Gambia (Africa)

Like a long splinter inserted into the side of Africa, just at the bulge, The Gambia is a low, narrow strip of a country that stretches inland from the beautiful West African coast, following the course of the majestic River Gambia. It may be the smallest country in Africa, sandwiched between north and south Senegal, but it is fast becoming noticed by the British package tour trade as a very acceptable alternative to the crowded resorts of Europe.

The capital of The Gambia, Banjul, stands on the south side of the magnificent river estuary, a worthy commercial centre that for tourists is little more than the gateway to the hotels spread along the 25 miles (40km) of beautiful sandy coastline. These palm-fringed Atlantic-washed beaches have been dubbed 'the smiling coast', as much for their tropical splendour as for the friendliness of the local people, who welcome visitors whole-heartedly at the nature reserves, quality hotels, and craft markets. All this is just six hours' flying time from London, close to the Equator on the same latitude as Barbados.

Sun, sea and sand are the main attractions for beach-seeking holidaymakers, predominantly from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. Nightlife is tame and will not appeal to keen "clubbers". Bird-watching, with a huge number of species to spot, is a major attraction. Fishing is now an up-and-coming interest, and every Nov there is a major fishing competition.

Hotel standards have improved greatly over the years and a few reach international levels. Some smaller, more intimate properties. Most accommodation is located on or near the beach to benefit from the Atlantic breeze. Guesthouses are appearing along the tourist tracks; some limited accommodation is available for adventurers up country.

The beaches in the Gambia stretch all the way from Fajara southwards into Cassamance (S Senegal), the beaches are splendid, soft, fine sand with a few rocky outcrops and palm trees. Even around the hotels, the beach is generally uncrowded and unpolluted, although it is not unusual to see stray cattle. All beaches are public, but hotels claim stretches of sand, providing security guards and loungers. High, frequent Atlantic breakers coupled with strong undercurrents demand caution. Most beaches have a flag system indicating safe times and areas for bathing. In the river estuary from Cape St Mary to Banjul the beaches are fine sand, which, depending on the tide, is either a pale golden colour or streaked with dark grey. The coastline is also suffering from erosion and this is more evident outside some hotels where sandbags are in place.

Activities are centred mainly around water sports, with instruction offered at some hotels. Sea and river fishing. Horse riding on the beach. Squash, tennis and an 18-hole golf course at Fajara Hotel. Banjul has a fascinating museum charting the history of West Africa.
Nightlife: mainly restricted to hotels or bars and restaurants nearby. A few beach bars open late. The atmosphere is informal and dressing up is not required, although shorts and vest tops are not allowed in most hotel restaurants for dinner. Most hotels offer "African Nights" featuring local music and dance. A casino in Kololi.

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