Lou Part Two

Akwaaba! As we are not long for this country now, this will undoubtedly be one of my last blog entries for Ghana. It was probably inevitable that the number of entries would diminish as time wore on, and that there would be some repetition, so I hope you will indulge me as I re-visit LouMoon Lodge. Unlike so many sequels, our second trip to LouMoon Lodge at Axim was every bit as fulfilling as the first and I dare say that it outshone on many levels, particularly since our good friends were along for the sun and sand. We booked months in advance for a national holiday weekend, and even though it was the rainy season (theoretically, I'm pleased to report...more on the weather in a bit), I think we were wise to have done so, as it seemed to be fully booked.

Last time we stayed in a "Hillside" chalet which was a little more private and had two separate rooms, but it was away from the beach, had little in terms of view, and didn't have an outdoor lounging area. It was, in its defense, less expensive. This time round we booked the two lower rooms in the Bayview Chalet and were all the happier for it. Despite the fact that there were twelve of us in two rooms (our friends also have four children), the rooms were so large that we fit comfortably. These rooms had the added perks of hot water, individual patios, breathtaking views of LouMoon's private bay, and the chalet is just steps from the private beach, the beach volleyball court, and the restaurant.

In practical, plain, family terms, this meant that at any given time we could pretty much see the children and we didn't have to venture too far for pee breaks, band-aids, time outs, naps, wine refills, snacks, or forgotten beach toys. I must be forthright and admit that our enjoyment hinged on the cooperation of the weather, which was pretty darn reasonable for the duration of our stay, despite being warned when we booked about the threat of the rainy season. Due to the fact that the kids could always be outside interacting with one another, it made for some quality time for the grown-ups. It also meant that all the wee ones were completely tuckered out and were sound asleep (for the most part...remembering that there were eight children ten and under!) shortly after supper. The big people would convene under the stars on the patio, accompanied by the rush of the ocean and one or two refreshments, like the signature Bailey's Moon that was at least as delicious as (I'm sure) it could be dangerous!

We were at LouMoon for a little less time, but we spent almost all of that time on the beach. The water can still be a bit rough, even in the bay, but the current shifts often enough that it tends not to last. The tide also brings in its fair share of garbage, so it is rather handy that LouMoon has a "back-up" private beach some 150 yards upsand, and that the two beaches never seem to be under seige with debris at the same time. The highlight for us this time was that we spent a good chunk of our last morning snorkeling in the rocks near the other beach and were rewarded for our efforts with an ocean full of life and colour. We also made good use of the sea kayaks and Finn is always game when there is a soccer ball to be kicked.

If the weather was poor, I could see someone feeling that the five hour journey--littered with enthusiastic police ready to "process" you unless you "give them something"--was not worth it, but we have been very lucky in that the trip was worth it, twice! Friends we met before Christmas (now in Nepal) had said that LouMoon was one of the things they'd remember most fondly about their time in Ghana and I think we will have to agree. It was exceptional, affordable, and breathtaking.