Gambian
Experiance

The Gambia may be Africa's smallest (inland) state but as a holiday destination it offers unrivalled culture, history and some world class Rest & Relaxation accommodation. Anne Burge discovered the lure of this wondrous country.

For good reason, Gambia has become known as the tourism jewel of the West African coast. This unexploited holiday destination, known as 'the smiling coast', ticks all the holiday boxes - and them some! The Gambia is perhaps best known for its connection to Alex Hayley's story of the slave trade - Roots, and most travellers who visit the country will certainly want to explore the rich history that exists throughout the region.
Eco-tourism has also paid a large part in preserving Gambia's unique cultural history. Nestled "within" Senegal, The Gambia boasts golden coastline to rival any Caribbean destination, a range of scenery taking in expansive nature reserves, mangroves, rural villages and the bustling markets of its capital Banjul. Just six hours flight from the UK, you will get a chance to savour real Gambia life, African culture and engage with what many describe as its "best asset", its people.
It is said that Alex Haley traced his family history back to Kunta Kinteh - a Gambian who was taken to the Americas. The Gambian Roots tour (www.gambia tours.gm) is a worthwhile excursion departing from Banjul ports, passing historical sights such as Albreda, the French slave trading post - where sits the freedom flag pole. Any slave that could swim across the wide stretch of water - amid treacherous currents - was given freedom. Here too is the Museum of Slavery, tracing more than 400 years of the slave trade.

At Juffureh, documented as the home village of Kunta Kinteh, you can pay a courtesy call to the Chief, at the bantaba (meeting place), where the chieftancy rule will be explained as well as how to become a chief in The Gambia. One of the highlights of the trip is the visit of the Kinteh clan.

Top choice to stay while you explore all that Gambia has to offer is the Coco Ocean Resort & Spa.
Accommodation at Coco Ocean ranges from stylish suites furnished using local materials to palatial penthouses - making this an ideal spot for honeymooners or those wanting complete R&R (Rest and Rejuvenation). The restaurants serve a tempting array of both local and international cuisine. However, Coco Ocean's trump card has to be its glorious spa offering hammams and therapies using natural ingredients.

Of course - food is another great attraction in any African nation and there is no shortage of local dishes. In particular, the popular Kombo Beach Hotel has a lively Brasserie, located on the waterfront with an abundance of seafood - roasted fresh fish Gambia Butterfish in foil or Gambia lobster with turmeric are a must-have.

Whether you are travelling around by foot, bus, boat or 4x4, you will feel at ease in both local villages and on the buzzing street markets of the vibrant capital Banjul. Responsible tourism is at the heart of Gambia's tourist industry, so at every opportunity community projects are linked into tourism.

Gambia is a great way to experience the very best of Africa and once you leave, you will be eager to return to discover more about the rich variety of this unique destination.

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