Africa is not like traveling to other countries or continents. It takes more than simply buying a plane ticket, packing your bags and going. It is a process to say the least. The pieces of the puzzle have to slowly come together before you leave for Africa. And now that the world is in the middle of a pandemic, there is even more to consider.
The first challenge is to decide which country you will travel to. Africa, as I have mentioned in prior blogs, is an extremely large continent consisting of 54 countries. All of the countries have something exciting and adventurous to offer. So, depending on what type of experience you are looking for will certainly determine which African country you choose to travel to. And why just go to one country while in Africa? If you have a reentry Visa, you can leave the country traveled to visit another country providing the country has Visa on arrival, and then return. Do your research.
Once dates are chosen, then the next step is to purchase your round-trip flight. Tickets to Africa or specifically to Ghana, can range from $1,100 up and on rare occasions, you can find a flight under $1,100, but it will most certainly have two layovers, and it will be extremely long; some taking up to 24 hours. Obviously, the key is to purchase early.
I will attempt to loosely connect the dots and put the pieces of the puzzle together in regard to traveling to Africa, specifically Ghana, which is known as The Gold Coast, the Gateway to Africa and The Jewel of Africa.
Just as most countries require a Passport for entry into their country, Ghana is no exception. To enter into the Republic of Ghana, you will need a valid Passport and a Visa that will last the duration of your trip. Most people are traveling for vacation purposes. Therefore, a “Travel Visa,” which lasts about 90 days, will be required. The application process will vary depending on if you apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The price of the Visa, as well as the “turnaround time” will vary depending on which office you apply through. Be sure to read and follow the instructions of the application as they are very specific. Even consider calling the office to speak to someone to assure you are clear as to what is needed, as not to slow down the process. Remember, your Visa has to be back in time for your travel date and the time period has to last throughout the duration of your travels.
Something I feel is very important when traveling to a new country is to connect with people on the ground, especially if you are traveling solo or if you plan on staying for any period of time. Ask friends who they know in the country you are traveling to, join Facebook groups and other social media sites in order to connect with other travelers. My experience is that people all over the world are happy to connect and share any information they can. Of course, be wise and cautious when dealing with people you do not personally know. It is best to check with friends and family.
Now it is time to prepare a detailed list or an itinerary in order to map out your trip. Consider a Travel Advisor if you have the extra money to do so. In my case, I was able to barter with a Travel Advisor in Ghana that I met on a WhatsApp group that came highly recommended. Since I have a blog and will be vlogging my trip as well, I was able to barter with my tour guide because he also has a blog and vlog site.
In addition to an itinerary, make a list of items you wish to carry on your trip. Keep in mind the length of time on the trip, what type of excursions or activities you will be participating in on the trip, as well as what the luggage requirements are; how many bag(s) can be checked before the airline will charge the traveler. Most airlines allow at least one bag at 50 pounds, but to be sure always go directly to the airline’s website and read the instructions pertaining to checked luggage and carry-on luggage. Most airlines are very clear and specific when it comes to luggage.
How much money will you need to take or have available? Well of course that will depend on a number of things; what country you are traveling to, the length of time you are staying, are there children traveling with you, are you staying with friends or family once you arrive or will you need to rent lodging via Airbnb or some other rental source. This really depends on the person and the number of individuals traveling. An individual traveling may be able to stay comfortably with family or friends, whereby a family traveling may need more space and privacy, therefore opting to rent space for lodging. Whatever the case, plan this part of your trip carefully and thoroughly. Shop around or even consider a Travel Advisor to assist you with this part of your trip.
Once you land, how will you or your family get around? In the country of Ghana this can be a very minimal fee if you use the public transportation or “tro tros.” Tro tros can range from about 1 to 2 GHS or Ghana Cedis, which one Ghana Cedis fluctuates from day to day, but presently is about $.19. This is great news! There are other means of transportation from Ubers to private vehicles for rental.
The food; omg the food! From what my sources tell me, the food is to die for! Well not literally, but I hear the food in Ghana is spectacular from the fufu, to the ground nut soup to red red to kenkey with tilapia and pepper sauce; I hear travelers love the Ghanaian dishes. The Ghanaian people have a secret oil that is specific to their culture called palm oil. This “palm oil” I hear makes all the difference in the flavor of the food. Oh my, my taste buds are already watering. I have had the opportunity to try African food several times, and if my small taste of food is any indication of what I am in store for, then I can’t wait to get to Ghana. The Ghanaians also have a drink called “palm wine” that I hear is delicious as well. I can’t wait to try it! But what does it cost to eat and eat well while in Ghana? Not surprisingly, the food dishes tend to be a lot less in price compared to the U.S. In addition, it really depends on what part of Ghana you find yourself. Of course, the capital of Ghana being Accra, will be much more expensive than in other parts of Ghana outside of the city.
One last tip and maybe the most important, don’t forget to allocate funds for souvenirs. Ghana has some of the largest markets and you will be able to find almost anything at their markets from clothing items to art pieces to spices to jewelry to unique African items that are specific to Ghana. So, leave some room in your luggage because you will certainly need it.
So now that you are prepared, start the packing process because Africa awaits your arrival! As the Ghanaians say, “Akwabba!” You are welcome!!! ❤️🖤💚
Until next time … may our ancestors be with us. Let the journey begin!
Demetra “Afua” Driskell
***African Proverb: “If you want to know the end, look at the beginning.”
Photos and illustrations by @detravelingfotografa
I am Demetra Graham Driskell, an African woman born and raised in the United States of America. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and I have worked in the field of Social Services for over twenty years. I am a Mother of three young adults, a Grandmother of two precious Granddaughters and now a Blogger. It is my dream and goal to bring my story of my personal journey to the continent of Africa, raw and uncut to those in the diaspora that have eyes to see, ears to hear and a mind to absorb the truth about this massive continent. Innately I know this story must be documented from beginning to end. And so, as I like to say, the journey begins.
ALL THINGS AFRICA; THE JOURNEY 