Freetown is the capital of Sierra Leone, also known as “Salone.” The city is full of social butterflies and self starters. Before sunrise, people are outside hustling for their daily bread.
Krio is the primary language spoken in Freetown. Common phrases heard on the street are “How di bodi? Di bodi fine. Tell God tenki.” Translated to “How are you? I am fine. Thank the Lord.”
What makes Freetown a good place to travel to and explore?
Freetown is a cultural and historical goldmine. The name “Freetown ” was created by people who were once enslaved in the Caribbean, Britain, United States and Nova Scotia. Once freed, they traveled to and settled in “Province of Freedom” which later became “Freetown” for the freed people.
When is the best time to visit Freetown?
April and December are among the best times to visit Freetown. The city is the most lively during these months. April is when Salone commemorates its independence from Britain which was attained on April 27, 1961. There are boku (many) festivities and celebrations to take part in. December is another popular time to visit Freetown because it is tourist season. This month welcomes Sierra Leoneans abroad back home and invites visitors to join in on the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
How to get to Freetown?
Be prepared for a two-day flight journey if traveling from the U.S. to Salone. There are a variety of routes to consider when flying from the United States to Sierra Leone. Some of the most common airlines to fly with include; United Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Ethiopian Air Lines which are among the least affordable options but recognized as the most reliable. Comparatively, another common airline to use is Royal Air Maroc which is the most affordable but, allegedly, the least reliable. Be sure that there is enough time between connecting flights. Delays should be anticipated whenever traveling internationally.
Travel Necessities: What is on the travel checklist?
- One to two large suitcases
- Carry on bag
- Documentation: Passport, entry visas (if required), boarding pass, yellow fever vaccine
- Water bottle
- Malaria tablets
- Medications (including pain killers, cold and fever)
- Mosquito spray
- Cortisone cream
- Neosporin
- Portable fan
- Travel size skin care products + travel size makeup
- Change of clothes
- Travel size toothbrush & toothpaste
- Face cloth
Weather: What is the average temperature?
80° it stays warm throughout the entire year.
Money: What is the currency? What are the prices?
The leone is the currency of Sierra Leone. One U.S. dollar is equivalent to 20,969.5 SL leones.
There is no official tipping system. People will ask for tips, sometimes incessantly but they won’t ever demand it. It is better to tip than not.
Transportation: How to get around?
Locals travel mostly on kekkegs, public transit, and motorcycles. Kekkegs look like golf carts but are designed to operate on the roads. Motorcycles pose a risk but surprisingly, are seen on the road as often as a car or a kekkeg.
What important places can you visit as a tourist?
This beautiful beach:
River No 2. Beach is a beautiful sight to behold. The beach has crystal clear blue-green water with deep, light-colored, soft sand. It is known for swimming, socializing and sunbathing.
Somewhere to hike:
Leicester peak is a good hiking spot. The view at the top of this peak is worth the hike. Once at the top, Freetown is seen in its entirety.
Somewhere to party:
Warehouse is the most popular club in Freetown. It is an outdoor club with beautiful tree decorations and dazzling lights. Go to the Warehouse for good music, strong drinks and a fun time. People party until the early hours of the morning or when “corpoh don” (no more money to spend).
A piece of art:
The Sierra Leone Museum is a small and humble museum. What makes this place worthwhile are the museum guides who have a passion for all things “Salone.” There is a museum guide who sang songs. He had an energetic and upbeat personality.
A piece of history:
Fourah Bay College is a significant institution with much history. The college was established in 1827 and is nearly 200 years old. Fourah Bay College was the first university level institution in Africa. Students from all over West Africa came to this institution to pursue higher education. Back then, Fourah Bay College helped give Freetown the name “Athens of Africa.”
An environmental landmark:
Cotton Tree is over 500 years old. This tree stands tall in the midst of city busyness. Cotton Tree is located in the heart of downtown Freetown.
Where to eat? What is the popular cuisine?
Most Sierra Leoneans cook fresh food daily. Cassava leaves stew with rice is the official dish of Sierra Leone. Other popular cuisines include potato leaves, granut soup and okra soup. Ginger beer is a popular drink in Sierra Leone.
Freetown does not have a fast food culture. However, popular fast food would be chicken shawarma, burgers and fried rice. Lumley Fast Food Restaurant sells shawarma wraps.
Is there market etiquette?
Markets are informal and sometimes chaotic places to visit. However, there is beauty in the madness. Be sure that while visiting the markets to hold onto personal belongings tightly to deter pick-pocketers. Note: There is no official tipping system. People will ask for tips, sometimes incessantly, but they won’t ever demand it. However, it is better to tip because things go smoothly and quickly once you do (those who know, know).
What are the urban places?
A fun, young and trendy place to visit is Aberdeen street. This streets has the beach, clubs and restaurants.
In closing..
Freetown living is such a stark contrast to city life in the West. There is an aura of peace and ease to daily life. Do yourself a favor and experience Freetown.
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