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Why Gambia?

Gambia is one of Africa’s hidden treasures, the smallest country in mainland Africa found on the West coast. A holiday destination full of charm where the locals are friendly and welcoming, the sights are colourful and breath-taking and where cultural traditions are preserved with pride. The pace of life is calm and serene promising a holiday that will leave you feeling relaxed and uplifted.

Things to do in Gambia

Shopping takes on a new form in Gambia, as commercial shopping centres are replaced by amazing craft stalls and outdoor markets. Everything from elaborate wood carvings, original artwork, African music and fashion clothing can be found here, and haggling prices with locals is extremely common! On a trip to Gambia you’re bound to leave with an array of stunning, discounted handcraft souvenirs.

Many people choose a holiday to Gambia solely for the beautiful unspoilt beaches. Unlike many tourist spots, you won’t be struggling to manoeuvre between cramped up sunbeds as there is plenty of uncrowded space to stretch out and soak up the sunshine.

There are lots of sporty activities to get involved in, including fishing, cycling, tennis, and volleyball. Many hotels also organise daily water polo and aerobics sessions. Golfers will find an 18-hole golf course in Fajara, located in the Banjul division.

A number of excursions run throughout the year, which vary according to the season. These include city tours, 4x4 drives, bird-watching canoe trips, home cooking classes, forest walks, reptile farms… the list is endless! There is something for everyone on a holiday to Gambia.

Places to see in Gambia

Explore the eclectic collection of towns and villages on your trip to Gambia. The capital city of Banjul is accessible through an impressive cream archway, which leads to a mixture of shanty buildings and mosques. Serrekunda is Gambia’s largest town, and is often busier than the capital city. The town is a maze of dust filled streets, brightly coloured clothed locals and roadside stalls which make up one of the main markets.

Tanji Village is the perfect place for experiencing the local culture, watching the day to day lives of this intriguing fishing community. This is a great place to wander round, take in the atmosphere and there will be plenty of photo opportunities too. Alternatively if nature is something of interest, you simply have to visit the Bijilo Forest Park. This small wildlife reserve offers guided walks and hosts a variety of exotic birds and monkeys! Choose from a selection of blissfully serene Bijilo hotels if you’re looking for some peace and quiet on your Gambia holiday.

If you’re looking for something a little more upbeat you must experience the nightlife in Kololi - one of the liveliest and most popular resorts for tourists. The ‘strip’ is filled with bustling bars, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos.

Temperatures in Gambia

Gambia enjoys sunshine and warmth all year round; however the peak seasons to travel are between November and April. Gambia tends to experience heavy rainfall during the months of August and September and from July to October the humidity levels are at their highest.

Between January and April, early mornings and evenings can be slightly cooler in temperature, but overall the weather is reliably hot and sunny all year round, with centigrade temperatures in the high twenties/low thirties.

Language and currency in Gambia

Although there are several tribal languages in Gambia, the official language of the country is English.

The currency in Gambia is the Dalasi and being outside of the Eurozone makes it a very attractive tourist destination. Like all exchange rates, the rate of the Pound to the Dalasi can fluctuate, but currently £1 will buy you 48 Dalasi (Feb 2012). A meal in an average restaurant or café would cost around 400 Dalasi (approximately £8). It isn’t recommended to rely on using credit cards whilst in Gambia, so it’s best to take a mixture of cash and travellers’ cheques.

Gambia is one of Africa’s hidden treasures and a must visit destination for those looking to experience an unforgettable holiday with its enviable weather, hospitable atmosphere and gorgeous surroundings. Tailor make your holiday to Gambia today with lowcostholidays.com. Holidays from £369pp on sale until the end of April 2012, then from the start of November 2012.