On the road to AchiaseAn early start for our long journey to Achiase, where we will be living for the next 9 weeks. Our luggage had expanded with African drums, traditional clothes, masks, paintings and much, much more, so trying to fit it back into the van with us all was a little challenging.There was lots to see on the way; from dodging vehicles to stunning mountain sceneries, the five hour journey flew by. Once we reached Kumasi (the nearest city), I began to eagerly look out for our village. When we arrived into the village, many children gathered all bemused by us westerners. We had to wait in the van until permission was granted from the Chief (Nana) for us to stay in the village. Later we met the council of elders who formally welcomed us into Achiase.We then experienced our first of many trips in a trotro (a very small rusty old van). Heather and I were a little nervous when we looked at the beaten floor and could see the road! Thankfully our driver was great at dodging round the pot holes and we all safely made it.Excitement and nerves filled the van as we began to be dropped off at our homes. The first house was a posh villa style home with flushing toilet, shower and indoor kitchen (the lucky boys are staying here). Heather and I are staying in a more humble home with an outside drop toilet which we share with lizards and bucket baths (we're a little jealous)!We are staying with a large family and 8 goats, our first night was spent watching 'Ghana most beautiful', a beauty contest which reminded me of holidays in Ireland watching the 'Rose of Trilee' with my grandma. I am constantly being surprised at so many similarities there are.