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Getting around Ghana is not fast by most American standards. Patience is required. Tro-tros, minibuses that hold eight or nine people, are a mainstay for public transportation there. They are incredibly inexpensive. Often the equivalent of 12 cents will get you a good thirty minute ride. The trick is finding the right one.

Each tro-tro has a mate that will yell the destination out the window. He is responsible for taking money, sometimes while you get on or after you're seated, and opening and closing the door at each stop. Don't be surprised if he hangs out of the window or door when approaching the next stop!

The mates often yell the destination quickly and it can be hard to catch where they're headed.

There are hand signals for the destination, and if you'll be there for a few weeks or months, I suggest trying to learn them. Ask a local; they'll probably know. Some are common sense. Drawing a circle means they are going to Circle in the middle of Accra. Others aren't so simple. They'll point in different directions, which is harder to remember. Was left Osu or Labadi?

The good news is Ghana is full of nice people who are willing to help a visitor out. If waiting or wondering if you're getting on the right tro-tro, just ask someone. Don't be alarmed if the woman next to you takes your 5000 cedis out of your hand to pay your fare. She'll give you your change back!

It's important to remember, while traveling through Ghana, that they were first and foremost a communal society, and you will see the roots of this throughout daily life. They may seem blunt when the tell you that you're about to get on the wrong tro-tro, but they mean the best.

Above all, remember that things in Ghana take time and traveling is all about the adventure. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Learn more about this author, Laura Holm.
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