on the west coast of Africa, is the smallest African country – only a six hour flight away, it is a popular and affordable winter destination attracting holidaymakers in search of sun, sea, sand and cultural experiences. Katherine Goodwin visited The Gambia in June 2007. Read Katherine’s report to find out more or call us on 0121 250 2211 or 01543 412768 to book your holiday to The Gambia.
Flight
I travelled to Gatwick Airport on the National Express coach, which ran very smoothly and took me to the terminal door. The aircraft was noisy, the entertainment was basic and the service onboard was slow, but the crew were pleasant and I slept most of the way.
Banjul Airport
Banjul Airport is a single building; but the airport boasts the only runway in the world where a space shuttle can crash land (thanks to funding from the USA). Upon arrival I was presented with a fan and a bottle of water. The ground crew were excellent and my bag was collected quickly so I was soon on my way to my hotel.
Hotels
I stayed at the five star Kairaba Hotel, situated on the golden beach of Kololi. This large tropical hotel is about a 20 minute drive from the airport and is set among 40 acres of mature gardens and has its own private beach. Although the hotel may not be up to our 5* standards, it is very clean and has well presented, air conditioned rooms which form a large horseshoe around the central pool and have shaded balconies or terraces. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from and the main restaurant, where breakfast is served, has a terrace that offers splendid views of the gardens and ocean.
On my second day I visited four more hotels: The Coconut Residence is a five star luxury boutique hotel with exclusive individual rooms, some with private pools, and it is claimed to have the best restaurant in Gambia. However, it is a short car journey to the beach from this hotel.
The Ngala Lodge is a very quirky property located on a cliff top with great ocean views. Originally a colonial mansion, the suites are each uniquely furnished using a combination of local and imported art to create individual character.
The Sun Beach Hotel & Resort is another five star hotel, situated close to the small fishing town of Bakau. This hotel would be suitable for families with children as it has excellent facilities and a safe beach.
Ocean Bay Hotel & Resort is situated on the beach in Bakau and is within easy walking distance of Cape Point, where you can enjoy small food stalls, cafes, local pubs, arts and craft shops and colourful African markets.
Excursions
That afternoon, I joined a Lazy Day Cruise Excursion down the river Gambia on the Coconut Residence’s own boat. Lunch was fantastic – it’s amazing what you can cook on a small barbeque and one gas ring!
I also enjoyed a Makasutu Tour, which offers a taste of village life. It involves a fair amount of walking in an eco friendly controlled environment. I was lucky enough to see large baboons in the wild; however, I was a bit unsure about the fortune teller in the middle of the woods!
The 4XD Excursion is a very long, hot and dusty day in a truck. However, you do get to see a lot of the Gambia and its way of life. Gambia is a developing country and is very poor (average monthly wage is £30) so begging is commonplace. The locals are friendly and most mean no harm, but it can be intimidating especially if you are alone. The facilities on this tour are basic – the comfort stop is a wee behind a termite mound – yes I did that!
We stopped at a local school, which I found very emotional as the children are so innocent to the ways of the world and do seem happy in their simple lives. However, it would be better for them if they had toilets and hopefully the trend towards responsible travel can help towards this if the profits from tourism are channelled correctly.
Summary
I had a fantastic time in the Gambia - it is a special place that I shall never forget. However, the country could be off putting for unseasoned travellers, as could the cost of Malaria tablets for a family, but they are a necessity.
