The Gambia (Gambia)

Member Name: swannie

Product:	Gambia
Date:	11/07/00 (311 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Plenty to do cheap people

Disadvantages: Mosquitoes roads

The Gambia is seen as a winter sunshine destination but it has a lot more to offer. It does have guaranteed sun in our winter, and quite a lot in the rainy season too. It does have sandy beaches and tourist hotels but this is not all.
Gambia has its share of wildlife but the emphasis is not on the big game of East Africa but on birds. It is a birdwatchers paradise. There are many types native to the country and then in spring and autumn their numbers are swelled by migrants stopping off on their journeys to and fro between Europe and southern Africa. As many are brightly coloured and easy to spot even the non-enthusiast can enjoy them.
The other thing The Gambia has in its advantage is the people – friendly and helpful. Although as anywhere there are rogues it is a country where it is safe to travel independently. By using for example public transport, you not only get to meet the people you save money too. So it may not be the fastest in the world, public taxis are not exclusive – if they see another potential passenger they stop to pick them up, but its part of the holiday. On the other hand if you want a little more certainty trained and recognised official guides can be cheaply hired to take care of all needs.
Most tourists stay in the coastal region. It is worth making the effort to travel inland to see more of Africa – as long as you have patience and a tolerance for bumpy roads.
And most people speak English – even if it has a local flavour.

Summary: