Planning your next adventure? Consider Ghana, the West African gem that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. But before you pack your bags, here are 13 things you should know to ensure your trip to Ghana is as smooth as Ghanaian silk!
- Hello, Akwaaba!
- Ghanaians are incredibly warm and welcoming. It is not an overstatement to say Ghanaians are some of the most hospitable people in the world! “Akwaaba” or “Mohee” means “welcome,” and you’ll hear them a lot. Embrace it, and you’ll feel right at home.
- Ghanaians are incredibly warm and welcoming. It is not an overstatement to say Ghanaians are some of the most hospitable people in the world! “Akwaaba” or “Mohee” means “welcome,” and you’ll hear them a lot. Embrace it, and you’ll feel right at home.
- Visas and Vaccines
- Before you set off, make sure you’ve got your visa sorted. Depending on which country you’re coming from, you might need one and so be sure to check whether you need one. You can apply for one from a Ghanaian embassy or consulate. Also, with the proper arrangement, visa on a arrival is an option, though will cost you a little more. At the moment, it is 200 usd. Also, don’t forget your yellow fever vaccination certificate – it’s a must!
- Before you set off, make sure you’ve got your visa sorted. Depending on which country you’re coming from, you might need one and so be sure to check whether you need one. You can apply for one from a Ghanaian embassy or consulate. Also, with the proper arrangement, visa on a arrival is an option, though will cost you a little more. At the moment, it is 200 usd. Also, don’t forget your yellow fever vaccination certificate – it’s a must!
- Bring Your Bargaining Skills
- Shopping in Ghana is a real experience. For some, a very exhausting experience while others find it fun. Markets are vibrant and bustling, and bargaining is the norm. In fact, most people would be surprised if you don’t. So channel your inner negotiator and enjoy the friendly haggling!
- Shopping in Ghana is a real experience. For some, a very exhausting experience while others find it fun. Markets are vibrant and bustling, and bargaining is the norm. In fact, most people would be surprised if you don’t. So channel your inner negotiator and enjoy the friendly haggling!
- Currency and Cash
- It is safe to say that cash is King in Ghana. The local currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, you’re better off having cash on you most times, especially in smaller towns and markets. ATMs are available, but again, it’s always good to have some cash in hand.
- It is safe to say that cash is King in Ghana. The local currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, you’re better off having cash on you most times, especially in smaller towns and markets. ATMs are available, but again, it’s always good to have some cash in hand.
- Dress Appropriately
- Ghana is considered a conservative country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. The climate here is warm and so you are better off packing lightweight clothing. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen would as well be useful.
- Ghana is considered a conservative country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. The climate here is warm and so you are better off packing lightweight clothing. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen would as well be useful.
- Chop Time: Try the Local Cuisine
- Ghanaian food is spicy and delicious! Make it a point to try the famous Ghana jollof rice which is the best you’ll find anywhere in the world. Try Banku and okro stew, red red, plantain with kontomire stew. Be adventurous – you might find a new favorite dish, you never know.
- Ghanaian food is spicy and delicious! Make it a point to try the famous Ghana jollof rice which is the best you’ll find anywhere in the world. Try Banku and okro stew, red red, plantain with kontomire stew. Be adventurous – you might find a new favorite dish, you never know.
- The Unspoken left hand rule
- Ghanaians find it respectful giving, receiving or pointing anything out with the left hand. It is considered disrespectful. As much as possible, use your right hand, especially when interacting with elders.
Traveling to Ghana is a journey filled with rich experiences, vibrant cultures, and heartwarming encounters. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll not only navigate Ghana with ease but also leave with a piece of it forever in your heart. So, are you ready to say “Akwaaba” or Mohee” to Ghana? Your adventure awaits!