A Week in Accra: Discovering the Beauty of the Capital City of Ghana

Accra, the capital of Ghana, is unlike any other African city you have seen before. It is a bustling metropolis with beautiful beaches and rich history. Over the past week, I have had the privilege of exploring this city, and it has been a remarkable experience.

Accra is full of surprises- from the lively markets to the friendly people, there is something for everyone here.

In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through my week in Accra; a review of its attractions, the people, the food, and the culture.

I hope to paint a picture of this vibrant and colorful city and inspire you to add Accra to your bucket list.

Accra is a city with lots of diversity. You'll see skyscrapers, various types of transportation, and people from all walks of life. What I found most surprising about the city was the absence of smoking.

There are, of course, smokers in Ghana, but there seem to be many more non-smokers than smokers.

As someone who is trying to quit smoking, I found this fact inspiring in my efforts to quit.

One thing that stands out about Accra is its entrepreneurial spirit. It is common to see people walking around selling everything from food to phones, watches, and even windshield wipers.

These sellers truly make ends meet by offering products to whoever might need them. Whether you're on a tro-tro or an Uber, it's amazing to see how people sell whatever they need to make a living.

The street vendors in Accra have neatly organized stores that cater to your specific needs. If you need professional clothes, there's a roadside kiosk for you; if you need hair products, there's a kiosk specifically for that need. This is true for foods, fabrics, fruits, and more.

The convenience of having everything you need available on the street is something I haven't experienced anywhere else. Moreover, if you can speak a bit of Twi, the locals will be more than happy to help you.

Another great thing about Accra is the beaches. There are countless beaches around the city that offer a mix of relaxation and entertainment. You can lay on the beach and soak up the sun, or swim in the blue waters.

The most popular is the Labadi beach, which offers activities such as beach volleyball, soccer, and nightlife. However, if you want something more laid back, Kokrobite beach is the perfect place to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Accra is home to several colonial castles. The most famous one is probably the Elmina Castle, which was built by the Portuguese in 1482 and served as a major slave-trading post for many centuries.

This castle has an interesting history that reflects Ghana’s turbulent past. It contains artifacts from various European countries like Holland, Britain, and Portugal.

When it comes to food, you will be able to find a range of dining experiences, from street food to five-star restaurants. I had the opportunity to try a variety of Ghanaian dishes in Accra, and I was blown away.

The flavors were bold and unique, such as banku and tilapia, waakye, and jollof rice. I recommend going to Buka for the authentic Ghanaian food experience. Alternatively, you can visit South African restaurant, Mugg & Bean, for a unique international blend.

Overall, my week in Accra was an amazing experience that I will never forget. I was impressed with the city's diversity, creativity, and hospitality. From the street vendors to the beaches and the food, Accra has something to offer for everyone.

If you are a traveler looking for a unique and vibrant experience, a visit to Accra is a must. The city has a charm and energy that cannot be found anywhere else. I can't wait to go back to Accra and discover more of what it has to offer.