Before you book that flight, check this Flattts — Local destinations that feel foreign in Lagos, ABJ

I know that you’re tired. Work has been wild all year, your phone keeps buzzing with “urgent” messages, and your soul is screaming for a break. Naturally, your mind drifts to the idea of a trip abroad. Maybe a week in Dubai or a quick escape to Zanzibar. But then you check the exchange rate — and suddenly, peace begins to look very expensive.

That was me last December. I had my passport ready, my browser was filled with flight tabs, I was this close to booking a trip out of the country. Then a friend said, “Guy, have you seen that Flattts shortlet in Banana Island? It legit looks like Bali.

That single sentence changed everything.

I started exploring local destinations that felt just as serene, stylish, and foreign — but were right here in Lagos, Abuja, and even Accra. So before you rush to the airport this December, check this list. You might just find your “vacation” is closer than you think.

Lagos—beachfront mornings and island views without leaving the country

When people think of Lagos, they picture chaos, traffic, and noise. But look closely, and you’ll see the city also knows how to do luxury and calm — you just need to know where to look.

Start with Ilashe or Tarkwa Bay. A short boat ride from the mainland or Lekki, and suddenly you’re surrounded by palm trees, ocean breeze, and quiet luxury. Many shortlets in these areas have a clean, minimalist aesthetic — white walls, ocean-view balconies, and private pools that make you forget you’re still in Nigeria.

Another gem is Banana Island. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you book early through platforms like Flattts, you can find shortlets that rival boutique hotels abroad. Think Italian-style kitchens, marble bathrooms, and rooftop spaces with city views that look like something straight out of Dubai.

If you’re chasing that modern “New York loft” vibe, Ikoyi or Victoria Island shortlets are perfect. The convenience is unmatched — close to fine dining, lounges, and beaches — but still calm enough to feel like an escape.

Lagos can be wild, yes. But when you’re sipping a mimosa on your balcony with the lagoon glittering in front of you, you’ll realize: sometimes, you don’t need to leave the country to live soft.

Abuja—soft life central with mountain views and peace that feels foreign

Now let’s head north. Abuja isn’t just the capital — it’s the chill cousin who minds their business and always looks rich.

The city’s terrain alone gives off “foreign” energy. Waking up to the view of Aso Hills or the calm of Jabi Lake feels like something straight out of Cape Town. The beauty of Abuja shortlets is in their design — sleek, clean, and peaceful. You’ll find European-style apartments with huge glass windows, modern kitchens, and balconies that overlook green spaces instead of traffic jams.

If you want that blend of nature and luxury, look around Maitama, Guzape, or Katampe Extension. The roads are smooth, the air is cleaner, and the atmosphere is pure serenity. Some shortlets even come with pools, gyms, and lounges that could easily pass for mini resorts.

What’s even better? Abuja shortlets give you value for money. The same amount you’d spend on one night in a Lagos island apartment could get you two or three nights in a spacious, high-end flat here.

So if your idea of vacation is waking up late, ordering breakfast, and watching the sky change colors at sunset — Abuja is the soft-life haven you didn’t know you needed.

Accra—the Afro-chic getaway just next door

Accra is the wild card on this list — close enough to feel familiar, yet foreign enough to excite your travel bug. You’ll love the blend of culture, creativity, and coastal calm that defines Ghana’s capital.

Areas like Osu, Cantonments, and Labone offer shortlets that rival European stays — tastefully decorated, secure, and close to beaches and art galleries. Picture this: a cozy apartment filled with Ghanaian artwork, a private pool downstairs, and the ocean only minutes away.

Accra’s food and music scene are another plus. From brunch at Sandbox Beach Club to night outs at Front/Back, you’ll get the same social buzz as Lagos but with fewer crowds.

And because it’s just an hour’s flight (or a road trip, if you’re adventurous), it’s a perfect “mini abroad” experience. You don’t need to break the bank or deal with visa drama to enjoy a December that feels international.

Why these shortlets might beat a flight abroad

Traveling abroad is fun, but it also comes with stress: flight delays, visa hassles, unpredictable expenses. Shortlets, on the other hand, give you flexibility and comfort without the extra cost.

You can book a stylish space that looks like Santorini, stock the fridge with your favorite food, invite friends over, and still feel like you’re on vacation. No airport queues, no conversion rates, no travel fatigue.

And with the right platform — like Flattts — you can explore verified properties with top-tier service in all three cities. Whether you want a beachfront villa, a quiet apartment with a view, or a vibrant city pad, there’s always something that matches your “foreign” fantasy.

Conclusion

So before you rush to book that international ticket, pause. Ask yourself: do I really need to fly across the world to rest? Or do I just need a change of environment, a comfy bed, and a space that feels new?

Sometimes, the getaway you’re dreaming of is just around the corner. A getaway specifically in a Flattts shortlet in Lagos, Abuja, or Accra. Because at the end of the day, peace doesn’t always need a passport.