The second largest city in the country, Kumasi lies a sweltering 500 kilometres north of the equator and 250km northwest of Accra.

The city's fragrant, blossoming surrounds have also earned it the reputation as the ''Garden City''.  

West of Accra, the World Heritage sites of the Central Coast of Ghana are easily accessible.

Tracks branching off the main road from Accra to Cape Coast lead to a whole string of waterfront resorts, such as White Sands Beach Resort and Tills Number One Beach Hotel (both at the little town of Winneba).

These resorts - inexpensive and with good amenities - make a great alternative to the hectic pace of Accra.

About thirty minutes by road west of Cape Coast, Elmina is said to have been the first European settlement in West Africa, though (like Cape Coast) it was founded with decidedly ulterior motives, as a centre for the slave trade.

In downtown Accra, the visitor can walk anywhere without fear, day or night.

The much-touted slogan that Ghanaians are among the friendliest people on earth seems to be true – but it is a friendship both spontaneous and undemanding. Coming from other West African countries, where theft and confidence tricks are rife, the visitor is likely to find this a most pleasant surprise.