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Transcript of Gambia 2012-2013 Luxury Low
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7/31/2019 Gambia 2012-2013 Luxury Low
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The Gambia& Senegal - West Africa
November 2012 - October 2013
1987~2012
YEARS25
SERVING THE GAMBIA
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INRODUCION
4 For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
Welcometo Te Gambia ExperienceNobody knows West Arica like we do. We have been arranging holidaysto The Gambia or 25 years, earning a reputation as the specialist to the
destination and we have more recently extended our experience within the
region to Senegal and the islands o Cape Verde.
The range o holidays we oer gives you the best choice
o accommodation and fights to suit all budgets and we
realise the importance o matching each individual to the
right hotel it can make the dierence between a good
holiday and an unorgettable experience! But you dont
need to take our word or it, 89%* o our customers
would recommend us to their riends.
Sta with rst-hand experienceAll our reservations sta have visited The Gambia at
least once and each year return to ensure they have
up-to-date inormation on the country and hotels.
The vast majority have also been to Senegal, so when
booking your holiday you can speak with someone who
has been to the region and knows the properties well.
Theyll be happy to share this knowledge with you to
ensure you book the perect location or your holiday.
In act, in the last year our sta spent over 200 nights in
West Arica, ensuring that we are the experts.
Honeymoon and wedding plannersLooking or something dierent to the large all-inclusive
resorts o the Caribbean? The Gambia is something
dierent and exotic, and an increasingly popular wedding
and honeymoon destination. For some suggestions on
our avourite locations in both The Gambia and Senegal
please go to page 72.
Dedicated groups departmentWe have an experienced groups team in the UK who
can help with arrangements to take the stress away
as well as negotiate the best possible price or your
requirements. For more inormation on ree places
and the service we provide, please see page 73.
Biggest and best resort team
We realise our service to you does not stop themoment you step on the plane. In The Gambia we
have a team based permanently in the country, which
is headed up by our British resort manager, Joyce,
who has worked in The Gambia since 1985, and or
us or the last 15 years. We actively recruit Gambian
representatives, many o whom have been with us or
10 years or longer. They are keen to share their love or
their country, providing useul local inormation to help
you make the most o your stay. They will meet you at
the airport and make regular visits to your hotel, inviting
you to a welcome meeting to pass on their top tips or a
perect holiday. How much you decide to use our service
is up to you. In Senegal we work closely with a local
handling agent to look ater our customers in resort.
Unbeatable holiday choice to The GambiaWe oer the widest range o holidays, rom boutique
hotels to value or money properties, along with direct,
daytime fights and upgraded fying options; with our
experience we can help you select your perect trip.
Unbeatable holiday choice to SenegalThe Senegal Experience oers a wide range o quality
accommodation in careully selected river and beachlocations or why not choose one o our private tours?
You can enjoy this beautiul, French-speaking country
either by scheduled fights into Dakar rom a choice o 5
dierent UK airports, or via Banjul in The Gambia.
*Figure rom winter 2011/12 holiday questionnaires.
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INRODUCION
Here is a sample o the holiday options we can oer
or your next winter sun holiday, but dont orget thatwe fy to both destinations throughout the year.
See page 78 or inormation on summer holidays in West Arica.
Whats new?Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp is back in our programme with the
opportunity to visit the chimps in their natural habitat and other amazing
wildlie including hippos in the River Gambia National Park
Game shing and other organised shing trips based at Sitanunku Lodge,
or as day trips rom other Gambia hotels
Private 3 to 7 night tours into Senegal departing rom The Gambia
Lamantin Beach Hotel in Saly has reopened with its very own beach club
The luxury experienceThe best boutique properties, spa hotels and unique lodges in The Gambia
and Senegal are exclusively available through us. Premium Class fights rom
Gatwick to Banjul and private transers are also available to enhance your
holiday experience.
All-inclusive holidaysThis year we eature 4 hotels on all-inclusive, with alternative dining packages
available at a wide range o hotels (see page 17).
Multi-centre holidays
Your holiday in The Gambia and beyond can be as relaxing or as adventuroas you wish. I you want to split your holiday between a luxury lodge and
beach hotel, an eco-property and a spa hotel, or venture urther aeld to
Senegal then we can help you choose and make it all happen as smoothly a
possible. Some ideas o our avourite combinations can be ound on pages
68-69.
BirdwatchingYou dont have to be an avid twitcher to enjoy the variety o birdlie on oe
this region, whether it be wandering around the grounds o your hotel or o
an organised birdwatching tour. We are delighted to be working once again
with Chris Packham see pages 70 & 71 or inormation on his 2013 tours
More online Gambia.co.uk & Senegal.co.ukVisit our comprehensive websites where you can book securely online 24
hours a day and view more in-depth inormation about the countries and
all our careully selected accommodation including maps, hints and tips,
customer, sta and press reviews, online chat acility, plus extensive photo
galleries and videos.
The Serenity serviceBoth The Gambia Experience and The Senegal Experience are part o Sere
Holidays Ltd, an independent, ully bonded tour operator which prides itsel
the quality o its holidays and the personal service provided to customers.
25 years experience o organising holidays to West Arica
In-depth knowledge o the destinations
FREE Gambia/Senegal Guide with money o vouchers or holidaymake
staying in The Gambia
Loyalty discounts or repeat customers
5* AITO sustainable tourism status
Brochure priced holidays include in-fight meals and transers plus 20kg
luggage allowance
Fully bonded to ensure customers have complete nancial security
The Gambia Experience as a
company provided everything I needed.
Sta in the UK were able to answer
questions helpully and with real
knowledge.
MR WESLAND
London
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INRODUCION
Why Choose...Te Gambia or Senegal, or perhaps bothThe neighbouring West Arican countries o
The Gambia and Senegal share a lot o similarities
in their traditions, landscapes, climate and culture
but there are also many dierences.
Primarily, The Gambia is an easier option both in terms o travel and
communication as it is English speaking and serviced with direct fights rom
the UK, with resort areas being easily accessible. Senegal requires a little
more eort but or more adventurous travellers this will be well rewarded.
Both countries benet rom:
Fantastic winter sun, rom November until June
Uncrowded sandy beaches
Same time zone, so no jet lag
Varied birdlie, wildlie and shing
Exotic, vibrant cultures
Here we try to highlight the main dierences to help you make your decision
but i you need any more help do not hesitate to call us or visit our very
detailed websites, incorporating an online chat acility.
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INRODUCION
The Gambia The smiling coast o AricaThe Gambia is the perect, sae introduction to Arica. I youre a rst time
traveller to this area or to The Gambia itsel you need to be prepared or
visiting a developing country but also to all in love with the place; we have
and so too have many o our customers, in act last winter 53%* o those
travelling with us had been to The Gambia beore. As well as the many
attractions o the country and its people, its hard to nd another winter
sun destination that enables you to leave the cold o England on a winters
morning and be at your hotel in 30C sunshine by the aternoon. But there
are many more reasons to visit The Gambia including:
Excellent, uncrowded beaches o golden sand
Direct fights approximately 6 hours and transers are short
English speaking and locals are very riendly
Outside the Euro zone, oering good value or money
Wide range o quality accommodation and restaurants
Unspoilt and uncommercialised
River, bush and beach excursions to experience the wildlie and people
Permanent team o European and Gambian sta oering expert support
* Figure rom winter 2011/12 holiday questionnaires
Senegal The French coast o AricaSenegal remains a relatively undiscovered destination or British
holidaymakers, although it has long been a avourite destination or the
French and Belgians. There are many reasons why a growing number o o
customers are choosing to venture to Senegal, many opting to combine it
with a visit to The Gambia, here are just a ew:
Clear blue water and abulous beaches
Interesting tourist sites: le de Gore, Le Lac Rose
Extensive birdlie, wildlie and animal reserves
Activities including watersports, sailing, horse-riding and gol
World class ocean and river shing
Exotic, riendly people and excellent cuisine
The Gambia and Senegal share many
attractions: a sun-bathed tropical coastline, lush
riverine landscapes teeming with birds and monkeys,
the inectious exuberance o the people but they
also oer a very dierent type o experience.
PHILIP BRIGGS
Author of Insight Guide to Gambia & Senegal
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HE GAMBIA
What to expect...Te smiling coast of AfricaFor a winter sun holiday and an introduction to
Arica, The Gambia is hard to beat the climate,
riendly people and short fight times all add to its
appeal; summer oers a quiet alternative to the
busier resorts o Europe.
Previous visitors agree with us: over 50%* o people who travelled in winter
2011/12 with The Gambia Experience have been beore and many return
time and time again. (*Figure rom winter 2011/12 holiday questionnaires)
Some background inormationThe Gambia is a ormer British colony; Gambians within the resort areas all
speak English so communication within your hotel, in restaurants and whilst
out and about is very easy. It is one o the smallest countries in Arica, situated
on approximately the same latitude as Barbados. Mostly fat, the country is
dominated by the impressive River Gambia rom which it takes its name.
Experience something dierentAlthough when lying on the beach or relaxing by the pool you could be in
any tropical destination, it is also easy to experience the local culture and eel
as though youve truly arrived in Arica. Travel to rural villages to watch palm
wine tappers, drive through the Arican bush to hear the monkeys chattering
and watch focks o colourul birds fy overhead; even rom the comort
o your hotel you can listen to the drums o local entertainers and watch
incredible energetic dancing. For rst time visitors to Arica, The Gambia
is a good introduction as it is English speaking, fights are around six hours
and the hotels are all airly close to the airport so transers are also short
compared to some destinations.
However, The Gambia isnt right or everyone and it is important to know
what to expect and to choose the right location thats where we can help.
People travelling to a developing country or the rst time can nd it a
culture shock there is poverty and begging but there is also genuine
hospitality and you will meet some o the riendliest people on Earth.
Outside the hotels and on the beaches there are Gambians selling ruit,
nuts and handicrats but it is the ones trying to work as unocial guides or
bumsters that can become a nuisance, although numbers are decreasing.
Again, we try to prepare everyone with advice in our guide book and
welcome meetings on the best way to deal with them you will soon realise
that theres no need to worry.
The population o The Gambia is mostly Muslim, although there is a small
number o Christians who live alongside them in peace even intermarrying.
Other cultures are accepted and alcohol is served in the hotels, restaurants
and shops the country even has its own brewery. Although tolerant, we do
ask customers to adopt a modest standard o dress when outside the hotels,
particularly in more rural areas. The estival o Ramadan lasts or one month
rom 9th July 2013.
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Value or moneyThe Gambia is outside the Euro zone and oers better value or money
than many other popular tourist destinations, both when in resort and in
the cost o your holiday, particularly The Luxury Collection and Unique
Collection hotels. The Gambias currency is the dalasi and in the last year
the exchange rate was between 45 and 47 dalasi to the pound.
No language barrierThe ocial language in The Gambia is English and this is widely spoken;
newspapers and road signs are also printed in English so youll immediately
eel at ease. Gambians are educated in English but there are several tribal
languages including Mandinka, Wolo and Jola so most Gambians are at
least bilingual.
Hotel standardsAs a developing country, hotel service levels and gradings in The Gambia
cannot be compared to those in European destinations, although there
is some excellent quality accommodation on oer. As a destination it is
not over-developed with no high-rise hotels, and there are a number o
internationally recognised sustainable tourism projects i this is something
that interests you, consider staying at Mandina Lodges, Sitanunku Lodge or
Sandele Eco-Retreat or read more online at Gambia.co.uk/ST
In February 2010 hotels in The Gambia received ocial ratings or the rs
time, awarded by the Gambia Tourism Board. The ratings were awarded
largely due to acilities provided rather than service levels so we continue
use our own rating system, which is represented with a hibiscus fower an
based on the views o our customers and our own 25 years o experiencThe GTBs ocial ratings are in brackets where dierent to our own:
5 / Boutique hotels Coco Ocean, The Kairaba, Ngala Lodge
4 hotels Sheraton (5), Ocean Bay (5), Laico Atlantic
3.5 / 3 hotels Kombo Beach (4), Senegambia (3), Sunbeach (4),
Bijilo Beach, Bungalow Beach, Sunset Beach, Bakotu (1)
2.5 / 2 hotels Palma Rima, Arican Village, Cape Point (3), Sarges Hot
Bakotu, by some quirk o the system, received only a single star, however
we are condent that it deserves its 3 rating and customer eedback tell
us this is accurate. Some properties, such as Mandina Lodges and Sitanun
Lodge, have not been assessed under the system o classication; we too
consider these to be unique properties which oer quality accommodatioand personal service but do not sit perectly within The Luxury Collection
HE GAMBIA
Activities and excursionsFor many guests, relaxing in the sunshine ollowed by a rereshing swim is
as much activity as they re looking or on their holiday, but i you want a lit
more to do, there is plenty to choose rom. There are excellent spa acilit
at Coco Ocean and The Sheraton hotels, good shing and birdwatching
opportunities, an 18-hole sand gol course at Fajara, as well as sports acili
within some hotels. We also oer a range o organised excursions which
include travelling through the Arican bush in a 4-wheel drive truck and
cruising the waterways by catamaran or Arican pirogue, or we can sugge
a host o things to do or the more independent holidaymaker. For more
suggestions on memorable days out see pages 14-15 and 70-71 or visit
Gambia.co.uk/Excursions
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There are magnifcent beaches, bustling markets and a magical
atmosphere that will entice you to return again and again. But travel with
someone who knows what they are doing and is as sympathetic to the country
as it is to the needs o the visitor. That is where The Gambia Experience wins
over any other tour operator.DIARMUID MACDONAGH
Dorset Society
A antastic climateAn ideal winter sun destination, The Gambia enjoys almost
uninterrupted sunshine and high daytime temperatures rom November
to June, and rainall is virtually unheard o. It is less known as a summer
destination but many customers preer this quieter time when the
landscape is transormed into lush green with colourul fowering trees.
= London Averages
HE GAMBIA
MedicationWe strongly suggest you consult your doctor beore booking. Although
no inoculations are compulsory or entry rom the EU, certain medication,
including anti-malarial tablets, will be recommended. Up-to-date advice is
available rom the World Health Organisation atwww.who.int/ith and
the Department o Health leafet (Re T7.1) Health Advice or Travellers
is available rom your GP, travel agent or can be downloaded at Dh.gov.uk
The Gambia is one o many countries where the risk o contracting malaria
is very real but this is an avoidable illness provided precautions are taken.
We suggest using an eective insect repellent to avoid being bitten and
ensuring you complete the ull course o anti-malarial medication prescribed.
Get out and see the real GambiaI you want to travel independently in The Gambia most hotels have a taxi
rank nearby. However, although they are regulated, most wouldnt pass a
UK MOT test. Bush taxis and local buses cover the main routes and are
overcrowded with people and animals, but are a cheap way o getting
around and absorbing the local favour. There is a ully lit tarmac road romthe airport to the hotel areas but o the main highways road suraces can be
a little bumpy, to say the least! The Banjul to Barra erry is another way to see
the everyday lives o locals it is a hectic, colourul, noisy experience taking
you across the river to the north bank and this is also the route to Senegal.
Laid back nightlieThe appeal o The Gambia is how quickly you unwind and leave behind
the stress o the UK. For most o our guests evening entertainment usually
involves a nice meal, a ew drinks and perhaps watching a local band.
There is a good selection o bars and restaurants, particularly in Kololi and
Kotu, either within walking distance or a short taxi ride rom your hotel.
There are also a ew nightclubs, two small casinos and most hotels oersome entertainment rom a single kora player to an Arican dance troupe.
FamiliesAdventurous children will nd a holiday in The Gambia a memorable
experience; visiting a school and meeting Gambian children is very
educational and seeing a monkey or monitor lizard in its natural habitat
or the rst time is an experience at any age. And then there are the
uncrowded, sandy beaches to explore and enjoy. The majority o hotels
oer child discounts and, although there are no organised kids clubs,
several have ad hoc activities and acilities or children and separate childrens
pools our sta would be happy to oer specic advice.
Sunshine hours (Average)
2 1 1 6 5 3672 4 5 6
10 7 6 21 19 1422207 10 1 3 17
8 9 9 6 6 86910 10 10 10
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar MayApr Jun July Aug Sep Oct
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar MayApr Jun July Aug Sep Oct
32 31 31 29 31 32303232 34 33 32
Temperature
O
C(Average maximum)
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EAING OU
Eating outA wide range of cuisine to choose from
I never get bored o eating out in The Gambia every year there are new restaurants to try out or
our Gambia Guide. It is hard to single one out but why not try a hotel restaurant or that special occasion?
Amongst my avourites are the Thai menu at Coco Ocean in Bijilo with its extensive, reshly prepared dishes,
along with Ngala Restaurant in Bakau, oering an equally delicious international menu. But or a more relaxed
alternative, head or Gayas Art Ca or great tapas and baked cheesecake with a choice o toppings including
my avourite, butterscotch and walnut!
A personal experience
JOYCE SAVROULAKIS, Resort Manager, Te Gambia Experience
Ngala LodgeFine dining in a cli top setting
Clay OvenPopular Indian cuisine
ShirazHome-cooked Lebanese ood
Boss LadyGambian open-air restaurant/ca
ScalaFamily-run restaurant with an extensive
international menu and good steaks
Jo Jos Bistro & Wine BarSmall but tasteul menu with
daily specials
Captains TableInternational cuisine in Kotu
Al BashaLebanese cuisine
Tao RestaurantAsian restaurant in Kololi
El SolMexican tapas, specialities and
cocktails
Here are some examples o restaurants and cuisineto be ound close to resort areas:
The Gambia has a good choice o restaurants serving
a range o cuisine both within the hotels and resorts,
which have attracted a number o international ches
who now live and work in the country.
You can choose between Chinese, Indian, Thai, Lebanese, Italian, English
and o course Gambian cuisine, to name just a ew. The standard is generally
good and prices are a little lower than in the UK a 3 course meal in one o
the countrys top restaurants costs around 30 per person excluding drinks
whilst a simple meal and a beer can cost around 10.
O particular note is the abundance o reshly caught seaood including
ladysh, barracuda, captain sh, snapper, buttersh, lobster and huge
Atlantic prawns. Vegetarians are increasingly well catered or and many
hotels will oer a vegetarian dish or cook something to order.
Restaurant guide and discount vouchersAll o our package holidaymakers receive a complimentary Gambia Guide
with their tickets, which includes a restaurant guide with descriptions o the
restaurants, the type o cuisine they serve and their locations. Better still,
there are discount vouchers o up to 10%, valid in the eatured restaurants
to save you money whilst on holiday. To get a favour o the excellentcuisine you can expect beore you book visit our online restaurant guide
Gambia.co.uk/Restaurants. For those who preer to budget or their holiday
in advance, all-inclusive holidays and dining packages are now available at a
selection o hotels, please see page 17 or urther details.
Whilst most o our hotels are based on bed and breakast or all-inclusive it is
possible to book hal board i you preer. Mandina Lodges, Sitanunku Lodge
and Sandele Eco-Retreat are based on hal board due to their locations
and provide an opportunity to sample resh local produce, oten cooked to
order. A stay at Chimp Rehabilitation Camp will be on a ull board basis.
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RESOR AREAS
Gambia resort areasWhich resort to choose?
The Gambia oers a good choice o resort areas o dierent sizes and atmospheres, however it is easy to visit
other resorts i you wish to explore urther aeld.
Some assume that on holiday in The Gambia people are conned to their hotels but this really isnt the case at all. Whilst some customers do choose a hotel-
based holiday, the coastal area is only small so it is airly quick to travel rom one resort to another, and to/rom the airport; it is possible to stay in a quiet area
but still enjoy the attractions o a busier resort or example it takes 20-30 minutes in a taxi rom Banjul to Kololi, depending on trac. Alternatively, why notchoose a twin centre with one o our more remote lodges to enjoy the best o both worlds?
Although not overdeveloped like some tourist destinations, most resorts have a taxi rank, bank, telephone centre, supermarket, crat market, bars and
restaurants. All areas are busier during winter and some o the bars and restaurants will close in summer so its best to check with us i you want a particular
acility. Here are brie details to help you select the ideal location or your holiday but call us i you would like more advice as all o our sta have visited each o
the resorts. All transer times are approximate rom Banjul airport.
The Kairaba
Senegambia
Bungalow Beach
Bakotu
Kombo Beach
Sunset Beach
Palma Rima
Ngala Lodge
African Village
Sunbeach
Cape Point
Ocean Bay
Coco Ocean
Laico
Atlantic
Beach
Mandina Lodges
Ferry toNorth Bank
& Senegal
Bijilo Beach
The Sheraton
Sandele
Sitanunku Lodge
Sarges Hotel
Hibiscus House
Chimpanzee
RehabilitationProject
KEY
Villages
Properties
BIJILO
0
0
5
3Miles
Km
SCALE
THE RIVER GAMBIAATLANTIC OCEAN
ATLANTIC OCEAN
MANDINARI
BARRA MAYAMBA
SERREKUNDA
LAMIN
BANJUL
SUKUTA
OLD
JESWANG
BAKAU
CAPE POINT
TANJI
BRUFUT
OLD
YUNDUM
GHANA
TOWN
BAKOTEH
TUJURING JAMBUR
YUNDUM
KOLOLI
KOTU
FAJARA
AbukoNature
Reserve
BanjulInternational
Airport
BijiloNational
Park
OysterCreek
GolfCourse
BUNIADU
JEREH
KUNGOTO
ESSAU
DOG ISLAND
BANJUL
ATLANTICOCEAN
SOUTH SENEGAL
BRIKAMA
NORTH SENEGAL
THE GAMBIA
Sandele
te
o an ,
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RESOR AREAS
Kololi The Gambias liveliest resort
Stay here i you want the convenience o everything on your doorstep.
This is by ar the most established resort in The Gambia; known locally
as The Strip it consists o three streets o bars, restaurants and nightclubs
which cater or tourists, locals and the ex-pat community. In total there are
over 30 restaurants, 2 casinos, a crat market, banks, internet cas and
shops. The sandy beach here does suer rom erosion so the size does vary
but it is still possible to lie on a sun lounger on the beach outside your hotel.
Hotels in Kololi: The Kairaba, Senegambia and Sarges Hotel.
Transfer time:25 minutes
Kotu A beachside cluster of hotels, small bars and restaurants
This area provides a quieter, more low-key alternative to Kololi and there is a
small selection o beach bars and restaurants, most within hotels. It is a good
choice or amilies as the beach is fat and sandy, and the area is also popular
with birdwatchers. Other acilities include a taxi rank, exchange bureau, small
mini-market, telephone centre and a crat market.
Hotels in Kotu: Kombo Beach, Bungalow Beach, Bakotu and Sunset Beach.
Transfer time: 30 minutes
Bakau A working African town
Bakau is a bustling little town with a maze o small dirt roads and is an ideal
area to experience the real Arica watch boats bringing in their catches at
the shing port or wander around the market where Gambians shop every
day or their essentials. You will nd a ew restaurants serving traditional
Gambian dishes, as well as banks, a small supermarket, post oce and the
popular Kachikally crocodile pool.
Hotels in Bakau:Arican Village. Ngala Lodge is just outside Bakau.
Transfer time: 40 minutes
Bijilo For peaceful relaxing holidays
The beauty o Bijilo is that there is very little here although it is only a
5-minute drive to the lively resort o Kololi. It is slowly developing but there
are no nightclubs to disturb the peace, just a ew hotels and beach bars on a
long stretch o beach with very ew people on it.
Hotels in Bijilo: Coco Ocean and Bijilo Beach.
Transfer time:25 minutes
Cape Point Quieter area with fantastic beach
The number o tourists in this area has increased in recent years and there
are now a ew restaurants as well as a small crat market, mini-market and
exchange bureau plus bustling Bakau is only a 10-minute walk away.
The highlight is the beach which is one o the best in the country.
Hotels in Cape Point: Ocean Bay, Sunbeach and Cape Point.
Transfer time: 45 minutes
Brufut Cliff top residential area
A popular residential area approximately 8 kilometres south o Kololi.
There is a long stretch o unspoilt beach.
Hotels in Brufut: Sheraton and Hibiscus House (inland).
Transfer time: 25 minutes
Banjul The Gambias capital
The capital is mainly an administrative centre with little aimed at tourists
although there is one museum, the Arch 22 and a ew restaurants servinglunch. There is also a large market where Gambians barter or their
everyday needs. The beach is one o the largest in The Gambia.
Hotels in Banjul: Laico Atlantic Beach.
Transfer time:55 minutes
South Kotu For a more informal atmosphere
There are a number o small restaurants and bars on the road leading dow
to the beach which is sandy with only a couple o buildings beside it.
Hotels in South Kotu: Palma Rima.
Transfer time: 30 minutes
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UNIQUEOU & ABOU
10 memorable daysOut & about in Te GambiaThe Gambia oers an easy and sae opportunity to experience the
untamed, raw culture o West Arica.
The Gambia may not have the big game saaris or large attractions o some other Arican countries, but
what it does have are genuine cultural experiences, not articial purpose-built tourist attractions.
It is a small country, the coastline is a mere 80 kilometres long, so it is easy to get out and explore the
region. Here are our top 10 experiences which can either be part o an organised excursion or,
or the more independent, can be explored alone.
The highlight o my break to The Gambia has
to be watching the locals land their aternoon catchat Bakau fsh market. The colours, smells and hive
o activity gave me an appreciation o everyday lie.
Certainly an experience that my wie and I will
never orget.
PAUL KENNY
Commercial Manager
Spot some o the 540 species o birdYou dont have to be a serious birdwatcher to enjoy the colour and sheer
number o birds in The Gambia - even in the hotel gardens youll spot many
dierent species. However i you are one o the many who want to take
things a little more seriously, we recommend one o the birdwatching tours
led by TV presenter Chris Packham or his guide in The Gambia, Malick Suso
(see pages 70-71 or more inormation).
Cruise on a catamaran to Sitanunku LodgeSpend a leisurely couple o hours on board a catamaran travelling across
the impressive River Gambia and through its tributaries to Sitanunku Lodge
on the north bank. En route theres the chance to spot dolphins who oten
play in the wash o the boat or just lay back and enjoy the sunshine. And on
arrival at Sitanunku theres the opportunity to venture out in a kayak, cool o
in the plunge pool and enjoy lunch al resco beside the river.
14 For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
Visit a local schoolThe teachers and children o schools welcome visitors, oten with
demonstrations o their singing and methods o teaching. This is an excellent
way to learn about everyday lie in The Gambia but be warned, it can be a
very emotional and humbling experience. We recommend taking donations
o pens, exercise books or ootballs with you which you can buy at markets
in The Gambia.
Spend a day on an unspoilt secluded beachMany o the beaches directly outside the hotels are sandy and uncrowded
but travel just a short distance and you can nd some virtually empty, unspoilt
beaches. I you preer some acilities we suggest a visit to Sanyang in the south
where youll nd a beach bar, a ew sunbeds and hammocks but little else! You
may even be lucky enough to catch some local wrestling matches on Sundays.
1 3
2 4
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OU & ABOU
Contact your Local ravel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk
Support the local industryHead to any o the local crat markets or the chance to try your hand at
bartering and pick up some souvenirs. Bakau crat market is one o the best
places or woodcarvings and the tie-dye actory in Serrekunda is also worth
visiting to see how the abrics are made.
Home cooking course with IdaExperience a day in the lie o a Gambian on this ascinating home cookery
course. Ida will escort you to the local market to take in the hustle and bustleo shopping or ingredients beore returning to her home to prepare and eat
a traditional Gambian dish.
Watch local shermen bring in their catchThe shing markets at Tanji and Bakau are ull o colour, sounds and smells
as the men bring in the catch and the women and children help to unload
and prepare the sh. A great way to experience local favour and get some
colourul photographs (just dont orget to ask permission rst).
Get up close with a crocodileKachikally crocodile pool in Bakau is one o the most amous tourist spots in
The Gambia and has been attracting visitors or years. The pool has around
100 crocodiles including the most well-known, Charlie who is an impressive
two-metres long. You can get some great photographs o the crocs basking
in the sun, and learn more about traditional belies that the pool has special
ertility and healing powers. I you preer to keep your distance, enjoy lunch
or a drink at Calypso bar in Cape Point which overlooks a natural sea lake
where you might also spot a crocodile.
Watch a local ootball matchGambians love ootball and youll see international ootball shirts and local
asking you which team you support. I you get the chance to attend a loca
match its a great way o experiencing the passion or the sport it can be
very noisy though with cheering, singing and drumming.
Pamper yoursel at Coco Oceans world-class spaThe boutique hotel has a 1800m2 spa acility with thalasso pool, small gym
Finnish sauna, Moroccan Hammam and ull range o beauty treatments.
For more ideas o places to see enabling you to experience more o this
wonderul country, its wildlie and its people, and or a ull list o organisedexcursions, visit Gambia.co.uk/Excursions or speak to our representative.
It was time or the part I had been looking
orward to the most the school visit. Everyone was
so welcoming and excited and within minutes
I ound mysel sat behind a little desk surrounded by
smiling aces exactly how a school should be
ull o lie and un.
LAURA CARLEDGE
etc magazine
5
9
6
10
7
8
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First Class LoungeThe air-conditioned airport lounge in Banjul can be purchased either in
advance or locally, however availability is limited. Prices rom 15
Scheduled serviceWe oer scheduled fights to Banjul with Brussels Airlines in both economy
and business class, however this is not a non-stop service. Please speak to a
member o our reservations team i you are interested.
Pampering spas
Whether you want to spend a whole week pampering yoursel, or are
looking or just one or two treatments during your stay, there are some
antastic spa hotels in The Gambia and Senegal; imagine enjoying a relaxing
massage whilst listening to the sound o the waves in one o the treatment
rooms overlooking the ocean. Also i there are members o your party that
are not interested in the spa, the hotels are located beside sandy beaches
with excellent cuisine and a range o other acilities so there should be
something to please all. For more details see:
Boutique Coco Ocean Resort & Spa, The Gambia pages 20-21
4 Sheraton Gambia Hotel, The Gambia pages 36-37
5 Lamantin Beach Hotel, Senegal pages 60-61
Although it does not have spa acilities, guests staying at Ngala Lodge in The
Gambia can enjoy a massage, manicure or other treatment in the comort
o their own room. Guests taking the all-inclusive light package at Ocean Bay
Hotel will receive a complimentary 15 minute massage during their stay.
For more inormation visit Gambia.co.uk/Spa
For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
LUXURY
We are pleased to oer the only upgraded fights direct to Banjul, and
can arrange additional extras to ensure you are relaxed at every stage o
your holiday. Availability on these exclusive services is airly limited so we
would recommend booking early.
In addition to the choice o luxurious and unique
accommodation, we can also arrange other benets
to enhance your holiday experience and to make
your journey more comortable.
Te Luxury Collection& pampering spasFly in stylePremium Class is available on all our Friday Gatwick fights throughout
winter, oering a wide range o benets both at the airport and on board
which are not enjoyed by passengers travelling in economy. Airport
lounges at both Gatwick and Banjul are included, along with a 30kg luggage
allowance, a dedicated check-in and priority boarding. Once on board
you can benet rom a seat pitch o 33 at the ront o the aircrat, whilst
enjoying complimentary drinks, an upgraded meal service and your personal
entertainment system. Premium Class flying includes increased Airport
Passenger Duty (Government tax) charges o 130 per person.
Return supplement rom 299
Extra legroom seatingOn our Tuesday fight rom Gatwick we can oer a dedicated area at
the ront o the aircrat with a 33 seat pitch and pre-bookable seating.
Alternatively, a limited number o emergency exit seats may be available.
Return supplement rom 100
Airport GoldHolidaymakers can relax at the airport beore departure with our Airport
Gold Package, possible when travelling rom Gatwick on Tuesdays or when
Premium Class is not available. It entitles you to the use o a business lounge
in the UK, an extra 10kg luggage allowance, a complimentary drink in each
direction on board the aircrat and entry to the First Class lounge at Banjul
Airport on your return. Prices rom 75
Private transersOn arrival at Banjul Airport, avoid the crowds and get whisked away to your
hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. For more details visit
Gambia.co.uk/Luxury. Prices rom 40 per car each way
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UNIQUE
ON THIS PAGECoco Ocean is quite
simply the most
luxurious hotel in
The Gambia
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Coco Ocean is the loveliest hotel Ive visited inWest Africa. My suite was furnished with Moroccanfurniture and subtle, luxurious fabrics and I loved thetouches such as homemade jam and fresh papayasfrom the hotel garden.
SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
Half board 30
Air-conditioning included
Single room 32
3rd person sharing -25
Child sharing (2-15 years) -25
All supplements and room upgrades are per
person per night based on twin occupancy
More Online Gambia.co.uk/CocoOcean
CUISINE
The Courtyard/Safran restaurant breakfast and
evening dinners
Coco Beach restaurant lunchtime grills and
salads overlooking the beach, evening Thai menu
PRIVATE TRANSFERS
We are unable to include these as standard due
to limited availability of vehicles. However, private
transfers are available at 40 per car each way
(maximum 4 persons)
HOTEL FACILITIES
Tiered swimming pool, plus private
Club villa/Beach house pool
Sugar Cane Bar
Individual beach cabanas
Gift shops, hairdresser
Chauffeured car for hire
Internet/business facilities, Wi-Fi in lobby
Creek trips by African pirogue (payable locally)
89 rooms
ROOM FACILITIES
King size beds (twin mattresses)
Air-conditioning
Satellite television
Minibar
Safety deposit box, telephone, hairdryer
Bathrobe, slippers, toiletries
Unpacking service (on request)
ROOM CHOICE
Deluxe suites are larger with a private balcony or
terrace 18
Superior suites have a bedroom with lounge area
and a private terrace 24
Club villas have a large terrace and share a
private pool, from 34
Details of other suites are available on request
Penthouses, Royal suites and Beach houses
10% SPA DISCOUNTS FOR OUR GUESTSThe Coco Oceans 1800m2 spa facility offers an exciting range of treatments
and facilities, which are unrivalled anywhere in The Gambia. These include
a Thalasso pool, ice-cold plunge pool, Hammam, Finnish sauna, small gym
and relaxation area. The full range of treatments available is listed on our
website but includes massages, body wraps, facials, waxing and manicures,
and Gambia Experience guests receive a 10% discount.
As the most luxurious hotel in The Gambia, Coco Oceanhas established itself as the place to stay for celebritiesand discerning holidaymakers looking for elegance and
exquisite surroundings. It is perfect for any special occasion,
but offers excellent value for money compared with spa hotels
internationally and the beachfront location is hard to beat.
Whilst for many guests the main attraction is the fantastic spa facility, its
stunning location on an unspoilt stretch of beach just 2 kilometres from
the lively resort of Kololi, and the excellent levels of service and cuisine make
this much more than simply a spa hotel. The Moroccan-inspired architectureand dcor, featuring high ceilings and domes, keep the buildings cool and
maximise the use of natural light.
You will find sunbeds in tranquil spots around the gardens and private seating
areas close to the hotels main tiered swimming pool; down on the beach
there are individual cabanas providing welcome shade. The grounds slope
towards the sea, enhancing the views, although golf buggies are available to
help avoid the many steps. Visiting dignitaries, Heads of State and businesses
often hold large functions in the stunning gardens.
Set within the lush tropical gardens, all the open-plan suites and villas are light
and airy, but for added comfort we recommend one of the sumptuous room
upgrades. The fourteen Club villas have impressive private outside relaxation
areas and share a swimming pool beside the ocean, but for the best location
in the hotel try one of the three Beach houses, which are extremely spaciousand sit directly on the beachfront.
Within the hotel there is a choice of restaurants and menus, with
international chefs producing dishes from Morocco and Thailand, as well as
European cuisine. In addition there are specialities of the day featuring cuisine
from around the world. The main restaurant offers al fresco or more formal
dining and is the perfect place to start the day with a relaxing champagne
breakfast, whilst the Coco Beach, serving lunchtime grills and an evening
Thai menu, has possibly the best views of any restaurant in The Gambia.
Coco Ocean Resort & SpaBijilo
Boutique Hotel Exclusive
Beachfront Spa
For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
Jane Labous, Travel Writer and Broadcaster
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1-Nov
15-Nov
18-Dec
24-Dec
4-Mar
25-Mar
26-Nov
10-Dec
15-Feb
21-Feb
1-Jan
10-Jan
4-Apr
11-Apr
16-Nov
25-Nov
28-Jan
14-Feb
25-Dec
31-Dec
26-Mar
3-Apr
11-Dec
17-Dec
22-Feb
3-Mar
11-Jan
27-Jan
12-Apr
30-Apr
7
10
14
No. of
Nights
1172 1156 1065 1058 1563 1620 1207 1188 1205 1282 1195 1170 1286 1286 1137
1467 1453 1330 1577 2016 1882 1513 1502 1587 1587 1484 1463 1624 1624 1421
1698 1657 1521 1925 2334 2045 1739 1725 1738 1765 1723 1704 1832 1748 1634
WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast
Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Junior suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.
For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.
Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 79, 11 Dec 31 Dec 98, 1 Jan 30 Apr 81
FLIGHT CHOICE
Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and
Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham
All flights are direct to The Gambia
In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and
transfers are included in brochure priced hol
Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats
See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informat
Club villa and Beach house private pool
Deluxe suite
Contact your Local ravel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk
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More Online Gambia.co.uk/Ngala
VOTED TOP BY OUR GUESTSIn winter 2011/12 our customers once again gave Ngala Lodge the
highest scores of any of our Luxury Collection properties:
91% for location 94% for room standards
93% for maid service 94% for meals
96% for service provided by hotel staff
*Figures taken from winter 2011/12 holiday questionnaires
SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
Half board 25
Air-conditioning included
Single room 62
3rd person sharing n/a
Child sharing (2-15 years) n/a
All supplements and room upgrades are per
person per night based on twin occupancy
ROOM CHOICE
Suite 10 larger in size with a private Jacuzzi on
the terrace 19
The Penthouse on two floors with steep spiral
staircase plus private rooftop terrace. The double
bedroom has a skylight 19
Manor suites very spacious with television,
DVD player and stunning sea views 25
Atlantic suites the largest suites with picture
windows and private outdoor Jacuzzi 39
ROOM FACILITIES
King size beds (most with twin mattresses, doubles
on request)
Air-conditioning, mosquito nets
Telephone, Wi-Fi
Hairdryer and bathrobes
Safety deposit box
Tea and coffee-making facilities
Television (Manor Suites only)
Minibar(stocked on request)
2 and 3 pin (UK) sockets
HOTEL FACILITIES
Swimming pool
Large gardens with sunbathing areas
Shared Jacuzzi in private Manor garden
Main bar plus drinks/snack service around
the gardens and on beach
Television in Bantaba near reception
Book swap service
18 suites
Ngala Lodge is a small, intimate hotel which is increasinglypopular with repeat guests so early booking isrecommended. As a child-free property, the tropical, well kept
gardens overlooking the ocean remain peaceful throughout the
day. It is a fantastic choice for a romantic break and, with one of
the best restaurants in The Gambia, youll find it hard to leave.
The atmosphere at Ngala Lodge is extremely relaxed with very individual
service; to help you unwind you can enjoy a massage or manicure in your
suite or choose to have breakfast on your private balcony or terrace nothing
is too much trouble. In addition to ten unique, open-plan suites in the mainlodge including The Penthouse, there are four upgraded Manor suites with
separate bedroom, enjoying sea views and set within their own private garden
with a shared Jacuzzi and lawn attendant. For honeymooners or anyone
looking for something truly special, we recommend the spacious Atlantic suites
which have their own private Jacuzzi on the terrace or balcony.
As well as having its own swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip, the
tidal beach at Ngala is a sandy cove which can be reached via steep steps
ideal for a romantic stroll at low tide or for a spot of fishing. The addition
in early 2012 of an attractive wooden raised decking area, complete with
sunbeds and parasols, allows guests to enjoy the beachfront location at high
tide as never before. If the beach is not for you, the tropical gardens provide
plenty of space for sunbathing with sunbeds dotted throughout, or for you to
enjoy a relaxing drink and a quiet book.In the evening, the cliff top restaurant not only serves excellent food with daily
specials inspired by its English chef, Jonathan Groves, but has a wonderful
view of the ocean at sunset. A la carte dining is also available (a few unique
dishes will incur a supplement for half board guests) and sumptuous sample
menus can be viewed online at Gambia.co.uk/NgalaRestaurant. The low
key entertainment, along with a weekly African night with dancers, create an
inviting atmosphere.
With just 18 suites, excellent customer questionnaire feedback and a high
percentage of returning guests, this unique property really is a little gem.
More and more guests are choosing to visit Ngala Lodge during the summer
months when you can really appreciate the lush tropical gardens and
tranquillity of this intimate, boutique hotel.
Ngala LodgeBakau/Fajara
Boutique Hotel Exclusive
ranquil Couples Child free
For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
Since falling in love with this beautiful spot in1995, creating Ngala Lodge has been my dreamand I am proud to offer luxurious suites, excellentcuisine, tropical gardens, all in a relaxing and homelyenvironment. Welcome to our piece of paradise.
Peter Engels, Owner
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1-Nov
15-Nov
18-Dec
24-Dec
4-Mar
25-Mar
26-Nov
10-Dec
15-Feb
21-Feb
1-Jan
10-Jan
4-Apr
11-Apr
16-Nov
25-Nov
28-Jan
14-Feb
25-Dec
31-Dec
26-Mar
3-Apr
11-Dec
17-Dec
22-Feb
3-Mar
11-Jan
27-Jan
12-Apr
30-Apr
7
10
14
No. of
Nights
1098 1079 1058 1042 1497 1535 1141 1128 1152 1207 1119 1088 1221 1221 1038
1354 1330 1306 1459 1876 1763 1410 1391 1488 1488 1377 1349 1473 1473 1292
1535 1503 1479 1858 2132 1884 1577 1562 1591 1610 1556 1525 1697 1579 1455
Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.
For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.
Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 67, 11 Dec 31 Dec 82, 1 Jan 30 Apr 69
FLIGHT CHOICE
Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and
Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham
All flights are direct to The Gambia
In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and
transfers are included in brochure priced hol
Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats
See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informat
WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast
Contact your Local ravel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk
Atlantic suite
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Along-established favourite, it is hard to choose oneparticular feature of The Kairaba to explain its appeal andmore of our guests return to this hotel than any other. For
some it is the position beside Kololi beach, for others its the
tranquillity of the spacious grounds, or the close proximity to
the many restaurants and bars of Kololi.
The Kairabas bedrooms are situated in two-storey buildings within the
extensive bougainvillea-filled gardens; from your balcony or terrace you can
enjoy the gentle sea breeze and views across the attractive lawns. This hotel
is all about peace and relaxation, which is only interrupted by the vervetmonkeys and birdlife visiting from the neighbouring forest. There are no pool
games or loud music during the day, although there is the occasional local band
or entertainment in the evening. The hotels excellent conference facilities
make it popular for government or evening functions and ideal for groups.
Unlike some holiday companies, we base our holidays on the Deluxe
rooms; these are situated in the gardens and are superior in size, quality
and location, although a limited number of standard rooms are available
at a discount. As this hotel is very popular and is often fully booked, we
recommend booking early to secure your preferred room type.
When it comes to dining, you have everything from la carte to a lively,
outside bistro. Breakfast is served in the elevated Kingfisher restaurant, allowing
you to start your day feasting on views over the gardens. Dining options are
Half Board, Full Board Plus or our popular Wine & Dine package, availablein winter, offering two dinners in the Shikra la carte restaurant (exclusions
apply), two dinners in Casa Fernandos, three buffet dinners, each including a
bottle of wine*, a fruit basket in your room* and a bottle of wine on arrival*
(*per room). For those wanting to sample life outside the hotel, there is a wide
variety of restaurants on your doorstep in Kololi.
HOTEL FACILITIES
Feature pool with sun terraces
Landscaped gardens
2 bars
Massage/beauty salon (payable locally)
Small gym, nurse
Gift shop, ice-cream parlour/coffee shop
Wi-Fi in lobby
Conference facilities
160 rooms
ACTIVITIES
Croquet lawn
Table tennis
Giant chess
Management cocktail party (winter only)
Some evening entertainment
Limited daytime activitiesAfternoon tea & coffee on terrace
CUISINE
Kingfisher restaurant (breakfast buffet)
Malimbe poolside snack bar for lunches and
half board buffet (winter only)
Shikra la carte restaurant (winter only)
Casa Fernandos bistro
(used for half board salads and grills in summer)
Half board guests receive a credit at the hotels
restaurants
ROOM FACILITIES
Deluxe room
Twin beds, bath with shower over
Air-conditioning
Hairdryer
Safety deposit box
Minibar, stocked on request
Telephone, television
Tea and coffee-making facilities
2 pin sockets
ROOM CHOICE
Superior deluxe rooms are twin rooms located
on the first floor, corner position with large
picture windows on both sides 9
Premium suites situated on the ground floor have
a living room and separate double bedroom 9
Standard rooms are twin, smaller, and not in the
gardens, but are available at a reduction -10
SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
Half board/Full board plus 15/29
Wine & Dine 165 per week
Air-conditioning included
Single room 20
3rd person sharing -15
Child sharing (2-15 years) -18
All supplements and room upgrades are per
person per night based on twin occupancy
More Online Gambia.co.uk/Kairaba
FULL BOARD PLUSOur Full Board Plus upgrade now offers better value for money and is
available throughout the year. The package includes lunch chosen from the
la carte menu by the poolside, dinner buffet in the main restaurant and 2
drinks with each meal per person (beer, wine by the glass or soft drinks). A
15% discount on massage and other treatments is also included.
Alternatively, our popular Wine & Dine package is available.
Te Kairaba Beach HotelKololi
Beachfront Relaxing
For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
The comfort of the rooms and beauty ofthe grounds is only exceeded by the friendlinessof the staff.
Mrs Silver, Surrey
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1-Nov
15-Nov
18-Dec
24-Dec
4-Mar
25-Mar
26-Nov
10-Dec
15-Feb
21-Feb
1-Jan
10-Jan
4-Apr
11-Apr
16-Nov
25-Nov
28-Jan
14-Feb
25-Dec
31-Dec
26-Mar
3-Apr
11-Dec
17-Dec
22-Feb
3-Mar
11-Jan
27-Jan
12-Apr
30-Apr
No. of
Nights
951 922 878 869 1377 1414 1029 1018 1055 1105 1024 993 1088 1088 895
1168 1155 1086 1398 1745 1642 1268 1259 1343 1343 1255 1229 1385 1385 1108
1292 1277 1198 1697 1956 1735 1432 1420 1439 1457 1412 1381 1498 1434 1166
7
10
14
Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Deluxe room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.
For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.
Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 50, 11 Dec 31 Dec 78, 1 Jan 30 Apr 59
FLIGHT CHOICE
Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and
Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham
All flights are direct to The Gambia
In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and
transfers are included in brochure priced hol
Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats
See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informat
WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast
Contact your Local ravel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk
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22/3568 For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
MULI-CENRE
Multi-centre holidaysExperience the diversity of West Africa
You do not have to be an adventurous traveller
to combine stays in two or more dierent hotels
or locations. This extremely sae region o West
Arica has a lot to oer and those that venture a
little urther afeld experience more o the true
personality o the countries and their people.
Twin and multi-centre holidays are becoming increasingly popular within
The Gambia and the small distances involved add to the appeal; alternatively
why not consider travelling into Senegal or a chance to discover a dierent
culture and landscapes? We arrange transers or all tailor-made holidays.
2 luxury hotels to experience the 2 countries in sumptuous
surroundings, or or a special occasion
e.g. Coco Ocean Resort & Spa in The Gambia & Lamantin Beach Hotel
in Senegal
Properties offering unique experiences o the surrounding area,
the people and wildlie
e.g. Sitanunku Lodge, The Gambia & Keur Saloum, Senegal
2 all-inclusive properties, both in excellent beachront locations
e.g. Royal Decameron Baobab Resort, Senegal & Sheraton Gambia Hotel,
The Gambia
Twin centres between The Gambia and SenegalYou can choose to y in and out o Banjul or start your holiday with
a ight to Dakar and travel through Senegal to end in The Gambia.
Transers are generally via the Barra erry which is a way to experience
the real Arica in its own right, however i you choose Sitanunku Lodge
as one o your properties, which is situated on the north bank o the
River Gambia and reached by ast boat rom Mandina Lodges, it is only
a 35 kilometre road transer rom the lodge to the Senegalese border.
Here are some suggestions but we are happy to tailor-make holidays
between the 2 countries and can advise you on distances and travel
times involved.
Holidays within The Gambia and SenegalIt is possible to combine virtually any combination o hotels in
The Gambia or Senegal usually with a minimum o 3 nights in any one
place, however our Unique Collection properties and boutique hotels
lend themselves particularly well to a multi-centre holiday.
To the right are some o our avourite combinations. Call us i you
would like to discuss your ideas at most properties room upgrades
and dierent board bases will be available so the trips can be tailored
to suit your taste and budget.
A coastal hotelwith a more remote, peaceul add-on, either on the
beach or in the Arican bush
e.g. The Kairaba & Sandele Eco-Retreat or Mandina Lodges
2 boutique hotels or an opportunity to sample the best o
The Gambia
e.g. Ngala Lodge & Coco Ocean Resort & Spa
2 or 3 Unique Collection properties to experience more o the
real Gambia
e.g. Mandina Lodges, Chimp Rehabilitation Project and Sitanunku Lodge
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MULI-CENRE
Cruise and hotel twin centreOur Rivers o West Arica cruise proved to be very popular last winter, with
very positive eedback once again, especially the shorter 5 night option starting
in The Gambia which can be coupled with a stay in a hotel o your choice.
This cruise operated by Variety Cruises, will allow you to join the boat in
either Dakar or Banjul and cruise up the majestic River Gambia on board the
riendly and comortable MY Pegasus with a maximum o 46 guests.
Optional excursions available along the way enable you to explore the
natural beauty o this region o West Arica. For urther inormation on the
boat, acilities on board and the itinerary please see page 53 or visit
Gambia.co.uk/Cruise orSenegal.co.uk/Cruise
Tours o Senegal - now also rom The GambiaWe also arrange tours o Senegal with a private driver/guide. In addition this
year we can oer customers ying into Banjul the opportunity to experience
more o Senegal on one o our customised 3 to 7 night tour itineraries.
For more inormation on all options see page 67.
For more inormation about multi-centre holidays and to discuss your ideas
call 0845 330 4567 or 0845 338 8700, email [email protected] or
[email protected] or visit Gambia.co.uk/Multicentre
The scope o places to stay in The Gambia illustrates
how this country oers so much more than just traditional
winter sun. Varying your hotel base introduces you to more o
the locals who are among the most riendly and welcoming
people in the world. I have enjoyed multi-centre stays in
The Gambia most recently combining Ngala and Sitanunku
Lodges. Ngala Lodge is a colonial mansion which has been
turned into a wonderul place to stay. There is nowhere else
quite like it. It is discreet, intimate with a warm and welcoming
atmosphere, in a perect position overlooking the mighty
Atlantic Ocean. Sitanunku Lodge is a joy to retreat to and you
have the river on your doorstep. You can canoe or fsh, go bird-
watching or explore the local village. And there is a plunge pool
with abulous views as well as reshly cooked ood. For a holiday
like no other head or Sitanunku. A unique river experience.
Combining these two delightul properties really opened my
eyes to how easy it is to travel around The Gambia and
enhance your experience by choosing contrasting hotels
and locations.DEREK JAMES
Norwich Evening News
A personal
experience
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24/3570 For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567
BirdwatchingFishing
OHER HOLIDAYS
BirdwatchingThe Gambia packs a great deal into a compact space not least the sheer number and variety o birds (some 540 species!). I youll allow us to get technical
or a moment, The Gambia sits right at the centre o something called a transition zone, which means or a relatively small country it supports a huge variety
o habitats, including orest-savannah environments and drier woodland ones, marine systems and, o course, the lie-giving River Gambia with its estuary
mudats and the intricate mangrove tributaries o the interior. In short, with
all these habitats in a relatively small area, The Gambia is a antastic destination
or birdlie!
The Gambia thereore, provides an amazing opportunity or birdwatching
and, with everything being in relatively close proximity, you dont have to
travel ar to see some amazing things youll even fnd a whole host o
exotic species in your hotel gardens. So whether youre a frst timer, a
keen amateur or an enthusiast looking or particular species, we guarantee
youll fnd something to amaze and inspire you.
FishingThe Gambia and Senegal are well-known destinations or both salt and
reshwater fshing, oering world-class angling opportunities; the waters
close to Sitanunku Lodge are particularly renowned. These 2 countries
harbour Marlin, Sailfsh and Dorado as well as Tigerfsh and a number o
other noted hard-fghting reshwater fsh plus a host o localised species. The
Gambia River is a totally unspoilt, huge stretch o resh water, untouched by
commercialism whilst the o-shore waters o the Senegal coast oer some
antastic opportunities or big game fshing.
For those with a casual interest, a day s fshing can be booked through yourrepresentative or hotel reception on arrival in The Gambia or Senegal. We
also work with World Sport Fishing to oer proessional o-shore trips on
new sport fshing boats, available rom Sitanunku Lodge or other selected
Gambian resort hotels.
For more details please visit Gambia.co.uk/Fishing or contact World Sport
Fishing on 01480 403 293 or at Worldsportfshing.com
Malicks knowledge o birds is nothing short
o breathtaking... Whats more, he can pick up
the slightest tweet, warble or whistle and instantly
identiy the bird making the sound. Within just a ew
hours, I was in awe o the man.
RON OF
TeravelEditor.com - talking about the Malick Suso our
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OHER HOLIDAY
The ultimate birdwatching trip to The Gambia: spend 3 days accompanying
BBC presenter Chris Packham in The Gambia searching or a wide variety
o species, both on land and water. With a maximum o 17 people on the
trip there will be plenty o opportunity to learn
rom Chriss extensive knowledge o wildlie as
well as photography.
The supplement or this 3 day trip is 425*.
Chris then moves on to Mandina Lodges at
Makasutu Forest to explore the orest and
river and help you discover the abundance o
wildlie that they harbour.
A 3 night stay at Mandina Lodges rom 19th
February 2013 can be booked alone or addedto the above tour, costing 649 or 3 nights
including accommodation or twin occupancy
on a hal board basis (excluding ights). For
more details visit Gambia.co.uk/ChrisPackham
Ive kind o lost count o how many
times Ive been to The Gambia, but its more
than 15 and I still think o it as one o the
best birding destinations in the world. Maybe its the place
where all good birders go when they lay down their binocularsand complete their lie-lists! I led two very successul tours in
2012 and am delighted to repeat them in February 2013.
When Im asked why I love The Gambia so much, as a
country and a birding destination, I say its a mix o things: the
wonderul locals, the excellent hotels and ood, the eeling o
saety when out and about and o course the accessibility and
abundance o incredible birdlie, which never ceases to amaze
me. I am also excited that visits to the chimp sanctuary
upriver will again be available, where the wildlie and birdingopportunities during my visit in 2008 so impressed me.
Theres also much to be said or the extraordinary knowledge
o the local bird guides, especially my good riend Malick Suso,
and I love the eeling o never truly knowing what I might see
when out in the feld. Bring on 2013 come and join us!
CHRIS PACKHAM, BBC Presenter
Birdwatching with Chris Packham15th & 22nd February 2013
More birdwatching toursMalick Suso... the next best thing
When Chris Packham is in The Gambia he uses a local guide, Malick Suso
a man he has described as one o the very best bird guides in the whole
o The Gambia - to help him fnd the best locations or spotting particular
species and he admits this local knowledge is invaluable.
This year we are once again oering 3 day birdwatching tours led by Mali
himsel; he will take groups (maximum o 10 people) to a variety o habita
including the ollowing: Kotu stream where youll see all kinds o waders a
kingfshers and, i youre lucky, the elusive bittern; Abuko Nature Reserve
with its amazing pool where all sorts o species congregate, rom Arican
darters to hammerkops; Tanji shore and fshing village which is home to a
mix o shore and sea birds as well as the rare golden-tailed woodpecker;
and also the community project at Bruut woods, where the local experts
will lead you to the white-aced scops owl and the impossibly camouage
long-tailed nightjar.
For uther inormation and departure dates please check with our
reservations team or online at Gambia.co.uk/Birdwatching
The supplement or this tour is 195*. Alternatively, Malick may be availab
or private day trips on request, please contact our reservations departme
or uther inormation.
* in addition to the cost o the hotel and flight
Fully escorted birdwatching holidays are also available with:
Birdfnders.co.uk Limosaholidays.co.uk
Naturetrek.co.uk Ornitholidays.co.uk
3nights from
425per person
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A special holidayWeddings, honeymoons & special occasions
OCCASIONS
WeddingsThe Gambia is a antastic choice or a wedding and oers excellent value
or money, enabling you and your guests to enjoy an unorgettable day
without the expense o a wedding in the UK or other destinations abroad.
We have arranged over 100 weddings in The Gambia, everything rom a
simple service just or the couple, to large unctions or parties o over50 people. Whatever your budget and party size we can fnd a location
that will make your occasion truly special. You could take your vows
overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at the stunning Coco Ocean Resort &
Spa, hire Ngala Lodge exclusively or your wedding party or have a simple
ceremony in the exotic gardens o the Senegambia Hotel. Our wedding
planners have visited all the hotels and know them well; they will be
happy to assist you in choosing the right location or you. For more
inormation and to download a brochure visit Gambia.co.uk/Weddings or
email our wedding co-ordinators [email protected]
Atlantic Suite at Ngala Lodge The Gambia, pages 22-23
Relax and unwind with your own private hot tub on the terrace overlooking
the gardens and ocean.
Floating Lodge at Mandina Lodges The Gambia, pages 28-29
Stay in a our-poster bed in a unique lodge oating on the river in the hearto the Arican bush.
Beach House at Coco Ocean The Gambia, pages 20-21
Celebrate in style with relaxing spa treatments, la carte cuisine and
luxurious surroundings beside the beach.
Sitanunku Lodge The Gambia, pages 30-31
Enjoy relaxation and privacy in this romantic, waterront hideaway and dine
under the breathtaking, uninterrupted night sky.
Ocean Front Room at Royal Decameron Baobab Resort
Senegal, pages 64-65
Step directly out o your room onto the white sandy beach at this
all-inclusive hotel in a breathtaking location at La Somone.
Royale Suite at Le Royal Lodge Senegal, page 58
Enjoy your own private plunge pool and luxurious suite overlooking the sea
at this stunning hotel on the outskirts o the Saloum Delta National Park.
For more ideas and help with planning your honeymoon call our
reservations team on 0845 330 4567 or 0845 338 8700.
HoneymoonsBoth The Gambia and Senegal are exotic honeymoon destinations with
accommodation to suit all tastes whether youre looking or complete
luxury and relaxation, or a unique cultural experience you wont orget.
More adventurous newly-weds may wish to see the contrasts between
these two neighbouring countries on a twin or multi-centre honeymoon,
see pages 68-69 or ideas. Listed below are some o our avourite
honeymoon locations.
Special occasionsAre you looking to book a special holiday or yoursel or a loved
one to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion?
Whatever the celebration, we have selected the best hotels in the
best locations and have many upgraded rooms that are not available
through other operators. We can also arrange private transers,
upgraded ights, owers, champagne, cakes and other extra touches
to make the event truly special.
eymoon cal
338 8700.
30 4567 or 084
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INFORMAION
A-ZWhat is includedThere are no hidden extras to add to ourbrochure prices, which include a luggageallowance, all taxes, transers and meals onoutbound and inbound fights. The brochured
holiday price includes:
Return fight between the UK and Banjul/
Dakar with in-fight catering o a hot meal
Luggage allowance of: economy flights
to Banjul 20kgs (30kg i you purchase our
Gold Package), Premium Class 30kgs.
The luggage allowance on fights into Dakar
with Brussels Airlines is a very generous
46kgs (2 pieces o 23kg), Business Class
64kgs (2 pieces o 32kg)
Transportation between the airport and your
accommodation
Accommodation based on 2 sharing and
meal basis is as detailed on your booking
conrmation invoice
The services of our resort staff and localoce please note that our representatives
do not visit any o our Unique Collection
properties or Hibiscus House in The
Gambia or hotels in the Sine Saloum Delta,
Senegal (except Royal Lodge) where
a 24 hour contact number is provided
Welcome meeting (excluding above hotels)
Airport departure taxes from both the UK
and The Gambia/Senegal
CAA ATOL protection contribution
UK Air Passenger Duty (APD) 65
(Premium Class/Business Class 130)
5 Gambian Government tourism tax
(or Banjul fights)
Banjul Airport Development Fee (ADF) of20
Welcome drink on arrival in Banjul/Dakar
A Gambia Guide and/or Senegal Guide for
package holidays
Resort map for Gambia holidays
Christmas and New Year Gala dinners
In order to help you plan your visit we have compiled a short A-Z o
useul inormation about our holidays to The Gambia and Senegal.
You will find a wealth of further information relating to these and other
subjects on our websites or alternatively call one o our reservations
team and use their rst-hand knowledge.
Airport hotels,car parking
and loungesWe can oer a range o hotels with or without
parking to suit all budgets located at or near
the airport o your choice. For your convenience
we can also arrange business lounges at all o
our UK airports and the air-conditioned First
Class Lounge in Banjul Airport on certain days.
Conveniently located car parks are available at
all airports, which oer a ree 24 hour transer
service to and rom the airport terminal. To make
a booking please visit Gambia.co.uk/Holidayextras
orSenegal.co.uk/Holidayextras or call Holiday
Extras on 0871 360 1367.
Book with condenceThe Gambia Experience and The Senegal
Experience are trade names o Serenity Holidays
Limited. Most o the holidays and fights in this
brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil
Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 1866.
Please see page 3 or our Fair Trading Charter or
more inormation.
We are also members o ABTA and AITO. AITO
is the Association or independent and specialistholiday companies. Member companies, usually
owner-managed, strive to create overseas
holidays with high levels o proessionalism and a
shared concern or quality and personal service
as well as sustainable tourism. The Association
encourages the highest standards in all aspects o
tour operating. See page 79 or the AITO charter.
Child and inant discountsTo qualiy or a child discount, children must be
between 2 and 15 years old on return to the UKi travelling to The Gambia (2 and 11 years old to
Senegal). They must share a room with 2 adults
paying brochure price. Inants under 2 years on
return to the UK are charged a ee o 45 to
cover administration costs but are not allocated
a luggage allowance (except Monarch Airlines at
10kgs) or a seat on the aircrat.
Tings to know
before you go
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INFORMAION
Check-in
For all fights to Dakar and Banjul rom Gatwick
please ensure that you check in at least 2 hours
prior to the departure time shown on your tickets
(3 hours rom Banjul) except when travelling in
Premium Class, which is 90 minutes. For regional
fights to Banjul check-in is also 90 minutes prior
to departure time. Our airport representative will
be at the check-in desk to assist with any queries
that may arise. I you are collecting a ticket on
departure, please ensure you allocate sucient
time to pick up your documents.
Currency
The Gambias currency is the Dalasi (45 Dalasi
to 1 in April 2012). Credit cards may also be
accepted, although conversion to US dollars is
now used; please check with individual hotels
(surcharges will apply). Use o debit cards is
restricted. The currency in Senegal is the West
Arican CFA Franc but Euros are also accepted in
hotels (xed rate o1 = 656 CFA Franc).
Excess luggageAirlines are very strict about luggage allowance
and only consider limited requests or an
increased allowance rom registered charities.
I you are carrying more than your allocated
amount you will have to pay an excess luggage
charge at check-in (approximately 15/kg) and
we cannot guarantee that the airline will accept
all your luggage. I you do have a large amount o
luggage, we can advise on sending it by reight.
Flight delays
Occasionally, despite the best eorts o all
concerned, fights are delayed or reasons
beyond our control. In the event that such a
delay occurs, we will always do our best to
provide a snack or meal when appropriate
and in the case o an overnight delay, provide
accommodation, although this may not be your
holiday accommodation. Should there be an
extended delay to your homeward fight we will
endeavour to delay your departure rom your
holiday accommodation.
Foreign Oce travel advice
We are working with the Foreign and
Commonwealth Oce to do all that we
can to help British travellers stay sae overseas.
Their website at Fco.gov.uk/KnowBeforeYouGo
is packed with essential tips, travel advice and
up-to-date country specic inormation.
Gambia Tourism Board57 Kensington Court, London W8 5DG
Telephone: 0207 376 0093
Holiday questionnaireTo help us improve our service and ensure
standards are maintained, we should be
most grateul i you would take the time to
complete our questionnaire in resort and
return it to our resort sta prior to your
departure. Your feedback will now influence the
ratings displayed online or each property.
We will also donate 10 to The GambiaExperience School Development Fund or every
100 completed questionnaires received.
LanguageThe ocial language in The Gambia is English
and in Senegal it is French. In both countries
tribal languages are also spoken, these include
Mandinka and Wolo.
MedicationNo inoculations are compulsory i travelling rom
EU although you may be required to show a yell
ever certicate when passing between The Gam
and Senegal. You should consult your doctor befo
booking, who will recommend certain medicatio
especially or malaria prevention. All medicines
should be carried in hand luggage.
Passports and visasA ull British 10 year passport is required or en
into The Gambia or Senegal, valid or at least 3
months ater you get back to the UK. I you ne
to apply or a passport, do so at least 12 week
beore departure. For other nationalities please
call our oce or details. For long stay holidays
The Gambia, travellers must have their passpo
stamped by the Immigration Oce every 28 d
British passport holders on our transers do no
require a visa or entry to Senegal.
Prices and surchargesOur prices are based on the cost o uel as o
4th May 2012. I the cost o uel does rise, we
may be orced to introduce a uel surcharge to
cover the increased costs to us. In the event o
any other security costs or taxes being levied,
there may also be an increase in prices printed
in this brochure, please see section 11 o our
Fair Trading Charter on page 83 or more deta
The publication date o this brochure is 11th
May 2012; prices will be superseded by any
subsequent editions o this brochure.
Private transers
Unortunately we are unable to include private
transers as standard within any o our holiday
packages due to a shortage o suitable vehicles
in The Gambia. However, on request we can
organise private transers to your accommodat
in either air-conditioned cars or minibuses or
per car each way to/rom the airport (maximum
4). There is a supplement or Unique Collectio
private transers, however standard transers othese hotels usually operate direct and with sm
numbers. For prices in Senegal please contact u
Requests
I you have any requests or your holiday
accommodation or fights, please ensure that
they are requested at the time o booking.
We shall be pleased to pass on your request
to the airline or hotel, however we cannot
guarantee that they will be met.
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INFORMAIONINFORMAION
Room check-in and out timesThe standard international practice is to let
rooms rom midday to midday, however times
do vary. Check-in times are usually between
2pm and 3pm, check-out times between 11am
and 12 noon on the day o departure.
Senegal Embassy39 Marloes Road, London W8 6LA
Telephone: 0207 938 4048
TicketsThese can be expected 2 weeks prior to your
date o travel together with your accommodation
voucher, luggage labels and our Gambia
Guide or Senegal Guide or clients taking
accommodation, which we hope you nd
useful. Your actual flight timings will be those
shown on your tickets; please check them
careully as soon as you receive them. In addition,
please check your return fight details with your
representative or our resort oce.
Time dierenceNo dierence in time except April October
when the UK is one hour ahead, due to British
Summer Time.
TransersTransers will be in coaches, mini-buses or 4x4
vehicles and may not be direct to your hotel,
however please contact us i you would like
to arrange a private transer or your party.
Transer times rom the airport to your hotel in
The Gambia vary rom 25 to over 50 minutes
depending on the hotel and route taken. For
more details see pages 12-13. Transer times in
Senegal can be anything rom 2 hours to
4 hours. The transer to Senegal rom Banjul
will also include a crossing on the Barra Ferry,
which may be on oot (escorted) to avoidtrac queues. Some o the journey to hotels
in the Sine Saloum Delta will be along an unlit
bumpy track. For transer times see hotel pages.
Summer holidaysIn Te Gambia & SenegalAlthough The Gambia & Senegal are oten thought o as purely winter sun destinations, some o our customerspreer to travel in the green season when the beaches are virtually empty and the resorts are quieter.
July and August holidays oer great value, especially in luxury hotels, when it is high season in the busier Mediterranean resorts. Throughout the summer
the average temperature remains at 30C; May and June are particularly good months to travel as the weather is much the same as during winter. From July
to October humidity is higher and there are short spectacular tropical storms, however these normally occur at night. We fy to The Gambia throughout the
summer rom Gatwick, and to Senegal rom 5 UK airports. Not all hotels, restaurants and acilities will operate during summer so i you