Do I need any vaccinations to travel to the U.S.?

There are no mandatory vaccinations to enter the U.S. from Nigeria unless you are transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk. Still, it's a good idea to be up to date on:

• Yellow fever ((no longer required for entry, but recommended)

• COVID-19 (no longer required for entry, but recommended as the U.S.A. has more cases than Nigeria)

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

• Tetanus

Do I need a visa to travel to the U.S?
Yes — Nigerian passport holders need a visa to enter the U.S You'll most likely apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa (for tourism or attending a personal event like a wedding).

1. Complete the DS-160 form

   • Fill this out online: https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC

   • Once submitted, print the confirmation page — you’ll need it for your appointment.

2. Pay the visa fee

   • The fee is around $185 USD (you'll pay in Naira, based on the current exchange rate). Instructions will be available on the visa application site.

3. Schedule your appointment

   • Visit: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ng

   • You’ll book two appointments:

     • One at a Visa Application Center (VAC) for fingerprints and a photo

     • One at the U.S. Embassy (Abuja) or Consulate (Lagos) for your visa interview

4. Gather your documents You’ll typically need:

   • A valid passport (at least 6 months before expiration)

   • DS-160 confirmation page

   • Visa appointment confirmation

   • 2x2 inch passport photo (white background)

   • Bank statements or financial support documentation

   • Wedding invitation or a letter from us confirming the purpose of your visit

   • Proof of ties to Nigeria (such as employment, family, or property documents)

5. Attend your appointments

   • At your interview, be prepared to share your travel plans and show that you intend to return to Nigeria after the wedding. If approved, your visa will typically be ready within a few days.

Additional Tips

• Apply for your visa well in advance — ideally 2 to 3 months before your trip, as appointment slots can fill up quickly.

• Be confident and truthful in your interview.

• If you need any support with paperwork, logistics, or just moral support — we’re here to help.

• When you arrive, you’ll go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Have your passport, visa, and wedding invitation on hand in case you're asked about the purpose of your visit.

How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?
You can use applications like Uber and Lyft to get from the airport to your accommodation. Taxis are also available at the airport though this option may be more expensive.

What is the best time to arrive?
You can arrive at any time though there will be more taxis if you arrive during the day.

How will I get around for the duration of my trip?
You will use applications like Uber or Lyft or you can rent a car if you have a driver’s license. The State of California does not recognize an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a valid driver license. California does recognize a valid driver license that is issued by a foreign jurisdiction (country, state, territory) of which the license holder is a resident.

Based on our calculations a single person not sharing accommodation will spend around $2,500 for a week in San Francisco. The biggest cost being the plane ticket. This cost will be reduced if you share accommodation.

How much are flights to San Francisco?
Round-trip flights from Lagos (LOS) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) typically cost around $1,200. Prices can vary and are likely to increase by 2-4x, so book early for the best rates.

How much will accommodation be?

• We have not confirmed where we will have guests staying at the time. We will likely provide accommodation options between $150 to $350 per night to accommodate a range of budgets and tastes.

How much will my visa be?

• The visa itself is $160. If you choose to go in-person to complete your visa, there are associated costs.

How much will I spend on dining?

• Depends on your tastes! Meals can range from $15 to $100 per person.

We have not confirmed where we will have guests staying at the time. We will likely provide accommodation options between $150 to $350 per night to accommodate a range of budgets and tastes.

Open our Google Sheet for a packing list—clothing, toiletries, and must-have documents included. Mark, pack, and you’re ready to go!

San Francisco is a beautiful and welcoming city, but like many major urban areas, it has its quirks—especially when it comes to petty crime. Car break-ins are unfortunately common, so please don’t leave anything visible in your car, even for a quick stop. If you're renting a car, empty it completely or use the trunk discreetly before you reach your destination.

Also, be mindful of your phone and personal belongings, especially in busy areas or while using public transportation. It’s a good idea to keep your phone tucked away in a secure pocket or crossbody bag when not in use.

We do not recommend that tourists visit the Tenderloin or Civic Center areas without a very clear purpose or plan. These neighborhoods have historically faced significant challenges and may feel overwhelming or unsafe to those unfamiliar with the city.

That said, there’s so much to enjoy in San Francisco—beautiful parks, iconic landmarks, and great food in walkable, vibrant neighborhoods. If you stick to the recommended areas and take basic precautions, you’ll have a wonderful time.

Here are some of our favorite spots in San Francisco—each one holds a special memory for us, and we hope you’ll enjoy them too.

Museums & Interactive Exhibits

• de Young Museum: Located in Golden Gate Park, this museum features American art, African art, textiles, and more. Entry is around $15, and the observation tower (free!) offers amazing views of the city.

• Modern Art (SFMOMA): One of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the U.S. Entry is about $30. A great place to spend a few hours immersed in art and design.

• California Academy of Sciences: A science-lover’s dream in Golden Gate Park, with an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest dome, and natural history museum all under one living roof.

• Exploratorium: A hands-on museum of science, art, and human perception at Pier 15. Interactive and fun for all ages.

Parks & Nature

• Golden Gate Park: A massive urban park with gardens, trails, lakes, and museums. Perfect for walking, biking, or lounging. Home to the de Young and Academy of Sciences.

• Muir Woods: Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, this serene redwood forest is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. ​To plan your visit to Muir Woods National Monument, please refer to the official National Park Service website. To book a reservations, which are required for all visitors, please visit https://gomuirwoods.com/ 

• Alamo Square: Home to the iconic “Painted Ladies” (the colorful Victorian houses from Full House), this park offers postcard-worthy city views and a perfect spot for a picnic or a casual stroll.

Performing arts:

• SFJAZZ: A world-class venue for jazz music with top-tier acoustics and an intimate atmosphere.

• San Francisco Symphony: Enjoy classical performances, film scores, and innovative concerts at Davies Symphony Hall.

• San Francisco Playhouse: A beloved mid-size theater with high-quality plays and musicals in a welcoming, intimate space.

• Black Cat: A stylish jazz supper club in the Tenderloin with nightly live performances and strong cocktails.

• Dawn Club: A downtown gem with Art Deco flair, cocktails, and excellent live jazz. A throwback in all the right ways.

Tourist Favorites

• Ferry Building Marketplace: This iconic building along the waterfront is filled with local vendors offering everything from artisan cheeses to handmade ceramics. Great for grazing, people-watching, and souvenir shopping.

• Pier 39: A fun, tourist-friendly spot on the waterfront with sea lions, shops, street performers, and great views of the bay. Grab a bite, snap a photo, and watch the sea lions lounging by the docks—they’re local celebrities!

• Aquarium of the Bay: Located at Pier 39, this aquarium showcases marine life from San Francisco Bay. Walk through glass tunnels surrounded by sea creatures.

San Francisco has an incredible food scene—from fresh California fare to global cuisines like Chinese, Mexican, and Japanese—served everywhere from cozy cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants. We've happily eaten our way through the city, and we're excited for you to get a taste too.

Dining
Budget-Friendly / Casual

• House of Thai 2: No-frills spot with authentic Thai flavors—great curries and pad prik chicken.

• Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement: Casual soul food known for rosemary fried chicken and southern side like mac & cheese and candied yams.

• Eddie's Cafe: Classic American diner serving hearty American breakfast and lunch options like pancakes, omelets, and burgers. 

• El Buen Comer: Family-run Mexican restaurant known for Mexico City-style stews like mole and tacos dorados.

Mid-Range

• Early to Rise: Brunch spot with scratch-made fare—think bagels, thick bacon, and Southern-inspired sides.

• Nopalito: Organic, sustainable Mexican restaurant with street-food favorites like tacos, tamales, and carnitas in a vibrant setting. We recommend the taco arabe.

• Bissap Baobab: Colorful Senegalese restaurant known for its plantains, yassa chicken rice, and lively music nights.

Upscale

• Che Fico: Trendy Italian taverna in NoPa offering house-made pastas, pizzas, and charcuterie in a stylish, bustling space. 

• Harborview Restaurant & Bar: Elegant Cantonese dining near the Embarcadero with harbor views. Scoma's: Iconic seafood restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf, renowned for its "pier-to-plate" menu; offers a classic San Francisco dining experience.

• Nopa: Popular gathering place specializing in organic wood-fired cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

• Harris' Steakhouse: Classic American steakhouse offering 21-day dry-aged Midwestern Angus beef in an elegant setting with live jazz nightly. 

Drinks

• Bar 821: Cozy NoPa bar specializing in amaro, with a cult following for its Italian herbal liqueurs and classic cocktails.

• Dahlia SF: Swanky Mission District cocktail bar with plush decor, creative drinks, and a lively weekend crowd.

• Etcetera Wine Bar: Intimate Mission wine bar offering global wines by the glass and bottle, plus tapas and cozy seating.

• Birba: Hayes Valley wine bar with a European vibe, peaceful garden patio, and a thoughtful mix of natural and classic wines.

• Horsefeather: Stylish neighborhood cocktail bar on Divisadero known for fresh, seasonal drinks and late night cuisine.

• Hazie's: Vibrant Hayes Valley bar and kitchen serving modern California cuisine and craft cocktails in an eclectic, lively setting.

How should I convert my Naira (₦)?
ATMs are available throughout the city. We recommend using this option. You do not need to convert money at the airport.

Can I use my credit or debit card?
Credit cards and debit cards are commonly used in San Francisco. You cannot do bank transfer as a form of payment in San Francisco.

Will my phone work in San Francisco?
Check with your service provider about international plans. For non-iPhone users, Google Fi is a great option. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card on arrival for data and calls. If you are going the local SIM card route, please contact us at itsgoingdownyall@gmail.com and we will assist with setting you up.

How should I reach people?
We highly recommend downloading WhatsApp. This will be how you communicate with us or any coordinators once in Lagos. We will also create a group chat with all guests traveling into Lagos at a later date.