HTM 2454 Travel and Tourism Management
Ghana
November 4, 2010
The Republic of
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Just a little information
I have always been curious about all the different cultures and traditions that fill the continent of Africa. The use of bright colors, musical celebrations, and unique art peak my interests. This is the reason that I have decided to visit one the most culturally rich nations in Africa: Ghana. Filled with incomparable food, music, dance, and clothing, Ghana holds the essence of culture that I am most interested in. Ghana is often described as a land of festivals, music, and traditional dances. There is hardly any community, clan, or tribe, which lacks an occasion to celebrate annually (africaguide.com, 1996). I plan to set out on the journey along with only one of my closest friends, in order for us to really see and experience the true culture of the people of Ghana. While in Ghana, we plan to not only experience local culture through local markets and hot spots but also visit important sites, including the National Museum, and natural wonders such as Kintampo Waterfalls and Aburi Botanical Gardens.
The Republic of
Introduction
Located in West Africa. Official Language: English Government: Constitution Total Area: 92,098sq mi (238,535 km) Currency: Ghanaian cedi
Area History and Customs
According to EveryCulture.com, the history of noble origins, in combination with a rich cultural heritage and a militant nationalist movement, have provided this ethnically diverse country with unifying symbols and a sense of common identity and destiny. Ghana was the first African country to gain independence from European rule. Ghana was one of the major stops on the slave trade route. When England gained dominance of the coast the native Ashanti people caused much conflict because of coastal expansion and the slave trade. Although English is the national language of Ghana, there are over sixty mother tongues spoken throughout the country. This country is vital to Africa because its rich in minerals, such as gold and diamonds. Ghanas economy heavily relies on its export of these rich minerals along with cocoa and timber. Religion plays a large role in the lives of the Ghanaian people. Christianity and Islam combined with traditional African religions create the unique culture that fills the nation of Ghana.
Travel Motivations
My motivations for travel are as follows: 1. Experience unique cultures 2. Explore annual festivals and rituals 3. See and shop in local markets 4. Gain an understanding for Ghanaian history 5. View tourist sites including historically important places and natural wonders. I have never enjoyed touristy travel. Visiting only top tourist sites I believe that you dont get a true sense of the countrys culture. On my trip to Ghana I plan to experience a mix of unseen local cultures with interesting tourist sites. Visiting many local markets and taking part in celebration festivals will allow me to observe the true feeling of life in Ghana. By touring popular attractions such as the National Museum or Boti Falls, I will experience the sites that have made the country famous. In doing this, I hope to gain a better appreciation for the Republic of Ghana, its history, but most importantly its rich culture and sacred rituals.
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Overview of Tourism Development
Driven by historical, natural, and cultural attractions, many people from all over the world have gained interest in the countries that make up Africa. Due to political unrest in a majority of these countries, Ghana, which is considered stable, is at the leading front of African tourism. Tourism in Ghana began to truly develop in the late 1980s. In 1933 the country established the Ministry of Tourism to boost the growth. Ghana created a 15-Year Tourism Development Plan in order to optimize the increase in tourists. With the help of the United Nations, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the U.S. International Executive Service Corps, Ghana conducted studies in order to identify many tourism resources. The beautiful waters, historic forts and castles, and the vast terrain proved to be the perfect combination to convert the country of Ghana into a booming tourism attraction. Many of the historical castles have been adapted into inns, 3 to 5 star hotels have shot up along the amazing coast of southern Ghana, lodges and national parks now enhance the landscapes, even large convention centers can be found in almost every city. According to the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Ghanas tourism sector is expected to grow at a rate of 4.1% over the next two decades. It seems that over just a few decades Ghana has developed a complex tourism market without losing its unique culture and traditions, which makes it all the more attractive to people across the world.
Top Tourist Attractions
Makola Market The National Museum Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Accra Handicraft Market Lake Bosomtwi Boti Falls Bui National Park Paga Crocodile Pond Mount Afadjato
Information gathered from Ghanaweb.com 4
Currency and Visa Requirements
Currency and Conversion
The cedi is the unit of currency used in Ghana. One cedi is divided into one hundred pesewas (similar to the U.S. dollar being divided into one hundred pennies). 1 U.S. Dollar = 1.43990 Ghanaian Cedi 1 Ghanaian Cedi = 0.69449 U.S. Dollar
Currency converter located at http://www.viewghana.com/finance.htm
Entry and Exit Requirements
According to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, a passport and a visa are required along with evidence of a yellow fever vaccination. There are other vaccinations recommended by the C.D.C. It is also suggested that you have medical insurance that will cover charges in a foreign hospital or emergency evacuation.
U.S. Embassy and Consulate
Before you visit Ghana, its a good idea to inform the Embassy or Consulate about your trip. This will allow for you to be kept up to date with important security notifications and safety information. It will also allow for easier contact from family in case of emergency.
Safety and Security
Although Ghana is safe for tourists, there is potential for violence. It is suggested that you avoid political demonstrations. Exercise caution when visiting the Northern Region and the Upper East Region. Pick pocketing and theft is common at tourist attractions, markets, and airports. It is a good idea to limit display of money and be discreet. Also avoid using credit cards and checking cards. If you become a victim of crime you should contact the U.S. Embassy.
Itinerary:
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Departure: 10:10 PM Washington, DC (IAD) Arrival: 12:40 PM (Sunday, June 5) Accra, Ghana (ACC) United Airlines Flights Non-stop flight, 5296 miles, 10 hr 30 mins, Overnight Flight Price: 1,891.70 USD (round trip) Arrive in Accra, Ghana/Pick Up Rental Car Rental Car Price: Approximately 828.00 USD (130.00 per day USD). All transportation will be in rental car. Hotel Check-in Novotel Accra City Centre Barnes Road, PO Box 12720, 0 Accra, Ghana Price: 259.00 USD (per night)/1,295 (plus taxes) USD Total Settle into room/Rest/Prepare for night out Depart for Accra Centre for National Culture (traditional arts and crafts market) Arrive at Accra Centre for National Culture (traditional arts and crafts market) Budgeted Price: 100.00 USD 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:30 PM 1:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 10:30 PM Dinner at Buku Restraunt Budgeted Price: 20.00 USD Return to Hotel Wake Up Depart for Orangery Restaurant Brunch at Orangery Restaurant Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Depart for National Museum of Ghana Arrival at National Museum of Ghana Depart for Loom (arts and crafts store) Arrive at Loom (arts and crafts store) Budgeted Price: 300.00 USD Depart for Choos Eatery Dinner at Choos Eatery Budgeted Price: 20.00 USD Depart for Jamestown Lighthouse Arrive at Jamestown Lighthouse and Beachside Jaynii Bar (located on the beach below) Lighthouse Price: 1.00 USD/Budgeted Price (Bar): 15.00 USD Return to Hotel
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Sunday, June 5, 2011
12:40 PM 1:00 PM
1:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM
Monday, June 6, 2011
Tuesday, June 7, 2010
9:00 AM Wake Up 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PM 12:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:45 PM 4:30 PM 5:15 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM Depart for Le Petit Paris Bakery Brunch at Le Petit Paris Bakery Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Depart for Aid to Artisans Ghana (arts and crafts shopping) Arrive at Aid to Artisans Ghana (arts and crafts shopping) Budgeted price: 200.00 USD Depart for Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Museum Arrive at Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Museum Depart for Makola Market Arrive at Makola Market Budgeted Price: 100.00 USD/ 10.00 USD (for snack) Depart for Dynasty Restaurant Dinner at Dynasty Restaurant Budgeted Price: 25.00 USD Depart for Macumba Club and Bar Arrive at Macumba Club and Bar Budgeted Price: 20.00 USD Return to Hotel Wake Up Depart for Nourish Lab Smoothys Brunch at Nourish Lab Smoothys Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Depart for Koala Supermarket Arrive at Koala Supermarket- to purchase picnic lunch Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Depart for Aburi Botanical Gardens and Park Explore and Hike Aburi Botanical Gardens and Park (picnic lunch) Depart for Hotel- to clean up and get ready for dinner Hotel- Clean up and get ready for dinner (Semi-Formal Restaurant) Depart for Monsoon Restaurant Dinner at Monsoon Restaurant Budgeted Price: 75.00 USD
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Wednesday, June 8, 2011
9:00 PM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 11:30 PM 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 11:00PM 9:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:15 PM Arrival:
Return to Hotel Wake Up Depart for Orangery Restaurant Brunch at Orangery Restaurant Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Depart for Akosombo (Volta River) Dodi Princess Sightseeing Cruise- Akosombo (Volta River) Day Cruise Price: 30.00 USD (Buffet Lunch and Dinner included) Dodi Princess Cruise Boat Docks/ Depart for Bywel Bar (Accra) Arrive at Bywel Bar (Live music and dance entertainment) Budgeted Price: 20.00 USD (drinks and late night snack) Return to Hotel Wake Up Breakfast at Hotel Budgeted Price: 10.00 USD Hotel Check Out/Depart for Kintampo Waterfalls Arrive at Kintampo Waterfalls Depart for Haveli Indian Restaurant Lunch at Haveli Indian Restaurant Budgeted Price: 15.00 USD Depart for Timber Market Arrive at Timber Market Budgeted Price: 50.00 USD Depart for Mama Mias Restaurant Dinner at Mama Mias Restaurant Budgeted Price: 15.00 USD Depart for Airport- Accra ACC Arrive at Airport- Accra ACC Return Rental Car /Airport Check In/ Baggage check 6:25 AM (Saturday, June 11) Washington, DC (IAD) United Airlines Flights Non-stop flight, 5296 miles, 11 hr 25 mins, Overnight Flight Price: 1,891.70 USD (round trip)
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Thursday, June 9, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Departure: 11:00 PM Accra, Ghana (ACC)
The Republic of
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Summary
Things to Remember
! 1 U.S. Dollar = 1.43 Ghanaian Cedi ! It is important to have your passport and visa ahead of time. ! When traveling, always keep your information and identification with you at all times. ! It is a good idea to contact the U.S. Embassy before your trip so they will have record that you are in Ghana. ! Avoid political demonstrations, protests, or conflict. ! Limit display of money and be discreet. Never use a credit or debit card.
*This total price is per person.
Important Resources
Currency Converter: www.viewghana.com/finance.htm Travel Information: www.lonelyplanet.com/ghana Center for Disease Control: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/ghana.aspx
! If you become victim of a crime,
contact the U.S. Embassy
immediately.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.cdc.gov>. Cetin, Zerrin. "Ghana Travel Information and Travel Guide - Lonely Planet." Lonely Planet Travel Guides and Travel Information. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ghana>. Dodi Princess - The Experience. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://dodiprincess.com/>. Embassy of the United States Accra, Ghana - Home. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://ghana.usembassy.gov/>. "Ghana Cedi Currency Converter, Convert Euro, Pound Sterling, Dollars and Yen into New Ghana Cedis Today." Ghana Tourism and Holidays | Search for Flights, Find Tours and Hotels in One Place Viewghana.com. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.viewghana.com/finance.htm>. Ghana HomePage, Resource for News, Sports, Facts, Opinions, Business and Entertainment. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.ghanaweb.com/>. "Ghana Itinerary." Sankofa Tours. 2009. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.sankofatours.com/Ghana_Itinary.html>. "Invest in Ghana : Tourism." Ghana: Africa's Golden Gateway. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.gipc.org.gh/pages.aspx?id=74>. "Novotel Accra City Centre (Accra, Ghana) - Hotel Reviews - TripAdvisor." Reviews of Hotels, Flights and Vacation Rentals - TripAdvisor. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Reviewg293797-d299622-Reviews-Novotel_Accra_City_Centre-Accra.html>. "Passports." Welcome to Travel.State.Gov. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html>. "People's Daily Online -- Ghana Marks Independence Day." People's Daily Online - Home Page. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://english.people.com.cn/200703/07/eng20070307_355161.html>. Schwimmer, Brian. "Culture of Ghana - Traditional, History, People, Clothing, Traditions, Women, Beliefs, Food, Customs, Family, Social, Dress, Marriage, Men, Life, Population, Religion, Rituals." Countries and Their Cultures. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.everyculture.com/Ge-It/Ghana.html>. Teye, Victor B. "Tourism Development Experience in Ghana." Web. "Things to Do in Accra." Lonely Planet Travel Guides and Travel Information. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ghana/accra/things-to-do>. United Airlines - Airline Tickets, Airline Reservations, Flight Airfare. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://www.united.com/>. "Visas." Welcome to Travel.State.Gov. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. <http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html>.
