Don’t you think this planet is too big to restrict our love to one or two major cities? Yes, Paris is beautiful, romantic and sophisticated and New York is exciting, fun and wild, but what about the rest of the world? There are some hidden gems, such as the capital of Ghana, which can easily capture the heart of every travel enthusiast. Accra is a city like no other in the world with its own personality and soul. The crowded markets, noisy streets, scents of fresh mango, coconut and spicy street food, humid days and ideal nights are the traits that make this coastal town so special and easy to love. If you are still wondering why we are so captivated by Accra’s charms, we will share our impressions with you.
The City Dances
Do not let the crowds and noises of Accra discourage you from listening to the sounds of the city at a much deeper level and discover the sound of music at every corner. The people of Accra cannot stand still when they hear music. At soon as the first beats hit, they will stand up and start dancing at the middle of the street. Because they are so friendly and kind, they will even ask foreigners to join them. That is so normal in Accra, that even the city’s major, Alfred Oko Vanderpuije, was “caught” on camera showing off some smooth moves in the streets.
The Amazing Art Scene
You do not even have to enter a gallery to get an insight in Accra’s lively art scene. Just walk down the Nima, Jamestown and other parts of the city and you will see breathtaking murals on the walls, inspired by graffiti and other modern styles. The Chale Wote Street Art Festival is a must visit event, even if you are just making one stop during your Ghanaian adventure, because it is a true celebration of art featuring visual artists, musicians, costume, dance and so much more. When you look beyond street art, you will get to see Goethe-Institut, Nubuke Foundation and the Artists Alliance Gallery.
The Accommodation and Housing Options
Once you are in Accra, you are captivated by its magic and you simply do not want to go. Luckily, there are many houses and apartments available for rent if you are just passing through, or purchase (why not?) and quite a few really nice parts of the city to live in. Your biggest problem will be to choose from such abundance. It will be much easier if you browse through the offer of agencies such as meQasa.com, where you will be able to compare the prices and find ideal locations for staying or living in the city.
The Delicious Flavors
Accra’s culinary scene is quite diverse. You will be able to see four-star restaurants near “greasy spoon” kitchens and chop bars. Though there is a wide range of international restaurants in Accra for the ones with picky taste buds, local food is the real deal if you want to truly get to know the city’s culture and get the best out of Ghana. And you will surely find something among those dishes that will tickle your distinct taste buds. From freshly caught fish to spicy stew, Accra has got it all. The most lovable meals you can have in Ghana’s capital are definitely Waakye (rice and beans), Kokonte (dried cassava chips), Fufu (pounded cassava and plantain) and Red Red (mashed bean stew served with fried cassava).
Mix all this with the incredible hospitality of the locals, amazing historic and cultural sites and the relatively low prices and you will get a city ideal to live in or to spend some time in. Once you visit the capital of Ghana for the first time, you create beautiful memories and you will always want to come back. You can leave Accra, but Accra can never leave you.