BENIN

Benin, officially known as the Republic of Benin, is a small West African nation bordered by Niger to the north, Burkina Faso to the northwest, Togo to the east, and Nigeria to the east and west. Known for its rich history and culture, Benin is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic city of Ouidah and the Royal Palaces of Abomey. The country is also known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, particularly the rhythms of the Afro-Brazilian-inspired percussion music known as "tchinkoumé" and the acrobatic stilt-dancing performances of the "gai" dancers. Widely considered to be the birthplace of Voodoo, Benin offers plenty of opportunities for visitors, from exploring its unique cultural heritage to enjoying its unspoiled beaches along the Atlantic coast.