Hostels in ACCRA, GHANA

City Accra – The Capital City of Ghana

The capital of Ghana - Accra - is the most densely populated, economic and administrative centre of the country. Seventy percent of the total manufacturing activity of Ghana takes place in Accra. An ideal blend of modern structures and traditional castles, the city is well known for its vivid life and vibrant markets. Surrounded in the south by Gulf of Guinea, Accra is a major commercial hub of the country. 

Accommodation Options
There are many beach hotels, lodge hotels and guesthouses in the city which offer the tourists luxurious comfort and world class facilities. The spacious deluxe rooms of these hotels are well equipped with amenities like TV, internet, mini-bar and swimming pool. Budget hotels provide a memorable stay by retaining the rustic ambiance, customer friendly service and a variety in cuisines and beverages.

History
Accra was established in 14th century by the native Ga residents. They kept the name Accra based on the word ‘Nkran’ which means ‘ants’ in Akan dialect on account of the numerous anthills found here during that time. It was a principal trade centre which was successively controlled by many dynasties – Portugal, Sweden, Netherlands, France, Britain and Denmark – till 17th century. Accra became the capital of Ghana in 1877 but renovated as an urban city in 1920.

Popular Places
Well spread along the Atlantic shore, the city has markets, museums, historic monuments and night clubs. The Kokrobite Beach, Coco Beach, Labadi Beach, Bojo Beach and La Pleasure Beach are popular among the tourists for weekend celebrations. Artists Alliance Gallery is perfect for art lovers with a huge display and sale of sculptures, fabrics and paintings.

Other highlighting tourist spots in the city include National Museum, National Theatre, Centre for National Cultural Centre, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, Makola Market and James Town.

Getting Around
Kotoka International Airport connects all the major cities of Ghana to Accra through its flight network. Pedestrians can enjoy the city streets a lot; since the city allows travelling on foot comfortably, all through day and night. Ferries, ships, STC buses, metered taxis and tro-tro (shared taxi) are the most popular modes of transport in the city. A tour guide is easily available in the city for the tourists who want to travel comfortably.

Places of Entertainment
The sports bar and entertainment centre at La Raceway are the ideal places to hangout in the night. A bowling alley by the name Harbin’s and a swimming pool in East Legon make the sport lovers go crazy. Traditional Ghanaian cuisine and Indian food can be relished in the local restaurants of Accra.

Makola Market houses fabric shops selling beaded and embroidered cotton, wax-print pagnes and tulle clothing. Kaneshie Market offers a wide range of shoes, beauty products, handbags, beadwork and household items. Curio markets are scattered throughout the city, but curio shopping is done by the tourists mainly from National Cultural Centre.

Language(s) Spoken
Ga and English are the most common languages in Accra. English is limited to urban areas only; while Ga is the main language spoken in the city. Other tribal dialects like Hausa, Twi and Ewe are also used by the natives for communication.

Currency
The official currency of Accra is Cedi. Present form of Cedi equal to 10000 old Cedi was introduced in 2007. Banknotes come in the denominations of GH 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50. Travellers can go to banks or contact the hotel staff for currency exchange services. They can read the news or access internet for latest currency exchange rates.

Accra group accommodation | budget hotels & hostels