Ghana Journey: ARRIVING IN ACCRA

Tuesday 4 June 2013

Accra airport is interesting, with a rather complicated customs/check-in procedure. We had a hotel van waiting for us at the curb but were immediately accosted by unsolicited "helpers" who offered to load our luggage onto the van for tips. We were warned about them. Sometimes, these helpers even steal bags in the midst of the deliberate confusion. 

Our host, Thomas Aguiapo, is gracious, engaging, and so attentive to our needs. He welcomed us with a big smile and open arms. Thomas is regional director of CRS in Tamale.

We checked in at the Mensvic, a fine hotel. Somewhat plush (American-style flush toilets, Olympic-sized pool) but also charmingly rustic: no carpeting, African colors throughout. Restaurant was top notch. I had a Vegetable Rice Jollof, a Ghanian favorite. Mildly spicy and delicious. 

Tomorrow we sleep in (really not much sleep last night on the plane). After later breakfast, we take a prop plane to CRS headquarters in Tamale (TAH-mah-lay, not the Mexican pronunciation). Plane trip should be interesting, like something out of Indiana Jones. Will take lots of photos. Hopefully, we'll have Internet up there. 

We've been warned about the water (our American digestive systems are unaccustomed to it) and advised to brush teeth with bottled water that was given to each of us. More to come!