5 things to do for Valentine’s Day in Dakar

 As a single lady, I barely remember the last time I did something special for Valentine’s Day. It is a pity because I am a romantic at heart and would have loved to be taken out. 

Anyway, I have decided to write a post about some interesting things one could do this Valentine’s Day in my lovely city of Dakar. It could be for a date with your partner or just some “Galentine” with friends. This year, Valentine's day falls on a Monday, which is not very practical for dates. But you have the otpion to celebrate the weekend before (12/13) or the weekend after (19/20) or both by doing the following:

1- Restaurant week

COWAF or  “Cooking with Aziz and Friends” will organize in Dakar its restaurant week between February 12 to 19 2022. The aim is to go around the city to discover restaurants and try different cuisine. You could enjoy a full course for lunch for 9000 FCFA or for dinner for 15.000 FCFA at all the restaurants on the event. You could try food from Maison Amie'hs in Cite Keur Guorgui or from La Terrasse of Sokhamon Hotel in downtown Dakar. Chef Aziz Agbo Panso created COWAF, which started as a group of amateur chefs on Facebook. He also travels around countries in Africa and more to discover new cuisines. For more info go to https://cowafweek.com/

2- Art Exhibit 

Dakar is a city that regroups talented artists. Some of them organizes exhibit all year around. There are several taking place in the month of February and beyond. For exemple, there is an exhibit that is taking place at Musee de la Femme Henriette Bathily (Women’s museum) called “Demb ak Tay “ (Yesterday and Today). If you and your bae are art lovers, why not go check it out. The museum is located at Place du Souvenir right next to Sea plaza mall. There are also other exhibits at Oh Gallery (although it ends on February 12) and at Gallerie Arte.

3- Dancing

If you and your partner like dancing salsa and kizomba music, why not try the Hibiscus Complex located in Point E. They organise a salsa, kizomba night every friday. The entry is around 2000 fcfa to dance the night away. I have not tried it yet but that is the plan in 2022. Pizza Time restaurant also offers Salsa and Kizomba night every friday from 7PM with the opportunity to learn the dance moves. 

4- Spa day 

I am told that couple's spa is a something to try at least once in a lifetime. I am not too keen on being touched, but I do enjoy being pampered. Dakar is a city that offers many spas. Why not book couple spa day at one of them. I particularly like Perfectissime in Mermoz. I have tried their mani pedi several times, and I always come out broke but relaxed, happy and satisfied. They offer couples' massages as well. Keyna Spa is also another option. I am told that their pool and hammam is great. They are very overpriced though. But why not splurge? 

6- Weekend gateway

Several hotels in Dakar offer weekend deals for Valentine's day. I am looking at the Pullman Dakar and Novotel as well. But one should not sleep on the Radisson Diamniadio deals. The hotel is far from the city center, but you can rest assure that because of it, you will find peace and tranquillity. Sraring from the 13th, their standard room will be priced at 85000 FCFA for two with breakfast included. You can find cheaper deals in hotels or airbnb in Lac Rose, Ngor and my personal favorite Goree Island. 

Here are a few things you could do with your Valentine in this lovely city of Dakar. What I like the most is that you do not need to splurge to do some of these activities. If you did not find what you are looking for here, please think simple. There are several ways you can surprise and please your Valentine, a simple diner and movie at home, buying presents, trying something new together. It does not have to be a huge gesture, just something to make the special person in your life feel well...appreciated and loved. 

Have a lovely time.