Got Sold Out in 2023
Admiring the shining full moon, the stars twinkled cheerfully as I sat on my porch, enjoying the gentle embrace of the cool breeze while having a good dance with my mind on embarking on a round-the-country journey with the Heritage Caravan (HC). However, amidst this serene moment, I couldn’t help but also ponder how I was going to balance this adventure with the mountainous responsibilities of fees, bills, investment commitments, projects, and the like.
As I assumed the perspective of a Makola woman, deeply engrossed in calculations, a bird softly murmured in my ear, “Did you know that by adding just a bit more to the cost of this local round-the-country trip, it would amount to the price of an international flight ticket?”, feeding into procrastination and indecision.
After meticulously analysing all the variables for two to three days, I reached a decisive conclusion spurred on by Rev Eastwood’s words in a TikTok video: “Di Sika ni bi,” highlighting the importance of taking time to enjoy the rewards of our hard work. Moreover, I reminded myself of the wisdom in exploring Judea and Samaria – Ghana before venturing to the farthest corners of the globe.
At last, I resolved to join the Heritage Caravan, only to be met with the disheartening news on Facebook: tickets SOLD OUT! “How could this be? It’s only January, and the trip isn’t until March,” “It’s less than three weeks since the first announcement was made”, I pondered, besieged by a flurry of questions racing through my mind.
As I stood there, lost in thought and deep analysis, others had already surged ahead on the track, leaving me trailing behind in their dust.
2024 Race Strategy
Having learned valuable lessons in 2023, as soon as the first announcement for HC 2024 was made, I wasted no time deliberating or calculating. Recognizing the seriousness of others and the cut-throat nature of securing a spot on the Citi FM/TV HC, I swiftly made my payment. In this fast-paced race, hesitation and delay spell doom; it’s a 100m dash where only the swiftest prevail. A single moment of indecision or delay could cost you your spot on the HC
Why People Get “Sold Out”
Oliver Twist Asks for More?
“You’ve already been to HC, why not give others a chance?” I remember wondering bitterly in 2023 when my hopes were crushed. But after getting a slot in 2024, I finally understood why the Heritage Caravan had become such a coveted opportunity. It’s like an Oliver Twist scenario—you attend once, and suddenly, you’re already saving up for the next trip. If you’re not quick on your feet, tickets sell out before you even realize it.
Companionship & Competition
Exploring and uncovering the beauty of Ghana is a revelation during the trip, akin to a journey of enlightenment. But what adds an extra layer of delight and excitement is the friendship and companionship enjoyment we experience along the way, with each bus vying fiercely for the coveted title of the “best fun bus” and the accompanying bragging rights, turning our adventure into a spirited competition.
In Bus 1, the senior citizens and diasporans fiercely compete against the energetic youths in Bus 3. Meanwhile, Bus 2 is determined to showcase its skills and talents. The HC WhatsApp page buzzes with excitement, flooded with videos showcasing the spirited competitions and antics in each bus, all vying for the coveted top spot.
The ringing of the “Let’s go!” bell by our “headmistress” after restroom stops becomes a lively chorus among the Caravanites, infusing the journey with a sense of fun and camaraderie. At fuel station restroom stops, it’s a serious jama bus competition, where participants move outside the bus to unleash their best dance moves, carefully selecting the choice of music, and even flexing the power of their speakers.
With such lively competitions, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments, it’s no wonder Caravanites are always left yearning for more.
Why not add a 4th Bus?
Upon finding myself sold out in 2023, I couldn’t help but ponder a pressing question: “Why not simply add another bus?” If the issue revolved around the availability of hotel rooms, why not introduce a fourth bus willing to opt for slightly less luxurious accommodations, perhaps a three-star hotel? However, it wasn’t until after experiencing the trip first-hand that I grasped Frema’s explanation to Bernard on CBS regarding this very question—it’s a matter of intricate planning.
As much as I’d love to see additional buses, there’s undoubtedly more to consider than just their inclusion, factors I’m certain STC would readily accommodate. From what I observed, managing even the three buses proved to be a formidable task for the Citi team. My bus boasted six dedicated Citi team members, each fulfilling diverse roles ranging from organization to capturing videos and reporting. Introducing more buses would necessitate an expanded team, which might adversely affect operations at Citi FM/TV. After all, business must forge.
Furthermore, addressing restroom needs for the three buses poses a significant challenge. While we’re lucky to occasionally find areas with ample facilities or “free-range,” it’s not always the case. When we’re forced to queue for just two or three restrooms among all the Caravanites, particularly the females, it becomes a race against time—an aspect of the journey that Citi takes very seriously.
And even with our considerable numbers, the clamour of “Let’s go” from our ever-vigilant housemistress is incessant and energizing, urging us forward on our exhilarating.
Moreover, the Heritage Caravan operates like a well-oiled machine, with daily check-ins and check-outs at various hotels. The Citi team orchestrates a seamless experience, meticulously handling everything from room assignments to ensuring punctuality for breakfast, dinner, and post-dinner activities, as well as ensuring timely departures for our bus journeys. Sometimes, breakfast is even enjoyed on the bus, adding an extra layer of convenience to our bustling schedule.
Additionally, the package includes breakfast and dinner, leaving no provision for lunch as our constant movement means we’re always on the go. Thankfully, we were fortunate enough to have lunch sponsored by generous individuals on approximately four of the days. However, an unmanaged influx of participants would undoubtedly pose a logistical challenge to this well-coordinated operation.
Conclusion
From what I have seen and experienced in HC 2024, I can attest that the success of the Heritage Caravan over the years is undoubtedly attributed to the exceptional management prowess of the Citi team and this remains a testament to the power of meticulous planning and unwavering dedication.
As the sun sets on each day’s adventures and we gather to recount our experiences, it’s abundantly clear that the magic of the Caravan lies not just in the destinations we visit, but in the camaraderie forged along the way. And as we bid farewell to one journey, we eagerly anticipate the next, knowing that the spirit of the Heritage Caravan will continue to beckon us forth on unforgettable adventures for years to come.
If you’ve experienced the disappointment of being sold out in the past, I hope I’ve painted a vivid picture of the excitement and camaraderie awaiting those who seize the opportunity. With each passing day, those who have savoured the Caravan’s delights are already gearing up for another unforgettable journey.
HC isn’t just a trip; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the wonders of Ghana, to unwind, recharge, and revel in a week of pure bliss, leaving behind the worries and stresses of everyday life.
Don’t hesitate—seize the moment before it slips away once more. Act now, before you find yourself on the outside looking in. Join us on the Heritage Caravan and embark on a journey of a
lifetime.