We made it!

It took 3 of us to get Ama and all the luggage to the airport check-in – many thanks to Marilyn for the ride and the assistance. The first leg of the trip to Amsterdam was tough – crowded plane, tight seating and increasingly tired travellers. That being said, the journey went far better than we anticipated. We were late arriving in Amsterdam so we had only time for a pit stop and the trek to our gate.

Amsterdam to Accra was significantly better – more room and Ama slept a good portion of the 6 hour journey. Interesting ride – lots of Africans visiting, standing around – a festive atmosphere and loud! When we got off the plane we were met with a wall of heat, at least 30C and unbelievably humid. I can’t believe I complained of the cold as the heat is at least as oppressive at first, but I’m sure we will get used to it soon enough!

Customs was total chaos, and poor Ama was not impressed about waiting the hour or so we stood in line. Big surprise-only half our luggage arrived. That was probably a blessing in disguise since the vehicle our hosts brought to take us to our apartment would never have held it all! So tonight Karen will return to the airport to collect the rest, while Ama and I avoid the chaos of the airport in the comfort of our balcony. Our apartment is fine – relatively clean and has the basics. By Canadian standards I am not sure it would rate any stars but it is secure (guard at the gate) and friendly. The best part is the large balcony off our apartment and the large yard that Ama can run around in.

There is also internet and AC in our apartment (for a daily/hourly charge) that we will have to restrain ourselves from using excessively!

Ama was up a great deal of the night since her body thought it was daytime and she was sweating like a beast, but we managed to get some sleep despite the crowing of roosters and the early morning sounds of Accra life. There is a dining room to buy meals if you don’t feel like cooking or if you have not changed your money yet and you cannot buy at a restaurant till you do! This afternoon we will get the driver to take us grocery shopping and to the FOREX so we can change money, and maybe the bank. Fun times!

Pictures to come, the cords for our cameras are still in Amsterdam!