3 Must-See Destinations in Takoradi, Ghana

After a trip to Accra, the country's capital and largest city, one shouldn't miss an opportunity to stay in a hotel in Takoradi, Ghana. Found along the country's south-western coast, this town is famous for its enticing beaches, historic buildings, and thriving timber industry.

Takoradi is the smaller half of the Sekondi-Takoradi city. The Twin City, as the 2 towns are collectively known, serves as the capital of Ghana's Western region. Influenced by ethnic and European cultures, Western Ghana has a rich heritage. The region's music, dance, cuisine, livelihood, and other aspects of everyday life exhibit a combination of practices from the Ahanta, Nzema, Evalue and Fante, as well from Portuguese, Dutch, British, and Brandenburg-Prussians.

From Accra, it takes about 4 hours of land travel or a 50-minute flight to get to Takoradi. Enjoying the city's colorful offering will take you down 2 tracks. One leads to a relaxing getaway at the laid back beaches, while the road inland opens to an upbeat trading excursion at the Market Circle. Here are some of the destinations that will give you a sample of what Takoradi has to offer.

1. Market Circle

The main roads in town lead to Market Circle, making it the most accessible point in Takoradi. Prepare your bargaining powers should you wish to take part in the trade. The market is open everyday and it is well-stocked with foodstuff, cloth, household goods, and export items. The market took its name after the shape it was built in. It also serves as the center of trade and commerce in Ghana's Western region.

2. Takoradi Harbor

Ghana's oldest and busiest harbor isn't exactly a tourist attraction since it's a trading spot that receives and exports high volumes of cargo everyday. The idea of building the harbor in its present location can be traced back in 1895 when the engineers of the British government saw the structure as an asset in war times. The construction, however, did not begin until 1921 and was only completed in 1928. The harbor recently underwent an expansion program to support the country's offshore oil production.

3. Beach (and other water bodies)Take your pick from the region's long list of rivers, lakes, lagoons, beaches, and swamps. Here, your options include secluded locations and popular beaches, calm waters and surfing spots, and even a vantage point from which to view crocodiles, whales, or turtles.

A home-stay accommodation is a good way to see more of the life in the town. If you're pressed for time, you can also consider artistically inclined hotels in the area. RaybowInternational Hotel in Takoradi, Ghana is an excellent accommodation option for travelers who wish to see contemporary creations by local visual artists.