Where To Go This Christmas

Many who work or live in Abuja have found the city a bit boring during festive seasons, that’s because a lot of people take advantage of the period to visit loved ones back home . However, if you find yourself ‘stuck’ in Abuja due to work (yes, work- because some places just can’t afford to be closed down during the holidays) or whether you plan on visiting relations living in Abuja, then there are oads of fun places to visit and lots to do. BINTA ABDULAZEEZ IDRIS suggests some places for you to visit this Christmas.

Millennium Park
The Millennium Park  is by far the largest public park in Abuja and a place where people young and old, from all walks of life love to visit. Though bustling with activity, the serenity will put you in a relaxed mood. Barbeques, ice cream, popcorn and lots more to eat and drink, as well as horse rides and games for both adults and kids, you are sure to have a great time. Here’s the best part, you don’t have to spend too much.

Ceddi Plaza:
Located in central business area  of Abuja, the Plaza consists of a mix of three floors of retail specialty shops, offices & service providers consisting of movie theatres, a bookstore, champagne lounge, the Atrium @ Ceddi Plaza, restaurants, cafes, fashion boutiques, shoe stores, accessories, home interior design stores, furnishings, health & beauty salons, gift shops, telephones, banking and ATMs, dry cleaning services, a dental office, pharmacy, photo studio, children’s entertainment, events hall and much more. The whole family is sure to find some thing to do this festive season.

IBB Golf Course:
I was a member, and recommend becoming a member to anyone living in Abuja. It’s about US 2,000 to join then annual membership of about US 700 for unlimited golf). The course has 18 beautiful holes (long front 9 and challenging back 9), great driving range, short game area, and great terrace with the best view in Abuja. With food and a variety of drinks, you could sit on the terrace for hours with friends. The Sunday brunch is nice. There are two tennis courts, golf pros, great caddies, and a really nice atmosphere.

Transcorp Hilton:
With a pool, gym, and Fulani Bar (largest hotel in Africa), the Hilton is a nice place to hang out this Christmas. The pool is a great place for kids (water toys in a big pool). You can do laps in the morning. The gym is great, with cardio and weights in the gym.  You can use the pool, squash courts, tennis, and volleyball. The Fulani bar has passable food and has poolside service; great festive Sunday atmosphere.

The Nicon Luxury Hotel
This is a nice place for the younger crowd and for fun. The restaurants are pleasant and the nightclub has one of Abuja’s better sound system and ambiance. The hotel does a great outdoor BBQ on weekends. Rooms are nice and safe. Close to Cherry’s II bakery for sweets and bread.

Maitama amusement park: 
Is a sure place the children will love, the park is strategically located on IBB BOULEVARD, bounded by IBB Golf Course, on an 18 HA land with exclusive access on Usuma Close and Lake Chad Crescent. There are fun studios for the entire family; Children have brain storming games and dive into exciting caves, tunnels, kiddies’ rides, climbing, bumper boat, Space Gun for Adults the list is endless. Family entertainments with lots of fun time, excitement, relaxation in the open spaces that provides rest and relaxation areas, green planes, beautiful and splendid shaped plants providing the soft play structure for under 12 year old recreational requirements not forgetting the pop-corn and cotton candy, gift & souvenirs and Antique shops adding to the total leisure facilities available.

Wonderland amusement park:
The park is located across the road from the National Stadium, the park offers activities for the whole family. Loads to do, roller coasters, dogem cars, merry go rounds and a general assortment of themed rides, Games arcade, activities for younger kids like bouncy castles. Different Range of refreshments and dining facilities.