Yes, finally it’s that time! We are off to Ghana for a fun packed weekend. Accra is the capital city of Ghana and hosts approximately 2 million people. Having heard so much about the city, it’s only right that we go and see it for ourselves. As this is another first timer trip (like our one to Lagos), we have listed all the things we want to do and see when we get out there.
Markets and malls
- There’s nothing like a visit to an African market. We will definitely visit Makola market, which is the biggest and most vibrant market in Accra.
- Shopping malls are becoming quite a common feature in Africa. The Accra Mall and Achimota Retail Centre are two malls we have been recommended to visit. There are lots of local and international shops and restaurants in these malls so we will surely spend a few hours browsing and eating at places like Vlisco, Mango, KFC and The Counter burger joint.
Ghanaian food
- For some authentic Ghanaian food, the Bushman Kitchen in East Legon is said to be a good choice. The street food is also a must. Whilst out and about we’ll definitely find someone selling roasted plantain with beans and gari, aka ‘kofi broke man’ to locals and/or some ‘kelewele’, fried plantain seasoned in spices.
- The Movenpick Ambassador Hotel is a luxury 5* hotel in the heart of the city. It has 260 rooms and suites with over 2500 pieces of Ghanaian art decorating its interior. The hotel has restaurants and bars for light snacks, fine dining and drinks at the Sankofa Restaurant, The Deli, and Pool Bar & BBQ (to name a few) for a range of multi ethnic cuisines. This is currently the only Movenpick hotel in west Africa.
Sights
- Labadi beach is one of Ghana’s most beautiful beaches, with a range of hotels that keep it well maintained. For non-guests of the hotels a small price is charged for entry, which goes towards its upkeep. There are usually events and activities happening on the beach so you won’t get bored with just sunbathing.
- The Ghana Carnival is in its 3rd year and we are so lucky to be in the city that same weekend! The carnival will start from Obra Spot and end at the Independence Square on 1st July then fun activities will take place on 2nd and 3rd July along Labadi beach.
- Gallery 1957, is a new art gallery in the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City. The gallery; named after the day Ghana gained its Independence, displays fine contemporary Ghanaian art through exhibitions, installations and performances.
Transport
- The local Ghanaian buses are called tro-tros, which we’ll use to get around the city, even though we may get charged an arm and a leg. Luckily Uber has recently launched its taxi service in Accra so we’re assured to get a decent rate for a ride. We loved using their taxi’s in Lagos so we hope Accra’s service is just as good.
Night life
- The Republic Bar and Grill is a hotspot for locals and visitors. The bar has a fantastic food menu and usually hosts live music events. For clubbing, the Twist or Aphrodisiac night clubs are a must attend for a late night dose of Afrobeats.
There’s so much to do in Accra so next time we go we’ll do a lot more! Let us know what you get up to on your trip there 🙂
