I spent three hours today trying to get these blog entries posted, with sporadic interruptions for power outages and sundry disasters. I did make it to the goldsmith, who is making me a pair of silver spindles – one with adinkra designs in gold on the top of the whorl, and one with silver filigree in the whorl. The gold is making it expensive – around $130 for the pair (about half a year’s pay for the average Ghanaian – per capita income is only about $261 here) – but I really want it as a souvenir for Ghana, so I’m springing for it.
It’s hard not to fall into the trap of thinking about money in terms of the local economy. It’s not a bad thing to save money when traveling, but when it means spending 45 minutes walking and taking tro-tros when you could spend an extra $3 and hire a (very expensive locally) private taxi, it can get kind of absurd.
Running out of time at this Internet cafe, so I’ll sign out now. The next time you hear from me, I’ll probably be in the Volta Region.
Hello Tien!
I bumped into your travels whilst browsing around for info on akha spindles. Frankly, I’m intrigued by your blog entries. I wish I can learn learn about crafts and techniques as I travel around the globe like you do. Do you have a day job or something?
Anyway, I’m from Malaysia. I hope you’ll continue to post these interesting entries!
Good health and happiness to you!
*CH