Guest Post|| 'Everything a Traveller Needs to Know about Accra'

Photo Credit: Flickr.com- 'Stig Nygaard'


Accra, the capital of Ghana, would perhaps never be your first destination of choice, but it is true that in the last few years, it has become an important destination for business visitors and leisure alike. This coastal city in West Africa should find its place on your to-go list too. The beating heart of Ghana probably is not the perfect destination for a romantic journey, but the particular charm of stick streets, humidity and stalls selling mangos will surely find a special place in your heart. Because this city can be rather difficult to navigate, here are a few insights about the prices, the locations, and other things a traveller needs to know about Accra. 

-Average Costs-

Transportation..


Transportation in Accra will cost you about $2 per day, if you are riding with trotro (mini bus). If you decide to rent a scooter, maybe even less. The average fuel prices in Ghana are around $1. 


Food..

 Photo Credit: Flickr.com-'hiroo yamagata'

It is possible to find ridiculously cheap local meals in Ghana ($0.50) but if you want to eat in a foreign restaurant, that will cost you some money. Still the local food in Accra is so delicious that I would advise to try it all (especially the spicy bean stew- ''Red red'').


Accommodation..

Hotels can be rather expensive, but if you decide to rent a house or an apartment together with your friends, you can organise your own costs and save more money. In fact, if you browse through the website meQasa.com, you will be able to find a house with 4 bedrooms, kitchen and dining area, 5 Budget Friendly Tips. 

  • Eat Local Food:
As mentioned local diners are much more affordable than foreign restaurants. If you are sceptical about the food quality ask for restaurant recommendations. I would advise ''Asanka'', ''Taverna Tropicana'' and ''Zion Tai''. 

  • Go on Foot: 
Photo Credit: Flickr.com-'ariel.manka'

Whenever you can, try going on foot. Not only you will see a lot of interesting things along the way and meet the kind people of Accra, but you will save money too. 

Things to see: 

  • Afia Beach
This peaceful beach is the hidden gem of Accra. Because it is so quiet and relaxing, it is a great getaway spot, when you want to leave the crowded city. 

  • Macola Market
For new arrivals to Africa, places like Macola Market can provide the intense experience of real life of the city. It was my favourite place for buying stuff, from second hand clothes to food. 

  • Kwame Nkrumah Park
                                            Photo Credit: Flickr.com-' David Stanley'


A perfect place to be if you are a history aficionado. Bronze statues, and a museum dedicated to Ghana's first president will keep you occupied for a couple of hours.  


  • Osu Castle

Although the current seat of Ghanaian government is not open for visitors, even seeing it from the outside will be enough for a 'wow' moment. 


  • Jamestown Lighthouse
Climbing on the top of the old lighthouse is a must to get a full experience of the city. From the top, you can see almost the entire city and the colourful fishing harbour. 

  • Aburi Botanical Gardens 
                                                                  Photo Credit: Flickr.com-'Luke and Kate Bosman'

Located outside of the very city in the hills, Botanical Gardens are a great place to get some fresh air. 

  • National Museum of Ghana
A Museum that allows you to experience all the treasures of West Africa in one place. 

  • Wheel Story House
The largest and oldest house in West Africa made from reclaimed materials will not leave you indifferent. Thought it is currently inhabited, it is still open for public tours. 

Overall Accra is an amazing vivid town that has surely became one of my favourite places. I sincerely recommend it to everyone and hope that these guidelines were helpful. 




Author Bio: 
Oliver is an experienced business consultant from the UK. His job allows him to travel, which also happens to be one of his greatest passions. You can find him on Twitter.

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