Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Independence Square
MONUMENT
Independence Sq is a vast, empty expanse of concrete overlooked by spectator stands of
Stalinesque grace. The square is dominated by an enormous McDonald's-like arch, be-
neath which the Eternal Flame of African Liberation, lit by Kwame Nkrumah, still flick-
ers. It stands empty for most of the year, except for special commemorations. Super
churches sometimes get the authorisation to preach here.
arch, crowned by a large black star, Ghana's national symbol. Note: taking photos is for-
bidden.
Makola Market
MARKET
( 8am-6pm)
There is no front door or welcoming sign to the Makola Market. Before you
know it, you've been sucked by the human undertow from the usual pavements clogged
with vendors hawking food, secondhand clothes and shoes to the market itself. For new
arrivals to Africa, it can be an intense experience, but it's a fun - though perhaps a slightly
masochistic - Ghanaian initiation rite.
Labadi Beach
BEACH
This is where Accra residents love to congregate and party at weekends. It does get ex-
tremely crowded, and the pumping music, food smells and heat can all become a bit too
much, but there is no denying that this is typical Ghana-style partying. Labadi is about
8km east of Accra; to come here, take a
tro-tro
(minibus) at Nkrumah Circle in Central
Accra or along the Ring Rd.
National Museum
MUSEUM
( Barnes Rd; admission C7; 9am-4.30pm Mon-Sun)
Set in pleasant grounds, the national museum
features excellent displays on various aspects of Ghanaian culture and history. The dis-
plays on local crafts, ceremonial objects and the slave trade are particularly noteworthy.
Nima Tours
WALKING TOUR
( 024-6270095;
http://ghana-nima-tours.yolasite.com
; Nima; per hr C5)
Charles Sablah loves his neigh-
bourhood. He also loves meeting new people, so he started welcoming couch-surfers in
his home a few years ago. He showed them around Nima and what started as a standard
