gambia & senegal - all other hotels

7/31/2019 Gambia & Senegal - All Other Hotels

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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.


3/49Contact your Local ravel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk

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


4/496 For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567

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.



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



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.



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



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)



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

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.


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.


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.


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).


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.


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.



12/49

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.


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


13/49

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


14/49

HOEL OPIONS

Since we began travelling to The Gambia in 1987

the standard and choice o accommodation in the

country has improved dramatically.

We believe we work with the best properties The Gambia has to oerand our brochure and website eature a wide range o properties to suit all

travellers, rom luxurious boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, relaxing spas

right through to simple, Arican-style hotels and unique river lodges.

Over the past 25 years weve learnt just how important it is to match the

right hotel to each individual it can make the dierence between a good

holiday and an unorgettable experience; to help you, the hotel descriptions

on the ollowing pages have been written by members o our team who

have visited the hotels and know them well. They accurately list the acilities

o the properties, their locations and the ambience you can expect to help

you narrow down your choice o holiday; i you are nding it dicult to

choose, why not give our knowledgeable sta a call or even visit two ormore properties!

Our hotel collectionsChoosing the right hotel for your holidayThe Luxury CollectionThe best The Gambia has to oer in the main resort areas. Each property

has its own individual appeal so its important to read the property

descriptions or speak to one o our experienced sta i you are looking or a

particular style, location or specic acilities. Coco Ocean is visually stunning

with service and cuisine levels to match, Ngala Lodge is a small boutique-

style hotel with very personal service and excellent customer reviews, whilst

the larger but tranquil Kairaba Hotel is a well-established avourite right in the

heart o Kololi and all are located directly on or overlooking the beach.

The Unique CollectionAn exciting collection o lodges which oer an excellent introduction to

the real Arica. Whilst sharing many o the characteristics o the Luxury

Collection, they oer a more inormal, laid-back atmosphere. Individually

styled with many artistic fourishes, each property manages to convey a

sense o relaxed indulgence with riendly service and reshly prepared

cuisine. Located away rom the main tourist areas, memorable settings,

such as the Makasutu Forest surrounding

Mandina Lodges or the banks o the River

Gambia or Sitanunku Lodge, provide a

stunning Arican backdrop or a truly unique

holiday experience.

Something specialWe are delighted to be oering the opportunity to view the chimpanzees in

the River Gambia National Park once again, or short stays in tented lodges

upriver including boat trips to visit the chimps in their natural habitat. Or why

not consider a relaxing cruise up the majestic River Gambia on the mega-

yacht Pegasus, with optional excursions along the way? Further inormationcan be ound on pages 34-35 and 53.

All-inclusive & lively hotelsSome o The Gambias larger hotels are ideal i youre looking or a

more active or hotel-based holiday, a lively atmosphere and evening

entertainment. The popular Kombo Beach and Ocean Bay hotels are both

situated directly on a sandy beach and have a good choice o activities or

couples, groups and amilies. Several hotels now have all-inclusive options,

such as the 4 Sheraton Gambia, 4 Laico Atlantic Beach and

2 Palma Rima hotels.

Small & ull o characterSome o our hotels oer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and the

chance to immerse yoursel in the local community or wildlie. The stunning

Mandina Lodges in the Makasutu Forest contrast perectly with the coastal

hotels on a twin centre holiday; Hibiscus House is a welcoming hotel within

a thriving local community, and Cape Point and Arican Village are Gambian-

run hotels with a relaxed and riendly atmosphere.

ExclusiveHotels or room types identied as Exclusive indicate that, at the time o

going to press, are not on sale through any other UK tour operator.

You will also nd many photographs, video clips and more inormation and

reviews online to help you select your ideal holiday at Gambia.co.uk/Hotels




ALL-INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive& dining packagesAll-inclusive holidaysAll-inclusive holidays are becoming increasingly popular in The Gambia as well as Senegal, and are available this year in a wider range o properties to suit a

budgets. Although the Gambian hotels, unlike in Senegal, dont oer a 24 hour all-inclusive service, with the majority o your ood, drink and activities includ

in the price, these holidays still oer you an excellent value or money option. Please note, all-inclusive packages do not include excursions but or details o

what is included see the individual hotel pages.

For more inormation visit Gambia.co.uk/Allinclusive orSenegal.co.uk/Allinclusive

Dining packages

Several Gambian properties now oer dining packages to appeal to those

looking to budget or their holidays. However, all the hotels eatured can

also be booked on either a more traditional hal board basis, or on bed and

breakast or those wanting to sample some o the excellent restaurants

available in The Gambia. Credits are sometimes available i you wish to eat

in the hotels la carte restaurants or those booked on hal board, allowing

additional dining fexibility.

Sheraton Gambia Hotel

See Gambia pages 36-37

This property oers quality

accommodation with stunning

views on an unspoilt stretch obeach in Bruut.

Palma Rima Hotel

See Gambia pages 51

An excellent value, lively all-inclu

option with spacious, bungalow

accommodation ideal or amilies

Laico Atlantic Beach Hotel


Ideal or a hotel based holiday, this

hotel is set directly on a wide stretch

o sandy beach and oers extensive

acilities.

Royal Decameron

See Senegal pages 64-65

An elegant property nestled

between a white sandy beach an

the lagoon o La Somone just 20minutes rom the resort o Saly.

The Kairaba Beach Hote


Choose rom either Full Board

Plus or the popular Wine & Dine

package enabling you to enjoy di

in the 3 hotel restaurants with so

bottles o wine included.

Ocean Bay Hotel


An all-inclusive light option oers

unlimited sot and hot drinks duri

the day and a limited number o

alcoholic drinks available with me

Kombo Beach Hotel


A lively hotel oering a dine-

around package allowing the

fexibility o dining both in the hotel

and sampling restaurants in the

surrounding area and beyond.


16/4936

Sheraton Gambia HotelBrufut

Beachfront Spa All-inclusive

More Online Gambia.co.uk/Sheraton

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Half board/Bed & breakfast na/-28

Air-conditioning included

Single room from 25

3rd person sharing na

Child sharing on all-inclusive (2-15 years) -25

All supplements and room upgrades are per

person per night based on twin occupancy

ROOM CHOICE

Beach baobab close to the beach, either

ground or upper floor rooms, terrace or

balcony 14

Sunset palm larger rooms with lounge area,

can be either ground or upper floor 18

Beach palm larger rooms with lounge area

directly facing the beach, either ground or

upper floor 23

CUISINE

Crematata buffet restaurant with outdoor terrace

( la carte served in the summer)

Balafon al fresco lunch buffet and la carte

(winter only)

Buffet dinner and la carte menu may be servedin either restaurant

ROOM FACILITIES

Twins and doubles

Air-conditioning

Safety deposit boxes

Satellite television

Internet (payable locally)

Hairdryer

Telephone

HOTEL FACILITIES

Large swimming pool

Separate childrens pool

Unspoilt, sandy beach

Fitness/spa facilities with small pool

Treetop lobby bar

Pool bar

Taxi shuttle twice daily (one way)

World class conference facilities

194 rooms

ACTIVITIES

Table tennis

Volleyball, water polo

Billiards, darts

Step and water aerobics

Evening entertainment

(3 times a week, winter only)

This beachfront property is now extremely popular as anall-inclusive hotel. Its fantastic location beside the oceanensures stunning views from both the rooms and public areas.

The atmosphere is lively in winter, although quiet corners

can be found, and the small spa with its separate pool offers a

tranquil alternative.

The hotel is built into the hillside, nestled between giant baobab trees, and the

rooms are of a contemporary style, most enjoying sea views from their ocean-

facing balcony or terrace. Standard baobab rooms are fairly compact and

located in the Baobab wing closest to reception on the cliff top; there is also avariety of upgrade options such as the superbly located Beach rooms.

Dining is buffet style and may be in the elevated Crematata buffet restaurant

(not air-conditioned) where breakfast is also served, or at the poolside. An

la carte menu is available with a discount for all-inclusive guests.

Located near the village of Brufut on a stunning stretch of beach, the setting

of the hotel is more secluded than some other properties, making it ideal

for a hotel-based holiday. But with a number of activities on offer including

a fitness room, beach volleyball and billiards, there is plenty to do along

with simply relaxing! The spa offers a good choice of treatments and we

particularly recommend a massage overlooking the beach in an outdoor

treatment cabana. The lively resort of Kololi is just 8 kilometres away and the

hotel works with tourist taxis to transport you there twice daily.

Since the popular introduction of the all-inclusive option the hotel caters

largely for tourists. Whilst it still offers extensive conference facilities and hosts

private and government functions, this property cannot yet be compared

to some Sheraton hotels in other destinations and, based on customer

feedback, we believe our 4 grade rating to be more accurate.

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE (not 24 hours)Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner Local spirits, local beer and house wine, water,

soft and hot drinks (excludes premium brands, fruit juices, full bottles and minibar)

9am-11pm Ice-cream and cakes 4pm-6pm 10% discount on spa treatments

Use of fitness room and steam room/sauna 9am-9pm

NB Excursions are not included and timings are subject to change

For more advice or to book call the experts on 0845 330 4567

A very relaxing holiday in this attractive hotel withextensive grounds fronting the beach. Bedrooms aresuperb with panoramic views across the grounds tothe beach and ocean, and what friendly staff.We would return again!

Irene & Jeff Knott, Hampshire


17/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

1143 1115 1094 1079 1520 1562 1159 1145 1161 1230 1148 1119 1248 1248 1094

1414 1398 1372 1534 1928 1790 1447 1428 1515 1515 1420 1393 1551 1551 1366

1672 1647 1628 1956 2251 2016 1695 1664 1697 1713 1675 1656 1799 1724 1618

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 informatPrices are in s per person on All-in clusive in a Standard baobab room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.For all flight supplements, see page 80. Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 79, 11 Dec 31 Dec 98, 1 Jan 30 Apr 81

WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on All-inclusive

Contact your Local Travel Agent or book at Gambia.co.uk


18/4938


Half board 13

Dine-around package 99 per week


Single room 16

3rd person sharing -5

Child sharing (2-15 years) -20



ROOM CHOICE

Superior rooms are on the 1st & 2nd floors 6

Premium rooms are larger ground floor rooms

with a spacious patio 9

Studios are open plan and ground floor with

kitchen area, double bed and 2 sofa beds 11

Suites on the 1st & 2nd floors all have double

beds with a separate lounge area 12

All upgraded rooms are furnished to a higher

standard with tea/coffee-making facilities,

hairdryers and free safes

ROOM FACILITIES

Majority double beds, limited twin beds

available on request (cannot be guaranteed)

Air-conditioning

Safe facilities (payable locally)

Television

Mini fridge

Hairdryers on request

2 and/or UK 3 pin sockets

HOTEL FACILITIES

Long sandy beach

Pool and sun terraces

Hotel shops and clinic

TV area in reception

Wi-Fi and internet access (payable locally)

Massage and beauty salon (payable locally)

2 bars, childrens play area

258 rooms

ACTIVITIES

Daytime activities and evening entertainment

Table tennis

Tennis courts and coach (payable locally)

Ptanque/boules

Volleyball

Small outdoor gym

Bird guide and golf pro (payable locally)

CUISINE

Kudula themed buffets every evening

The Brasserie great food and ocean views.

Table dhte and la carte menus

Geckos pool/beachside snack bar

Dine-around package a mixture of hotel

buffets and outside restaurant dinners

Half board guests receive a credit at

The Brasserie restaurant More Online Gambia.co.uk/Kombo

Situated on a great sandy beach, this is a well-established,lively hotel with a full time entertainment team and plentyof activities throughout the day and evening to keep you

occupied. However, with the beach just a few steps away and

spacious gardens, there is plenty of space to lay back and relax.

Whatever your interest you should find something to suit at the Kombo

Beach during the day you can join in with pool games or aerobics,

take tennis lessons or wander around the tropical gardens doing a little

birdwatching. If all that sounds too much like hard work, why not pamper

yourself with a massage or treatment at the beauty salon? And after a busyday, what better way to unwind than with a drink at the hotels beachside

wine bar, which is one of the best places to watch the sun set whilst enjoying

a Julbrew, The Gambias locally produced beer.

The spacious standard rooms are fairly basic and set within 3-storey buildings

amongst the gardens with private terraces or balconies, where you can sit

and listen to the ocean. There are plenty of room upgrade options with

superior quality furnishings, a free safe as well as tea and coffee-making

facilities. Ground floor studios face the tennis courts, are open-plan offering

kitchen facilities and are ideal for families.

The hotel boasts 2 bars and 2 restaurants, plus a snack bar serving a wide

range of dishes including pizzas and drinks throughout the day and evening.

A dine-around package is also available for those who prefer a little more

variety. In the evening at the Kombo Beach there is usually entertainmentbeside the pool with live local bands, themed dinners or dancing.

The popular resort of Kotu offers a couple of other hotels, a few restaurants,

a craft market, beach bars and a taxi rank just outside the hotel, so its easy

to get out and about. This is a good fun hotel, popular with families, couples

and groups and has a high number of repeat guests.

DINE-AROUND PACKAGEThis alternative half board package allows guests to budget for evening

meals whilst providing a level of dining flexibility, within Kotu and beyond.

A weeks package includes 4 buffet dinners in Kombo Beachs main

Kudula restaurant, plus a further three meals in a choice of selected local

restaurants, most of which are in different resorts a short taxi ride away for

those wanting to explore a little further afield (transportation not included).

Kombo Beach HotelKotu

Beachfront Lively Families Groups


We are proud to have once again been awardeda Travelife Gold Award for our commitment tosustainable tourism - for the 3rd time! Our GreenTeam is focused on water and energy-saving measuresand supporting local communities into the future.

Marc van Maldegem, General Manager


19/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

718 699 688 675 1098 1130 765 754 775 840 758 729 844 844 693

850 822 797 958 1339 1228 890 882 947 947 881 852 991 991 804

884 868 839 1183 1444 1256 945 933 954 962 930 898 1035 997 830

FLIGHT CHOICE







See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informatPrices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.For all flight supplements, see page 80. Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 24, 11 Dec 31 Dec 45, 1 Jan 30 Apr 28

WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast



20/4940

Ocean Bay HotelCape Point

Beachfront Couples Families

ALL-INCLUSIVE LIGHT UPGRADE (not 24 hours) Buffet breakfast, table dhte/buffet lunch and dinner

Farewell upgraded dinner

Unlimited soft drinks, water, fruit juice, tea and coffee 10am-11pm

4 alcoholic drinks daily (house wine by the glass or local beer)

Tea-time including sandwiches and pastries

Complimentary 15 minute massage during stay

The Ocean Bay sits within beautiful gardens in a beachfrontsetting. This popular hotel offers a good range of facilities,now with a successful all-inclusive light option, and is a great

choice for families or couples looking to simply relax and enjoy

the Gambian sunshine.

The large swimming pool is the focal point of the hotel and for families there

is a shallow area of the pool plus a playground. The hotel is located next to

the beautiful Cape Point beach and maintains an area which is well serviced

from the beach bar.

The rooms are furnished in dark wood with a wide range of facilities and arearranged in 2-storey buildings throughout the gardens. This year we have

chosen to base our prices on the larger, deluxe rooms with private terrace

or balcony, however standard rooms are still available at a reduction.

Within the hotel there is a choice of 2 restaurants, one serving buffet-style

breakfast and dinner including Gambian delicacies and the Ocean Clipper

la carte, which is in an unrivalled position next to the ocean. Drinks,

including the hotels refreshing speciality, lemongrass tea, are available from

the elegant lounge, beach bar or pool bar which also boasts its own pizza

oven. The Ocean Bay continues to offer a package to appeal to the growing

interest in all-inclusive holidays, all-inclusive light. Please note that a cash-free

system now operates for any purchases within the hotel.

After dinner you can enjoy a full programme of evening entertainment with

live music, shows and African dance troupes during winter with occasional

entertainment in summer.

In the vicinity, there are a couple of other hotels, local bars, small restaurants,

shops and a craft market all within easy reach and the popular resort of

Kololi is only 10 kilometres away. Although the hotel is officially graded as

5*, we believe our 4 rating based on customer feedback and our own

observations better reflects the facilities and service levels offered.

CUISINE

Buffet restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Ocean Clipper la carte serving Mediterranean

and Asian cuisine

Snacks available from pool bar/pizza oven

Beach bar

All-inclusive light package available as an upgrade

ACTIVITIES

Table tennis, pool table, daytime activites

Evening entertainment with live music by the

pool and shows (daily in winter)

Management cocktail party (winter only)

Childrens activity programme

(subject to minimum numbers)

HOTEL FACILITIES

Large sandy beach

Pool with childrens area

Childrens playground

Medical clinic, hairdresser

Laundry service/valet service

Wi-Fi in lobby

Conference centre

195 rooms

ROOM FACILITIES

Deluxe room

Twin beds

Air-conditioning

Minibar

Telephone, television

Hairdryer

Safety deposit box

2 pin sockets

ROOM CHOICE

Standard rooms are smaller with a shared

balcony or terrace and are available at a

reduction - 5

Suites have a double bedroom and separate living

room with a sofa bed and dining table.

The bathroom is off the living room 14


Half board 15

All-inclusive light 29


Single room 16





More Online Gambia.co.uk/OceanBay


Food was excellent, staff are friendly, greatlocation, overall a fantastic hotel.

Miss Boyle, London


21/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

760 745 734 718 1189 1240 805 794 817 878 806 783 891 891 748

888 864 852 1046 1430 1314 956 943 1010 1010 952 926 1054 1054 882

943 928 909 1320 1623 1382 1013 992 1039 1061 1034 998 1115 1063 927

FLIGHT CHOICE







See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informatPrices 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 all flight supplements, see page 80. Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 29, 11 Dec 31 Dec 59, 1 Jan 30 Apr 34


Ocean ClipperDeluxe room



22/4942

The Senegambia Hotel is the largest and one of the best-known hotels in The Gambia. It is situated beside thebeach in the lively resort of Kololi, making it a great choice for

anyone wanting to get out and sample the many different bars

and restaurants on the hotels doorstep.

This is a lively hotel with a wide range of activities aimed at adults, teenagers

and children. However, guests looking for a little peace and quiet will easily

find a secluded spot within the twenty acres of grounds and, whilst the

impressive beachside pool and bar is the focus of many of the daytime

activities, there is a second swimming pool available in winter which is usuallymuch quieter. Evening entertainment is equally varied with live music, African

folklore nights and discos. The beautiful gardens are also used as a venue for

weddings, large private functions and occasional live concerts.

All of the rooms are in 2-storey buildings, the majority being dotted

amongst the gardens, so you wont need to go further than your balcony

to witness the varied birdlife that calls the Senegambia home. The Gambia

Experience resort office is also located by the entrance to the hotel and our

representative in the hotel, Jatta, will ensure your stay is a memorable one.

The extensive half board buffet is particularly popular and the restaurant has

had an attractive facelift, with the Portofino pizzeria in the hotel providing an

excellent value, alternative dining option. However, if you want to sample

The Gambias nightlife, bed and breakfast would be a good choice as there

are so many excellent restaurants just a short stroll away.

The Senegambia will appeal to couples, families and groups it really does

offer something for everyone and its excellent location ensures guests return

to this hotel year after year.

CUISINE

Buffet breakfast

Buffet dinner service (closed in summer)

Portofino pizzeria

Beach bar drinks and snacks

ACTIVITIES

Tennis (payable locally)

Volleyball

Varied evening entertainment

Vulture feeding daily

Childrens playground

HOTEL FACILITIES

Beach with snack bar

Large, tropical gardens

2 swimming pools (1 in summer)

Safari bar, pool terrace bar

Internet caf, Wi-Fi in lobby

Bank in reception

Boutique and hotel shops

Nurse (limited hours)

Hairdresser, mini-market

328 rooms

ROOM FACILITIES

Twins and doubles

Air-conditioning

Ceiling fan


Television

Mini fridge

2 pin sockets


Half board 12


Single room from 13





ROOM CHOICE

Studios have a lounge, kitchenette with 2 electric

hot plates and separate double bedroom 9

WILDLIFE IN THE GARDENSThe Senegambia provides a haven for exotic birdlife. Every morning you

will witness the impressive vultures flying overhead and perching in the

palm trees waiting for the offering from the hotel at 11.30am. Many other

species of bird, as well as monkeys and monitor lizards also often come to

take advantage of the free lunch. The hotels resident bird guides are always

on hand to share their knowledge and give tours of the grounds.

More Online Gambia.co.uk/Senegambia

Senegambia HotelKololi

Beachfront Groups Lively


We had our wedding at the Senegambia andcouldnt have had a more memorable, special dayanywhere. Many thanks to all concerned hotel,staff and Gambia Experience.

Mr & Mrs White, Bristol


23/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

753 738 725 699 1141 1163 804 785 814 860 786 764 880 880 729

892 876 859 1078 1410 1255 955 929 978 978 923 898 1047 1047 858

940 923 906 1293 1556 1324 1003 982 1011 1027 980 965 1109 1062 905

Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast i n a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.

For all flight supplements, see page 80. Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 29, 11 Dec 31 Dec 56, 1 Jan 30 Apr 31

FLIGHT CHOICE







See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informat




24/4944

ACTIVITIES

Varied entertainment programme (winter only)

Table tennis, crazy golf, croquet

Squash and tennis court

(local charge for BB & HB guests)

Basketball and volleyball

Pool and snooker(local charge)

Childrens activity programme

(winter only, subject to minimum numbers)

CUISINE

Bantaba restaurant serving buffet breakfast and

dinner(may be table dhte in summer)

Dunda la carte restaurant (small half board/

all-inclusive credit provided)

Riverside restaurant serving poolside snacks and

a table dhote menu. Buffet lunch for all-inclusive

guests may be served here.

ROOM CHOICE

Pool/sea view rooms 5

Suites have a separate living room and

double bedroom 19

ROOM FACILITIES

Twin or double beds

Air-conditioning

Minibar, safe

Direct dial telephone

Television, hairdryer

Complimentary toiletries

Interconnecting rooms

UK 3 pin sockets

HOTEL FACILITIES

Large sandy beach

Pool and 2 Jacuzzis, childrens pool

2 bars, hotel shop, hairdresser

Massage centre

Hotel gym, disco

Wi-Fi in reception

Internet caf

204 rooms

If its a hotel-based holiday you prefer, the Laico AtlanticBeach could be for you. With its enviable beach location,lively activity programme and friendly atmosphere, it is ideally

suited for a half board or all-inclusive holiday.

Set directly on a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, one of the biggest in

The Gambia, this hotel is located close to the administrative capital, Banjul,

away from the majority of tourist hotels.

Public areas are spacious and comfortable and both garden and sea view

rooms are of a good standard with new soft furnishings in 2011; with the

option of interconnecting rooms, its an ideal choice for families too.Away from the beach, guests can choose to simply relax by the large pool or

take advantage of the wide range of daytime activities during winter. Squash

and tennis courts are available for the more active, and there is a small

beauty salon offering treatments at a discount for all-inclusive guests.

2 Jacuzzis provide the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun and the

bird garden, home to many different species, is popular with all guests.

Due to the growing popularity of the all-inclusive package introduced

last winter, our prices are now based on all-inclusive. However bed and

breakfast or half board options are still available for a reduction as there is

plenty of choice for dining, with 3 restaurants offering traditional buffet dishes,

hot and cold snacks and la carte cuisine. Evening entertainment is provided

daily in winter so youll probably be happy to relax at the hotel, however if

you feel like exploring further afield, a good choice of bars and restaurantscan be found in Kololi, approximately 20 kilometres away.

This well-established hotel will appeal to couples and families and is also

well set up for groups with meeting rooms available. It attracts many repeat

customers and is growing in popularity as an all-inclusive property.

More Online Gambia.co.uk/Atlantic

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE (not 24 hours, winter only) Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner

Local spirits and beer, house wines and soft drinks 8am-11pm

(excludes premium brands and minibar/room service)

Complimentary ice-cream selection

Games and sports facilities e.g. tennis, squash

20% discount on massages and hairdressing services

Laico Atlantic Beach HotelBanjul

Beachfront All-inclusive Families


Half board -14

Bed & breakfast -25


Single room from 10


Child sharing on all-inclusive (2-15 years) -20




This hotel really does cater for everyone, withits comfortable rooms, consistently good food anda beach to die for. The staff were always helpful,serving drinks with a smile and keeping the hotelspotlesswith a smile!

Nina Barlow, Administrator


25/49

WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on All-inclusive

No. of

Nights

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

953 934 919 907 1294 1327 984 972 995 1066 980 956 1057 1057 930

1164 1143 1125 1291 1578 1470 1191 1184 1267 1267 1188 1163 1286 1286 1143

1328 1309 1290 1572 1785 1614 1376 1362 1378 1392 1360 1348 1469 1425 1297

7

10/11

14

FLIGHT CHOICE







See pages 80 & 81 for further flight informatPrices are in s per person on All-in clusive in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.For all flight supplements, see page 80. Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov 10 Dec 57, 11 Dec 31 Dec 68, 1 Jan 30 Apr 59



26/49


27/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

733 716 705 697 998 1026 745 739 755 826 739 724 797 797 690

840 823 814 928 1130 1077 863 859 924 924 855 837 932 932 789

884 869 857 1062 1215 1086 908 892 910 933 894 875 965 913 798

Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard apartment from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.


COMPLIMENTARY WELCOME PACKThis Aparthotel offers bed and breakfast with a difference. On arrival all

of our customers receive a complimentary welcome pack which includes

provisions such as milk, fruit juice, tea, coffee, cheese, eggs and jam. You

will also receive fresh bread daily.

FLIGHT CHOICE









Guests return year after year to BB, an old favourite inan enviable position on Kotu Beach and one of only a fewhotels in The Gambia offering self-catering facilities.

The main appeal for guests is not just the great beachside location but also

the tranquil atmosphere around the pool and throughout the well-manicured

gardens its certainly not hard to find a peaceful spot in which to relax.

The apartments are arranged in two-storey buildings in and around the

gardens, with either a terrace or balcony to enjoy the beauty of the grounds.

A few have sea views so if you prefer to wake up to the ocean, you may

choose to upgrade. For single travellers, some smaller apartments areavailable with no supplement.

Each apartment has a small, equipped kitchenette, lounge/dining area and

separate bedroom. On arrival you will receive a complimentary welcome

pack supplemented by a daily delivery of fresh bread. Although you have the

facilities to eat in your apartment (there is a mini-market on site), the beauty

of a self-catering holiday is that you also get to sample the local specialities.

The hotel has its own restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with an

la carte menu, plus there is a choice of restaurants close by.

More Online Gambia.co.uk/BungalowBeach

Bungalow Beach AparthotelKotu

Relaxing Beachfront Singles

Exclusive

HOTEL FACILITIES

Pool with separate childrens pool

2 bars, mini-market, boutique

Internet caf, massage parlour

Small childrens playground

Safety deposit boxes in reception (payable locally)

114 apartments

ROOM FACILITIES

Separate bedroom, twin beds

Kitchenette with 2 electric rings

Fans and air-conditioning on request

(payable locally)

Fridge

ROOM CHOICE

Sea view apartment 5

Deluxe apartment including air-conditioning

and television 16

CUISINE

Breakfast pack plus daily fresh bread

Restaurant, mixture of table dhte and buffets

A la carte restaurant

Beach bar

ACTIVITIES

Some evening entertainment during winter


Half board 10

Air-conditioning payable locally

Single room 15

Smaller single room nil



All supplements and room upgrades are perperson per night based on twin occupancy



28/49

No. of

Nights

48

1-Nov15-Nov

18-Dec24-Dec

4-Mar25-Mar

26-Nov10-Dec

15-Feb21-Feb

1-Jan10-Jan

4-Apr11-Apr

16-Nov25-Nov

28-Jan14-Feb

25-Dec31-Dec

26-Mar3-Apr

11-Dec17-Dec

22-Feb3-Mar

11-Jan27-Jan

12-Apr30-Apr

704 690 678 669 967 992 726 714 722 798 719 694 797 797 678

792 775 760 878 1115 1051 823 819 887 887 823 799 918 918 786

832 813 800 1006 1177 1038 849 843 865 898 861 827 965 901 795

7

10/11

14

Prices are in s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include 65 APD, 20 ADF and 35 of other known taxes and charges.


More Online Gambia.co.uk/Bakotu


BIRDWATCHING WITH CHRIS PACKHAMOnce again, BBCs Chris Packham is keen to use Bakotu Hotel as his base

for a three day birdwatching holiday in February 2013. Benefit from his

wealth of knowledge about Gambian birdlife and visit a variety of habitats

for the best chance of spotting the widest range of birds. 3 nights costs

425 in addition to the cost of the hotel and flight package.

For more details see pages 70-71 or visit Gambia.co.uk/Birdwatching

The Bakotu Hotel has been a firm favourite of our guestsand BBC presenter Chris Packham for many years,mainly thanks to the warm welcome the staff provide and

the fantastic birdwatching available within the gardens. It is

also in a good location with a couple of other hotels, small

restaurants, beach bars and a craft market nearby.

The hotel provides a peaceful sanctuary for those looking for a relaxing

holiday; theres no loud music or organised pool games, with perhaps only the

occasional visit by local cultural entertainers. The simple yet comfortable rooms

are dotted throughout the tranquil gardens, where monkeys can often bespotted along with the abundant birdlife and resident tortoises. Some rooms

have air-conditioning, pre-bookable at a supplement, and families can also be

catered for.

New for our guests this winter, we have arranged a cooked breakfast or other

hot dish of your choice from the la carte breakfast menu, in addition to the

basic continental breakfast provided. For dinner, Captains Table, the hotels la

carte restaurant, is very popular and enjoys a good reputation for evening food.

There is also a pool bar and second restaurant adding to the increased choice

of places to eat and drink in the area, and the hotel has its own mini-market.

Although not directly on the beach, sandy Kotu beach is less than 100 metres

away and can be reached by strolling through the craft market, or just relax by

the pool within the hotel itself.

Bakotu HotelKotu

Birdwatching Small & Friendly

HOTEL FACILITIES

Small pool with sun terrace

Attractive tropical gardens with nature walk

Mini-market

Pool bar, dongle hire from reception

Laundry service (payable locally)

Resident bird guide

In-house massage service (payable locally)

Limited safety deposit boxes (payable locally)

80 rooms

ROOM FACILITIES

Twins and doubles

2 and/or UK 3 pin sockets

Fridge (payable locally)

Fans (payable locally)

CUISINE

Baobab Restaurant serving continental breakfast

and table dhte/half board dinners

Cooked breakfast now also included

Snacks, brunch and lunch at pool bar

Captains Table la carte restaurant

Boss Lady restaurant

Half board guests receive a credit at the

Captains Table restaurant

ROOM CHOICE

Family rooms with double bed, bunk beds

and a sofa bed


Half board 10

Air-conditioning 8

Single room 16







29/49

No. of

Nights

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

703 689 678 667 983 1020 719 708 725 793 714 698 767 767 679

805 786 770 879 1132 1061 821 809 863 863 810 792 893 893 768

829 814 807 1024 1199 1057 838 823 846 868 831 819 901 868 770

7

10/11

14



FLIGHT CHOICE








Asmall and friendly hotel overlooking the beach in Kotu, theSunset Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere. With its well-equipped rooms it is very popular and attracts a large number

of repeat guests.

This is a well-maintained property set within tropical gardens next to Kombo

Beach Hotel. The swimming pool and sun terraces offer an alternative to

the beach, which varies in size depending on the course of the neighbouring

Kotu stream. Daytime activities are limited, but evening entertainment

includes African cultural shows with dancers.

Standard rooms in single or 2-storey buildings are well equipped with atelevision, fridge, telephone and terrace or balcony. Self-catering apartments

which are ideal for families and air-conditioned standard rooms are also

available at a supplement. The Sunset Grill bar next to the beach serves a

wide range of snacks all day whilst the main restaurant also offers la carte

dining. Why not enjoy a drink and watch the sun set from its roof terrace?

A craft market, supermarket, beach bars and a few restaurants are within

easy walking distance in the resort of Kotu, or the busier resort of Kololi

is just a short taxi ride away. This attractive property will appeal to a wide

range of customers and its location close to Kotu stream makes it ideal for

birdwatchers.

More Online Gambia.co.uk/SunsetBeach


Sunset Beach HotelKotu

Families Groups

HOTEL FACILITIES

Swimming pool with childrens area

Sun terrace

Pool bar, bar

Beauty salon, gift shop

Wi-Fi in public areas

97 rooms

ROOM FACILITIES

Twin or double beds

Fridge, television

Telephone


2 pin sockets

ROOM CHOICE

Self-catering apartments including air-conditioning

16

CUISINE

Buffet continental breakfast

Restaurant with occasional buffet service and

table dhote menu

A la carte available

Pool bar serving snacks


Half board 10

Air-conditioning 7

Single room 11


Child sharing -6




Lovely, simple accommodation with good sizedrooms set within beautiful gardens, and with afantastic beachfront location.

Chantelle White, Sales Consultant


30/49

No. of

Nights

50

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

644 625 619 549 858 887 671 660 679 746 662 641 736 736 635

728 706 697 794 969 930 748 739 788 788 751 728 854 854 726

729 715 706 898 1076 922 760 747 771 782 754 733 857 808 729

7

10/11

14

More Online Gambia.co.uk/AfricanVillage



WINTER 2012-13 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast FLIGHT CHOICE





transfers are included in brochure priced holidays


See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

The friendly African Village Hotel continues to attract a highnumber of individual guests and groups each year with itsrelaxed atmosphere and welcoming staff, small intimate layout

and the chance to interact with the local community in the

bustling coastal town of Bakau.

The rooms are fairly small and simply furnished with many situated in

thatched round bungalows surrounded by colourful plants, creating a

traditional Gambian village ambience. The sea view rooms are slightly larger

with fantastic views of the ocean from their cliff top setting. This is also a

good choice for single travellers as there are a limited number of rooms for

single occupancy with no supplement.

The restaurant has stunning views from its elevated position overlooking the

Atlantic Ocean and the outside terrace is a wonderful place to enjoy an early

evening drink whilst watching the sun set. If you wish to experience more of

the local area, there are a number of local bars and restaurants close by as

well as a busy market.

There is no natural beach at the hotel but a sand-covered, man-made

sunbathing area has been created beside the ocean which is reached via

steep steps. The pool area boasts a circular bar right in the centre so theres

no need to go too far for a refreshing drink.

African Village HotelBakau

Singles Small & Friendly Groups

HOTEL FACILITIES

Pool with circular feature bar

Man-made sunbathing area

Safe facilities in reception (payable locally)

Small shop

73 rooms

ROOM FACILITIES

Twin beds

Fans

Fridge on request in advance (payable locally)

2 pin and UK 3 pin sockets

CUISINE

Restaurant overlooking the ocean

Continental breakfast

Snack service at beach and pool area

ROOM CHOICE

Sea view rooms are slightly larger 5


Half board 8.50

Air-conditioning payable locally

Single room 8

Smaller single room nil






Really well situated hotel away from the touristyareas with wonderful, friendly staff, who are alwaysready to chat and help with any issues.

Alan Hutchison, Gambia-Extra


31/49

No. of

Nights

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

10/11

14

794 775 768 749 988 1017 801 790 812 876 792 771 876 876 765

938 916 907 1012 1199 1150 938 929 978 978 931 908 1064 1064 898

999 985 976 1170 1346 1192 1010

gambia & senegal - all other hotels

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