New York City, the cultural and financial heart of the United States, is one of the most iconic and exciting cities in the world. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps,” New York offers something for everyone — from towering skyscrapers and world-famous landmarks to a thriving business environment, vibrant neighborhoods, and endless cultural experiences.
Whether you're traveling from Accra, Ghana for a business conference, a vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime visit, NYC will leave a lasting impression. With its dynamic energy, global diversity, and non-stop entertainment, New York is a must-see destination for both leisure and professional travelers.
New York is a global capital that appeals to visitors from all walks of life — and for good reason:
Business: Home to the New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street, and thousands of multinational companies, NYC is one of the world’s most important financial and commercial hubs. It’s a key destination for business events, trade expos, and corporate networking.
Tourism: NYC is packed with iconic attractions — from the Statue of Liberty to Times Square and Central Park. The city offers world-class museums, Broadway shows, sports, nightlife, and unique architecture.
Culture: A melting pot of cultures, NYC is home to over 180 nationalities. You’ll find art, cuisine, festivals, and neighborhoods representing nearly every part of the world — including a strong West African presence in areas like Harlem and the Bronx.
Flying from Accra (Kotoka International Airport – ACC) to New York (JFK or Newark) usually takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on whether your flight is direct or has connections.
Delta Air Lines offers seasonal or limited direct flights from Accra to JFK International Airport, usually several times a week.
Airlines like British Airways, KLM, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines offer one-stop connections through cities such as London, Amsterdam, Doha, or Istanbul.
Average travel time ranges from 14 to 20 hours, depending on the layover.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Take a ferry to visit this powerful symbol of freedom and the museum that tells the story of America’s immigrants.
Times Square: Known for its dazzling lights and massive billboards, it’s a must-see hub of energy, shopping, and entertainment.
Empire State Building: Head to the observation deck for stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A must for art lovers, featuring works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and many others.
The Whitney Museum of American Art: Focuses on contemporary American artists, perfect for discovering new and bold perspectives.
The Tenement Museum: Offers immersive tours about immigrant life in New York in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Central Park: Stretching over 800 acres, Central Park is perfect for walking, biking, picnicking, or even horse-drawn carriage rides.
The High Line: An elevated urban park built on a former railway line, offering greenery, art installations, and views of the Hudson River.
Brooklyn Bridge: Walk across for breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn — especially beautiful at sunset.
Harlem: Known for its rich African-American heritage, jazz clubs, and soul food spots.
SoHo: Famous for art galleries, boutiques, and cobblestone streets.
Williamsburg (Brooklyn): A hip, creative area with trendy cafes, street art, and indie music venues.
New York offers accommodations for every budget — whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or a mix of both.
The Plaza Hotel: An iconic five-star hotel near Central Park, offering timeless elegance and classic New York luxury.
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue: Ideal for business travelers, with spacious rooms, skyline views, and excellent service.
The Conrad New York Downtown: A modern luxury hotel in the Financial District, perfect for professionals attending Wall Street meetings or conferences.
Arlo Midtown: Chic, compact rooms with modern amenities in the heart of Manhattan — ideal for stylish yet affordable stays.
Pod 39 Hotel: A trendy hotel with smaller rooms but great communal areas and a rooftop bar.
Hotel Edison: A classic hotel near Times Square offering great value and convenience.
HI NYC Hostel: Located near Central Park, this affordable hostel offers both dorms and private rooms with a great community vibe.
The Jane Hotel: Quirky, compact rooms in the West Village, popular with budget-conscious travelers who want a unique stay.
Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Midtown: Affordable comfort with breakfast included and easy access to subway stations.
New York’s food scene is diverse, dynamic, and delicious. You’ll find everything from West African cuisine to Michelin-starred dining.
Accra Restaurant (Bronx): A favorite for traditional Ghanaian dishes like jollof rice, banku, and tilapia.
Papaye Restaurant: A go-to spot for flavorful West African dishes in a casual setting.
B&D African Restaurant: Great food, friendly service, and a strong community presence.
Le Bernardin: A Michelin 3-star seafood restaurant in Midtown — elegant, refined, and world-renowned.
Eleven Madison Park: Known for its innovative tasting menu and impeccable service.
Rezdôra: A highly rated Italian restaurant in Flatiron, offering handmade pasta and rustic northern Italian dishes.
Joe’s Pizza: Classic New York-style pizza — crispy, cheesy, and iconic.
Shake Shack: Burgers, fries, and shakes done right — with multiple locations across NYC.
Smorgasburg: A weekend food market in Brooklyn featuring 100+ vendors from all over the world.
If you’re staying in New York for more than a few days, consider these day trips:
Hudson Valley: Just 2 hours north, great for wineries, art galleries, and nature trails.
Niagara Falls: While best done overnight, quick flights or long drives make this one of the most iconic sights near NYC.
Philadelphia: Only 1.5–2 hours by train, Philly offers rich U.S. history and top museums.
Long Island Beaches: Escape the city heat and relax on the shores of Jones Beach or Fire Island.
Time Zone: New York is in Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) — 4 to 5 hours behind Ghana, depending on the time of year.
Currency: The U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors.
Business Etiquette:
Be punctual.
Dress professionally, even in casual industries.
Expect direct communication and fast-paced meetings.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, hotels, parks, and even subways. Local SIM cards or eSIM options are easy to buy.
New York is more than just a city — it’s an experience. Whether you're navigating a business deal in Midtown, watching a Broadway play, or enjoying Ghanaian food in the Bronx, NYC welcomes you with open arms and endless opportunities.
For travelers from Ghana, New York offers a rich mix of familiarity and excitement — a global city where your next big adventure or business success awaits.