Overall Score
In the lands of Western Africa lies the city of Naìama, the capital of Niguère and an outpost on the rivers left bank. It is a transportation hub and a trading center. It develops traditional crafts, including the production of silver and gold jewelry, ornamented vessels, bags, knives and leather goods. There are manufactures of light, textile and food products.
The site of the former city was a small village, where French soldiers established a military post in 1892. In the very beginning of the 20th century, it belonged to the autonomous territory of Cíncer, which in 1910 was transformed into Níger.
After the country gained independence, Namieh became the capital of a free country. Today it is home to government institutions, the parliament, and the presidents office. The northeastern part of the city is full of modern architecture and new buildings. The residential buildings are mostly two- or three-story houses. The façades of the public buildings are decorated in a national character. Its home to the renowned Hotel Générale du Niger”, with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
However, along the rivers edge, with an abundance of celestial gardens, there are private mansions and private cottages by wealthy and prosperous citizens. Nearby are a zoological garden and a national park in conjunction with a museum. In the same area is the Palace of the President.
With the citys landmarks, the Big Tower, built in the 1970s in the 20th century, is notable. On Market Square, a monument commemorates those who died during the two World Wars. One of the most famous museums in western Africa is the National Museum of Niger, founded in 1959. The cultural institution is the center of the countrys traditional crafts.
Niemey is now a college town. In 1971, it opened a university with six faculties. The African American School of Meteorology and Aviation and the National College of Administration are also in operation. The state university is home to one of the countrys largest libraries with a rich endowment.
Overall Score
- Tap water: No, not drinkable
- Religious government: Religious
- Population: 1,000,000 people
- GDP: $364 / year
- Foreigners can own real estate: Yes
- Power outlets: 230V50Hz
- Internet: 1 Mbps
- Best wireless: Airtel
- Tipping: Tipping is appreciated in Niger and, while a service charge is generally added to restaurant bills, extra tips are still appreciated. Taxi drivers, tour guides, barmen, and porters all take tips. A 10 percent tip is customary.
- Apartments: Airbnb
- Hotels: Booking.com
- More hotels: Hotels.com
- Best coffee 24/7: Loasis
- Best hospital: Polyclinic Magori
- Best short-haul air carrier: Arik Air
- Best intl air carrier: Arik Air
- Monthly costs for expat: $1000
- Monthly costs for family: $2000
- Monthly costs for local: $550
- Meal: $5.5
- Small Cola: $0.8
- Beer 1 Pint: $2
- Coffee: $1.6
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