Experience in Accra, Ghana by Isaac Kwabena

What is it like to live in Accra? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Accra is a fun and amazing place to live. The weather is relatively warm all year round and you are safe to hang out any time of the day. The night life is really lively with a lots of amazing places to have fun. I surely recommend this city to anyone who would like to visit it.

What is the student lifestyle like in Accra?

Student lifestyle in Accra is really fun and interesting. As a foreign student, you're not alone. Every year, Ghana welcomes students from all over the world to study in its universities. There are many activities organized for these foreign student to help them enjoy their new environment and also introduce them to the Ghanaian culture.

How much does it cost to live in Accra?

Living in Accra can be relatively cheap if you want to cook by yourself. In that case , you can spend an average of 100-150 usd on food. You can expect to spend a minimum of 80 usd on Fibre internet. Your electricity and water bills can also cost about 60 usd if you are using the air condition. Your average phone bill including 4g internet access can cost about 20-40 usd. Going around the city on local buses is cheaper as compared to traveling by uber or taxis. However the latter is more convenient. If you will be going out a lot, you can expect to spend a minimum of about 50 usd. However it will cost more if you are using uber, about two or three times more than that. So its all up to you, however I believe a minimum of 500 usd should be enough for one to enjoy his or her stay in Accra.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Accra? Is there any advice you can give?

An average descent place to live in Accra can cost from 300 - 500 usd for a one bedroom apartment. There are many expat communities as well. Almost all universities in Accra do have special accommodation for foreign students and they are really amazing places to start from. I entreat all students to start from these hostels before finally moving to the city.In Ghana , rent is paid for a minimum of one year upfront and not monthly.Some Landlords even demand two years rent. Even though this is unlawful, it is a common practice here and the people are used to it. I recommend Foreigners to use this website to find apartments when visiting Accra - https://meqasa.com/

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Ghanaian dishes are relatively spicy. My favorite is Jollof rice and chicken. There are dishes such as Banku and Okro Stew, Fufu and Soup,
Waakye, Beans also know as red red and many more. There are also street foods such as Khebabs, Kenkey and omelets. Try to make a Ghanaian friend who will help you choose a local dish to try.

What places would you recommend visiting in Accra?

There are many interesting places in Accra. There are many beaches to visit such as the Labadi Beach and the Bojo beach. These two are my favourite. There is also the cultural & art centre to visit where one can find a lot of Ghanaian art and souvenirs. One can also visit the Nkrumah Museum and the Dubois Centre. These places are for those who will like to know much about the history of Ghana.

Is it good to eat out in Accra? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Eating out in Accra is relatively less expensive as compared to many western countries.However, for a student on budget ,I will advice you cook often and eat out once a while. You can find both Ghanaian and foreign cuisines in most restaurant in the city.There a lots of fast food chains such as KFC and other pizzeria as well as street food vendors in the city.Going local on food can help you live on budget.Some of my favourite restaurants are Coco lounge at Airport City, Golden Tulip ,Bospherous and Urban Grill. You can also order your food through companies such as Jumia foods(https://food.jumia.com.gh/) to be delivered to your home.

Is the nightlife good in Accra? Where is good to go?

Nightlife in Accra is really amazing. For many countries, night life begins on Friday evening. However in Accra, it starts from Wednesday evening.There are many karaoke bars,pubs and night clubs to hang out. There are also many restaurants and interesting places to have fun. Don't forget to bring your dancing shoes along when visiting Accra.For karaoke bars, I recommend Badu and Bloom Bar at Labone and for night clubs I recommend Carbon Night Club at Airport city.

What advice would you give future students heading to Accra?

My advice to future students visiting Accra is to try and learn the local language to enable them interact with the locals especially at the local market. Although Ghanaians do speak English,interacting with them in their local language with help you better interact with them and enjoy the society. Ghanaians are very hospitable and friendly people however less likely to begin a conversation with a foreigner. Don't be bothered by this, just say "hello" and that is how you'll make a good friend for life. You'll thank me later for this clue.