This post is a continuation of my previous post, “Is Afrochella worth all the hype? My full review on Afrochella.” I had to separate these two posts because they’re both giving you worth of information that should be separated.
So, what do you need to know before buying your ticket, booking your hotel, and packing your bags for Afrochella?
- You need a visa. Yes, if you’re non-Ghanaian, you will need a tourist visa to enter the country. The visa costs anywhere from $150-$250 depending on the services (expedited or non-expedited) visa. You can apply at their embassy in DC or get a visa upon arrival at the airport. This what I did but be mindful because this is the longer process.
- You will need a negative Covid test before boarding your flight. You must pay $150 for another onsite Covid test when you arrive in Ghana. This price of $150 is for non-Ghanaians only. If you hold an ECOWAS passport or a Ghanaian passport, the cost is $50.
- Testing negative while in Ghana: If you’re tested at the airport, and your result comes back positive, consider this as one of the worst days of your life. They will treat you like a lab rat. First, you will be taken to a hotel selected by the airport authority. They will take your passport away, leaving you at their mercy. When you arrive at the hotel, you are responsible to pay for your own quarantine fees. Meaning you’re paying for your room at the hotel they took you to. Please make sure you have room in your budget for the emergency expense when you travel to Ghana because this will be one. I pray you don’t experience this. I did and it was a horrible experience. Due to personal reasons, I have decided not to share the videos and images I capture when I was quarantine. My recommendation as previously stated, have extra funds, and be prepare for the worst.
- Accommodation. Most people rent hotels and Airbnb. If you’re going with an Airbnb, make sure you have someone go in and see the place on your behalf before sending your money. If not, you will be very disappointed. I was, and I don’t want this for you.
- Ghana is safe. This is the first African country I visited, and I felt safe especially traveling solo.
- Transportation, most people use Uber or Bolt when in Ghana. Those are cheaper out there, but the cheapest or most affordable alternative will be finding a driver and working a deal with them. Most times, they will be at the airport upon arrival; look for them.
- Flights are affordable if you book them about 6months in advance. You can also get direct flights from IAD (DC) to Ghana. Depending on your departure city, and your desire to fly first class or not, flights can be anywhere between $900-$5000.
- Currency- Ghana has the Ghanaian Cedi (GH). The exchange rate is $1 equals 6.24gh. A little goes a long way, and you really get to enjoy your money.
- Famous restaurants. Ghana has it all. I quickly learned that you need a reservation for some of the big restaurants. They don’t take walk-ins. So, make sure you have your reservations made before attending.
- Language: Ghanaians mostly speak English; however, they have native languages like Fante, Akuapem Twi, Asante Twi, Ewe, Dagaare, Dagbani, Dangme, Ga, Gonja, Kasem, Nzema. Communication will not be a problem.
I think I pretty much cover everything you need before going to Ghana for Afrochella, well make sure you buy all the event tickets soon because they sell out quickly. Now get your camera and get ready for Afrochella. An experience of a lifetime.
Xoxo, Mo!
