June 6, 2017, I placed a $500.00 deposit that revolutionized the way I see myself today. For the longest time, Hayet Rida (she’s bae, follow her) said that she would bring her friends to Ghana. She wanted us to see the beauty that is Ghana and where she calls her home. The wanderlust person in me was like “YASSSSSS.” The fiscal manager in me was like, “Yea, aight. NEXT.” But the deep down muted voice that I never typically listen to was like, “You have one life to live, and you might meet Kofi Sriboe’s cousins…werk!” After I paid my deposit, I was fully committed to the process; I was going to GHANA!
During the months leading up to the trip slated for March 7 to March 17, I was excited. I read about all the things that could possibly go wrong, but I was convinced that Ghana was going to be IT for me. Once I received my VISA, took my yellow fever shot, and started my round of malaria pills, it sealed the deal for me.
The word Akwaaba, which is Twi for “Welcome” adorned the Kotoka International Airport when arrived. I was elated to see all of the people outside of the airport. Honestly, it reminded me of Haiti…just like Haiti. Before I go into further detail, a trip with Hayet feels like 5-star treatment. That was the QUICKEST I’ve ever retrieved my luggage and went through customs. I need a Hayet with me everywhere I go.
We hopped on the bus as it takes us through the streets of Accra, Ghana’s capital. We arrive at Fiesta Hotel which is our main residence for the trip. While some of my friends assumed that we would be staying in a place with mosquito nets and fans, we were set up in apartments. They were huge, cooled, and better looking than what I had at home…I was in love. We were assigned roomies and then off to our rooms we went. I was elated to be paired with Shainna Tucker from Thick Girl’s Closet because she was one of the first bloggers I started to follow. My other roomie was Danielle Young! Admittedly, this was one of the first times I hit it off with a stranger…so much so that I stole her workout pants.
Part One Overarching Feelings: My family is from Haiti located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean Sea. Haiti has an estimated 10.8 million people, making it the most populous country in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the second-most populous country in the Caribbean as a whole. I never felt more at home than I did in Ghana. I felt like I belonged and that it was a place on serenity, beauty, and FOOD!! Please go!
Although we woke up every day between 7:30 and 9:00 am, by day 3, I was grateful for it because it allowed us to explore Ghana so much more. Instead of going to the whole trip in detail in one post, I’ll share a few tidbits and snapshots/links for what my seven days in paradise looked like.
Day One: Accra, Ghana- Welcome Home BBQ and Carbon Nightclub
Hayet threw us this amazing BBQ filled with nothing the best! From our personal bartender Corey (who owns the http://www.cocohutgh.com/) to ice stands, I never felt so accommodated! I ate calamari for hours and laughed with my newfound tribe sisters! After a day of bonding, we hit up one of the most exclusive clubs in Ghana: Carbon Night Club! With swings hanging from the walls and hookahs flowing, I was living my best life! Tip: Make sure you aren’t wearing flats, this is a VIP type of club!
Come back soon so that I can share parts 2-5!!
Til next flight,
Char.
