TRAVEL TIPS
Ghana January 16 - 27, 2008 | Travel Page

Preparation for Travel and Travel Tips

Passports and Visas You will need a valid US Passport to travel. Check to see that your passport is valid for at least 6 more months. We also need a visa to travel into Ghana.  These cannot be acquired until the end of the year as they are only valid for 3 month. We will gather together and send the proper paperwork by mid-November.   Please begin gathering the following.     The visas require the following items:

1.  Valid Passport
2.  4 passport photos
3.  Visa application form
4.  Copy of vaccination certificate for yellow fever  ***** (see below)
5.  Self addressed return envelope
6.  Copy of our round trip airline ticket
7.  $50/per applicant
8.  Hotel information (where we'll be staying)

If you would like more information on the above, please check the website of the Ghanaian  Consulate in New York City.     http://www.ghanaconsulatenewyork.org/index.html

Currency
Ghana uses a currency called the cedi.  The rate of exchange is usually 9 or  10 cedis to  one American dollar. The rate changes so frequently that it is best  to check the following currency converter:        http://www.xe.com/ucc/ It is relatively easy to exchange US cash into the cedi when you arrive.   In the city, you  can use ATM cards.   If you bring traveler's checks, the rate is generally lower than for cash.  Some combination of cash, ATM card, credit card, and traveler's checks (for backup) is the best bet.

Health
The one vaccination that is required for travel to Ghana is "yellow fever".     If you have had one in the past 10 years, you are still valid.   However, if not, you will need to get a vaccination before getting the visa.     There are 2 places on the Cape that offer this type of shot.   They  are in Hyannis...The Travel Clinic  508-771-5300  and Bourne....508-743-0324. For more information about this requirement, please refer to :                       http://www2.ncid.cdc.gov/travel/yellowfever/state.asp?StateID=22

Please plan on bringing your own prescription medications as needed.
Otherwise the health concerns are basic.   We wash and clean our food, and eat at clean places, and we buy bottled water as needed.  For the latest updates from the US State Dept on travel, please visit:    www.cdc.gov

Climate/Clothing
It will be hot in Ghana, so bring your lightweight summer clothing. There is no real dress code in Ghana, so wear the things that make you feel comfortable and at home in your own skin.  Bring a couple of things to "dress up" in , just in case we are  in the mood for celebrating.    Be sure to pack a few "hang around" things as well.   Of course, you will want to bring comfortable walking shoes (dancing shoes!),  sunscreen or hat, and sunglasses.   Pack light and leave some room for souvenirs and african clothing.

Language
The official language of Ghana is English, so we are fortunate to have a common way to communicate.   Most Ghanians also have a native tongue to speak, and therefore the English takes some getting used to.   My favorite is saying "purple" .   You'll see!

Voltage
The voltage used is 220 volts, 50 Hz. Two-pin round plugs. (the U.S. uses 120 volts). You can purchase a converter at most hardware stores in the United States for appliances that do not switch to 220V.

For further information email yojane@joyofvoice.com