Hey there! Welcome back to my blog. My name is Tourvashu, and today, I’m thrilled to take you on an adventure through Accra, the vibrant capital city of Ghana. As a local, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and insights to make your future visit unforgettable.
1) A New Day in Accra
Good morning, folks! I’m excited to share today’s journey with you. After a fresh haircut from a fellow Indian here in Accra, I’m ready to explore the city’s hidden gems. But first, a quick update: yesterday, I visited the embassy to apply for my visa to Togo. Fingers crossed, I’ll have it in two days!
2) The Buzzing Pokuase Interchange
Our first stop is the Pokuase Interchange, the largest interchange in Ghana. This three-tier marvel is a hub of activity, and navigating it can be quite the adventure. With the help of a kind local woman, I managed to switch transportation and reach the famous Circle, or as locals call it, the Interstation Circle.
3) The Smartphone Black Market
Here, I met Foster, a local Ghanaian who introduced me to the smartphone black market. It’s a bustling spot where you can find premium smartphones like iPhones and Samsung at half the price. The market is open-air, and the deals are too good to be true. Just remember to stay alert, as making videos here isn’t always welcomed.
4) A Ride in the Tro-Tro
Next, we hopped on a Tro-Tro, the local mini-bus service, which is the lifeline of Accra’s transportation. As we drove, Foster shared fascinating insights into Ghana’s traditional religions and the gradual decline in their practice due to modern influences.
5) Makola Market – A Century of Commerce
Our journey took us to Makola Market, the largest local market in Accra, established in 1924 during the British colonial era. This market is a hive of activity, with 75% of shop owners being women. The variety here is astounding, from fresh produce to unique local snacks like tiger nuts and yam. If you’re brave enough, try the chew stick for brushing your teeth – though I found it incredibly bitter!
6) A Glimpse of History
Accra, situated on the Gulf of Guinea, has a rich history. Known for its gold, the country was once called the ‘Gold Coast’ by the British until its independence in 1957. Today, Ghana is a proud nation with a diverse population of over 32 million people, with Accra alone home to more than 5 million.
7) Friendly Faces and Cautionary Tales
Throughout my day, I encountered a mix of friendliness and caution. Some locals welcomed me with open arms and stories, while others were wary of my camera. It’s essential to respect their space and seek permission before filming.
8) Signing Off and Conclusion
That’s all for today’s adventure in Accra. I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the heart of Ghana. Stay tuned for more exciting vlogs, and don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and share this with your friends. Until next time, happy travels!