Aburi: The Scenic Hilltop Retreat of Ghana

• HelloAane
  [ah-neh]
• GoodbyeDaabi
  [dah-bee]
• YesEyi
  [eh-yee]
• NoDaabi
  [dah-bee]
• Please/You're welcomeMesrɛ
  [meh-sreh]
• Thank youMedaase
  [meh-dah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryMema wo akye
  [meh-mah woh ah-chee-eh]
• How are you?Wo ho te sen?
  [woh hoh teh sen]
• Fine. And you?Adidi. Na wo nso?
  [ah-dee-dee. Nah woh soh]
• Do you speak English?W'ani Twi?
  [wah-nee chwee]
• I don't understandMe nni hwee
  [meh nee hwee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMepɛ menu mu, mesrɛ
  [meh-peh meh-noo moo, meh-sreh]
• I don't eat meatMe nni nkwama
  [meh nee en-kwah-mah]
• Cheers!Afehyia pa
  [ah-feh-yee-ah pah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMepɛ sika mu, mesrɛ
  [meh-peh see-kah moo, meh-sreh]

• Help!Boa me
  [boh-ah meh]
• Go away!Pue
  [pweh]
• Call the Police!Kyerɛ Nkrantiefo
  [chee-yeh en-krane-tyeh-foh]
• Call a doctor!Kyerɛ dokita
  [chee-yeh doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostMe ti asɛm
  [meh tee ah-same]
• I'm illMe yare
  [meh yah-reh]

• I'd like to buy...Mepɛ sesa...
  [meh-peh seh-sah]
• I'm just lookingMe bɔ wo nkyere
  [meh boh woh in-cher-eh]
• How much is it?Afei bɛn?
  [ah-fay ben]
• That's too expensiveAfei bɛn biara
  [ah-fay ben bee-ah-rah]
• Can you lower the price?Wopɛ sɛ ɔboa sika?
  [woh-peh seh oh-boh-ah see-kah]

• What time is it?Abɔ saa na?
  [ah-boh sah nah]
• It's one o'clockƐda ho
  [eh-dah hoh]
• Half past (10)Dɔso dɛ
  [doh-soh deh]
• MorningAnɔpa
  [ah-noh-pah]
• AfternoonAwia
  [ah-wee-ah]
• EveningAnadwo
  [ah-nah-dwoh]
• YesterdayNnan
  [nnahn]
• TodayNnɛ
  [nnay]
• TomorrowƐkyiri
  [eh-chi-ree]
• 1Kɛkɛ
  [keh-keh]
• 2Fi
  [fee]
• 3Sɛ
  [seh]
• 4Nɛnɛ
  [nay-nay]
• 5Nan
  [nahn]
• 6Dɔnɔ
  [doh-noh]
• 7Nson
  [nsohn]
• 8Nanan
  [nah-nahn]
• 9Tɛtɛ
  [teh-teh]
• 10Puduo
  [poo-dwoh]

• Where's a/the...?Ɛyɛ hia...?
  [eh-yay hee-ah]
• What's the address?Yɛ adirɛs mu?
  [yeh ah-dee-res moo]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Wopɛ sɛ ɔkɔ wo (kɔ mu)?
  [woh-peh seh oh-koh woh (koh moo)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ɛyɛ bɛn na ɔbɛtumi a?
  [eh-yay ben nah oh-beh-too-mi ah]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiket bi (kɔ ...)
  [tee-keh bee (koh ...)]

Aburi, a small town in the Eastern Region of Ghana, has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. It was originally inhabited by the Akwapim people, who are part of the larger Akan ethnic group. The town is perched on the Akwapim-Togo mountain range, providing it with a cooler climate compared to the surrounding lowlands, which attracted settlers looking for a more temperate environment.

The arrival of the Basel Mission in the 19th century marked a significant turning point in Aburi’s history. The missionaries established schools, churches, and health facilities, which played a pivotal role in the development of the town. One of the most notable legacies of the Basel Mission is the Presbyterian Training College, which continues to be a center of education in the region.

Established in 1890, the Aburi Botanical Gardens are one of the town’s most famous landmarks. Originally created by British colonialists as an agricultural research station, the gardens were intended to introduce new crops and farming techniques to the region. Today, the gardens are a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a tranquil escape with a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plant species.

Aburi also played a role in Ghana’s fight for independence from British colonial rule. The town was a meeting place for key figures in the independence movement, including Kwame Nkrumah. The Aburi Conference, held in 1967, is particularly notable as it was an attempt to resolve political tensions in post-independence Ghana.

Today, Aburi is a thriving town that blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. It is a popular destination for both local and international tourists. The town’s cool climate, scenic views, and historical landmarks make it a unique spot for those looking to explore Ghana’s cultural and historical landscape.

Aburi is located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, approximately 30 kilometers north of Accra, the capital city. Kotoka International Airport in Accra is the nearest international gateway. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service to reach Aburi. The journey typically takes around one hour by road, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a public bus or minibus (known locally as 'trotro') from various bus terminals in Accra heading towards Aburi.

Getting around Aburi is relatively straightforward. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available and can be used for short distances. For a more local experience, you can use trotros, which are shared minibuses that operate on set routes. Bicycles and motorbikes are also popular for getting around town. If you prefer a more leisurely way to explore, walking is a great option as many attractions are within a reasonable distance from each other.

The official currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Cash is widely accepted, and it's advisable to carry small denominations for convenience. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but not everywhere. ATMs are available in Aburi, but it's a good idea to withdraw cash in Accra before heading to Aburi to ensure you have enough funds for your visit.

Aburi is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as markets. While Aburi doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so keep valuables secure.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 193 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is the Aburi Presbyterian Hospital, which offers basic medical services. For serious medical issues, you may need to travel to Accra where there are more comprehensive healthcare facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Aburi for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering religious sites and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do be courteous to other passengers and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'akwaaba' (welcome) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Aburi like a local, visit the Aburi Botanical Gardens, a beautiful and serene spot popular with residents. Engage with locals at the weekly markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Try local dishes such as 'fufu' and 'banku' at small, family-run eateries. For a unique experience, join a guided tour of the nearby cocoa farms to learn about Ghana's cocoa industry. Don't miss the opportunity to attend local festivals, which offer a vibrant display of culture and tradition.