Week One: Takoradi and Busua
After arriving in Ghana on June 4th, we stayed in the capital city of Accra for a few days, catching up with friends and making some preparations for the REACH 4 Ghana team. In Accra we were graciously hosted by the family of Albert Duah - our classmate, REACH 4 Ghana co-leader, and dear friend. We enjoyed plenty of delicious food, comfortable accommodations, and transportation thanks to his Aunt Mary and his multitude of siblings and cousins.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to cancel/postpone our trip to Sierra Leone. We decided to use this unexpected free time to explore a new place try to relax in Ghana! So, on Tuesday, June 7th we set off on an adventure to the best swimming beaches in Ghana - a journey to the Western Region that took us to Busua by way of Takoradi.
Busua was a small fishing community that received more tourist traffic than the other parts of Ghana we have visited. There we had a restful and memorable time. However, we found choosing where to eat or buy souvenirs to be a seriously dramatic affair in such a small community and without a native traveling companion to give us clout. Our decision to eat at a particular restaurant or shop at one booth versus another incited the jealousy of other vendors! After a heart-wrenching day of trying to please everyone, Jeremy declared, “I’m not playing these emotional games anymore!”
We decided to retreat and just eat the hotel food. Unfortunately, that night Jeremy got sick! Vomiting and mild diarrhea only lasted 24 hours, praise God, but I (Alli) think that night was one of longest of my life. We were already scheduled to catch a taxi at 4 am the next day to travel back to Accra. As the hours passed from 11pm, I debated whether or not to take a taxi immediately to be nearer to a clinic or hospital should Jeremy get worse. Jeremy assured me he would be fine, but I continued to pray that I wouldn’t regret not making the move while taxis were still available. He made it and we made it to the bus the following morning to be back in Accra by 10:30 am. Other than some mild GI symptoms here and there, we’ve been in good health. Thanks for your continued prayers!
Week Two: Ashiabre
Week Three: First Week with the REACH 4 Ghana Team
Week Four: More Rural Outreaches and a Trip to Accra
Week Five: Akpafu Todzi and Cape Coast
