​​​ Lost Paradises - Africa 

BENIN - around Cotonou

Cotonou was settled as a fishing village during the time of the Dahomey Kingdom. The French were given permission to build a trading post, until they were given the region altogether in 1868. The city was used to defend against the British in their conquests. Cotonou grew to become the largest city in the country, right up to independence. Although the capital is located at Porto-Novo, Cotonou is still the nation's economic and population centre. It also attracts many government institutions and embassies, regardless of Porto-Novo's status, leading to the city being referred as Benin's de-facto capital.

You will probably land in Cotonou but it's far to be the more interesting city for tourists. But the lakes around deserve a visit.