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Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[10 reasons to visit Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/10-reasons-to-visit-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/10-reasons-to-visit-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/10-reasons-to-visit-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Learning, Food and Drink, Africa, Ghana, Ecotourism, Budget Travel

cape coast castle

When planning a vacation, it isn't too often you hear people choosing Ghana as their must-visit destination. In reality, there are many unique and worthwhile experiences to be had in this African country. Before I visited, I was unsure what to expect, as I didn't know anyone who had ever been there. However, the friendly people, unique foods, and culturally immersive experiences made me fall in love with the country. To give you a better idea of what I'm talking about, here are 10 reasons you should add Ghana, Africa, to your bucket list.

Rich history

There are many fascinating museums and historical sites to visit in Ghana. If you want this to be the focus of your trip, I would recommend making a stop in the city of Cape Coast. This is where you'll find Cape Coast Castle (pictured above) and Elmina Castle, two castle museums that were stops on the trans-Atlantic slave trade. While hard to stomach, a tour of these castles will give you an important lesson in history as you are shown dungeons, slave vessels, old cannons and secret chambers while hearing stories of the past. There are also numerous forts, like Fort William and Fort Victoria, which were used as lookout points to protect the city from Ashanti attacks in the nineteenth century.

Continue reading 10 reasons to visit Ghana, Africa

10 reasons to visit Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accraafricabudget travelBudgetTravelcape coastCapeCoastcastlesdrinkecotourismfoodghanahikinghistorykokrobitenatureFri, 16 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Traveler's guide to local and western food in Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/travelers-guide-to-local-and-western-food-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/travelers-guide-to-local-and-western-food-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/travelers-guide-to-local-and-western-food-in-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Food and Drink, Photos, Africa, Ghana, Budget Travel

ghana food

When visiting Ghana, Africa, unless you are at the mall in the capital city of Accra or staying at a resort or hotel, you will most likely find yourself eating food that is far from Western comfort cuisine. Here is a guide to some of the typical foods you will find in Ghana, as well as some surprising favorites from home you'll be able to find in the small shops.

Local meals

Banku with tilapia

Banku is a thick dough ball made from fermented maize. The thick matter is stirred rigorously in a pot and has a similar, gum-like texture to the other main starch staple in Ghana, Fufu (see below), and is usually served with a stew and/or tilapia. The proper way to eat it is to grab a piece of the dough ball, create an indentation with your finger, and scoop up some palm oil or stew, swallowing it without chewing. The dish is very similar to Kenkey, another Ghanian staple, although the preparation and cooking time vary slightly. Many westerners may be a little hesitant to try the tilapia (I know I was), as it still has the head, tail, and scales in tact. Simply use your hands to peel back the scales and pull out chunks of meat with your fingers, being careful not to grab any bones.

Continue reading Traveler's guide to local and western food in Ghana, Africa

Traveler's guide to local and western food in Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africaafrican foodAfricanFoodbankubudget travelBudgetTravelfood in ghanaFoodInGhanafufughanakenkeyred redRedRedrice waterRiceWaterFri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 tips for doing a homestay]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/10-tips-for-doing-a-homestay/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/10-tips-for-doing-a-homestay/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/10-tips-for-doing-a-homestay/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Food and Drink, Africa, Asia, Ghana, Thailand, Budget Travel

soup

Doing a homestay in another country is a great way to get to know the culture from a first-hand perspective. By living with a family, you get to see how a local's daily life is, from what they eat, to how to they dress, to what their before-bed ritual is. With such a unique opportunity being given to you, it's important to get the most out of the experience while also being respectful. To help, here are some tips on how to enjoy a successful homestay.

Try new foods

When I did a homestay in Ghana, Africa, there were many meals that I was less than thrilled about. As a health-nut, I never would have made fried chicken a normal part of my diet, and eating (or drinking) rice water for breakfast left me less than satisfied. However, instead of getting upset about the food situation think about how much effort your host is putting into making your stay with them pleasant by spending time cooking for you and letting you stay in their home. Thank your host for every meal, even if you don't like it. And if there's something you really can't stomach, find a way to make it edible. With rice water, I learned to add chocolate powder and stir it into the mix. Moreover, to help myself feel better about eating fried foods I began going for morning runs, which also gave me the opportunity to see the village market stalls being set up in the morning, something I usually would have slept through.

Continue reading 10 tips for doing a homestay

10 tips for doing a homestay originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelafricabudget travelBudgetTravelghanahomestaysouth east asiaSouthEastAsiathailandtravel tipsTravelTipsvolunteer abroadVolunteerAbroadTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Budget Vacations 2012: Ghana]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/budget-vacations-2012-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/budget-vacations-2012-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/budget-vacations-2012-ghana/#commentsFiled under: Africa, Ghana, Budget Travel

For those looking to travel on a budget, Ghana, Africa, is a prime destination. According to exchange-rates.com, as of December, 2011, $1 was equivalent to about 1.63-1.65 Ghanaian Cedis.

It is not hard to travel around Ghana and spend very little money. While taxis are considered the "expensive" form of transportation, you can still get pretty far for $5 or less. The more economical form of transport is the tro-tro, which will allow you to ride locally for $0.10-$0.40. If you're riding to another city, it is still budget-friendly. A 2 hour tro-tro ride from Swedru to Cape Coast took about 2 hours and cost a little less than $5. A longer ride from Accra to the Volta Region, which took about 5 hours, cost me about $9.

In terms of food and drink, it's usually locally produced and always affordable. You can get a full meal at a local restaurant for less than $1. Moreover, there are tons of open-air markets and hawkers on the side of the street selling fresh food for a small price. And no need to worry about drinking water, as a 16 ounce bag of water costs less than $0.05.

Budget accommodation abounds in Ghana, and not just for backpackers. While a bed in a hostel will usually cost around $6 a night, like Big Milly's Backyard in Kokrobite and the Oasis Beach Resort in Cape Coast, there are plenty of hotels that offer budget-friendly rooms, like Hansonic Hotel in Accra for $10 a night and the nature-surrounded Wli Water Heights Lodge in the Volta Region for $16 a night.

[flickr image via Stig Nygaard]

Budget Vacations 2012: Ghana originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accraafricabudgetbudget-travelbudgetvacations2012ghanavacationThu, 05 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video of the day: bike stunts in Accra, Ghana]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/video-of-the-day-bike-stunts-in-accra-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/video-of-the-day-bike-stunts-in-accra-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/video-of-the-day-bike-stunts-in-accra-ghana/#commentsFiled under: Biking, Arts and Culture, Stories, Africa, Ghana, Video

Bikelordz : Stunts and Styles from Accra, Ghana from Bikelordz on Vimeo.

The culture of a place is precisely what helps us get to know that place--even if the culture involves bike stunts and the place is Accra, Ghana. There's a biking culture in Accra that I wasn't aware of before watching this video. The video is just a sneak-peek, a trailer for a documentary that is currently being showed in festivals across the world. The documentary's name? Bikelordz. But this little snippet is worth watching, too. In less than 2 minutes, you'll see jaw-dropping bike stunts and styles. You'll watch as members of this biking culture explain their passion for what they do and answer questions of day job employment with retorts about their practice, their talent. Not only does this video provide cultural insight, but there are some great shots of Accra and the people in and around this community, as well. Enjoy.

Continue reading Video of the day: bike stunts in Accra, Ghana

Video of the day: bike stunts in Accra, Ghana originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accraaccra ghanaAccraGhanabike safetybike stuntsbike stylesbikers in ghanaBikersInGhanaBikeSafetyBikeStuntsBikeStylesbiking in ghanaBikingInGhanaghanaghanna bikingGhannaBikingWed, 16 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 unique modes of transportation around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/11/10-unique-modes-of-transportation-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/11/10-unique-modes-of-transportation-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/11/10-unique-modes-of-transportation-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: Biking, Arts and Culture, Learning, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Cambodia, India, Israel, Japan, Laos, Mongolia, Singapore, Thailand, Portugal, United Kingdom, Canada, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Transportation, Ecotourism, Budget Travel, Travel Health, Consumer Activism, Middle East, Central America, Women's Travel

chicken bus

Cars, trains, buses, and planes aren't the only way to get around a country. From the Bamboo Train in Cambodia to the Rail Cart in the the Philippines to the Couch Bike in Canada, here are ten unique modes of transportation from around the world.

Chicken Bus
Guatemala, Central America

While variations of the chicken bus can be found in many different countries (this reminds me a lot of taking the tro-tro in Ghana, Africa), this vehicle is used not only to transport people but also livestock, hence the name. These U.S. school buses are very eye-catching as they are colorfully painted and decorated. When taking one expect cramped conditions, as chicken buses tend to be packed to capacity, and hectic driving at Nascar speeds.

Continue reading 10 unique modes of transportation around the world

10 unique modes of transportation around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTravelcamelchicken busChickenBuscouch bikeCouchBikedog sledDogSledeco friendly modes of transportationeco-tourismEcoFriendlyModesOfTransportationelephantfeaturedgreen travelGreenTravelrail cartRailCartreed boatReedBoatsled dogSledDogtobaggantro-trounique transportationUniqueTransportationunusual modes of transportationUnusualModesOfTransportationFri, 11 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frommer's reveals top destinations for 2012]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/25/frommers-reveals-top-destinations-for-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/25/frommers-reveals-top-destinations-for-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/25/frommers-reveals-top-destinations-for-2012/#commentsFiled under: Photos, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Ghana, China, Turkey, Albania, Norway, Spain, United Kingdom, Belize, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, United States, Australia, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, News, Middle East, Central America, Caribbean

What destination are you dreaming of for 2012? The staff at Frommer's have just unveiled their list of top travel destinations for the coming year. Included in the list is a little something for everyone: large metropolises, secluded beach towns, colorful riverside villas, and more.

But Frommer's didn't just rely on their expert editors and author's for this years list--they also polled readers to find out where they wanted to visit in 2012. Click through the gallery below to see Frommer's (and their reader's) picks--including one surprising midwestern city that is the only spot in the United States to make the cut.

Continue reading Frommer's reveals top destinations for 2012

Frommer's reveals top destinations for 2012 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012bay of fundyBayOfFundybeirutbelizebest ofBestOfcanadachinachongqingcuracaodestinationsenglandfrommersfukuokaghamagironagreat britainGreatBritainguatemalajapankansas cityKansasCitylebanonlondonmexicomissourinova scotiaNovaScotiaspaintraveltravel destinationsTravelDestinationsturkeyunited kingdomunited statesUnitedKingdomUnitedStatesyucatan peninsulaYucatanPeninsulaTue, 25 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destination spotlight: Kokrobite, Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/16/destination-spotlight-kokrobite-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/16/destination-spotlight-kokrobite-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/16/destination-spotlight-kokrobite-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Hiking, Food and Drink, Africa, Ghana, Hotels and Accommodations, Video, Budget Travel, Nightlife

kokrobite ghana africa

For those traveling in Ghana who want to get out of the big, noisy capital city of Accra, Kokrobite is a beach paradise located less than an hour away. The village is easily accessible by tro-tro from Tema Station, Kaneshie Market, or anywhere else you see people hailing a car. Kokrobite can provide both a perfect day trip or an enjoyable weekend stay.

Where to Stay

Whether you plan on actually spending the night or just the day, Big Milly's Backyard is the ultimate backpackers haven on the beach. While that might sound like a marketing ploy, I mean it to the fullest extent. Big Milly's is just as well known as the village of Kokrobite itself and is the place where backpackers and locals both come to hangout, party, eat, and relax. Room styles range from single rooms to suites to dorm-style huts to outdoor tents. The property of the accommodation fills with marketers during the day selling clothing, paintings, toys, accessories, and more. A bar, multiple outdoor restaurants, hammocks, picnic tables, and an ocean breeze add to the relaxing and idyllic atmosphere of Big Milly's.

Continue reading Destination spotlight: Kokrobite, Ghana, Africa

Destination spotlight: Kokrobite, Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accrabig millysbig millys backyardBigMillysBigMillysBackyardbudget travelBudgetTravelculturedrum lessonsDrumLessonseating in ghanaEatingInGhanaghanakokrobitepalm winePalmWinerastafariantro-trotrotrowhere to eat in ghanaWhereToEatInGhanaSun, 16 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to ride the tro-tro in Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/15/how-to-ride-the-tro-tro-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/15/how-to-ride-the-tro-tro-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/15/how-to-ride-the-tro-tro-in-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Food and Drink, Africa, Ghana, Transportation, Budget Travel, Women's Travel

how to ride the tro-tro in ghana

When traveling through Ghana, Africa, one thing that is inevitable, at least if you don't want to go broke wasting all of your money on taxi fare, is that you will have to ride the tro-tro. The tro-tro is kind of like a bus system, although a bit more confusing and with a lot less personal space once on board. For first time users, it can be quite daunting trying to hail one (not going to lie, it took me a few days to work up the courage to figure these things out). However, once you learn how to use the tro-tro system, it's fairly simple (and extremely budget-friendly).

Hailing a tro-tro

There are various tro-tro stops located around each city, and even if you're not near one, you can often just wave one down on the side of a main road. Often if you look lost or like you want to go somewhere (or even if you don't), the tro-tro drivers will ask you where you are going. People in Ghana are extremely friendly and helpful, so don't be afraid to ask someone where to get a tro-tro to a certain destination. When traveling through Ghana, I never actually saw a posted bus route, so I found it helpful to carry a notepad and pen and write down the destination name when I wanted to ask how to get somewhere. From there, people would tell me where to pick up the correct tro-tro and where to switch lines, if need be. If you are traveling to another city, for example, from Accra to the Volta Region or Swedru to Cape Coast, you will need to go to a major station or bus depot to catch the tro-tro.

Continue reading How to ride the tro-tro in Ghana, Africa

How to ride the tro-tro in Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africaafrica on a budgetafrica travelAfricaOnABudgetAfricaTravelbudget travelBudgetTravelghanaghana on a budgetghana transportationghana travelGhanaOnABudgetGhanaTransportationGhanaTraveltro-troSat, 15 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 important phrases to know before going to Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/08/10-important-phrases-to-known-before-going-to-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/08/10-important-phrases-to-known-before-going-to-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/08/10-important-phrases-to-known-before-going-to-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Festivals and Events, Africa, Ghana, Hotels and Accommodations, Transportation, Budget Travel, Women's Travel

10 important phrases to know in ghana africa

Learning a foreign language can be difficult. And, for people traveling to Ghana for only a short amount of time, trying to become fluent in Twi, the principal native language of the country, may be a bit farfetched. However, learning some important phrases before you go can help prepare you for a more comfortable experience.

Eti sen?
How are you?

In Ghana, the people are extremely friendly, and everyone, even complete strangers, are going to ask you this. Greetings are very important in Ghana, and if you don't want to be seen as impolite then be sure to learn this phrase and use it as much as possible.

Continue reading 10 important phrases to know before going to Ghana, Africa

10 important phrases to know before going to Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africaafrican languageAfricanLanguagebarteringbudget travelBudgetTravelforeignerghanagood morningGoodMorninghagglinghow are youHowAreYouimportant phrasesImportantPhraseslanguagemarketstransportationtwiwestern africaWesternAfricawhats your nameWhatsYourNameSat, 08 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destination spotlight: Cape Coast in Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/07/destination-spotlight-cape-coast-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/07/destination-spotlight-cape-coast-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/07/destination-spotlight-cape-coast-in-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Activism, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Learning, Africa, Ghana, Hotels and Accommodations, Ecotourism, Budget Travel

cape coast in ghana, africa

One reason that many people decide to travel to Ghana in Western Africa is to learn about the history of the land and people. While there are many worthwhile areas to visit in Ghana, those looking to learn about Ghana's past, as well as experience some nature and adventure, should head over to Cape Coast.

Depending on what type of atmosphere you are looking for, two popular accommodation options include the Oasis Beach Resort and the Hans Cottage Botel. If you're looking for something right on the beach, in the heart of the city, and near great shopping markets, Oasis is the way to go. This hotel/hostel is also within walking distance to Cape Coast Castle. However, if you want something in a more rural setting and closer to the major tourist attractions, such as Elmina Castle, Kakum National Park, and the crocodile pond (on site), then the Hans Cottage Botel is for you.

So what should you do to make the most of your time in Cape Coast? Here are the top picks:

Elmina Castle- This castle was first built in 1482 and was the first trading post built on the Gulf of Guinea. It acted as a trade settlement until it later became a stop on the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade route. This is the bigger of the two slave castles and is a must-see for travelers in Cape Coast, as you will be taken on a guided tour and learn about the history of the slave trade. Moreover, Elmina Castle is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cape Coast Castle- Cape Coast Castle, while the smaller of the two, is still definitely worth the visit. Originally built to be used as a trading post for timber and gold, it later become part of the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade route. A tour of the castle gives visitors insight into the slave trade's past, as well as a look at the dungeons and Door of No Return. Visitors will also be able to see the plaque dedicated to President Barack Obama from when he visited the site in 2009.
Fort William and Fort Victoria- These forts were once lookout posts used to protect Cape Coast Castle. Both are replacements for Smith's Tower and Phipp's Tower, respectively. While they are not in use anymore, visitors can still visit the forts for a small fee.
Kakum National Park- This park is one of the most famous national parks in Ghana and is comprised of mostly untouched rainforest. While there is supposedly 40 species of mammals, I did not see much aside for some birds. The real highlight of visiting the park is the canopy walk, which allows hikers to traverse over a swinging bridge suspended high over the trees. At times, you actually feel as though you are going to fall over the edge, making it quite scary (yet fun!). While the activity costs 30 Ghana Cedis, bring a student ID (or something that looks like it could maybe be a student ID) and receive 50% off. In terms of getting there, if you are staying at Hans Cottage Botel you will be able to hire a taxi that will take you round-trip for 40 Ghana Cedi (although, I was able to talk my driver down to 30 Ghana Cedi).
Crocodile Pond-Located on site at Hans Cottage Botel, there is a pond surrounding the hotel restaurant that is filled with crocodiles. It is pretty wild to see, and some people even pet and sit on them (although, I will admit, I didn't try this). When I asked a worker at the hotel if people are really allowed to sit on the crocs his response was, "Yes. As long as the crocodile is not hungry, he will not bite you."

Destination spotlight: Cape Coast in Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africabudget travelBudgetTravelcanopy walkCanopyWalkcape coastcape coast castleCapeCoastCapeCoastCastlecrocodile pondCrocodilePonddoor of no returnDoorOfNoReturnelmina castleElminaCastlefort victoriafort williamFortVictoriaFortWilliamghanahans botelHansBotelkakum canopy walkkakum national parkKakumCanopyWalkKakumNationalParkoasis beach resortOasisBeachResortsit on crocodileSitOnCrocodileslave castlesSlaveCastlesFri, 07 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destination spotlight: the Volta Region, Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/03/destination-spotlight-the-volta-region-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/03/destination-spotlight-the-volta-region-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/03/destination-spotlight-the-volta-region-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Learning, Food and Drink, Africa, Ghana, Transportation, Ecotourism, Budget Travel

The Wli Waterfalls at the Volta Region in Ghana, Africa.

When people think of where they want to go on vacation, Ghana isn't usually the first place that comes to mind. There are actually many good reasons to visit this African country, including an excellent exchange rate on the dollar, an experience rich in culture, and areas of untouched, natural beauty. These things and more can be found in the Volta Region in Ghana.

While many areas in Ghana have a chaotic, diesel-fueled city feeling, that all goes away as you experience the natural wonders and peaceful calm of the Volta Region. A great home-base to explore this area is Wli-Afegame, a small village outside of HoHoe, which can reached by tro-tro (think small, packed out mini van). From HoHoe, take a taxi to your hotel in Wli-Afegame. Some good ones are the Wli-Water Heights Hotel and the Wli Waterfall Lodge, which is right next to the Wli Waterfalls. For the rustic traveler, there is a hut-type accommodation with outdoor showers and toilets called Ras Madesko's, which you can reach by having your taxi driver stay on the main road of town and drive up a mile past the waterfalls. Ras's Rastafasian-style accommodation will be on your right, with a red, yellow, and green wooden guitar sign out front.

Continue reading Destination spotlight: the Volta Region, Ghana, Africa

Destination spotlight: the Volta Region, Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africabudget travelBudgetTravelghanaghana+news+todayghananewstodaymonkeysmount afedjatoMountAfedjatotafi atome monkey sanctuaryTafiAtomeMonkeySanctuaryvolta lakevolta regionvolta+ghana+newsvoltaghananewsVoltaLakeVoltaRegionwaterfallswli-afegamewli-waterfallsMon, 03 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to eat fufu in Ghana, Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/02/how-to-eat-fufu-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/02/how-to-eat-fufu-in-ghana-africa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/02/how-to-eat-fufu-in-ghana-africa/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Food and Drink, Africa, Ghana, Budget Travel

fufu, chicken, and groundnut soup in ghana in africa

When traveling, experiencing the food of a culture can be one of the most exciting parts of the journey. Not only can you learn a lot about a group of people by their dining etiquette, but eating itself is fun.

Recently, I was lucky enough to take a trip to Ghana in Western Africa where dining rules and the cuisine itself differ greatly from that of Western culture. One specialty that is a local favorite, as well as a dish on every visitor's list of foods to try, is fufu.

At first glance, fufu looks just like a lump of mashed potatoes sitting in some kind of soup. In your head you may picture yourself picking up a spoon, dipping it into the soft, creamy mound, and putting it into your mouth without a care in the world. Possibly it will taste buttery, and maybe there will even be some onions or chives in there.

If this is what you're thinking, then you have never actually experienced fufu.

Fufu is a cassava-based dish. Basically, the root-based plant is boiled in water then pounded down with a mortar and pestle. What you have now is a thick dough-like mixture that needs to be ferociously stirred, which usually takes two people, one pounding the fufu with the long, wooden pestle and the other reaching in and moving it around in between the pounding. As an outsider, I always found this a bit hard to watch, as it always looked like the person moving the fufu around was moments away from losing their arm.

Continue reading How to eat fufu in Ghana, Africa

How to eat fufu in Ghana, Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africacassavadining etiquetteDiningEtiquetteeating with handsEatingWithHandsfufughanaghana+newsghana+travelghananewsghanatravellatest+news+in+ghanalatestnewsinghanaSun, 02 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[6 surf destinations you'd never think of]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/20/6-surf-destinations-youd-never-think-of/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/20/6-surf-destinations-youd-never-think-of/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/20/6-surf-destinations-youd-never-think-of/#commentsFiled under: Surfing, Africa, Asia, South America, Ghana, Namibia, Bangladesh, Oman, Thailand, Uruguay, Middle East

Sure, we all know the world of surfing revolves around Hawaii's fabled North Shore. If you've ever owned a board, you can probably rattle off some of the other global hot spots: Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa, Fiji, California, Costa Rica...the list goes on and on.

Just because the same 20 places have some of the best waves on the planet, however, doesn't mean that the rest of the globe is forced to go without. Ever since the 1966 release of the timeless surf film Endless Summer, global surf travelers have been pushing the boundaries of scoring waves in increasingly obscure locations.

Lately, it seems as if the act of finding waves in remote locations is potentially more exhilarating than the act of riding the waves themselves. Here on Gadling we've reported before about surfers hunting down waves from Lake Erie to Iceland in search of some stoke, and Surfing magazine has hosted contests such as the Google Earth Challenge in a modern effort to scour the globe for unknown pointbreaks and barrels.

So, in the spirit of ever-expanding global surf travel, here is a list of 6 locations you might want to put on your surf radar.

Continue reading 6 surf destinations you'd never think of

6 surf destinations you'd never think of originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 20 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>middle+east+surfing+destimationsmiddleeastsurfingdestimationsremote suf tripsRemoteSufTripsSurf BangladeshSurf GhanaSurf NamibiaSurf OmanSurf ThailandSurf Uruguaysurf+destinationssurf+spots+in+costa+ricaSurfBangladeshsurfdestinationsSurfGhanasurfing+skeleton+bay+namibiasurfingskeletonbaynamibiaSurfNamibiaSurfOmansurfspotsincostaricaSurfThailandSurfUruguayWeirdest places to surfWeirdestPlacesToSurfwho+would+think+that+lybia+is+a+surf+destinationwhowouldthinkthatlybiaisasurfdestinationSat, 20 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghost Forest brings attention to rainforest threat]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/12/ghost-forest-brings-attention-to-rainforest-threat/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/12/ghost-forest-brings-attention-to-rainforest-threat/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/12/ghost-forest-brings-attention-to-rainforest-threat/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Africa, Europe, Ghana, Denmark, United Kingdom, Ecotourism

A Ghost Forest is stalking Europe.

Giant trees from Ghana have appeared in Copenhagen, Trafalgar Square in London, and now Oxford. It's called the Ghost Forest Art Project, and it's an innovative way to bring the plight of the world's rainforests to public attention.

Artist Angela Palmer wanted to share her concern with the public about tropical rainforests, which are disappearing fast. An area the size of a football pitch vanishes every four seconds, and most are never replaced. Not only does this reduce biodiversity and nature's way of absorbing atmospheric carbon, but it leads to soil erosion and long-term economic problems. Since Europe is a major consumer of rainforest wood, and there are no rainforests in Europe, Palmer decided to bring the rainforest to Europe.

She hauled a collection of stumps from the commercially logged Suhuma forest in western Ghana all the way to Europe. Ghana lost 90 percent of its forest due to overlogging before the government got serious about conservation. Now the remaining forest is being logged in a sustainable manner under strict supervision. The stumps mostly fell due to storms, but three were actually logged. To offset the carbon footprint of shipping these behemoths hundreds of miles, Palmer contributed to a project that distributes efficient stoves to Ghanaian villages. These stoves use less wood than traditional stoves and reduce the need for cutting.

First stop was Copenhagen, just in time for last year's UN Climate Change conference. This was followed by a visit to Trafalgar Square before the trees were installed in front of Oxford University's famous Museum of Natural History. A fitting display for 2010, which is the UN's International Year of Biodiversity. Next year will be the Year of Forests.

I've seen this exhibit in person and I have to say the stumps are truly awe inspiring. Their sheer size, and the realization that they were once alive, made me think about our place in this world. My four-year-old was impressed too, and I hope that some of these giant trees will still be standing when he's my age.

Image Courtesy Ghost Forest.

Gallery: Ghost Forest Art Project

Ghost Forest brings attention to rainforest threat originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>copenhagenenvironmentenvironmentalexhibitionexhibitionsLondonmuseummuseumsnatural historynatural history museumNaturalHistoryNaturalHistoryMuseumOxfordOxford UniversityOxfordUniversityrainforestRainForestsTrafalgar SquareTrafalgarSquaretreetreesUNUnited NationsUnitedNationsMon, 12 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the day 2.8.10]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/08/photo-of-the-day-2-8-10/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/08/photo-of-the-day-2-8-10/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/08/photo-of-the-day-2-8-10/#commentsFiled under: Photos, Africa, Ghana, Photo of the Day

Portraiture remains my favourite form of photography, and something in this image shared by borderfilms(Doug) really spoke to me. It could be the beckoning expression of the woman, Mary, who owns the shop, or the curious face of the little boy in the back -- or it could just be that this shop looks like the many I used to visit in my homeland of Trinidad. It's a great reminder that wherever we go, there's always something familiar. Great image.

If you've got some great travel shots you'd love to share, be sure to upload them to the Gadling pool on Flickr. We might just pick one as our Photo of the Day.

Photo of the day 2.8.10 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>shopMon, 08 Feb 2010 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[International female team reaches South Pole]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/30/international-female-team-reaches-south-pole/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/30/international-female-team-reaches-south-pole/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/30/international-female-team-reaches-south-pole/#commentsFiled under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Skiing, Antarctica, Ghana, Brunei, Cyprus, India, Singapore, United Kingdom, Jamaica, New Zealand

Back in November, a group of seven women from a variety of countries around the globe set out on a long, and challenging journey. Calling themselves the Kaspersky Commonwealth Expedition, they left Patriot Hills, along the Antarctic coast, and over the course of the next 39 days, traveled more than 550 miles on skis, before arriving at their destination at the geographic South Pole yesterday.

The expedition is described on the team's website as "5 Continents. 6 Faiths. 7 Languages. 8 Women. 1 daring ambition". And what a daring ambition it has been. The original eight women come from Cyprus, Ghana, India, Singapore, Brunei, New Zealand, Jamaica and the United Kingdom, each of which are Commonwealth countries. Due to illness, one of the women was forced to withdraw from the team at the last minute, leaving the other seven to continue without her.

The expedition served two purposes. The first was to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth, while the second was a celebration of the achievement of women from around the planet. These ladies hope to serve as role models for young girls back home, showing them that it is possible to for women to do great things. In several cases, these women are first person, man or woman, from their home country to make the journey to the South Pole.

Continue reading International female team reaches South Pole

International female team reaches South Pole originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelantarcticacommonwealthexpeditionkasperskykasperskylabsskiingsouth poleSouthPoleWed, 30 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[United Airlines adds flights to Africa, the Middle East and Europe]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/united-airlines-adds-flights-to-africa-the-middle-east-and-euro/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/united-airlines-adds-flights-to-africa-the-middle-east-and-euro/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/united-airlines-adds-flights-to-africa-the-middle-east-and-euro/#commentsFiled under: Africa, Europe, North America, Ghana, Bahrain, United States, Airlines, Transportation, News, Middle East

Starting May 2, 2010, United Airlines fans can fly the carrier from the US to Africa for the first time in the company's history. United will offer flights from DC to Accra, Ghana (and then on to Lagos, Nigeria). Beginning April 18, 2010, passengers flying from DC to Kuwait can also continue on to Bahrain.

Chicago to Brussels nonstop on March 28, 2010. The carrier also added several other new routes this year, including DC to Moscow, and DC to Geneva.

"Our first-ever non-stop service to Africa will offer customers convenient and comfortable travel opportunities to visit two of the fastest-growing cities in the continent," United's senior VP of planning said in a press release. "In addition, our new services to Bahrain and Brussels will open more international routes to our customers throughout Europe and the Middle East."

United Airlines adds flights to Africa, the Middle East and Europe originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accra ghanaAccraGhanaairlineairlinesbahrainchicagodullesGhanakuwaitLagosroutesunionUnited AirlinesUnitedAirlineswashington dcWashingtonDcTue, 10 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Health tourism is big business for Ghana]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/health-tourism-is-big-business-for-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/health-tourism-is-big-business-for-ghana/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/health-tourism-is-big-business-for-ghana/#commentsFiled under: Africa, Ghana, Hotels and Accommodations

Ghana is not a big tourism magnet. Unlike other African countries that offer wild safaris and impressive archaeological remains, this West African nation has relatively few attractions to offer international visitors. But that's changing under a new plan to promote health tourism.

As the name implies, health tourism involves more than recharging your batteries on some serene beach. It's a chance to get medical treatment while getting away from it all. One place to do that in Ghana is the Holy Trinity Spa & Health Farm. Set along the Volta River, it's a cross between a resort hotel, ranch, and hospital, where you can take a dip in the pool, ride horses across African countryside, and have a physiotherapy session all in one day.

Their honeymoon packages are reasonably priced by Western standards and offer the usual things like candlelit dinners and sports activities along with treatments such as facials, manicures, and massages. Other treatments include some rather mysterious-sounding procedures such as the "Super Ozone Hydro Bath" and the "Detoxifying Infra Red Sauna." If you want to get a bit more serious about your health and well-being, the spa offers dental and medical care as well as cosmetic surgery. Many of the guests are from African nations looking for medical procedures they can't get at home. Most of the staff were trained in Western medical schools.

If getting a face lift is not your idea of a vacation, Ghana does offer some interesting sights, although it can't compete with heavy hitters such as Kenya and Egypt. The Mole National Park offers safaris and elephants and the Wli Falls offer stunning views of waterfalls through thick jungle. There's also the intrinsic interest of being in a vibrant part of Africa with a rich history and culture, and the added advantage that English is the official language, so you'll be able to say "no liposuction, please, just a massage."

Gallery: Gorgeous Ghana

Elephants at Mole National Park

Another elephant at Mole National Park

Walking in the jungle canopy at Kakum National Forest

Rainforest canopy at Kakum National Park

Vilage market near Lake Volta

Health tourism is big business for Ghana originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elephantshealth spahealth tourismhealthcareHealthSpaHealthTourismsafarispaspaswaterfallwaterfallsFri, 06 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadlinks for Tuesday 8.11.09]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/11/gadlinks-for-tuesday-8-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/11/gadlinks-for-tuesday-8-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/11/gadlinks-for-tuesday-8-11-09/#commentsFiled under: Ghana, Senegal, United States

Welcome back to another Tuesday of Gadlinks. How does it work? We scour the best of the travel web and pick our favorite links of the day, summarizing them all in one convenient post. It's like a big "travel smoothie" of goodness, except we don't add any antioxidants. OK, ready to see this Tuesday's picks? Keep reading below:

Snorkeling takes you to another world. Simply strap on a mask and some fins and you're instantly transported to a world of brightly colored fish and other strange denizens of the deep. Here's a list of the Top 10 spots to snorkel to make sure you get your money's worth. [Via CNN]
Grant recently brought us an in-depth look at the Western African capital of Dakar, Senegal. He's not the only one checking out West Africa lately - check out this writeup on African tourist hotspot Ghana. [Via The New York Times]
Jonesing for the great outdoors? You might consider upstate New York, where Adirondack Park offers visitors plentiful hiking and some icy cold mountain lakes where you can cool off afterwards. [Via MSNBC]
This past week we learned of the passing of legendary filmmaker John Hughes, a man who captured the essence of 80's surburban youth and Chicago like no other. Here's a nice tribute to the much-loved director. What's your favorite John Hughes movie moment? [Via Intelligent Travel]

More Gadlinks HERE.

Gadlinks for Tuesday 8.11.09 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adirondackschicagodakargadlinksjohn hughesJohnHughessnorkelsnorkelingTue, 11 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST