Accra is a city that has managed to escape the overblown fate of many other world capitals. Though it was once a major center of the gold and slave trade for four different empires, its tree-lined streets have the same intimate feeling that comes with the word town. Accra is an excellent place to meet locals and buy native Ghanaian art and craftwork, especially at the Arts Centre. Visitors here can find practically anything: sculptures, game-skin drums, exotic beads, and superb examples of the colorfully expressive Kente cloth. The Makola Market, also abundant in goods and bargains, is a fine place to experience a true West African bazaar.