Ayra Starr, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and model. Born in Cotonou, Ayra Starr began a fashion career at the age of 16 with Quove Model Management before deciding to pursue music. 

Ayra Starr

Cotonou is the vibrant economic hub of Benin, where city means shorelines of palm fringed Atlantic beaches. The city is home to rising musician Ayra Starr who describes her hometown as Cotonou, ‘incredibly breezy and relaxed. The air is crisp, beautiful and life is generally simple without the usual hustle and bustle of a big city.' 

Enjoy Cotonou through Ayra Starr's eyes down below.

Cotonou

Ci Gusta is a fun ice cream place and my favourite after-beach spot. Cotonou gets really hot, so catching a vibe with friends and eating ice-cream is like a dream sometimes.

The hotel has a huge pool and was a favourite hangout spot for students after lunch at Mimi’s. On certain days we would bring in our own food and have picnics by the pool or in the garden. It’s a quiet, serene hidden gem.

One of my favourite things about living in Cotonou was being so close to the water. Cite Beach was a student favourite and almost everyone celebrated birthdays and other special occasions on the beach.

This Jamaican and French fusion restaurant has the Caribbean vibes in Cotonou. They always come through with the best Afrobeats and Dancehall music. The food is amazing as well.

My favourite thing about the hotel is the HUGE pool. There's also a beautiful restaurant with a rooftop view. It has the best pizza in Cotonou.

One of my favourite memories is riding to class with the smell of freshly brewed beer from La Beninoise Brewery around me.