Travel from Accra to Kumasi, and learn about the thriving culture of the Ashanti kingdom.
On the Gulf of Guinea coast lies a hidden gem where even the Obamas have visited.
Travel from Accra to Kumasi, and learn about the thriving culture of the Ashanti kingdom.
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In the first of a new series, I would explain what I wished I had known before travelling to this beautiful country.
1. Charley is the first word to learn
It’s the usual form of saying 'my friend'. Ghanaians would not say anything with passion without including Charley.
The term “Charley” is used as a substitute to calling a person by their birth name and falls into the informal, slang/pidgin English category of their national language.
As with many countries around the globe, Ghanaians and other West Africans have a word that they use to call a stranger or a friend without having to use their name.
However, Charley essentially has a thousand meanings. Charley is another way to say “I know what you mean,” or “I agree”. Charley means “stop it.” Charley means “let’s go.” Charley can be decoded as, “Can you believe this?”, “I’m not feeling this” or “I’m feeling this.”
What Charley represents is dependent on the context and tone in which it is used.
Talk about being confused.
2. Ghanaians love cats
You know how Nigerians feel about cats? Well, it's not the same in Ghana. Apparently, you don't chase a cat out of your compound even when you don't know the owner,
If you're scared of cats I would advise you stay at a hotel. I once got locked in because cats were in the compound and I wanted to go get something at night.
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3. They pack a heavy meal
Nothing is light in Ghana! Not even breakfast. Who eats Kenkey with eggs? A typical breakfast features really hard bread, eggs, fried fish, crayfish and tea.
4. Ghanaians are welcoming
Ghanaians are very hospitable people eager to connect with visitors. As long as you treat them with respect, people will help you out as much as they can and make your stay there as welcoming as possible.
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Don’t be surprised to find people wishing to take an interest in you and your affairs, more than you are probably used to.
5. The nightlife cannot be compared to Lagos
Ghanaians are very reserved people and don't party much. Nigerians have taken over the nightlife there.
The silence in Weija and Osu can be so soothing and very very calm.