The heat of Accra is matched only by the energy of its inhabitants. There is so much happening here, it’s impossible to get bored.
Why go now?
Bordering the Gulf of Guinea and wedged between Ivory Coast and Togo, Accra is one of Ghana’s hippest cities. The capital’s boundless energy is contagious and obvious in all aspects of everyday life. It’s loud, too — whether it’s the women pounding fufu (maize paste) or haggling over the price of fried plantain on the sidewalk. Voodoo belief and influence leaves its mark, too, and impossible to ignore is the Ghanaians’ love of a good party.
It’s my first time. What should I do there?
Ghana’s coastline is some 500km of unspoiled beach lined with coconut and palm trees, and Labadi Pleasure Beach is the most popular one in Accra. Put your feet up and relax on your sun lounger as you get a quick mani-pedi on the spot or join in a game of Frisbee or beach volleyball.
I’ve been before. What should I see this time?
Drinking a pint of Guinness at Ryan’s Irish Pub may seem like the wrong thing to do, but strangely, it’s wonderful. Try out a tro-tro, local commercial buses that will zoom you up and down every alleyway of Accra, showing you exciting new places. Spend an afternoon visiting the fishing port, James Town, and then climbing to the top of the old lighthouse for some spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Where’s the best place for shopping?
Loom (117 Kwame Nkrumah Ave) is the best place for high-end local arts and crafts. African glass pearls, ebony statuettes and intricate woodcarvings can all be found here. For the most elegant textiles, there’s no place like Woodin’s whose reputation for beauty and quality of print is respected throughout West Africa.
What’s the nightlife like?
Accra’s nightlife is a whirlwind of song and dance and keeping up with the local pace is tough. Start with a dinner of sushi or crocodile tail at Monsoon. Get yourself into the swing of things at Indigo (near Danquah Circle), a trendy club located within an old embassy building. Near Oxford Street is Lizzie’s, ideal for those who want to keep on dancing into the night and like their hip-hop.
