is home to some breathtaking countries, with temperatures perfect for a beach holiday before the summer reaches the UK. However, few tourists are willing to break from the mold of , Morocco and South Africa and explore the plethora of other destinations the continent has to offer.
Ghana, in West Africa, is one such country. It shares a border with Côte d'Ivoire in the west, Burkina Faso in the north, and Togo in the east and meets the in the south. It boasts some spectacular unspoiled beaches, free of crowds, where you are guaranteed to bask in 32C with an unbeatably cheap pint of beer in hand.
With nearly 35 million inhabitants, Ghana is the second-most populous country in West Africa. The capital and largest city is , which lies on the southern coast at the Gulf of Guinea.
Accra boasts every type of site needed for a relaxing and varied holiday, from glittering beaches to traditional markets, museums and a vibrant nightlife. Accra's architecture reflects its colonial history, with 17th century castles settled amongst modern skyscrapers.
Among the capital's must-see sites is the Independence Arch, part of the eponymous Square, which captures the spirit of Ghana's fight for autonomy. Successive European powers took control of Ghana before the established control in the 19th century. In March 1957, the country became the first colony in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence.
Temperatures in Accra over the next few days could not be more perfect, with highs over 30C and wall-to-wall sunshine. Now is the time to visit, before the wet season draws in and hangs around until September.
Ghana's list of other attractions and tourist destinations is exceptionally long, including waterfalls such as Kintampo waterfalls and the largest waterfall in West Africa, Wli waterfalls, coastal palm-lined sandy beaches, caves, mountains and lakes such as , World Heritage Sites, nature reserves, and national parks.
The World Heritage Convention of named Ghana's castles and forts as World Heritage Monuments and said: "The Castles and Forts of Ghana shaped not only Ghana's history but that of the world over four centuries as the focus of first the gold trade and then the slave trade."
For example, Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Castle, often dubbed " castles" once held enslaved peoples from kingdoms all across Africa. This was their final stopping point between the 16th and 19th centuries before they were loaded onto ships bound for America.
Ghana boasts beautiful along its Atlantic coastline, with popular spots including Labadi Beach near Accra, known for its lively atmosphere and activities, and Kokrobite Beach, a hub for those seeking sun, swim and nightlife.
Compared to North African destinations like Egypt or , where you could be asked to fork out some £48 for a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant, the prices in Ghana are unbeatable.
According to , the cost of a similar meal in Ghana would cost around £37.22, while a pint draught of domestic beer would only cost 85p. A similar pint in Morocco would cost around £2.42.
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