Top 5 Reasons to Go to Ghana

“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float,
To gain all while you give,
To roam the roads of lands remote,
To travel is to live.”
—Hans Christian Andersen

I’ve spent the last five years of my life crisscrossing the globe. It’s been challenging and exhausting, eye-opening and heart-shattering—and it’s the best thing you could ever do.

Travel is absolutely as powerful and incredible as everyone says, and all I can say is this: take the risk. Get on the plane. Take the adventure. I promise you won’t regret it.

When thinking about the places that have most transformed my perspective and understanding of the world, Africa is at the top of the list. I was so happy to see that Opportunity is hosting an Insight Trip to Ghana this June, because it’s the perfect place to “get your feet wet” in Africa and take the trip of a lifetime.

Top 5 reasons to make the trip:

1. WELCOMING PEOPLE.

Our Ghanaian neighbors are some of the most hospitable folks you will ever meet. They will welcome you with open arms and big smiles—and don’t be surprised if you are greeted with singing and dancing, too! Monday mornings at the Opportunity offices in Accra are a full-on celebration—and something you definitely don’t want to miss. 

2. AMAZING FOOD. 

You will have no shortage of great meals in Ghana. From traditional dishes like super-spicy goat stew and fufu, to excellent Chinese food (surprising but true!), to a large collection of great hipster coffee shops, you will not be disappointed with your culinary options. Make sure to try coconut water directly from the coconut at least once. 

3. INCREDIBLE ART.  

Find a few treasures to take home with you at the market. I’m always amazed by the talent of the local artists; leave room in your suitcase to roll up a canvas or tuck away an incredible piece of woodworking to bring back home. Many of our clients have used Opportunity loans and training to build up their art businesses and can now provide for their families—what a joy to support their endeavors and know that it’s helping put food on the table too. 

4. VACATION WEATHER.  

Picture blue skies and the sun beaming on your face, because Ghana has quintessential vacation weather. On an Insight Trip, you’ll stay at comfortable, modern hotels that often have pools or outdoor spaces. After a long day in the field meeting remarkable clients and staff, you’ll return to the hotel to relax in the gorgeous weather. Take me back, now!

5. INSPIRING CLIENTS.  

All I can say is WOW. Every single Opportunity client I have met is amazing, but some of my dearest friends happen to work with us in Ghana. I promise you will be floored by their tenacity, creativity, vision, and grit. They are doing big things despite their difficult circumstances, and the best part of your trip will be sitting alongside them, listening to their stories. I encourage you to ask questions to learn about their lives, and be prepared to make fast friends—and don’t be surprised if you end up with another one of those aforementioned dance parties!

Not convinced yet? View a sample itinerary for the upcoming Insight Trip this June!