The most powerful attraction of the Côte d'Ivoire (the 'Ivory Coast') is its people, so if you're interested in African history, art or music, Abidjan is the place to be. There's also a whole lot of physical beauty, from towering mountains to fishing villages, easily reached on some of the best roads in Africa.
Abidjan is the commercial capital of Ivory Coast. In recent years the city has become run down, dirty and crime is common place. There are numerous police stop points set up to 'check paperwork' but are there to extort money from drivers and passengers. Failing to carry a passport will result in a fine.
The wealthier parts of town: Le Plateau, Cocody and les Duex Plateaux, are ok by day, but Le Plateau is especially dangerous at night and under no circumstances should you walk around the area.
Abidjan offers a wide choice of restaurants which can be good. There are a few sights worth checking out, the most important one being the Hotel Ivoire. The best hotel with 'western' standards of service and comfort is the Pullman, which used to be the Sofitel.



