Riding a tro-tro opened my eyes to how and why Ghanaians travel long distances. Some places, like the Volta region, cannot be reached by plane or STC bus, as airports or STC bus stations only exist in some towns. By contrast, tro-tros can be found all over Ghana, offering a way for Ghanaians to visit friends and families in those places.
Additionally, Ghanaian tro-tro drivers display their culture on their tro-tros. Some like to stick the flag of Ghana on the windows of their vehicles. Others paint the word Nyame on the side of the tro-tro. Nyame is the Twi word for "God." (Twi is spoken in Southern Ghana.) After listening to Dagbanli for several months, it was cool to experience a new language!)
To sum up: travelers, this article is not only about trying new things. It is about trying new things while staying safe. On the one hand, tro-tros let me experience new parts of Ghanaian culture. On the other hand, I kept myself safe by traveling with friends and emailing the U.S. Embassy. Before taking risks when you are abroad, make a plan of action.
