arrived in accra! first impressions...

So after a pretty epic journey, leaving home at 3am we eventually arrived at our hostel after 11pm. We spent a few hours outside in the sunshine in Rome, so it was not all spent in planes or airports. I had a mad rush to buy some contact-lens solution, because they "stole" mine at heathrow, cos it was larger than 100ml =( never have I been so glad to see a 100ml bottle of contact-lens solution in Rome airport! The only other thing of note on our journey here, was a stop-down in Lagos, Nigeria. Landing in the dark, the whole city was illuminated by the cars headlights, as there was no (or very little) mains electricity, it made the city look quite eerie. In contrast, Accra was amply lit with street lamps, and house lights.

The author of our West Africa LP, describes his first experience of arriving with the usual 'East African vigilance", quick to say "no" to any potential heckling. I had a similar defensive nature on arriving in Accra, but quickly realised this was completely unnecessary. Where-as in Kenya, and Tanzania it is almost impossible to walk down the street without shouts of "mzungu" following you. But people here seem far less interested in us; though they are also exceptionally quick to offer any help if we look at all lost (this happen quite a lot, especially in tro-tro (local bus) parks!) If the same was to happen in Kenya, we would be asked for tips for the help. So generally, first impressions are very positive, extremely caring and friendly people.

Since we have arrived, we have been to a party on the beach, with a random mix of rastas, American Marines, and NGO volunteers. Trekked up to the highest waterfall in Western Africa, visited a monkey sancutary at an ecotourist resort in a very remote village. This afternoon we are heading into Togo.

Sorry- i've realised I don't have that much time to blog, have loads i want to say but just not enough time... if you want another opinion on our trip, check our Karin's blog at www.karinpurshouse.blogspot.com