Ghana is home to Moringa oil, one of the luxury oils in used in A-Game that boasts an abundance of anti-inflammatory fatty acids and skin brightening vitamin C. We chatted to Sarah Fretwell, yoga teacher and writer based in London, about her experience in Accra, where she volunteered for 7 months as a teacher.

Accra’s hot, sticky streets are peppered with the aroma of sweet banku (fermented maize meal), fried eggy bread and spicy fufu (a starchy mix of cassava and plantain). What it lacks in picturesque sights found in Cape Coast or Elmina, it makes up for with an abundance of shopping, lively nightlife and authentic, interesting dishes.

EAT

Local: In the heart of Osu, you’ll find this authentic, popular restaurant and a vast selection of traditional Ghanaian dishes: tilapia (local fish), hot, spicysoups- namely “light soup” or “groundnut” served with a generous helping of fufu, or jollof rice – a popular, smoky meat dish based around, you guessed it, rice. You’ll find yourself eating alongside true locals here, which only adds to its charm. Note, forget your cutlery and use your hands if you really want to fit in. ofadaa.com/accra/restaurants/asanka-local-madina

Fine dining: If you need a break from local food, Santoku is a luxurious Japanese restaurant from the team behind Nobu. From the stunning décor to mouth-watering dishes, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy. Be sure to head upstairs to Sky Lounge, an open air bar to rub shoulders with the urban elite of Accra as you’re seduced by the wonderful sound of afro beats. yoloxperiences.com/santoku

Café: Set right in the heart of Jamestown, Jamestown Café is a real one-of-a-kind joint. It’s tucked away in one of Accra’s oldest districts – which emerged as a community around the 17th-century British James Fort – and still harbours remnants of Ghana’s colonial past. The café is a space for artists and their creations, mixing old and new via local cuisine, drink and music. Rest and refuel after a morning visiting the forts and lighthouse, or following a day out at the markets. timeout.com/accra/things-to-do/jamestown

Brunch: While the modern hotels like Kempinski and Movenpick offer an enviable selection of all you can eat brunches, my favourite spot for brunch is Fat Fish – great music, ambience and the food is out of this world. Think pork ribs, eggs with truffle and decadent cocktails. instagram.com/fatfishghana

SHOP

Market: Throw yourself head first into Ghanaian culture and experience the bustling Makola Market. Hot, noisy and colourful, it’s an initially intimidating mix of local produce, clothes-filled alleys, traditional arts and crafts and anything else you might expect to find in an African market.

Designer: Our designer pick is fashion label Christie Brown, one of the best-known designers in Ghana. The designer behind the collection is Aisha Obuobi, whose work fuses traditional Ghanaian prints and fabrics with a modern style. Her accessories are particularly striking – if you want one bold statement piece as a reminder of your visit, this is the place to find it and she delivers internationally. christiebrownonline.com

SEE

Ablade Glover, one of Ghana’s most respected artists, set up this huge gallery in Omanye House. The three floors overlooking the sea are stuffed full of modern and antique paintings, sculptures, woven kente cloth, jewellery, furniture, masks and clothes. Some are collector’s pieces and all are for sale (they’ll organise shipping for you too). This is one of the best places to see Ghana’s famous carved coffins and is worth more than one trip to take it all in. artistsalliancegallery.com

If you loved this article, you’ll love our newsletter. Sign up below to read more about LBB skincare tips for the full-schedulers, frequent-fliers, and time strapped go-getters.