Preparing For Ghana

Wow! In exactly one week, our first Lilly Connecting Hearts Abroad team will be assembling in Hohoe, Ghana to start our service program. I am so humbled, honored, and blessed by this opportunity. I secured my Visa quickly through a travel Visa expeditor agency, A Briggs. I had my multiple entry tourist Visa in under a week with non-rush service; I only had to submit four Visa application forms, four passport photos, flight itinerary, and of course my passport. Very simple, efficient, and reliable!


Lilly has partnered with Cross Cultural Solutions, a leader in international volunteerism.  Visit their informative website for more details about service programs across the globe.

After speaking to our Ghana CCS program coordinator, Megan, she answered many of my travel preparation/expectations questions. Here are a few things to consider:

• We will have internet access at the local internet cafe 10 minutes away from Home-Base; you can also purchase USB plug-and play modems/cards for about $35 dollars depending on minutes purchased. There is cell phone service in Hohoe, but will need to check with current cell provider to receive international service (sim card.)
• It is recommended to bring International/British 220V adapter/converter if you plan to power your laptop, iPod, cell phone etc
• All clothes in Ghana are washed by hand; this will be a fun, cultural experience. Because May falls during the rainy season, it is advised to bring just enough clothes if weather is humid and clothes take longer to air-dry. An iron is available at Home-Base if you wish to iron to avoid insects.
• Although Bath Towels will be provided, you may want to bring a washcloth(s)
• Raincoat is advised

I have started reading several recommended resources to learn more about the culture and customs: Bradt Guide Ghana, Changes, The Art of Crossing Cultures, Craig Sorti, Ghana - Culture Smart!, Once Upon A Time in Ghana, and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe (Thank You, Susan and Dr. Shuman for bringing this beautiful book to my attention; wonderfully written and inspirational!!)

If you would like to check out our Home-Base in Ghana or learn more about CCS service placements....you can search Cross Cultural Solutions Ghana at youtube.com....very cool and powerful!

I am currently immersing myself in the local language of Ewe. More to come....

Court