Compare Gambia Holidays

Overview

Like a long splinter inserted into the side of Africa, just atthe bulge, The Gambia is a low, narrow strip of a country thatstretches inland from the beautiful West African coast, followingthe course of the majestic River Gambia. It may be the smallestcountry in Africa, sandwiched between north and south Senegal, butit is fast becoming noticed by the British package tour trade as avery acceptable alternative to the crowded resorts of Europe.The Gambia's 'discovery' as a tourist destination was aided bythe best-selling book, turned television series, 'Roots' by AlexHayley, detailing the life of his grandfather, allegedly capturedin the country and transported to America as a slave.The capital of The Gambia, Banjul, stands on the south side ofthe magnificent river estuary, a worthy commercial centre that fortourists is little more than the gateway to the hotels spread alongthe 25 miles (40km) of beautiful sandy coastline. Thesepalm-fringed Atlantic-washed beaches have been dubbed 'the smilingcoast', as much for their tropical splendour as for thefriendliness of the local people, who welcome visitorswhole-heartedly at the nature reserves, quality hotels, and craftmarkets. All this is just six hours' flying time from London, closeto the Equator on the same latitude as Barbados.

Money

The Gambia's currency is the Dalasi (GMD), which is divided into100 bututs. Dalasi are difficult to obtain outside of The Gambiabut there is a bureau de change at the airport. Currency can alsobe exchanged at banks in the capital, Banjul, and at some hotelsand tourist resorts. Commission tends to be high. It is advisableto bring travellers cheques or cash because only a few placesaccept credit cards. Street moneychangers give the best rates, buttake care not to be conned and make sure you know the currentexchange rate before trading with them. Note that currency must bedeclared on arrival and the export of foreign currency is limitedto the amount imported. Travellers cheques are accepted, US dollarsand Pounds Sterling are the preferred currency. Some hotels andrestaurants accept MasterCard and Visa, but it is unwise to rely onthem and a charge may be levied. ATMs are limited to a few areas,and accept Visa but not MasterCard.

Time

Local time is GMT.

Language

The official language of The Gambia is English, and Gambians are educated in English. There are several tribal languages, but overall the use of English prevails.

Climate

Sited between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, The Gambiaenjoys constant sunshine and barely fluctuating high daytimetemperatures all year round. The rainy season is between July andOctober, when humidity is high and short, spectacular rainstormscharacterise the evenings. Between November and June there isvirtually no rainfall. During winter months evenings can becool.

Current Weather Conditions for Banjul, , GA

Now 19°C Windchill: 19°C Clear

Location: Banjul, , GA Wind: 5 kph W Humidity: 47% Visibility: 0.1 km Pressure: 0 mb steady Sunrise: 7:24 am Sunset: 7:12 pm

Thu High: 33°C Low: 19°C Mostly Sunny

Fri High: 35°C Low: 19°C Sunny

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