We arrived in Accra at about 10:30AM and hit the ground running. We had a delicious lunch consisting of grilled chicken and rice. Then we got a chance to walk around the city, which was an experience all in its own. Accra is surprisingly modern, however there is still poverty around every corner. Being able to see the reality of Ghana has proved to be quite exciting but emotional as well. There are many people here who are well off financially and at the same time there are many who must beg for money just to survive. In a way, we’ve been conditioned to view poverty as a matter of fact, but when you see desperation staring at you through the eyes of a person in need, it becomes impossible to ignore. I can only hope that during the upcoming weeks I can make a tangible difference in the lives of the people that I meet.
During the afternoon, we traveled to Cape Coast, approximately a two-hour drive south of Accra. We arrived at the beach resort and once we settled in to our rooms we took a walk down to the beach. Running on an African beach and into the Atlantic Ocean was such an exhilarating and surreal experience. Hearing the sound of the waves crashing down as the wind blew against my skin I felt heaven on earth. I could have spent the rest of my life on that beach.
Barack Obama will be visiting Cape Coast on Friday. Unfortunately, this is the same day we’re set to fly to Tamale but we are going to try our best to see him. To be honest, the Ghanaian people are much more excited for his arrival than we are.
The people of Ghana have been nothing but a delight. Their hospitality and generosity is unparalleled. One observation that can be made is that the Ghanaian people love to take their times. Slow and Steady gets the job done is not just a quote here, it's a way of life. It is not uncommon to wait an hour or two before your meal is at a restaurant and another hour or so for the check to arrive. It's definitely a culture difference. I do however enjoy how everyone is so relaxed and down to earth here.
And even though things have gotten a little messy at times, I'm still having a great time!
I AM looking forward to these upcoming weeks in Ghana.
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