Known as one of the friendliest West African countries, Ghana is an ideal place to engage in a new culture. By living with a host family and attending classes with local Ghanaian students, you’ll be able to rewrite your high school experience and step outside of your comfort zone. Before long you could be browsing through markets of fresh fruits and vegetables or munching on fried plantains seasoned with chili pepper and ginger.
Ghanaians tend to be very community-oriented, so the needs of the group take precedence over personal desires. It’s very important to respect the elderly—even if someone is just a few minutes older than you! Children often refer to adults as “auntie” and “uncle” (or for older people, “grandma” and “grandpa”) whether or not they’re actually related. Families spend a lot of time outside, cooking meals and socializing in the courtyard. Ghanaians don’t like to rush; you’ll probably hear your friends and host family repeat the phrase “take time,” which reflects their laid-back approach to life.
This is your chance to get off the beaten path and join a culture that values taking the time to enjoy life. Spend a year in Ghana challenging yourself and defying expectations as you become part of a new community.