Travel Tips

1. Getting Around

a. Best to use Uber, Yango & Bolt

Most drivers will refuse trips if you pay with a credit card. The Ghanaian cedi ranks as the preferred method of payment.

2. What to Pack

a. Passport and Visa

These are the most relevant items you'll need to enter the country.

b. Medications and Prescriptions

Bring any medicines, prescriptions, and medical supplies that are required. It is also advisable to have a basic first-aid kit.

c. Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent

Ghana is a tropical nation with high levels of malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Therefore, mosquito repellent is crucial.

d. Cash and Credit Cards

Make sure you have enough cash or credit cards to meet your expenses. For modest purchases, carry a little cash and coins.

e. Lightweight Clothing

Pack cotton and linen clothes for Accra's hot and humid weather.

f. Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes are essential on Accra's rough streets and long walks.

g. Electrical Adapters and Converters

Ghana's electrical outlets are 230 volts and 50 hertz, so make sure you bring the right adapters (type G plugs) and converters for your electronics.

h. Portable Power Bank

There may be occasions when you cannot reach a power outlet; thus, a portable power bank is essential.

3. Useful phrases

a. Charley (pronounced chah-lee)

Means buddy, bro.

b. Akwaaba (pronounced ah-kwah-bah)

Means welcome.

c. Medaase (pronounced meh-dah-see)

Means thank you.

4. Customs & culture

a. Greetings

Ghanaians value elders and greetings. Upon entering a room, greet everyone. Right-handed handshakes are standard.

b. Dress code

Ghana is conservative. Foreigners should dress modestly in public. At cultural events, dress accordingly.

c. Food and dining

Ghanaians eat with their right hands because the left is considered unclean.

d. Religion

Ghana is a religious nation where Christianity, Islam, and indigenous faiths coexist. Respect religious customs and rituals, like taking your shoes off before going into a mosque or dressing modestly when you go to a church.

5. Ways to save

a. Don't change money at the airport

At first glance, it seems to be the most practical solution. Unfortunately, airport currency exchanges sometimes charge additional fees and have high conversion rates.

It is preferable to exchange foreign currency at a forex bureau. Check the prices online to save money.

b. Telecommunication

For those looking to save cash while in Accra, utilizing the apartment's internet connection for phone calls and texting or buying a local SIM card are both viable options. This might reduce roaming expenses from their own country and make communication cheaper.

6. Don't miss

a. Street cuisine is a must-try in Accra. Jollof rice, kelewele, and waakye are popular with visitors.