The Revival of Luanda, Angola

Angola’s beauty and its warm heartedness has always been its biggest attraction but the 40 year long civil war that engulfed this gorgeous country in the last century devastated its economy and especially its tourism sector. But with the peace finally returning to the land and because of the good economic policies of the Angola’s government the country is fast raising to fame as the economic power house of Africa and its tourism sector is receiving a boost as well.

The prime attraction of Angola has always been its gorgeous capital Luanda and the white sandy beaches close to it that stretch for miles. The nightlife of Angola in general and particularly of Luanda is considered as the liveliest in the region and is another reason behind the recent increase of the tourist traffic to the country.

Because of it being the capital of the country and the economic hub of the region, many cheap flights to Luanda are available from most of the major European airports. The tourist traffic is increasing but it has not reached its peak yet so the cost of hotels and resorts in Luanda is still quite cheap and there are enough of them so you can choose one according to your taste and budget. The city’s center with its magnificent colonial architecture is a big attraction to the tourists and the National Museum of Slavery located there will provide you with ample information regarding the history of the city which sometimes includes the dark chapters as well. The building where the current museum is located in was used by the captors to keep their slaves before sending them abroad, mostly to the American colonies.

If you are interested in knowing more about the traditional Angola, which is before the arrival of the Europeans, then head to the National Museum of Anthropology which has hundreds of artifacts from the pre colonial era. Another historical building that is worth visiting is the Fortaleza de São Miguel a 16^th century fort that was built as an administrative center of the city and used to be the garrison of the Luanda’s soldiers.

The reason behind the arrival of the most of tourist in Luanda is its nightlife which is believed to be the trend setter in the region. You can find quite a few night clubs and bars all around the city but the ones close to city center are thought to be the best in town. The long coastal line of Angola along the Atlantic Ocean provides the tourists with the softest beaches of the continent. The most favorite are the ones close to the Luanda itself. There are quite a few resorts along the Luanda’s coastline and although their cost is a little higher than the ones in the central Luanda they do provide world class facilities. The water along the beaches is lukewarm making it perfect for swimming as well as for snorkeling. The reefs close to the shore line provide an excellent diving experience and if you are a qualified scuba diver then you can hire the equipment from the local resorts.