Author Archives: Jessica

Back on the Road: Lake Bosumtwi

Posted on by under Africa, Ghana

Lake Botsumtwi

As soon as I publicly complain about the unfriendly nature of other westerners we meet a couple (an American from outside LA and a Brit) at our lodge, who were easily the nicest people we’ve met so far. We were all leaving, so we were able to share transportation into town. Unfortunately, they were headed to Yengi to grab a ferry down the Volta and we were headed to lake Bosumtwi, they seemed like a perfect couple to travel with. Everyone seemed disappointed we weren’t all heading in the same direction, especially given the advantage of strength in numbers. Either way, it was refreshing to meet friendly and engaging fellow travelers.

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Safari

Posted on by under Africa, Ghana

Elephant in Mole National Park

This morning started out with pancakes and nutella and filter brewed coffee. It was a great start, even if emblematic of how much we both miss good food. Our driver and guide picked us up at 8am. The sky was perfect, only a few wisps of clouds, and easily one of the best (and hottest!) days yet. After half an hour the road turned from paved to dirt. For the next two hours, we bounced, literally our whole way there. The road is the worst I’ve ever seen, in part because it’s so long, and even in a 4×4 you could hear the suspension whining in protest. We passed idyllic villages, mud and thatched roof circular huts, children playing on the road side, waving as we passed.  We also passed a multitude of public transport vehicles, all stuffed, incredibly dirty, and if moving the passengers were visibly unnerved. Private transport was certainly the right choice.

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Burros: The African Llama.

Posted on by under Africa, Ghana

Studdly the Burro

Or should I say Jama?

My biggest complaint regarding the 7 hour drive from Kumasi to Tamale of the STC bus, was it was too cold. Therefore, a fantastic trip, perhaps aside from the departure time of 7am. But, it did in fact leave on time, which by itself is an amazing feat. And not to mention, assigned seating! No mad rush equates happy travelers.

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Road to Kumasi

Posted on by under Africa, Ghana

Kumasi Traffic Jam

Safely, we’ve arrived at our hotel in Kumasi, and fortuitously have located an internet cafe directly beneath our hotel, which occupies the fourth-floor of a shopping complex. It’s fancy, because it has a “lift.” Backstreet Boys are playing in the background. But what’s exceptional about this hotel, aside from hot water, is the close proximity to the STC bus station, which will take us early tomorrow morning (6:30am!) to Tamale, seven hours north.

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