West Africa's Golden Coast
" Ghana is country where history, living culture, nature, music and hospitality come together along one of West Africa's most fascinating coastlines "
Ghana is a country of contrasts: vibrant cities, palm-fringed beaches, tropical forests, powerful cultural traditions and a coastline steeped in some of the most important, and difficult, chapters of African history. For travellers looking for somewhere with warmth, character and depth, Ghana offers far more than a conventional beach holiday.
The capital, Accra, is an energetic introduction, where contemporary Ghanaian life unfolds alongside historic neighbourhoods, markets, galleries, music and an increasingly sophisticated food and arts scene.
Further inland, Kumasi, the historic heart of the Ashanti (Asante) kingdom, offers an opportunity to discover one of West Africa’s great cultural traditions. The surviving Asante Traditional Buildings, with their symbolic decorative motifs and shrine architecture, are recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
Ghana’s Atlantic coast is particularly compelling. Cape Coast and Elmina are home to imposing castles and forts that bear witness to centuries of European African trade, first in gold and later in the transatlantic slave trade. UNESCO recognises the coastal forts and castles collectively as a World Heritage site.
The network stretches roughly 500 kilometres from Keta to Beyin. Elmina Castle, dating from 1482, is among the oldest European-built structures outside Europe. These sites are powerful places of remembrance as well as remarkable historical landmarks.
Beyond its history, Ghana has considerable natural appeal. Kakum National Park protects rainforest and is famed for its canopy walkway, while Mole National Park in the north provides opportunities to experience Ghana's wildlife and savannah landscapes. Both parks are currently on Ghana’s UNESCO Tentative List.
Culture is woven into everyday life: colourful kente textiles, Adinkra symbols, traditional festivals, dance, drumming and Ghana's distinctive musical heritage from highlife to hiplife all remain important expressions of identity.
Ghana ultimately rewards travellers who want to experience rather than simply see a destination. Ghana is country where history, living culture, nature, music and hospitality come together along one of West Africa’s most fascinating coastlines.
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
The emergent National Bailliage of Ghana is being led by John Maddison. He is actively pioneering the establishment of an international hotel and culinary school in Ghana with the mission to significantly raise industry standards and nurture the next generation of professionals.
The outline of the programme for the inaugural Chapitre is:
- Saturday, October 31st: Induction Ceremony and Gala Dinner at the residence in Accra of the Ambassador of France.
- Sunday, November 1st: Traditional Ghanaian culinary dining experience to celebrate the country’s rich culinary heritage, along with a historical and heritage excursion for our visitors.
Confirmed details and how to book will be published in due course.
Prepared by a Chaîne News Online Staff Writer
Researched from various sources. E&OE