March 5, 2001
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The ultimate destination on our adventure with the two Erics was Larteh, their home village. Larteh is another 20 minutes or so by car from Aburi, and it is also perched up in the mountains. It has one dirt road that runs through the whole village. You can traverse the whole thing on foot in less than half an hour--unless you are accompanied by the two Erics, who know everyone. We stopped in at many places along our tour through Larteh; it seemed as if almost everyone was related to our guides. The reception was very wonderful, especially from children. Sometimes they just stared at us and seemed a little afraid. When they called out "Obruni, (i.e. white people) how are you?", we had a little surprise prepared--we replied "Obibini, eta sen?" which is Twi for "Hey, black people, how are you?" This was met with peals of laughter every time. Kids came up and wanted to shake hands, and then we'd show them the whole high-five sequence. A lot of fun. In general, I was made to feel very welcome in Larteh, and I'm sure I'll go back and see my new friends there.
Photos: Eric #1, Eric # 2 and Peter sitting outside at Patipa's guest house; Peter, Eric #1 and cousin Liberty at breakfast at Patipa's; one of many little bars we stopped into while visiting Larteh; at home with Eric #1's family
Accra Dispatch # 5 - page 4