by Abdulganiyu Ibrahim | Jun 17, 2024 | City Guide
A few days after an emotionally challenging period, I decided to embark on a trip to Kaduna State to clear my mind. I arrived in Kaduna from Zaria around 12:00 pm on December 11, 2021, welcomed warmly by my brother and his family. Shortly after the initial excitement of my arrival, I retreated to my usual guest room to rest.
While I was lost in thought, my brother interrupted and suggested an adventure to Kajuru Castle, a place he believed would lift my spirits. He described the castle’s enchanting architecture, climate, and the unique attractions, including the crocodile guarding the gates and the majestic stainless steel pool. Intrigued, I agreed to join them.
After freshening up, I joined my brother’s family in the living room. Before we left, my brother’s wife offered me some food, which I gladly accepted. I quickly finished a plate of pasta, and soon we were on our way to the castle, an hour’s drive from Kaduna.
Upon arrival, we paid the entrance fee of N10,000 for a one-hour tour. A guide, referred to as the Castle Ghost, greeted us and began the tour, sharing fascinating details about Kajuru Castle. Built in 1989 by a German expatriate, the castle sits atop a hill in Kajuru, approximately 45 kilometers from Kaduna. Styled in a medieval European manner, the castle attracts numerous tourists, earning it the title of the best tourist attraction in Nigeria.
However, despite its charm and historical significance, Kajuru Castle has not seen any significant rehabilitation efforts by the state. The once grand structure now shows signs of neglect, with parts of the building in need of repair and maintenance. The lack of state intervention has left the castle relying heavily on private efforts to maintain its allure and functionality.
The castle features four dungeon rooms and a large master bedroom, which boasts the biggest bathtub in Nigeria. Its unique elements include knight armor with a sword, bookshelves, a bow and arrow, a large chair, and a small center table, giving it a Camelot-like ambiance reminiscent of the movie Merlin.
Curious about its capacity, I asked the Castle Ghost how many people it could accommodate. He explained that while the castle can host up to 150 people for events, its limited number of rooms restrict overnight stays to about ten guests. Despite this, the castle is popular for group vacations, honeymoons, pool parties, and other celebrations. It even includes a kitchen, sauna, and all the amenities needed for an overnight or weekend stay.
My brother, excited by the idea, inquired about the cost of spending a night at the castle. The Castle Ghost informed us that a night for the five of us would cost N150,000, while a weekend would be N270,000. Although my brother abandoned the plan due to the high cost, the Castle Ghost suggested we consider it for a future visit, noting that we would have to arrange our own meals.
As our tour concluded, I felt a sense of joy and excitement wash over me. The castle’s beauty and history had provided a much-needed distraction from my recent troubles. Visiting Kajuru Castle was an unforgettable experience, and for a moment, I forgot all about my previous heartache.
by Aisha Zakari | Sep 15, 2021 | Uncategorized
When considering what top 10 essential travel items to add to your travel bag for a trip or a holiday, it can be overwhelming in the blink of an eye. You’re conscious and confused about what to include and what not to, what is needed the most and the least. You most definitely don’t want to forget something so you don’t buy them when you get to your destination –planning on staying budget-friendly.
Relax! I’m here for you. In this post, I’ll be sharing with you the all-time travel essentials you need to make that packing easy.
Essential Travel Items You Should Always Pack When Travelling
1. Earpiece/plug
This is my all-time favourite and go-to when planning to embark on any journey. They are essential as they help to block out noise from strangers and also for entertainment.
With these also, you could get an amount of sleep to rest before you get to your final destination.
2. PowerBank
This is very vital when travelling as there won’t be any source of power when you are miles away from home till you get to your desired destination. But with this power source, you’re just a plug away from what’s going on around the world, social media and of course, just a call away from friends and family.
Thank you technology, right?!
3. First aid-kit
First aid kit could just be pain relief and anti-nausea medications that help in relieving migraine or headache, nausea. When filling up that bag, the top 10 essential travel items must include a pack of Ibuprofen, Panadol/Paracetamol and Diclofenac.
What else do you think should be included in a first aid kit while travelling?
4. Towel
This is mostly forgotten when packing for a trip or a holiday. Like I mean, are you planning on not bathing? Towels are essential in keeping your body clean and fresh after a bath and they are lightweight. You could pack two if you can, or just one is okay.
5. Flip flops
Carrying these is a proven way to enjoying your stay when you get to your desired destination. It could be flip flops, crocs or any comfortable shoes you can walk freely with.
I suggest waterproof flops or a crocs cause of the rain. You never can tell.
6. Water bottle
Stay hydrated on the go! This is an essential item when travelling and in our daily lives also. Place water in your carrier bag or in hand and stay hydrated.
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
As the name implies, this is very important when travelling. Unless you intend to spend on buying new ones, you could just take them from your closet and add them to your travelling bag.
8. Underwear and shorts
These are essential for comfort and are very versatile. Shorts are quite easy as this gives you the feeling of home and of course, relaxation.
Remember to add these travel essentials to your luggage when taking that next vacation or trip.
9. Clothes
Okay, you’re not planning on wearing just underwear, are you? I know I said they are top 10 essential travel items for comfort but what about style? Make sure to pack enough clothes to make you look stunning on your trip.
Don’t forget to take a pose for the camera too.
10. Cosmetics
These are your everyday essentials to keep your body hydrated and moisturized. Don’t forget to add this to your luggage and include a quality sunscreen plus a good deodorant and perfume.
Smell nice please me avoid hyperpigmentation by using sunscreen.
Conclusion
Travelling is pure ecstasy and bliss we must indulge in our lives when we can. These top 10 essential travel items should be your go-to always when planning that trip or holiday and should be included in your luggage.
For more advanced essential items for international and in-flight experience, you should check this out.