. So, if you get to the entrance, a bike cost 100 naira per person. The bike guys doesn’t carry two passengers on their bike. ( I can’t say why).

The road to Jaekel house in the quarters is not tiled so, you should expect a bumpy ride. Also, it is quite dusty. However, I would recommend taking your car to avoid the dust. I love the retro architecture of Jaekel house.

Entry fee for Jaekel house & things to do.

Jaekel house Lagos is free to access its gardens. However, if you want to see its museum, the fee is 1000naira. A tour guide will give you a tour of the house. Jaekel house is a one-storey building and the museum section is upstairs. Our tour guide for the day was an elderly man.

The picture that caught my attention is that of the white man that lived in this house. He and his family lived in Jaekel house while he was the head of the corporation. Also, you get to see the railway tracks as they run in Nigerian map. I love the train project that we hope to have in Nigeria someday. It makes me wish for the fast trains of Japan. We will get there.

The museum also has some unique stones, some preserved part of the old rail way and old land phone. You know that kind of land line phones that was used in the 80’s. I was thrilled to get to see it stored at this museum.

After our tour of the house, we were also given a tour of the rail pieces outside in the compound. One such item is an old coach that was used during the colonial era for supervision. The coach was ridden by black slaves from one part of the country to another. I wonder how they survived in the cold or heat. This is because this coach was not covered.

Jaekel house Lagos also has a cottage behind where some of the workers stay. The cottage is quite unique and beautiful. Our tour guide says that Jaekel house is about 120years.

Fun things to do

There are so many interesting Lagos events that takes place at Jaekel house. I haven’t attended any because I don’t know when it occurs. Like famous Jollof festival that took place in 2017 hosted by eat drink Lagos brand. Asides a tour of the museum at Jaekel house, you can do the below.

  1. Photoshoot for content creation: The retro vibe of this place is unique. The building is over 120 years and it looks amazing. You do your content photoshoot for clothes or product. Also, you can do your pre-wedding shoot at Jaekel house.
  2. Host an event: The compound is quite large for fun event. So, if you’re looking to plan an outdoor event, opt for Jaekel house. You can also spend time relaxing and having fun at this house.

So, if you’re looking for the best places to visit in Lagos, opt for Jaekel house Lagos. Other places you can visit in Lagos on a budget are Jhalobia parks and Garden, Oniru private beach or Omu resort.

Jaekel house Lagos: Lagos hidden gem you need to know

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