Interesting Facts About Ghana!

I thought you would enjoy a quick lesson on some interesting things that occur in my new homeland! Like I have said before, Ghana is unlike any other place in the world – and I say that with love!
HERE ARE SOME INTERESTING FACTS:
• It’s not washroom, it’s “toilet”
• It’s not near or little, it’s “small small”
• It’s not parking lot, it’s “car park”
•Caucasians, Asians and East Indians are all considered “obruni” – white man!
• Absolutely everything is negotiable. The key word is “BARGAIN”!
• Red clay covers every inch of Accra.
• If you see a funeral procession and the members are wearing white, then an elderly person has passed. White symbolizes the passing of a prosperous and long-lived life. If everyone is wearing red or black, then a young person has passed. Red and black symbolizes bitterness at a life ended too young.
• Corruption is everywhere! The police routinely pull over drivers for no other reason than to look for money. I have seen it a couple times already. But it is evident at every turn – from the corner grocer to the highest powers of government.
• When eating, shaking hands, passing or collecting objects, you only ever use your right hand. Using your left hand is considered a huge insult to Ghanaians.
• Filtered water, liquor and other drinks come in “saches” - plastic baggies that you bite the tip off and drink from. Of course, you can buy the bottles too!
• Ghanaians serve bread in “thousands”. If you like your bread on the thinner side, you say “one thousand”. You get it twice as thick if you say “two thousand”.
• Africa is the fastest growing market for cell phones in the world. In Ghana, a cell phone is more widely used than a comb or wallet.
• Taxis account for over 80% of the cars on the road. And they are as corrupt as they come! Always negotiate a price before entering a cab!
• Asking for your contact information is as common here as it is for Canadians to talk about the weather. It’s just a customary thing to do, regardless if they ever contact you or not.
• Ghanaians are extremely proud about their “freedom”, which helps explain why asking for contact information has become the ordinary.
• Garbage is piled throughout the city. There is no garbage disposal system in Accra, so everything is dumped or burned. Everyone becomes accustomed to the distinct smells of this great capital city.
• One Cedi goes a long way in Ghana! It can purchase you a variety of things: a few rides on a tro-tro, 2 delicious omelette sandwichs, a couple bottles of soda, an hour at the Internet Cafe, and much more!
• Ghanaians have no concept of time! Like I’ve said many times, a minute can take four hours. Here, you just roll with the punches!
• If you’re Canadian, you’re a hit! Ghanaians have very friendly relations with Canadians. The average Joe may know nothing about our country, but they know you’re a peace-loving friend!

I hope I have enlightened you!

Until Next Time, Take Care!
Love Heather