We can all agree on the fact that the last year has been way different from anything we expected it to be. Covid has affected our lives greatly, including our plans to travel to Ghana.
I decided to travel back home to the motherland a long time before a national lockdown was announced in Germany so I had enough time to plan my travels and prepare myself.
I knew I would have to put great effort into making sure I am well organized to ensure that I don’t run into any problems at the airport. Here are some tips for you to make sure your travels run as smoothly as possible.
1. Find out the information and book your ticket
Every country deals with the Covid-19 differently and has its own rules and regulations so it is crucial to gather all the necessary information before flying out. Germany announced a national partial lockdown on the 2nd November 2020 which lasts until the 18th April 2021. The lockdown situation may look completely different depending on where you come from.
2. Arrange for your covid test before traveling to Ghana
Before you travel you have to make sure you get tested and bring a negative test result that is not older the 72-hours old. If you feel sick (fever, coughing, headaches, etc.) or you are still waiting for the test results you are not supposed to travel. This will increase the risk of possibly spreading Covid-19.
You may get tested at your local GP, a local hospital, or even at the airport. The price ranges from 60-120€ and results can either be picked up shortly afterward or even a day later. It is important to notice that if you decide to get tested at the airport that you need to take that test a day before departure.
Do not forget to print your negative test results and bring them in paper form to the airport. You may be denied access to board the plane and travel to Ghana if you can not provide your test results.
3. Check-in on time at the airport and travel safely
We all know how stressful airports can be at times. Walking through the airport with one eye always on the clock can make you feel some way. When transiting in Schipol (Amsterdam) there were mandatory checks that had to be made before boarding the plane.
The whole process (measuring temperature, filling out a questionnaire, standing in different lines before boarding the plane) can take up some time. Make sure you practice social distancing throughout your whole travel to Ghana.
4. Landing at Kotoka airport and testing
Now when landing in Accra, Ghana you will recognize that everything is well organized. From stepping out of the plane to being directed to the COVID testing booth – there is always someone who gives you the direction or tells you where to go to next.
Passengers follow the rules and regulations and staff members are calm and very friendly. Hands down to the organization at Kotoka Airport.
5. Enjoy a safe stay in Ghana
Unlike many other European countries, Ghana has not closed down any restaurants, bars, or clubs.
When you travel to Ghana you will notice: there are no restrictions on how many people are allowed to enter many shops like pharmacies or grocery shops.
However, you should always critically assess your environment and be cautious when gathering with other people. You will be asked to sanitize your hands and let someone measure your temperature before entering malls and many hotel premises.
It is advisable to continue wearing a mask whenever social distancing can not be assured.
Thank you for this !