Sunday 31 July 2016

Cape Coast Ghana (July 24th 2016)

THE CASTLE 

On Sunday July 24th we visited the Cape Coast Castle. This Castle was used as the headquarters for the British Colonial Administration as far back as 1664 and for many more years as one of the most significant slave trade spots in Africa.


Apparently the main well is still used at times during water shortages in the town.


It was both fascinating and somewhat haunting to walk around the dark damp dungeons and go through the "door of no return" where so many slaves were herded into ships that took them away.


The heat was unbearable for us for just a few minutes.  Hard to imagine so many people crammed in there for weeks at a time.


At the end of the tour the guide took us out "the door of no return." We were given a view of the busy fishing area and were ensured that on this day we would all return. 



KAKUM NATIONAL PARK 

While we were on the Cape Coast we were also able to visit Kakum National Park. It was a very enjoyable day high in the rain forest.  


The canopy walk was actually designed by a couple of Canadians. The walkway consists of seven separate bridges that hang from trees over 130 feet above the ground.  This offers a great view of the rain forest; however, may not be a great idea for those people who have a fear of heights. 



OASIS BEACH RESORT 

The Oasis Beach Resort became our home away from home during this weekend. It was great to cool off a bit next to the sea. 


It was also nice to hang out with other volunteers from some of the other placements.  We met some really nice people from The UK, Spain, Portugal, Ireland and the States. The outdoor showers were the best! Although bucket baths are certainly refresing there is nothing like being able to take an actual shower under the stars.  On top of all that we got to stay in a room that looked a little like Fred Flintstone's house. Yabba dabba do!

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