If you’re looking for a destination that offers a unique blend of luxury and affordability, look no further than Ivory Coast. Located in West Africa, Ivory Coast is the third largest French-speaking country in the world, with a rich culture that is both fascinating and impressive. From its extensive road network to its high-end luxury accommodations, Ivory Coast is a country that will exceed your expectations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Ivory Coast such a special destination. We’ll explore its impressive infrastructure, investment opportunities, cultural heritage, and even its controversial extravagant projects. So, pack your bags and join me on this journey as we discover the wonders of Ivory Coast.
My Impressions of Ivory Coast’s Infrastructure

During my visit to Ivory Coast, I was pleasantly surprised by the country’s impressive infrastructure. The extensive road network connecting all the cities was a highlight for me. I found the highways and bridges to be well-maintained and easy to navigate.
Ivory Coast’s roads are a testament to the country’s commitment to investment and development. The government has invested heavily in the road network to ensure that it is accessible to everyone. The roads connect all regions of the country, making it easy for people to move around and do business.
I was also impressed by the quality of the roads. They are built to high standards and are well-marked. I felt safe driving on them, even though I was not familiar with the area. The bridges were also a sight to behold, with some of them spanning large rivers and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Land of Cocoa and Pine Fabric
As I traveled to Ivory Coast, I discovered many interesting and unique things about this beautiful country. Ivory Coast is the third largest French-speaking country in the world and the biggest producer of cocoa. One of the first things that caught my attention was the close relationship between Ivory Coast and Ghana in terms of culture and resources.
During my visit, I learned about the locally made Pine fabric which is unique to Ivory Coast. It takes 8-9 years to learn how to make Pine fabric, and it has different designs that indicate social status and function. Some pieces of Pine fabric are very expensive due to the intricate designs and patterns. I was fascinated by the Pine fabric and its connection to Ivory Coast’s culture and history.
Another interesting fact I discovered is that Ivory Coast and Ghana together account for about 60% of the world’s cocoa production, challenging the perception that chocolate mainly comes from Ghana. As I traveled around the country, I saw many cocoa plantations and learned about the process of cocoa production, from harvesting the cocoa beans to turning them into chocolate.
Overall, my visit to Ivory Coast was an eye-opening experience, and I came away with a newfound appreciation for the country’s culture, history, and resources.
My Visit to the Controversial Churches of Ivory Coast


I had the opportunity to see two of the most controversial churches in the world – The Basilica of Our Mother of Peace and S Paul Cathedral. The Basilica of Our Mother of Peace in Yamoussoukro is a massive church built by the country’s first president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny. It is said to be the largest church in the world, surpassing even St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The church is made entirely of marble and is adorned with gold mosaics, stained glass windows, and a large dome.
While the church is undoubtedly impressive, I couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast between its grandeur and the surrounding poverty of the country. The cost of building the church is unknown, but it is estimated to be over $300 million, which is a considerable amount for a developing country like Ivory Coast. It is no wonder that many people criticize the church for its expense and argue that the money could have been put to better use.
The St Paul Cathedral in Ivory Coast is another church that sparked controversy when it was built. The cathedral’s design is said to resemble an alien spaceship, with its pointed roof and curved walls. It was built for 6 billion XOF, which is around $12 million, making it one of the most expensive churches in the world. Regardless of the actual cost, many people believe that it is too much money to spend on a church when there are so many pressing issues in the country that need to be addressed.
In conclusion, my visit to the churches of Ivory Coast was an eye-opening experience. While the churches are undoubtedly impressive, the controversy surrounding their massive size and cost is a reminder of the country’s ongoing struggle with poverty and development.
Ivory Coast’s Sacred Crocodile Rituals

I had the chance to witness one of the country’s most unique and controversial traditions: the sacred crocodile ritual. This ritual involves gathering around sacred crocodiles, which are considered a symbol of power, protection, and prosperity. As I watched these massive reptiles basking in the sun and occasionally moving around, I couldn’t help but feel both awed and intimidated, especially as they fed the crocodiles live chickens.
I learned that the sacred crocodile ritual is an important part of the local culture and draws many tourists and visitors every year. Some people believe that the money generated by tourism should be used to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of locals, while others argue that it helps preserve the cultural heritage of Ivory Coast and creates job opportunities.
One thing that surprised me was that it is forbidden to swim with the crocodiles, even though they are considered sacred and not aggressive towards humans. Apparently, the president of Ivory Coast treasured the crocodiles so much that he named them as part of his security detail, which is quite a feat considering that the city’s Monumental Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is also a major attraction.
Overall, my experience of witnessing Ivory Coast’s sacred crocodile rituals was both fascinating and controversial. While I still have mixed feelings about the impact of tourism on the local community, I can’t deny the allure of these magnificent creatures and the rich cultural traditions that surround them.
My Experience Living in Abidjan Plateau
I stayed in Abidjan Plateau, a bustling central business district known for its luxurious real estate market and proximity to UNESCO world heritage sites. Despite the high cost, I found that it was possible to live comfortably on a budget.
Abidjan Plateau is one of the most desirable areas to live in Ivory Coast, with tall buildings and modern infrastructure. During my stay, I was able to explore the area and found that it was a perfect mix of business and leisure. There were plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to keep me busy during the day, and at night, I enjoyed the vibrant nightlife scene.
The real estate market in Abidjan Plateau is truly impressive, with a Beverly Hills replica gated community that attracts wealthy individuals, including French speakers and celebrities. While it may be expensive to live here, it’s worth it if you want to experience the high life in Ivory Coast.
In all, I found Ivory Coast to be a unique and exciting place to visit. With its luxury real estate market, proximity to world heritage sites, and vibrant culture, it’s definitely worth checking out if you have the chance.
A Trip to Ivory Coast’s Historical Town

During my visit to Ivory Coast, I had the opportunity to explore the charming town of Grand Bassam, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. The town is located about 40 kilometers east of the bustling city of Abidjan and was the country’s former capital during the French colonial era.
One of the most striking features of Grand Bassam is its well-preserved colonial architecture, which dates back to the late 19th century. The town’s historic center is home to several notable buildings, such as the Governor’s Palace, the Law Courts, and the Sainte-Marie Cathedral, which showcase a unique blend of European and African architectural styles.
Aside from its colonial architecture, Grand Bassam is also known for its vibrant art market, which is filled with colorful paintings, sculptures, and other handicrafts made by local artists. During my visit, I had the chance to interact with some of these artists and learn about their creative processes and inspirations.
One of the most exciting developments in Grand Bassam is the ongoing renovation of the town’s historic center into an art museum. The project aims to showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work to a global audience.
Savoring the Local Delicacies in Ivory Coast

I had an incredible opportunity to explore the local food scene in Ivory Coast during my recent visit. My taste buds were thrilled to discover the unique flavors and textures of Ivorian cuisine, which is a blend of African, French, and Arabic influences. One of the highlights of my culinary journey was a visit to Restaurant Chez Tantie Alice, a popular eatery that has been serving authentic Ivorian food since 1977.
Located in the heart of Abidjan, the capital city of Ivory Coast, Restaurant Chez Tantie Alice is a cozy and welcoming place that exudes a homely vibe. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by the friendly owner, who gave me a warm smile and showed me to my table. The menu was extensive, and I could see that the dishes were prepared with great care and attention to detail.
I decided to try the fried plantain and fish stew, which is a staple Ivorian dish. The fried plantain was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a subtle sweetness that complemented the savory fish stew. The stew was rich and flavorful, with tender chunks of fish that had absorbed the spices and herbs.
As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but admire the owner’s passion and dedication to preserving the authenticity of Ivorian cuisine. She explained to me that all the ingredients used in the dishes were locally sourced and fresh, and that the recipes had been passed down from generation to generation.
Overall, my experience at Restaurant Chez Tantie Alice was a gastronomic delight that I will never forget. The warm hospitality, the delicious food, and the rich cultural heritage made it a truly unforgettable experience.
My Experience in the Beautiful Town of Assini, Ivory Coast

Assini is a popular destination for people of various nationalities, and it’s not hard to see why. The town is a perfect blend of culture and luxury, with plenty of resorts, beach houses, and villas to choose from.
One of the things that stood out to me was the town’s focus on food. Assini is a culinary paradise, with plenty of delicious dishes to try. I particularly enjoyed the Sunday brunch, which costs $100 and includes every meal and drink. The all-inclusive package covers different formulas for different preferences, so you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes.
Apart from the food, Assini is also a great place to party, relax, and network. The town has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the resorts and beach houses are the perfect place to unwind.
Assini is only a one-hour drive from Abidjan, making it easy to get to. And once you’re there, you’ll find that the town is predominantly made up of villas. This gives it a luxurious feel, and the views are simply breathtaking.
However, one thing to note is that there is a language barrier in Assini. While it’s a popular destination with people from all over the world, English is not widely spoken. But don’t let that put you off – there are plenty of locals who are happy to help, and with a little effort, you can communicate effectively.
Overall, my experience in Assini was nothing short of amazing. If you’re looking for a beautiful destination with a focus on culture, luxury, and food, then Assini is definitely worth a visit.
Conclusion
Traveling is not just about the destination; it’s about the memories you make along the way. And my trip to Ivory Coast is one that I will cherish forever. From the beautiful town of Assini to the vibrant city of Abidjan, I had the opportunity to explore so many amazing places and meet wonderful people.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, luxury, and delicious food, then Ivory Coast is definitely worth considering. And if you want to see more of my travels, be sure to check out my YouTube channel, where I share my journey and experiences with the world.