Didier Drogba, national idol: after qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, his televised plea to lay down arms marked the country's path toward reconciliation.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is the largest church in the world — its dome outsizes St. Peter's in Rome.
Abidjan is tasted in maquis eateries (garba, grilled fish); UNESCO-listed Grand-Bassam is 40 minutes away; Assinie owns the weekend. An eSIM helps: ride-hailing (Yango) over street taxis, and the best maquis spotted online.