Day 18: How to...

...become a pro gutter skipper. Like me!


So in a few of my earlier posts I've mentioned "gutter skipping".

Gutter skipping is not an official/ recognised term but its pretty clear what it is- skipping gutters. Well, more precisely, jumping over gutters.

In Accra (I can't speak for the rest of the country...), the gutters are open- they are simply, uncovered shallow tunnels that run between the pavement and the street. So if you need to cross the road, you need to learn how to gutter skip (every few metres there's the occasional plank of wood but that's no fun!).

How to Gutter Skip: Tips & Tricks

• It's best just to take a large step over the gutter; if you misjudge a jump, you could fall in. Grim.
• Do not, however, spend too long resting with one foot on either side of the gutter. If you lose your balance, it'll be a total disaster. A quick, light step will get you over, hence the term "skip"
• If the gutter seems a little wide then seek out a plank to walk over instead
• BEWARE: a plank of wood is a plank of wood. Don't jump on it!

And whatever you do, DON'T LOOK DOWN...

Unless you're as brave as these two.