In the prestigious Cantonments district of Accra, where diplomatic residences meet luxury estates, Bel Air Crest stands as an exclusive sanctuary for the discerning traveller. This intimate collection of just 29 luxury suites serves as your private gateway to Ghana’s most captivating shopping experiences—from centuries-old artisan markets to contemporary designer boutiques. Here, the ancient traditions of West African commerce blend seamlessly with modern luxury retail, creating an unparalleled holiday shopping adventure worthy of our distinguished guests.
The Magic of Accra’s Holiday Shopping Scene
As the Harmattan season ushers in Ghana’s festive period, Accra’s shopping landscape transforms into a sophisticated fusion of African elegance and contemporary luxury. The city pulses with an energy unique to West African capitals—where the artistry of centuries-old traditions converges with modern African opulence.
In the weeks leading up to the holidays, Accra’s shopping districts come alive with an exceptional display of craftsmanship and creativity. Master artisans showcase their finest works, from intricately woven kente cloth shimmering with golden threads to contemporary interpretations of traditional adinkra symbols in modern jewellery designs. The air is filled with the subtle fragrance of shea butter and cocoa, while the sounds of both traditional drums and contemporary African jazz create an enchanting shopping atmosphere.
Premium Shopping Destinations Near Bel Air Crest
Accra Mall (10 minutes from Bel Air Crest)
The epitome of modern shopping in Ghana, Accra Mall houses international brands alongside local luxury boutiques. During the holiday season, the mall comes alive with festive decorations and special pop-up shops featuring exclusive Ghanaian designers.
A&C Square (15 minutes away)
This upscale shopping centre is perfect for those seeking curated African art, premium fashion, and artisanal jewellery. The square’s boutiques offer personalised shopping experiences and unique holiday collections from Ghana’s top designers.
Traditional Markets: A Cultural Shopping Experience
The city’s retail renaissance has given rise to a new generation of luxury African brands where talented designers reimagine traditional motifs for the global connoisseur. From hand-beaded evening clutches to bespoke tailoring that combines European cuts with African textiles, each piece tells a story of heritage renewed. International collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike flock to Accra during this season, seeking one-of-a-kind pieces that won’t be found in the boutiques of Paris, London, or New York.
Makola Market (20 minutes from Bel Air Crest)
The historic Makola Market offers an authentic Ghanaian shopping experience. Navigate through:
- The textile section for traditional fabrics and kente cloth
- The bead market for handcrafted jewellery
- The craft section for wooden carvings and traditional instruments
- The spice market for exotic cooking ingredients
Pro tip: Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the best selection and more comfortable shopping temperatures.
Arts Centre (15 minutes away)
A haven for art enthusiasts and collectors, the Arts Centre showcases:
- Traditional African masks
- Contemporary Ghanaian paintings
- Handwoven baskets
- Authentic tribal artefacts
Luxury Boutique Highlights
Christie Brown Ghana (Less than 10 minutes from Bel Air Crest)
This flagship store offers sophisticated African-inspired fashion perfect for luxury gift-giving. Their holiday collection features limited-edition pieces that blend traditional motifs with contemporary design.
Elle Lokko (10 minutes away)
A curator of premium African lifestyle products, featuring:
- Designer fashion
- Artisanal beauty products
- Premium home décor
- Exclusive holiday gift sets
Shopping Tips for the Savvy Traveller
- Market Etiquette
- Greet vendors with a smile and “Good morning/afternoon.”
- Start negotiations at 40-50% of the initial price
- Bundle purchases for better deals
- Safety Considerations
- Use small denominations of currency
- Keep valuables secure in cross-body bags
- Shop with Bel Air Crest’s recommended guides for premium experiences
- Best Shopping Times
- Markets: 8 AM – 2 PM
- Malls and Boutiques: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Sundays: Many smaller shops are closed
Unique Holiday Gift Ideas
For the discerning gift-giver, Accra offers an unparalleled selection of luxury items that carry profound cultural significance. Whether it’s a hand-carved ceremonial stool from a master craftsman, a limited-edition fashion piece from an up-and-coming Ghanaian designer, or rare antiquities from private collections, each purchase becomes not just a gift, but an investment in African artistic excellence.
- For Fashion Lovers
- Custom-made kente accessories
- Contemporary African designer wear
- Handcrafted leather goods
- For Home Décor Enthusiasts
- Handwoven grass baskets
- Traditional flags
- Modern African art pieces
- For Food Connoisseurs
- Premium Ghanaian chocolate
- Exotic spice collections
- Artisanal palm oil
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What’s the best time for holiday shopping in Accra? A: Mid-November to mid-December offers the best selection while avoiding peak tourist season.
- Q: Are credit cards widely accepted? A: Major malls and boutiques accept cards, but markets are cash-only.
- Q: How can I authenticate traditional crafts? A: Our concierge service can connect you with certified artisans and trusted vendors.
- Q: Are prices negotiable in boutiques? A: While mall prices are fixed, traditional markets and some boutiques expect negotiation.
Your Shopping Haven Awaits
Make the most of your holiday shopping experience by choosing Bel Air Crest as your luxury base in Accra. Our concierge service can arrange personal shopping assistants, private transportation to markets, and authentic artisan experiences. Plus, our spacious suites offer plenty of room to store your treasured finds.
Ready to plan your holiday shopping getaway? Contact our concierge team at Bel Air Crest to arrange your perfect shopping escape in Accra. From our premium one-bedroom suites to our expansive penthouses, we’ll ensure your shopping adventure is matched with unparalleled comfort and luxury.
Book your stay now and discover why Bel Air Crest is the preferred choice for discerning shoppers in Accra.
