Sunday on the Road
Hey, December 7th. It’s a Sunday. I like Sundays as far as driving goes because it’s just a little less hectic.
Leaving Elmina Beach Resort
I took my time getting out of Elmina Beach Resort and was able to have a swim and everything. Yeah, not bad. That gave me enough time to make it to Kislak Luxury Hotel in Accra.
The Visa Hotel Requirement
Kislak is a hotel that I had to reserve and pay for to get my visa for Ghana. That’s generally a bit of a pickle, but you make the best of it.
On the way there, it was slow going again because of all the traffic trying to squeeze into two lanes while the other two are being fabricated. And honestly, that’s going to take a few more years to get fully figured out.
Meeting Gideon Along the Way
At some point along the way, I made a stop and walked around a town where I met a guy named Gideon. Gideon called me father.
I’m not exactly sure what brings that about — maybe the longer beard has something to do with it. Gideon was a hairdresser, and he’s been sending me messages since. He seems like a good kid. You just get those random connections with people, and it’s fun when it happens.
Picking Up Tony
There was another person standing in town who seemed pretty obviously on his way to Accra. His name was Tony. He had braids, which is unusual for men, but there he was.
I asked him where he was going. “Accra,” he said. I told him, “Well, if you want a ride, here it is.” He was hesitant at first, but eventually he came along.
Hours of Conversation and Local Knowledge
We had some really good conversations during the drive, which lasted a few hours. Having a local with me was also helpful — people who live there just know directions better.
It turned out Tony was on a business venture of his own. About a year ago, he started a video game shop that’s still running. Kids come in to play games, and he even employs people to run it when he’s not there.
Accra Mall and City Traffic
Tony pointed me to a good spot to drop him off and gave me clear directions toward Accra Mall. Accra Mall is a big, modern shopping area. I didn’t stop that day, but I came back another time and appreciated it more.
From there, I headed straight north. I picked a location that sat between two places I knew I’d need to be. The lanes are split, there are very few crossing points, and traffic lights everywhere. Traveling through Accra itself is extremely time consuming.
Once you know where you’re going, it probably gets easier.
Arrival at Kislak Luxury Hotel
Eventually, I made it to the Kislak Luxury Hotel. It was as good as anything. After checking in, I walked around and found some food nearby.
Another Day, Another Arrival
Another good day. I made it to Accra. Wowzy.
It seems unreal at times, but here we are. Thanks for being along. We’ll see you next time.
