Yamoussoukro , Ivory Coast, Africa

While Abidjan serves as the economic powerhouse and largest city of Côte d'Ivoire, Yamoussoukro holds the official title of political capital. Yamoussoukro is a city of grand, often oversized, monuments and wide boulevards, a testament to the vision of its most famous son, former President Félix Houphouët-Boigny.

Côte d'Ivoire, or Ivory Coast, is a West African nation known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and significant role in global cocoa production. From the vibrant lagoons and coastal cities to the dense forests and savanna plains, the country offers a variety of experiences. It's a land of rich traditions, dynamic music, and a warm, hospitable people. Despite past political challenges, Côte d'Ivoire is a country on the move, focusing on development and tourism.

Yamoussoukro is a fascinating paradox – a sprawling capital city meticulously planned by President Houphouët-Boigny to be a grand administrative center, yet it retains a quiet, almost sleepy ambiance compared to the bustling energy of Abidjan. Wide, multi-lane roads cut through vast, often empty, plots of land, leading to impressive governmental buildings, luxurious hotels, and, most notably, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. This colossal structure, modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, dominates the skyline and is the largest church in the world. The city also features artificial lakes teeming with crocodiles (a local attraction), and meticulously maintained gardens. Yamoussoukro embodies a vision of grandeur, providing a stark contrast to the lively chaos of Abidjan, making it a unique stop for visitors.

• Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix): The absolute must-see. Its immense scale, stunning stained glass, and tranquil atmosphere are truly impressive.

• Fondation Félix Houphouët-Boigny for Peace Research: A significant cultural and research center, housed in an architecturally interesting building.

• Presidential Palace: While not open to the public, its grand scale and surrounding artificial lakes with crocodiles (fed daily) are a common sight.

• Lake of Crocodiles: Located near the Presidential Palace, these lakes are home to sacred crocodiles, which are fed by locals and draw curious onlookers.

• National Polytechnic Institute Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INP-HB): A leading educational institution with impressive modern architecture.

• Abidjan: The economic capital, a bustling metropolis with vibrant markets (like Treichville Market), lively nightlife, impressive modern architecture, and a dynamic arts scene. Don't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and the Cocody Residential Area.

• Grand-Bassam: A UNESCO World Heritage site and former French colonial capital, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and historical significance.

• Taï National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site in the southwest, one of the last remaining primary rainforests in West Africa, home to pygmy hippos, chimpanzees, and various primate species. Ideal for ecotourism (though access can be challenging).

• Comoe National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site in the northeast, a vast savanna and forest reserve with diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and various antelope species.

• Assinie-Mafia: A popular coastal resort area with pristine beaches, lagoons, and luxury accommodations, perfect for relaxation.

• Man: Known as the "city of 18 mountains" in the west, surrounded by lush, forested mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, exploring traditional villages, and seeing the famous "lianes sacrées" (sacred lianas or creepers).