Luxe Living in Accra: The Airport Residential Area

• HelloƐte sɛn
  [eh-teh sen]
• GoodbyeBye-bye
  [bye-bye]
• YesAane
  [ah-nay]
• NoDaabi
  [dah-bee]
• Please/You're welcomeMesrɛ wo
  [meh-sreh woh]
• Thank youMedaase
  [meh-dah-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryKraa
  [krah]
• How are you?Wo ho te sɛn?
  [woh hoh teh sen]
• Fine. And you?Ɛyɛ. Na wo ho?
  [eh-yeh. nah woh hoh]
• Do you speak English?Wo ka english?
  [woh kah english]
• I don't understandMe te sɛn
  [meh teh sen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMepɛ menu, mesrɛ wo
  [meh-peh menu, meh-sreh woh]
• I don't eat meatMe nni nyadua
  [meh knee nyah-dwah]
• Cheers!Nkwa
  [n-kwah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMepɛ sika, mesrɛ wo
  [meh-peh see-kah, meh-sreh woh]

• Help!Boa me!
  [boh-ah meh]
• Go away!Kasa!
  [kah-sah]
• Call the Police!Bɛyɛ Polis!
  [beh-yeh poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Bɛyɛ dokita!
  [beh-yeh doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostMe yɛ adi
  [meh yeh ah-dee]
• I'm illMe yɛ abɛ
  [meh yeh ah-beh]

• I'd like to buy...Mepɛ sɛ meka...
  [meh-peh seh meh-kah]
• I'm just lookingMe nni anidaso
  [meh knee ah-nee-dah-soh]
• How much is it?Afei bɛn?
  [ah-fay behn]
• That's too expensiveAfei pɛ
  [ah-fay peh]
• Can you lower the price?W'ada sika?
  [wah-dah see-kah]

• What time is it?Ɛyɛ aduro afei bɛn?
  [eh-yeh ah-doo-roh ah-fay behn]
• It's one o'clockƐno nua
  [eh-noh n-wah]
• Half past (10)Nnidi mu (tebɛ)
  [nee-dee moo (teh-beh)]
• MorningAnɔpa
  [ah-noh-pah]
• AfternoonAwia
  [ah-wee-ah]
• EveningAnɔpa mu
  [ah-noh-pah moo]
• YesterdayNanawo
  [nah-nah-woh]
• TodayƐnan
  [eh-nahn]
• TomorrowƐfiri
  [eh-fee-ree]
• 1Bere
  [beh-reh]
• 2Aba
  [ah-bah]
• 3Ato
  [ah-toh]
• 4Anan
  [ah-nahn]
• 5Anum
  [ah-noom]
• 6Afia
  [ah-fee-ah]
• 7Ason
  [ah-sohn]
• 8Awɔn
  [ah-wohn]
• 9Idu
  [ee-doo]
• 10Anidaso
  [ah-nee-dah-soh]

• Where's a/the...?Efeɛ...
  [eh-feh-eh]
• What's the address?Adiresɛ bɛn?
  [ah-dee-reh-seh behn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?W'ada map no so?
  [wah-dah map noh soh]
• When's the next (bus)?Ɛbɛyi nɛxt (trotro)?
  [eh-beh-yee next (troh-troh)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikit (kɔ ....)
  [tee-kit (koh ....)]

The Airport Residential Area in Accra was developed in the mid-20th century, around the same time that Kotoka International Airport was constructed. This strategic location made it an attractive residential area for expatriates and government officials, leading to its rapid development into a modern suburb characterized by upscale homes and amenities.

Over the years, the Airport Residential Area has evolved into a cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents. The influx of expatriates and diplomats has contributed to a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with various international schools, restaurants, and cultural events enriching the local community.

The proximity of the Airport Residential Area to key government institutions and embassies has historically made it a political hub in Accra. During significant political events, such as the transition of power in Ghana, this neighborhood has often been at the center of political discussions and gatherings.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Airport Residential Area experienced significant economic development, marked by the rise of luxury real estate and commercial enterprises. This growth has attracted affluent Ghanaians and foreign investors, further enhancing the neighborhood's status as one of the most sought-after areas in Accra.

As the Airport Residential Area has grown, it has faced challenges related to urbanization, such as traffic congestion and environmental concerns. Local authorities have been working to address these issues while trying to maintain the neighborhood's reputation as a premier residential area in Accra.

Airport Residential Area is conveniently located near Kotoka International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. From the airport, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service which typically takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. If you're coming from central Accra, you can use a taxi, bus, or shared minibus (trotro) to reach the area. Notably, major roads like the Liberation Road and George Bush Highway connect the Airport Residential Area to other neighborhoods in Accra.

The Airport Residential Area is primarily a residential neighborhood, and the best way to get around is by taxi or ride-sharing services. There are limited public transport options within the area, but you can find local buses (known as 'trotros') that connect to nearby neighborhoods. Bicycles can also be rented in some parts of Accra for a more eco-friendly way to explore. Walking is a pleasant option for short distances, especially in the quieter parts of the area.

The Airport Residential Area is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur. Areas closer to the airport and major roads may see more opportunistic crime, especially after dark. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to keep valuables secured. Always stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available within Accra, with the nearest being the 37 Military Hospital. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medication.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local churches or community events. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices, especially when attending religious services. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake and a smile. Don't use overly familiar language until you know someone better. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality graciously. Don't waste food or reject offerings, as this may be considered disrespectful.

To experience the Airport Residential Area like a local, visit nearby markets for fresh produce and local foods. Engage in conversations with residents, as they are often welcoming and willing to share their stories. Try to explore local restaurants that serve traditional Ghanaian dishes. Attend cultural events or festivals if your visit coincides with them, as they offer a glimpse into the rich culture of the area. Always be polite and respectful when interacting with locals to foster goodwill.