population: 1.3 million

extension: 357 square kilometers

Museums

Great choice! The Sierra Leone National Museum is located in Freetown and it's a must-visit for anyone interested in the country's history and culture. You can also check out the Cotton Tree, which is a historic landmark in the city.

If you're looking for similar museums in the area, you might want to consider visiting the Bunce Island Slave Fort or the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, both of which are located near Freetown and offer unique insights into Sierra Leone's past and present.

Food

Sierra Leone has a rich culinary culture, and there are many delicious dishes that locals recommend. Here are some of the most popular and typical dishes to try in Freetown:

1. Cassava leaves with rice: This is a traditional dish made with cassava leaves cooked in palm oil, onions, peppers, and smoked fish or meat, served with a side of rice.

2. Jollof rice: This is a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices like thyme and curry powder. It's often served with chicken or beef and fried plantains.

3. Groundnut soup: This is a stew made with ground peanuts, vegetables like okra and spinach, and either chicken or fish, served with rice or fufu (a starchy side dish made from cassava, yams, or plantains).

4. Akara: These are deep-fried bean cakes made from black-eyed peas, onions, and spices, often eaten as a snack or for breakfast.

5. Fish balls: These are small, deep-fried balls made from mashed fish, breadcrumbs, and spices, usually served as an appetizer or street food.

6. Plassas: This is a sauce made with green leafy vegetables like cassava or pumpkin leaves, cooked in palm oil, onions, peppers, and smoked fish or meat, often served with rice or fufu.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can try in Freetown. Don't forget to also sample some of the fresh seafood on offer, such as grilled fish or prawns, which is a local specialty.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Freetown:

1. Eat at local restaurants: Sierra Leonean cuisine is diverse and delicious, so make sure to try out some of the local dishes like cassava leaves, jollof rice, and fried plantains.

2. Visit the beaches: Freetown has some beautiful beaches such as Lumley Beach and River No. 2 Beach where you can relax, take a swim or surf.

3. Attend cultural events: There are often cultural events happening in Freetown, from music concerts to dance performances, which are a great way to experience the local culture and socialize with the locals.

4. Take a hike up Mount Aureol: Hiking up Mount Aureol provides a stunning view of Freetown from the top and also offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of Sierra Leone.

5. Explore local markets: Freetown has several bustling markets where you can buy everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Big Market and Kenema Road Market are both popular options.

I hope these suggestions help you have a memorable time in Freetown!