CULTURAL/ CUSTOMS & OTHER KEY THINGS TO KNOW

1.  When you visit do not come with a romanticized notion about Ghana/ Africa or you will be disappointed and unnecessarily frustrated. Come with open eyes and an open mind, knowing that Ghana is a developing nation. There is much to do and we can be a positive contributory part of it. Keep in mind that Ghana/ Africa is not America or Europe nor do we want it to be. We are Mother Africa’s children returning home and we want to be part of Mother Africa’s growth and development.

2.   It is important to make “spiritual” contact with the land. Plant or adopt a tree or place near the ocean or riverside that you can claim as your mediation site.

3.  Due to the beautiful and warm climate of Ghana hot water for bathing is not always available.

4.   Air conditioning is not always guaranteed in all establishments including hotels and buses.

5.   Electricity may go out from time to time. Hotels are backed by generators if this happens.

6.   The sewer system in the capital city of Accra and some other cities or areas is open so you may smell the odor of the sewer but it is not unbearable.

7.   Drink bottle water because your body will not have time to adjust to the local water.

8.   Raw Fruits and Vegetables are recommended to eat; your body might not be able to handle certain meats or cook food. (Research and think about what you are consuming. try not to over consume or combine too many different foods).

9.   Never ask a Ghanaian “Are you crazy or mad?” It is a big insult- almost unforgivable.

10.  It is important to be generous, to receive the generosity of others (i.e., accept food or water offered or graciously say, No thank you”. Do not turn up your nose or “mash up” (frown) your face.

11.  It is standard practice to shake hands when introduced and when leaving. It is an insult to shake hands with the left hand or to wave to an older person or a person of higher social status or rank.

12.  It is customary when giving something to use your right hand and in greeting more than one person, start shaking hands from right, moving to the left.

13. Crossing one’s legs in the house of worship or while sitting in front of a chief or someone of higher status or rank is considered extremely rude.

 14.  It is important to greet people first, before asking for their services.

 15.  Whenever you visit a Ghanaian home, it is their custom to offer you water first, if you cannot drink the water, politely decline, explaining that you are not accustomed to the drinking water. Next, your host will ask, “Is someone in pursuit of you)?” After you answer and that is out of the way, you are then asked, “What is the nature of your visit?”

 16.  Raising the thumb improperly is equivalent to raising the middle finger in the United States.

 17.  The American circular finger and thumb “OK” sign is also considered obscene.

 18.  Secure your money properly & be aware of pickpockets in crowed places.

 19.  No photo taking allowed at Airports, state office building, and other government facilities. Your film will be confiscated and you could be arrested.

 20.  Ghanaians are very friendly!  However, be wary of people who just want to make quick money off you and make promises they cannot keep. You should know as much as possible about the people you are planning to do business with.

 21.  AFTA Tours does not offer travel insurance but it can be purchased from an independent insurer.

 22. Bank Accout Requirements: 2 Passport style pictures, drivers license and Passport. 

 When packing luggage remember that less is better. You will want to purchase clothing and artifacts to bring home.

 You are allowed 2 bags of 50 pounds for check in and 1 carry on & a Small bag.

 Packing less will allow sufficient space to accommodate your purchases.

INFORMATION ON IMPROVING OUR IMMUNITY

As we prepare for this life changing voyage to Africa, let us take time to reflect on the biological/ physical needs of our bodies. With a holistic approach, I humbly offer this compilation of information in how we can take care of our body/temple and enhance our overall immunity.

In addition, for participants and parents who wish to take immunization shots and tablets, they can be ordered from your local County Health Department through the travel nurse at:  (404) 765-4155. 

The Immune System

The immune system is the part of our body that recognizes viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and foreign bodies and signals the brain to activate immune processes. It includes the thymus, spleen, lymphatic system, bone marrow, white blood cells, antibodies, and hormones. Each element works in harmony with other elements of our bodies in order to keep us healthy.

Supporting your immune system may help with everything from frequent colds to arthritis to cancer. In our travels, our physical health will help our ability to mentally and spiritually grow as we Return Home.

Daily Advice – Before, during, and after your journey home

Eat colorful meals regularly. Enjoy as many fresh fruits and vegetables as you can. The more different colors, the more variety of nutrients you’ll digest.

Drink water all day. At least 8 – 16 oz glasses throughout the day.

Rest your mind and body. Get solid rest (5-8 hrs per night) that in a quite space- no radio and no TV to infect your dreams! Careful not to oversleep.

Set your biological clock to that of the sun. Wake up at sunrise and go to sleep soon after sunset.

Exercise! Walk, run, stretch, swim, or dance till you break a sweat at least 2-3 times a week. Be mindful of your posture and how you carry yourself. Walk with your body; don’t drag it along like a burden.

Avoid excess stress, from internal or external forces, mentally, physically, emotionally, environmentally, communally, etc. Stress can compromise your immune system. 

 Breath. Use this life force to help keep you centered. Breath fully and breath deeply.

 Affirm the positive through prayer, mediation, visualization and word/sound. 

Nutritional Support – Before during and after your journey home

In addition to a well rounded fresh food diet, the following are a number of herbs and supplements that can enhance our immunity. Garlic, Vit. C, Charcoal, Pau D’Arco and Echinacea are, in my humble estimation, the most important for us to consume while in Africa. Tea tree oil is a multi use oil good for scratches, fungus, bites and repelling mosquitoes. Citronella is good for that as well.

NOTE: This is not a prescription! Please consult your own body to know what’s good for you. You may also talk to your family about your genetic medical history and/or your medical or naturopathic doctor. 

Garlic: helps to fortify the immune system and supports circulation in the body. Available fresh, cooked, juiced, or in capsule form, ingesting large amounts of this daily will help reduce the instances of mosquitoes biting while in Ghana. For overall health, I recommend that you consume at least a clove of garlic each day. Studies suggest that you can get similar benefits from cooked garlic -- if you first let it sit out a while after peeling. When garlic is peeled an enzyme called allinase begins a series of chemical reactions that create beneficial health effects. If you take garlic extract in liquid form, a recommended serving is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon mixed with fruit or vegetable juice, twice daily with meals. As for garlic capsules, take 1 to 3 capsules daily, depending on your level of free-radical exposure.

Vitamin C: When you need extra immune support, I recommend you take 500 to 1,000 milligrams every 2 hours. Even without the onset of a flu or cold, I personally take 2,000 mg of C each day, along with bioflavonoids and other synergistic nutrients like vitamin E. When Vitamin C is taken with zinc, propolis and elderberry extract, a good daily maintenance dose is 100 mg. 

Pau d/arco Pau d'arco is an incredibly versatile herb with antibiotic, antifungal, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. This herb has been used with candida and other fungal problems, staph infections, viral infections including herpes, and skin problems including eczema and psoriasis. Historically it was used to treat leukemia, diabetes, and cancer. Available in an extracted tincture, capsules and/or in tea form.

Charcoal  Charcoal is used to relieve painful pressure caused by excess gas in the stomach and intestines, diarrhea, and indigestion. Take as directed by the label with a full glass of water. DO NOT mix with other medicines as it binds to 

them and reduces their effectiveness. To or benefit, It also binds to poisonous subtanse and carries them out of the body. 

Purple coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia): helps increase certain responses of the immune system. Powdered echinacea capsules can be found in most health food stores (recommended dosages are given on the product labels). You can obtain some of the best results with echinacea by using the liquid plant extracts -- for adults five to 10 drops in 1/4 cup of water taken five times daily is generally recommended). Note: Certain individuals don't seem to benefit from echinacea, including hyperactive persons, those who are extremely sensitive to environmental pollutants and chemicals, and AIDS patients. 

Tea tree Oil: Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, fungicide. Many people use tea tree oil for: athletes foot, cold and flu, oral thrush, cold sores & canker sores, tooth ache & gum infections, ringworm, candida, head lice or louse, cleanser additive, gum problems, mosquito bites, bug repellent, cockroaches, deter flees, mouth ulcers, herpes, cuts, abrasions, after shave, sunburn, anorectal or vaginal yeast infections, unwanted body odors, acne, toe nail infections, and many other uses. 

Citronella Oil of Citronella is volatile, liquid oil derived from dried cultivated grasses. It works by repelling animals and insects without harming or killing them. It has a distinctive odor, which repels certain animals. It is available as a additive to sprays, lotions, candles, colloras, and tablets, as well as a pure extracted essential oil. 

Zinc: Promotes immune function. One 23-mg zinc gluconate lozenge every two wakeful hours after an initial double dose has been found to provide symptom relief. While the only side effect associated with zinc is its bad taste, this routine shouldn't be continued any longer than a week. Excessive zinc can eventually create a copper deficiency and weaken the immune system. The recommended daily dose for zinc when taken with vitamin C, propolis and elderberry extract is 10 mg.

Bee Propolis: Research shows that this waxy resin used by bees to waterproof their hives has immune enhancing properties. The recommended daily dose when taken with elderberry extract, zinc and vitamin C is 75 mg.

Elderberry Extract: The active ingredients in elderberries have been found to protect your cells from harmful invaders. I recommend taking 4 g daily of elderberry extract in conjunction with the Vitamin C, Propolis and Zinc.

 Vitamin A: Initial doses as high as 100,000 units daily can be very beneficial. The dose should then be dropped back to 10,000 to 25,000 IU daily to avoid problems with toxicity.

Turmeric (from root): has been used for centuries in India and China for a variety of health concerns, including boosting the immune system.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: Drinking three to four drops per 8 oz of water per day helps maintain immune system function. This extract is also a good remedy for cleansing your sinuses: 

Shark cartilage: Long-time ALTERNATIVES readers know that I've written about the benefits of shark cartilage for years. Among its many beneficial properties, shark cartilage helps support your overall healthy immune system function. I recommend 100 mg daily.

Slippery Elm: This herb has mucus-eliminating properties and helps promote respiratory health. 20 mg daily is recommended.

 Peppermint powder: Helps support immune function. 17 mg a day is recommended.

Eucalyptus Oil: You can take 2 mg daily along with the other herbal immune boosters mentioned here.

Una de Gato/Cats Claw Many have experienced such wonderful results with una de gato that it is now considered equal, if not superior, to the world's foremost immune-fortifying herbs:  echinacea, golden seal, pau d'arco, garlic, and Siberian ginseng.  It has also been compared favorably with shark cartilage and caprylic acid.  It is particularly beneficial to the immune, digestive, and structural systems.

Remember to do your research and get in tune for what is right for you.

Be open to try new things and be ready to explore what is closest to NATURE.

 Ashanti Twi

Twi (pronounced 'chwee' [ʨʷi]) specifically Ashanti Twi is a language spoken in Ghana by about 7 million people. It is one of the three dialects of the Akan language, the others beingAkuapem Twi and Fante Twi, which in turn belongs to the Kwa language family. Within Ghana, Twi is spoken in the Ashanti Region and in parts of the Eastern, Western, Central, Volta and Brong Ahafo Region. There are many divisions of the Twi languages, but they are all mutually intelligible. They are all tonal language.

Ashanti Twi is the most widely spoken of the dialects of the Akan language. Akan is spoken by about 44 percent of Ghana’s population as a first language, and is also used as a second language by a large number of the remainder. These definitions and phrases are meant to introduce a non-Twi beginner to the spoken language.

Click on link below to view an extensive chart and view course info from Abibitumikasa Afrikan Language Institute. 

www.abibitumikasa.com/twi.pdf   

Click on link below to view an extensive chart and view course info from Abibitumikasa Afrikan Language Institute. 

www.abibitumikasa.com/twi.pdf

For more Information on twi course, materials and more you can contact:

Obadele Kwame Kambon for Abibitumi Kasa Afrikan Language Institute.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.abibitumikasa.com

Kwadwo Gyasi Nkita-Mayala for Adiama Services and Tours.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.adiama.com

You can learn to speak Twi fluently by signing up for classes with one of these organizations.

DEPARTURE & REMINDER LIST OF EVERYTHING FOR GHANA TOUR MAY 2017

1. All of the Ghana Tour May 2017 documentation can be found on our website link below or from the main menu of our website.

www.africafortheafricans.org/index.php/ghana-tour-may-2017

2. Gratuities: Prior to departure Africa for the Africans will collect tips for hospitality services that will be provided in Ghana. This amount is based off the numbers of confirmed tour participants. This will serve as a separate charge for the tour and will be collected on the departure date upon arrival at Atlanta or Amsterdam Airport. (Total Per Person is $50). This will allow us to expedite services. You can give additional tips to anyone who gives you great services or whoever you choose. This is basic tips for all AFTA Ghana staff including drivers, Guides at all sites, Hotel staff and Entertainment at One Africa Resort. All other services that may be provided on this tour are a tip if you choose situation based on the services you get.

 3. When you visit do not come with a romanticized notion about Ghana/ Africa or you will be disappointed and unnecessarily frustrated. Come with open eyes and an open mind, knowing that Ghana is a developing nation. There is much to do and we can be a positive contributory part of it. Keep in mind that Ghana / Africa is not America or Europe nor do we want it to be. We are Mother Africa’s children returning home and we want to be part of Mother Africa’s growth and development. 

4. Delta Airlines E-ticket: To login go towww.delta.comthen click on My trips then enter your name and confirmation #  to access your flight info, change seats, add special services, add frequent flyer number, e-mail address, emergency contacts and more. Print ticket and put with your passport. If you have any issues with accessing your ticket or see incorrect details on your flight itinerary or have questions in general please contact us ASAP. Note this access to your ticket is only available 45 days before your flight departure date when tickets are paid in full. 

5. Make sure you secure your personal documents including passport, ticket etc. (Scan a copy of these documents, save on your e-mail and leave a copy with family). 

6. Please verify all travel documents and have them secured for your travel date. 

7. Arrive at the Airport 2-3 hours to give yourself enough time to check in, go through security and get on the flight. 

8. Check Baggage: 2 check in bags each with a 50 pound limit per bag. Make sure your bags are secured with a lock and name tag. Verify all labelling of bags direct to ACC – Ghana. Put your bag receipt with your passport and ticket. Delta charges $100 for overweight bags 51-70 pounds and $200 for an additional checked bag. No bags are allowed over 70 pounds.

9. Carry-on Baggage: You may carry on one bag and one personal item at no charge. Please note that all items must easily fit into the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. 

10. When packing luggage remember that less is better. You will want to purchase clothing and artifacts to bring back. 

11. Bring a set of White/ Red, Black, Green and Gold clothing to pay homage to our ancestors. Red, Black, Green and Gold combination for Ancestor day 1for our visit to Assin Manso and Welcome to Elmina. White for Ancestor day 2 for our naming ceremony and our visit to Elmina and Cape Coast Holocaust Dungeons. 

12. Bring any school supplies you can to donate to the children in Ghana; this includes books, bags, paper, pencils, calculators, clothing etc. We are also collecting black doll babies for the young children at the schools and orphanage. 

13. Ghana Tour May 24 Group 4PM Meet & Greet at ATL Airport - Delta International Terminal  - Amsterdam Departure gate. Once you get to ATL ask a Delta Agent to direct you to the AMS departure gate. Our flight will depart at 5:50PM to Amsterdam so give yourself enough time to get to the gate. We will meet with the entire group in Amsterdam May 25 at 1PM for our group departure at 3:25PM to Ghana.

14. Bring any necessary medicine that you might need. 

15. Camera/ Camcorder: bring extra film or memory card and rechargeable batteries. If you have electronics bring a converter, foreign adapters and an extension cord.

16. Travel Iron, Alarm clock, plastic bags, compact umbrella, waterproof poncho and other convenient accessories. 

17. Mosquito spray or repellant or Citronella oil which is an excellent insect repellent. (Avoid wearing scented lotions or oils, mosquitoes like sweet scents). Note most of these sprays have dangerous chemicals so do your research for the safest things to use. 

18. Calculator for basic things like currency exchange. Ghana Cedi exchange rate is $1 = 4 GHS Ghana Cedi’s. Bring big bills $50s & $100s to get the best exchange rate for your money. 

19. Bring as much cash as you think you will need $400-$800. Bring a Visa card to access the ATMs. Master Cards are not recommended because of the lack of ATMs that take them. Note: Make sure you call your bank for that card and let them make a note that you will be using your bank card to access international currency. This will prevent your account from being locked and save you time from calling your bank from Africa and getting them to unfreeze your account. If you fail to make the call your card might stop working the second time when you try to use it. 

20. The weather is going to be in the low 70’s to mid-80 like Jamaica. Bring light clothing; sandals, shorts, walking shoes, sundress, tank tops, swimwear etc. Casual/ African clothing for certain night life and evening events like business network/ conference, welcome and farewell dinners. 

21. No photo taking allowed at Airports, state office buildings, and other government facilities. Your film will be confiscated and you could be arrested. 

22. AFTA Tours does not offer travel insurance but it can be purchased from an independent insurer. Passport Health is one of the companies that have locations in different parts of the United States that offers travel and health services. Few of our group members from the Atlanta area have used their services. www.passporthealthusa.com

23. Toiletries including toilet tissue, soaps, feminine napkins, wet wipes, facial tissues wash cloth, beach towel, laundry soap etc. 

24. Ghanaians are very friendly!  However, be wary of people who just want to make quick money off you and make promises they cannot keep. You should know as much as possible about the people you are planning to do business with. 

25. Games for leisure time, social gathering and tournaments including deck of cards, Dominoes, Chess, general board games etc. 

26. Emergency things: Flash light, basic first aid kit, laxative, Pepto Bismal, Decongestants, Anti Diarrhea, Dramamine, any related emergency medicine or materials. Note: these medicines are not all natural; do your research for the safest and healthiest things to bring. 

27. Please focus on enjoying yourself and accomplishing your mission. Do not get distracted by others or get caught up in complaining. This is an experience that will have its ups and downs; it’s a part of your introduction to Ghana/Africa. We recommend you go with the flow and enjoy your time in paradise around the wonderful itinerary that we have put together on this Journey of a Lifetime. 

28. Remember to have your yellow fever card or waiver to present at the point of entry in Ghana before you get to customs to avoid any delay. 

29. When you get to baggage claim in Ghana, get your own free cart and put only your bags on it.  Make sure you have your checked bag receipts from when you check your bags. These numbers need to match the ones on your bags to show during your final airport exit. Do not let anyone else push your cart while proceeding to the bus. Note: We will meet at the Forex bureau to exchange our money across from baggage claim before we exit. Once we are ready we will exit the airport together and get on our bus to the hotel. 

30. Bring things to the holocaust dungeons like several candles to light in the different dungeons, a picture of an ancestor or anything you want to make this moment special.