When should I apply for the volunteer/internship programs in Ghana?

We're able to offer placements throughout the year. Participants are requested to apply at least one to two months in advance , but if you want to expedite your application, please contact our office for more information.

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Ghana who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 1-3 weeks – occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact Global Crossroad's offices prior to submitting their application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Usually, the only documentation required is the completed application form which can be found online ( http://www.globalcrossroad.com/apply.php). Applicants have the option to either submit their application online or download the application from the website and submit the completed form to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices either by post or fax.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Ghana-based volunteer programs?

The only qualifications are:

• An open mind and a willingness to teach others as well a passion for helping those in need.

• Enthusiasm for living abroad and meeting new people.

• Be in good health.

Visa Information

All volunteers are advised to contact the Ghanaian High Commission or Consulate before travel to Ghana . Most of western passport holders receive 30 days visa stamp upon arrival. If you decide to stay longer than this, you can extend your visa after you arrive. Extension is obtained from the immigration department.

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers acquire the tourist visa in their home country BEFORE arriving in-country to avoid any unnecessary hassles at the airport.

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer projects in Ghana ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Ghana is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicants.

What are the daily schedules of the projects?

Project schedules vary for each project in Ghana . Most volunteers participate in their respective/assigned projects from Monday to Friday for 4-6 hours a day. The Mini-Venture, of course, follows a different and abbreviated schedule. Most volunteers have the weekends to themselves where they can see the local sights and explore Ghana on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Global Crossroad's volunteer projects in Ghana are located in Accra , Kumasi or the Lake Volta region.

What is the language spoken in Ghana ?

Though there are as many at 49 languages spoken in Ghana , English is the official language. For volunteers interested in exploring local language and culture, Global Crossroad organizes a 1-week extensive language and cultural program.

When are the Ghana-based projects available?

Literally, the projects are open year-round and volunteers are encouraged to apply anytime at their convenience.

How long can I volunteer in Ghana ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Ghana ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

All volunteers must arrive at Kotoka International airport, in Accra . Global Crossroad and its staff will not be able to pick you up from a different location.

When should I arrive in Ghana ?

Volunteers should arrive in Ghana the day before their projects start, which is usually on a Sunday. If arriving earlier to Ghana , you will need to arrange a place to stay and a return to the airport on Sunday to be picked up.

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

You will be picked up at the airport, but you must send your travel itinerary to our Ghana in-country Coordinator and to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Ghana (we'll pass it on to the Coordinator). You will be picked up by a staff member or our in-country coordinator who will be holding a sign with your name written on it, awaiting your arrival outside of the airport.

In case no one is there, you can call our in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange the accommodations immediately. You will be supplied with all contact information in-case of the rare instance that you are not picked up. Make sure you look carefully for your pick-up, as it will be extremely busy outside of the airport.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

• Try to call our Ghana in-country Coordinator from the airport and inform him of the possibly-delayed arrival time.

• Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

• Call/email our Ghana in-country Coordinator once you arrive so that he can help with a pick-up accordingly.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport if I did not see Global Crossroad's local representative in the airport?

In the event that your arrival time is changed/delayed, requiring you to stay overnight in a hotel (or if you failed to meet Global Crossroad's representative at the airport), you should hire a taxi at the airport who will take you to a hotel designated in your placement details/pre-departure information (and do remember to request a receipt from the driver).

ALSO: make sure that you call Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator BEFORE boarding the taxi. Participants are advised to contact Global Crossroad's Ghana In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know their whereabouts.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

• Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents – Passport, copy of passport, and at least one other form of ID.

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $50 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

• Get your mind and spirit ready for the duration you have committed to. Culture shock affects everyone and may be so strong that you want to quit the week after arrival.

If I want to arrive earlier than when the program begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

You can arrive several days earlier or even up to a week early for your project, however, you will be responsible for these arrangements (including accommodations and food), and must still meet the Coordinator at the airport on the designated date.

When should I depart from Ghana ?

We ask participants to depart from Ghana on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

All volunteers will depart from Kotoka International airport, in Accra .

Who will drop me off at the airport?

GC does not offer airport drop service. You will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in Ghana or your home stay family will be more than happy to assist you with this.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, you may, but please note that this service is usually charged and/or calculated on an hourly basis. So, do not leave your luggage at the airport for an extended amount of time.

Living Accommodations Information

Who will arrange my accommodations and what are they?

The living conditions of your placement will vary, depending on the area to which you are assigned. One should not expect luxurious accommodations in Ghana . Global Crossroad will try its best to provide good and clean accommodations to our volunteers. We will place volunteers with host families, most of who are well experienced with foreign volunteers and speak English. In some cases, volunteer stay in hostel.

Are singles rooms available?

Most of the time you will be assigned a private room, however a private room is NOT guaranteed and you may share a room with another volunteer.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Yes, but you need to inform our Ghana in-country Coordinator of this so that he can help prepare accommodations.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This usually depends on the exact placement (i.e. date, project) and your preference in this issue. we send 5-10 volunteers each month in Ghana so other volunteers may be working with you. If you want to stay with other volunteers, pls let me know.

What are the bathroom facilities?

Some bathrooms will have a Western style toilet rather than a squat style. A shower with cold water is usually installed in the bathroom. In most cases, volunteers share bathroom/toilet with host family.

What are the laundry arrangements?

Volunteers will be responsible for laundry. Paid laundry services may be available.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Yes. You must bring adapters for your appliances though, since Ghana outlets generally are the British BS-1363 type.

Electrical plug details

What are the local cuisines? Who manages food?

Global Crossroad manages food and accommodation from the very first day to the last day of the program. Ghana foods include rice, tofu, pulses soup, ken key, seasonal vegetables, and meat occasionally. Due to monetary constraints, for the volunteers who arrive earlier or who want to stay longer, it is impossible to offer extra accommodation or food. In this case, Global Crossroad will help volunteers find a good and cheap place for food and accommodation.

Can you supply special diets?

Global Crossroad can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Occasionally, in the event that you require a special diet, you are responsible for your own meals. Participants are strongly urged to inform Global Crossroad of any special dietary need prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

In most places in Ghana tap water is not safe to drink. We recommend that you purchase bottled water for your consumption, but make sure that the cap's seal is not broken! You can request that your host family boil water for you each day to consume.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details.

Will bottled water be provided?

No, if participants require bottled water, they are responsible for obtaining it themselves.

Health and Safety

How safe is Ghana ?

Ghana is a safe, stable country with relatively low crime levels compared to other West African countries. There is an increase in armed robbery, some of which targeting tourists and ex-pats. Take sensible precautions but be assured it is quite safe. However, corruption is absolutely rampant. There are police checkpoints everywhere and the cops usually just want money.

Bywel's bar in Osu is a frequent hangout of ex-pats on Thursday nights meaning that it is target for muggings, which have become increasingly violent. Be sure to leave in a large group and enter a taxi immediately upon exiting the bar.

Source: wikitravel.org

More about Travel Safety to Ghana

International travel does present risks, especially with the threat of international terrorism. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings and advisories in many countries for U.S. travelers. These travel advisories and warnings change frequently as situations in each country change. We suggest that all volunteers consult their own governments before participating in a Global Crossroad program. These links provide travel information:

British Foreign Office Advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/

American State Department Advice
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Australian Government Advice
http://www.dfat.gov.au/

Canadian Government Advice
http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html

What are the principle health risks?

We use the Center for Disease Control traveler's health recommendations (www.cdc.gov). Your travel doctor will be knowledgeable about current epidemics and should be consulted.

Recommended Vaccinations and Preventive Medications

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to Western Africa including Ghana . Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG). Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.
• Hepatitis B , especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11–12 years who did not receive the series as infants.
• Malaria: your risk of malaria may be high in all countries in West Africa , including cities. See your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug. For details concerning risk and preventive medications, see Malaria Information for Travelers to West Africa .
• Meningococcal (meningitis) , if you plan to visit countries in this region that experience epidemics of meningococcal disease during December through June, (see Map 4-9 on the Meningococcal Disease page ).
• Rabies , if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities.
• Typhoid vaccine. Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food, or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been handled by a person who is infected. Large outbreaks are most often related to fecal contamination of water supplies or foods sold by street vendors
• Yellow fever , a viral disease that occurs primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America , is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus is also present in Panama and Trinidad and Tobago . Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to endemic areas and may be required to cross certain international borders (For country specific requirements, see Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirements and Information on Malaria Risk and Prophylaxis, by Country .). Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10 year intervals if there is on-going risk.
• As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria , measles , and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.

Required Vaccinations

• A certificate of yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry into certain countries in West Africa . For detailed information, see Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirements and Information on Malaria Risk and Prophylaxis, by Country . Also, find the nearest authorized U.S. yellow fever vaccine center .

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Besides the above vaccinations, be sure to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to Ghana . Global Crossroad is not staffed by medical professionals.  Be aware that chloroquine-resistant malaria is widespread and you must take sufficient malaria protection including mosquito avoidance, mosquito repellants, and chemical prophylaxis.

Risk of Meningitis is high in the northern third of Ghana which is a part of the Meningitis belt of Africa . This applies especially during the dry windy periods from December to June. A polysaccharide vaccine is available for Meningitis types A, C, Y and W135.

Although the AIDS/HIV rate is lower than other sub-Saharan African countries, do not have unprotected sex. Receiving a blood transfusion while in Ghana greatly increases your risk of acquiring HIV. Also you should avoid contact with still freshwater as there is a risk of schistosomiasis.

Some restaurants will approach European health standards, but be prepared to pay for this. Smaller restaurants, often called "chop bars," will likely not meet these standards.

Because of the tropical climate near the coast, travelers will need to stay hydrated. Bottled water is available everywhere. Volvic Water has been a reliable brand, but do check to make sure the seal has not been broken.

Source: wikitravel.org

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. It is suggested that you pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed back home after medical expenses such as doctor's visits, medicines, etc. 

Who do I contact in case of a health-related emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. Participants can obtain information pertaining to medical assistance through a number of channels:

• Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator;
• Assigned host-family;
• Your country's embassy in Ghana – participants are greatly encouraged to obtain and maintain contact information for their respective embassy; keeping it on their person for easy access.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

Probably not. While you are in Ghana , food safety should be the major factor in your decision to abstain. You can hardly resist the tempting novelty of street vendors and their food variety. Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases. In Ghana , poor food cooking, preparation, and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors. So, we do not suggest buying food from street vendors.

What are the sanitary conditions in Ghana ?

• Be prepared and never expect a clean toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet.
• Ghanaian toilets generally do not do well when flushing large amounts of items or feminine hygiene products (i.e. tampons) so do not flush them. Rather, throw them away in the trash.
• In some areas/restaurants, toilet systems are old and have very narrow plumbing and get blocked easily. In these cases a small basket is usually placed beside the toilet (for your used toilet paper).
• Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

What vaccinations are required?

No vaccinations are required for entrance into Ghana , but you should go over the above recommendations for vaccination with your doctor.

Global Crossroad STRONGLY suggests volunteers follow the Center for Disease Control's travel advice ( www.cdc.gov).

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit cards are accepted?

Credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master and Visa are accepted at the local large hotels or tourist stores. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks and credit cards from ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction. You should be prepared, monetarily, to not have access to ATMs or banks while on your project.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

Name: Ghanaian Cedi (GHC)

Money exchanges by cash or traveler's checks can be made at various banks and tourist hotels. Current exchange rates can be found using a currency converter, for example, www.xe.com. In May 2007 the exchange rate was US Dollar: 1 - 9,750 Cedi.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

You can cash your traveler's checks or exchange your paper notes at banks, hotels and tourist stores, airport bank offices, etc. We recommend the exchange of small bills at all times.

How much money should I bring with me?

It is suggested that you bring US$100 for transportation, emergencies, and extras upon arrival. Depending on how long you plan to stay, you may need more money for expenses.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe – therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to cedi. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange. Without receipts, you will not be able to exchange Ghanaian currency back to any other currency upon your departure.

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

Details contact of our Ghana in-country Coordinator will be given in final placement sheet. You can contact him by email or telephone; we suggest all volunteers talk with country coordinator before they arrive.

How do I contact my family once I arrive in Ghana ?

International Direct Dialing from Ghana is available in cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. Internet cafes are available in most towns, although they can sometimes be noisy as they are a popular spot for the youth to play online games. You can use any type of communication to call back home.

Are internet services easily available?

Generally, the communication technology in Ghana will not be as easily accessible or up-to-date as it is in your home country. However, you can usually find an internet café in towns, where you can purchase time by the hour for a rate of $.50 - $1.00.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Ghana at the airport.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

No, your cell phone will most likely not work in Ghana . You can buy telephone up on arrival in Ghana

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Ghana ?

You should dress conservatively in Ghana , with walking-length shorts only and no sleeveless shirts or tube-tops. Dressing in layers can help combat feeling either too hot or too cold throughout the day.

What should I know about Ghanaian religious conduct?

Ghana respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord.

How do I respect the Ghanaian people?

Be more inclusive and show respect of other cultures. Ghanaian culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Ghanaian people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You may even be asked to join your host family at their local church for services, this is up to you and you do not have to attend the services if you do not wish.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Ghana ?

Ghana is very close to the equator, and so the weather is quite warm and tropical. There are two rainy seasons, one from April to June, and the other from September to October. This differs slightly from the more northern regions, but volunteers will most likely be stationed in the south. During the hottest months temperatures may get up to 100F, while during the rainy months temperatures will stay around 70F, though it will be much more humid.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters). A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Rainfall

Average Monthly Temperature

Official Ghanaian Holidays

Jan 1 :  New Year's Day

Mar 6: Independence Day

Mar 21: Good Friday

Mar 24: Easter Monday

May 1: Labor Day

May 25: Africa Day

Jul 1: Republic Day

Oct 2: Eid al Fitr (End of Ramadan)

Dec 5: National Farmer's Day

Dec 9: Eid al Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)

Dec 25-26: Christmas

Dec 31: Revolution Day

What about tipping in Ghana ?

Tipping is sometimes expected in Ghana , especially in nicer restaurants.

Materials to Bring

mosquito net
padlock and chain
sleeping bag liner and sleeping bag
pillow case
earplugs
water purification tablets
wet wipes and no-water washes
first-aid kit
waterproof pouch
tealight candles (during a power cut these are safer than regular candles)
collapsible water bottle
waterproof poncho
gaffer tape
universal bath plug

Medical first-aid kit

digital (not mercury) thermometer
scissors
tweezers
sticking plasters (adhesive bandages)
gauze swabs and adhesive tape
bandages and safety pins
non-adhesive dressings
antiseptic powder or solution (eg povidone-iodine)
antiseptic wipes
wound closure strips

NOTE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.