Tourism and Travel Association Guide To The GAmbiA WorkinG

FR
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Tourism and Travel
Association
Guide to The Gambia
Working together to PromotE Tourism in The Gambia
and ensuring the safety of our visitors
Welcome to The Gambia
A Foreword from
The Tourism and Travel Association
Dear Visitor
We have compiled this booklet to create a better understanding of your holiday
destination, to give an insight into its rich history and culture and to let you know
what is acceptable in Gambian society and what is not. Please spare a few minutes to
read on – especially if this is your first visit. You will find important information along
with some interesting stories based on facts and history, and some which stem from
legend and personal beliefs … peoples opinions may differ.
Most importantly please remember although the official language in The Gambia
is English this does not mean everyone speaks it fluently. As you read on you will
learn there are several different tribes, each with their own language. Many children
have very little schooling and even less interaction with visitors please be patient
with the local people as they won’t all have a good understanding. Speak slowly if
someone is having difficulty understanding you. Many peo­ple have a habit of
saying “YES” when they don’t understand – this is a way of
avoid­ing embarrassment in their culture.
The Gambia is a peaceful country with many smiling faces. The population is 90%
Muslim and 10% Christian and other religions. The different ethnic and religious
groups live alongside each other in harmony and celebrate each other’s holidays and
festivals and even inter-marry freely.
The Gambia is a developing country with a good track record of economic growth in
recent years. The main sources of revenue for Gambia is groundnuts (peanuts), and
fishing and agricul­ture still provide a living for most Gambians. For the past ten years
tourism has been the fastest growing sector in the economy, providing more than
30% of the GDP. You as our guest are highly valued and it is our business to make
your stay a pleasurable one.
We are always interested in your opinions to help us build and improve our service.
We hope you will find this guide helpful and we most sincerely wish
you a very pleasant stay in the Gambia!
Country code +220
Useful Contacts
If you have any problems or complaints, you can contact one of the following:
• Gambia Tourist Authority Head Office, Kotu • GTA Quality Control Office Senegambia • Tourism Security Unit Head Office Senegambia
• Tourism and Travel Association Head Office Tel:4462491
Tel: 4463678
Tel:4463676
Tel:4462601/2
www.ttag.gm—info@ttaggambia.com
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Tourism and Travel
Association Gambia
What is the Tourism and Travel Association?
The Tourism and Travel Association was originally formed as the Association of
Ground Tour Operators to ensure the safe passage of visitors in The Gambia.
The TTAG has since opened its doors to other sectors of the Tourist Industry such as
restaurants, bars, equipment hirers and shops. Our aim is to work together to offer
a better service and to improve standards and safety to the highest levels which are
required for the modern day traveller. Working closely with the Gambian Tourist
Authorities and other associations such as the Gambia Hotel Association, Association
of Small Scale Enterprise in Tourism and Responsible Tourism Partnership, we are able
to improve our services and quality of product.
Our objectives are:
• To promote co-operation, encourage high standards, discipline and professional
conduct, also to provide a central organisation of tourism enterprises in The Gambia.
• To co-operate with any organisation both national and international whose aims and
objectives are identical to those of The Association.
• To promote and develop the welfare and interest of The Association.
• To increase the volume of tourism to The Gambia and the sub-region.
• To improve services offered to tourists within the field of operation of the members in
particular and other fields in general.
• Communicate with people not connected with tourism to give them a better
understand­ing of the industry.
• To encourage fund raising projects in the association with tourists to improve facilities
for the Gambian public and generally to engage in charitable projects self help projects
for the improvement of Gambians.
• Improve co-operation among the members bearing in mind that the members are
inde­pendent bodies free to carry on their business as they deem fit according to the
Code of Conduct of The Association.
• To strongly lobby the relevant authorities to ensure that The Association is not affected
by individuals or companies operating similar activities in an unlawful manner without
proper permits or licences.
• To establish a good relation with the Department of State for Tourism and other
authorities.
The following companies are members of the TTAG working together under
one umbrella: and are fully Licensed Operators
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Calabash Residence - Cheerz Restaurant - Gambia River Excursions
Gambia Tours- Gamtech - He Creations- Jane’s Boats - Kim Kombo
Kotu Point Beach Bar- Luigi’s Complex - Quality Catering - Makasutu
R & R Laundry Service - West African Tours
Contents
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Africell
Foreword
Tourism and Travel Association
Contents
Red Dolphin Life Guards
Animal Welfare
R& R Cleaning Services
Why Come to The Gambia
GHA
Beach Life
Nature and Wildlife
Tribal Background
Colonial History
Music and Culture
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Kim Kombo
Cultural Entertainment
Nefratit/ Calabash
Local Food
Map
Gambia Tours
Orientation Tour
West African Tours
4-Wheel Drive Excursions
Janes Boats
River Excursions
Gambia River Excursions
Up Country Tours
Makasutu
Ecotourism
Luigi’s Complex
Where To Stay
38 Cheers/ Quality Catering
39 Night Life
40 Arts and Crafts
42 Shopping
43 Bizarre / Golden Touch / Terrace Bar
44 Anna’s / John McKenna / Gamtech
45 Holiday Tips
46 TTAG
47/48Africell
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The Red Dolphin
Life Guards
As part of our commitment in
supporting re­sponsible tourism,
the TTAG with the assistance of
Gambian Experience and some
donations from local saw mills.
We were able to recently build and
hand over to the Gambian Tourist
Authority, five life guard towers on
the beaches in tourist area, ensuring
the safety of tourist and citizens alike.
For your safety always
check sea conditions,
look for the nearest
flag which will
indicate the colours:
NO FLAG =
NO LIFE GUARD
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SAFE SWIMMING
SWIM WITH CAUTION
DANGER, NO SWIMMING
The sea is a dangerous place and the Red Dolphin Life Guards, prove they are
ready to deal with emergencies with their life saving demonstrations.
Animal Welfare
The welfare of Animals in and around the tourist areas are a big
concern, not only for the prevention of the spread of disease
but also to prevent unnecessary suffering. As part of responsible
tourism, members of our association actively support Gambicats
and Dogs, by way of providing accommodation and funds
for overseas vets to conduct regular neutering programs and
sponsor feeding during the low season when food is scarce.
GambiCats & Dogs are a UK based charity which was formed in 1998 to help improve
the lives of stray cats and dogs in The Gambia. Their objective was to humanely control
the cat and dog population around the hotel areas. Periodically they will arrange vets
from Europe to visit The Gambia at their own cost and voluntarily conduct neutering
programmes along with the local vets. All neutered cats have their left ear tipped and
dogs ears are notched, which is an internationally agreed method for further recognition.
The dogs are micro-chipped and given anti-rabies injections. The Department of Livestock
Services have endorsed these method as a responsible and humane measures to control
stray animals. Since support for the charity has grown there have been a number of
Cat Cafe’s and Dog’s Diner’s opened in some of the hotels where the cats and dogs are
regularly fed and the guest can visit. If you are interested in the welfare of the animals
ask at the reception if the Hotel supports Gambicats and Dogs. They will have their
brochures which will give you more information of their work. There is a permanent team
of Gambian staff on the ground, lead by Dodou Bojang, who do their best to feed and
ensure the welfare of the cats and beach dogs all year round, especially during the low
season when the tourists go home and food is scarce.
If you would like to help with a donation please contact them on:
Mobile: 9900756 Tel: 4463251 or go to their web site: www.gambicats.org.uk
PLEASE DO NOT TAKE FOOD FROM THE BREAKFAST ROOMS TO FEED ANIMALS.
Member Hotels will give them food from the waste of the Restaurant.
Animal Care Association of the
Gambia is a newly formed charity
which is supported by local vets.
Their main concerns are the Street
Dogs which can be found around
the town. There are many dogs
which are scavenging and breeding
unchecked. These animal are a
great concern as they can carry and
spread disease. Many are hit by
passing vehicles and need urgent
medical attention. The aim of the
association is to take care of the
most severely injured and sick and
they are neutered and vaccinated,
where possible and re-homed or
returned to the street.
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Why come to The Gambia?
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Just six hours from Europe with no jet lag
Guaranteed sunshine all year round
Beautiful golden sandy beaches stretching for miles.
One of the safest destinations in the world
Freedom to travel around
Excellent and varied restaurants
Beautiful ecotourism
One of the best destinations for bird watching
Excellent sea and creek fishing
The Gambia has a magic that
brings people back year after
year and it is still one of the
safest destinations in the world!
It is the nearest English speaking
destination to Europe with
guaranteed sunshine all year
round. Average flight time is
just 6 hours.
The Gambia‘s relaxed laid back pace of life is ideal for
those who prefer a quieter holiday, yet The Gambia
offers a wealth of history and culture which can be
explored by boat or by road. The local people are
friendly and are always willing to share their
knowledge over some Ata (green tea) or even
invite you to join them for lunch.
For the more adventurous there is lots to see and do!
The climate is very comfortable offering guaranteed
warm sunny days and cool evenings between
November and May.
The summer months brings rains, which fall mostly
in warm short showers, the land turns a lush green
and the birds and the flowers produce an amazing
array of colour.
The Gambia has over 500 different species
of bird, many of which can be seen in and
around the Kombo area.
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African Village Hotel
Badala Park Hotel
Baobab Holiday Resort
Bijilo Beach Hotel
Bungalow Beach Hotel
Cape Point Hotel
Corinthia Atlantic Hotel
Coconut Residence
Coco Ocean
Dalaba Residence
Dunes Resort
Golden Beach Hotel
Holiday Beach Club
Jerma Hotel
Kairaba Beach Hotel
Kololi Beach Hotel
Kombo Beach Hotel
Luigis Complex
Ngala Lodge
Ocean Bay Hotel
Omakan Hotel
Palm Beach Hotel
Paradise Suites
roc Heights
Sarges Hotel
Seaview Garden Hotel
Senegambia Beach Hotel
Sheraton Gambia Resort
Sun Beach Hotel
Sunset Beach Hotel
The leading hotels in The Gambia
Tel +(220) 7725739
info@gambiahotels.gm, gambiahotels@gamtel.gm
www.gambiahotels.gm
Beach Life
The Gambia boasts some of the most superb beaches
on the west coast of Africa. You can step out from
any of the hotels which are dotted along its coastline
onto a vast expanse of golden sandy beach.
No need to suffer from overcrowded beaches or look
at tall buildings towering over you. All the hotels
in The Gambia are built low-level to blend into the
background, creating a peaceful ambience and each
hotel has its own wonderful expanse of beach so you
will never feel cramped or crowded.
You can walk for miles as soon as you step outside of
your hotel, but if you really want to get away from it
all ... Take a drive! Explore and discover some of the
most beautiful sandy beaches which stretch the full
length of the Gambian coastline.
You don‘t need to go far to find an idyllic spot away
from it all to find peace and serenity. As you drive
further from the Kombo area, where most of the
hotels are situated, you will very soon come to small
fishing villages such as Brufut and Tanji where life
revolves around the daily catch. The view from the red
rock cliffs of Tanji are surreal. The unspoilt beaches at
Sanyang and Gunjur stretch for miles, dotted with the
odd beach bar selling the catch of the day and a few
drinks. The Gambia offers a unique serenity not found
in any destination this close to Europe.
Some recommended beaches
Brufut – unspoilt sandy beaches, very natural
and beautiful with small beach bars scattered
along the coast.
Sanyang and Gunjur – wide white sand beaches,
great beach bars – a true African beach experience.
Cape Point – well kept beaches around the hotel areas, some of the
widest in The Gambia.
Kotu Beach – flat and sandy beach, good for families and ideal for visitors.
Kololi Beach – sandy beaches with great facilities, bars and restaurants.
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Nature Reserves & Wildlife
Seasoned ornithologists and Africa birding novices alike will find
tours of The Gambia to be extremely rewarding. Since 1985 British
ornithologist Clive Barlow has lived in West Africa, studying and caring
for the birdlife – and so tours are available using the best current
scouting information and 20+ years of West African birding experience
Abuko Nature Reserve is one of the oldest established reserves in the Gambia.
An ev­ergreen forest gallery follows the course of the Lamin Stream and covers
approximately 1/3 of the reserve area. Efforts are being concentrated on maintaining the
winding bush trails, bird photo hides and animal orphanage as well as the boundary, to
prevent encroach­ment by people and cattle. There are three small pools in the reserve, the
biggest being the Bamboo Pool. This freshwa­ter pond and its vicinity are a great location
to spot crocodiles and birds. Abuko is within easy reach by taxi from any of the main
coastal holiday resorts. It is an ideal first stop for birdwatchers, animal enthusiasts and
tourists in general. There are designated guides on site to help you find animals and birds
while on the forest trail – a tip is always appreciated though not mandatory!
Abuko’s area was extended from 188 to 259 acres in 1978 and, with the help of the
WWF, the reserve was enclosed in a 2.5 metre fence. It is one of six protected wildlife
management parks in Gambia and covers an area of 105 hectares (roughly 2 sq. km).
Bijilo Forest Park, is a small rainforest nature reserve located on a cliff edge on
the beach and within easy walking distance of the Senegambia strip. It is an ideal place
for eco-tourists & birdwatchers staying in the nearby Kairaba & Senegambia ho­tels. Bijilo
Forest is host to over 130 species of birds such as the Red-necked Falcon, Grey Hornbill,
Senegal Coucal and various Bee-eaters There are also 4 primate species, the Patas monkey,
Green Vervet monkeys, Red Colobus and the Galago or Bushbaby, that inhabit the park.
Please take notice of the signs asking visi­tors not to feed the monkeys – as this
will interfere with their natural behaviour and re­duce their fear of humans,
putting them in danger of being harmed or stolen.
Among the flora are lilies, wild orchids, salt-tolerant vines, magnificent silk cotton trees,
palms and the odd-looking baobab tree (sometimes called the upside-down tree).
Lamin Lodge is situated on the edge of the creeks, this huge tree house style lodge
offers a wonderful view over the mangrove swamps and is an ideal spot for birdwatching.
Small boats can also be hired from here.
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Makasutu Culture Forest Makasutu is a Mandinka word meaning “Holy Forest”.
The owners of this beautiful resort began a venture that would, after almost fifteen years,
earn them a reputation as having The Best New Eco Lodge in The World, according to
the Sunday Times in 2002. Further awards were bestowed on the serene lodge with the
awarding of the prestigious “Guild of British Travel Writers Award” in 2004, and Winner,
Eco Tourism Award 2005. Makasutu offers day trips with guided walks through the forest
and trips along the creeks in dugout canoes offering a good op­portunity for birdwatching
and wild animal observation. There is a craft area where local artists show their talents
and skills in woodcarving, design ware and other traditional African artefacts. A traditional
lunch with cultural entertainment is put on to round up the day.
For those who wish to stay longer Madinara Lodge offers eco-friendly accommoda­
tion of the highest standard. Feel at one with nature, wake up to the call of the birds
and spend time in their natural habitat. It is one of the few places in the world that the
Manatee (known as the sea cow) lives in the shallow waters edge and they have been
known to give birth under the floating lodges. This rare experience is only possible to
encounter by staying at the Madinara lodge.
Baobolong Wetland Reserve is located on the northern bank of the Gambia
River in central Gambia, opposite Kiang West. This wetland covers 22,000 hectares and
was designated as Gambia’s first RAMSAR site (a wetland of international importance).
Kiang West National Park is located on the southern bank of the Gambia River in
cen­tral Gambia. Its 11,000 hectares are dominated by dry woodland vegetation, with ar­eas
of mangrove and mud flats.
River Gambia National Park is more commonly known as Baboon Islands. It is
a 580 hectare park covering five mid-river islands near Georgetown in eastern Gambia.
It was established mainly as a rehabilitation sanctuary for chimpanzees. Visitors are not
permitted on the island.
Niumi National Park in the northwest of Gambia is contiguous with the Parc
National du Delta du Saloum in neighbouring Senegal and incorporates the coastal island
of Ginak. It covers 5,000 hectares and features dry woodland, sand dunes, mangroves, salt
marches and lagoons.
TANJI River BIRD RESERVE is located on the coast, in western Gambia. Its 612
hectares include dunes, la­goons, mangroves, dry woodland and is popular for the variety
of birds which can be seen in and around the reserve.
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Tribal Background
Mandinka originate from the (Manding) Mali
Empire. Sundiata Keita, leader of the Malinké
people encompassed the areas from the
edge of the Sahara to the forests of the
south in what is now Liberia & Sierra
Leone. From east to west, it covered all
the regions between Takedda beyond the
Niger Buckle covering Senegambia on the
Atlantic Ocean. This vast empire controlled
nearly all the trans-Saharan trade, and contact
with the rulers of the Arab states to the north
led the Mali rulers to embrace Islam with great
enthusiasm. Though the rise of the Mali
empire was swift, its decline was slow.
By the middle of the 15th century a
group of Mandingos drifted into
the area of the Gambia
River basin and with
them came Islam.
The Mandinka make
up the majority of the population being
the largest tribe to settle in The Gambia,
the majority of which live in the provinces,
Upper and Central River Divisions.
WOLOF are an ethnic group found in north
Senegal, Mauritania and The Gambia, making
up about 15% of the population, yet Wolof
language and culture have a disproportionate
influence because of their prevalence in the
capital Banjul, where 50% of the population are
Wolof. Wolof ceremonial traditions, such as weddings,
while not unique, have distinctive traditional elements.
Many aspects of these tradi­tional ceremonies have
merged and been modified through the 20th century.
Traditionally, the parents of the groom-to-be send
elders to the girl‘s parents with kola nuts and money
to ask for her hand in marriage. The girl‘s parents
consult their daughter and either consent to or reject the
proposal. If accepted, the parents of the bride-to-be distribute the
kola nuts amongst the family and neighbours – an informal way of
announcing the impending wedding. In more traditional practices,
the groom to be‘s family paid the girl‘s bride-price in the form of money. This tradition,
where surviving, has been modernized and dowry is paid in money, cars or even houses.
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The imam and elders advise the groom with the presence of the some rep­resentatives
of the bride‘s parents. Weddings traditionally take place at the groom’s home.
Parents receive guests with food and drink (but not alco­hol), while guests bring gifts
of money, rice and drinks. After the ceremony people feast and dance with guests
hiring a griot (praise-singer) and giv­ing further gifts to the groom‘s parents. The girl
moves to the husband’s (or his parent’s) home or compound, bringing utensils for
cooking which she buys with the money from the bride price.
JOLA are the next largest community living in the Gambia, their people are believed
to have pre-dated the Mande and Fula peoples to the riverside coast of Senegambia,
and may have migrated into Casamance before the 13th century. Though the origin
of the Jolas is still unknown, it is now confirmed by both oral and written history that
they are the people who have been longest resident in The Gambia and among the
indigenous people of the Senegambian region. Jola in Mandinka means to
“pay your dues”. Tradition­ally Jola women tend the fields and
grow crops while the men tap palm oil and wine.
SARAHULI are Mandé people who descend from the Belfour and are closely related
to the Imraguen of Mauritania. They were the founders of the ancient empire of
Ghana c. 750-1240 CE). The settlers in The Gambia are a minority group who live
mainly in the Upper River Division. Traditionally they are traders, and are renowned as
being suc­cessful business people, many are property owners and diamond dealers.
SERERE are the third largest ethnic group in Senegal, also present in Mauritania and
the north bank of The Gambia. They are predominantly fishermen by trade and their
prin­cipal sport is wrestling.
FULA are traditionally a nomadic, pastoralist, trading people, herding cattle, goats
and sheep across the vast dry hinterlands of their domain, keeping somewhat
separate from the local agricultural populations. Their tribe can be found as far north
as Mauritania, all over West and central Africa and as far east as Sudan. The Fula
people form a minority in every country they live, except Guinea where they represent
a plurality of the population (40%). In The Gambia they are often found as local
trades. Commonly the corner shop will be known as the “Fula shop”.
AKU originated from Freetown, Sierra Leone, some still live in
the area of George town where they had been resettled after
the days of slavery as there was no way of know­ing where
they had originally been taken from. The Aku language which
is still spoken in West Africa developed from the early West
African Pidgin English. Some scholars also argue that African
slaves took this language to the New World where it helped
MANJAGO are an ethnic group in Guinea-Bissau. Which
have migrated to south Gambia They are known as Manjaku
by the Manjacks themselves, Ndiago by the Wolofs, Manjaco
by the Portuguese, and Manjaque by the French. Each of
these terms means “I tell you” Their trade by tradition is
typically palm wine and palm oil tapping.
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Music and Culture
Music plays an important part of Gambian culture: “The drum” made of carved
wood and goatskin seems a simple instrument, but use of the drum is not limited to
musical entertainment, such as in music from the Americas or Europe. It has a serious
application in many societies across the continent. Many West African tribes are well
known for their use of drumming in daily activities and special events and a native speaker
of a language can often perceive an actual message in the music. This effect also forms
the basis of drum languages (talking drums). In days gone by drumming was used as a
way of communicating news from village to village, for example to inform members of
their respective tribes about major news, such as a death, funeral, meeting, or celebration
within the tribe. In the past it was used as a warning of imminent attack.
The drum is the sign of life – its beat is the heartbeat of the community. Such is the
power of the drum to evoke emotions, to touch the souls of those who hear its rhythms.
The beating of the drum is an opportunity to give one another a sense of belonging and of
solidarity. It is a time to connect with each other, to be part of that collective rhythm of the
life in which young and old, rich and poor, men and women are all invited to contribute to
the society.
Wrestling: The beat of the drum is used to evoke the
emotion of the contester and create an excitement in
the arena. Modern traditional wrestling has evolved as a
modified version of real combat techniques.
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Traditionally, all the boys in a village were taught how to wrestle with the ones that
showed skill and promise held in high regard as a man regardless of class. It is one of the
oldest traditional sports in The Gambia and wrestling festivals are a common occurrence.
The object is simply to throw one’s opponent to the ground. The first wrestler down in the
bout loses the contest. Leg locks are permitted but there are no patterned arm or head
locks, or complicated points system. The most common style of grappling is shown among
the Mandinka, Fulas and Jolas. It involves each opponent grabbing each other’s trunks
at the start of the bout. After some strategic manoeuvrings each one would attempt to
throw the other to the ground. Serers on the other hand prefer to go straight for the legs
and render their opponent off-balance.
Traditional music is mostly functional in nature, there are for example, many different
kinds of work songs, some of the drumming that goes on in the middle of the day even
helps women and men of the tribe get daily chores done more quickly as the drums allow
them to follow a rhythm while they work, Ceremonial or religious music accompanies
childbirth, marriage, hunting, and even political activities.
Ceremonial music will often be accompanied by the Balafone and the Kora, which
produces a harp-like sound. The player uses the thumb and index finger of both hands to
pluck the strings in polyrhythmic patterns. The combination of instruments used depends
on the tribe. Male griots, or praise singers, are born into the profession. They most often
act as a solo or duo instrumentalists and are traditionally heard at weddings and infant
naming ceremonies. They attend the ceremonies to bring good luck with their songs and
historical recitations. In some areas they may form part of a larger group that may include
Kora, Calabash, Flute and Tamo Drums. The griot or “Jali” society acted as historians,
advisors, arbitrators, praise singers and storytellers and essentially these musicians were
walking history books, preserving ancient stories and traditions through song. Their
inherited tradition was passed down through generations. They were said to have deep
connections to spiritual, social, or political powers through their music and speech. The
talking drums (Tamo) are some of the oldest instruments used by West African griots
and their history can be traced back to the ancient Ghanaian empire. Many griots have
developed a highly sophisticated genre of music centred on the talking drum.
Colonial History
The first British traders in the Gambia came in 1587. They began to ex­plore the river
in 1618 and eventually got control of St. Andrew’s Island 1661. It was renamed James
Island after the Duke of York, later King James II, a name it has retained to this day.
Trading companies were set up and they tried to control the trade of the river.
By the mid-seventeenth century, the slave trade had over-shadowed all other trade.
The British and French competed for the control of the area’s trad. In 1765, the forts
and settlements were vested in the British crown and for eighteen years what is now
The Gambia formed part of the British colony of Senegambia, with its headquarters in
St. Louis at the mouth of the River Senegal. However in 1783, the greater part of the
Senegambia region was handed to France and the Gambian section ceased to be a
British colony, being placed once more in the charge of the African Company.
With the British abolition of the slave trade in their settlements in 1807, they tried to
look for a suitable location in The Gambia from where they would be able to monitor
the river and stop ships from entering and leaving with slaves. Alexander Grant, sent
out from Goree for this purpose, found the fort at James Island to be too far inland
and in ruins. He therefore entered into a treaty with the Chief of Kombo in April, 1816
for the cessation of the detached sand bank known as St. Mary’s Island. Originally
called Banjulo by the Portuguese, Grant named the new settlement, Bathurst after the
Colonial Secretary of the time Lord Bathurst. Britain declared the Gambia River a British
Protec­torate in 1820.
In 1886, Gambia became a crown colony, and the following year France and Britain
drew the boundaries between Senegal (by then a French colony) and The Gam­bia.
With the slave trade at an end, the British were forced to come up with a new source of
wealth to support the fledgling protectorate, which led to the planting of groundnuts.
The groundnuts or peanuts are originally from South America and were introduced to
West Africa (first the Senegambia area) by the Portuguese
in the 16th century. The harvested nuts are
crushed to make oil, which is exported to
Europe for use in food manufacture.
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In the 1950s, Gambia’s groundnut production was beefed up as a way to increase
export earnings and make the country that much more self supportive. Today
groundnuts remain the chief crop of both The Gambia and neighbouring Senegal.
On the 18th of February 1965, The Gambia gained political independence from Britain
and Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II remained as titular head of state. It was strongly felt that
The Gambia would not be able to stand on her own and there were talks of forming a
federation with Senegal, but this did not materialise at the time. Around the same time,
two events occurred that enabled the tiny nation to survive and even prosper.
For a decade after independence, the world price for groundnuts increased significantly,
raising the country’s GNP almost threefold. The second event had an even more
resounding effect – The Gambia became a significant tourist destination.
On April 24, 1970, The Gambia became a Republic following a majority approved
referendum led by President Dawda Kairaba Jawara, who was re-elected five times.
The relative stability of the Jawara era was broken first in a violent coup attempt
in 1981 which was led by Kukoi Samba Sanyang, who, on two occasions, had
unsuccessfully sought election to parliament. After a week of violence, which left
several hundred dead, Jawara, who was in London when the attack began, appealed
to Senegal for help. Senegalese troops defeated the rebel force. In the aftermath of the
attempted coup, Senegal and The Gambia signed the 1982 Treaty of Confederation.
The result, the Senegambia Confederation, aimed eventually to combine the armed
forces of the two nations and unify economies and currencies. The Gambia withdrew
from the con­federation in 1989. A protest by soldiers over late salaries in July 1994
turned into a coup d’état, led by a young lieutenant, Yahya Jammeh, A new military
government was formed and in 1996 Elections were held and Lieutenant Jammeh was
elected by popular vote by the people and a new constitution was introduced, ushering
in the Second Republic. President Jammeh has since won two consecutive elections
in 2001 and 2006 and re­mains in power to this day. He has brought stability to the
country and tourism is back in a big way. Also the Gambian infrastructure has vastly
improved, as is evi­denced by the modern Banjul International Airport, new hospitals,
roads and street lighting that are all being put in place.
19
Cultural Entertainment
Kanilai International
Cultural Festival:
Attracts thousands of people from
The Gambia and the Diaspora who all
converge on the village of Kanilai in the
Foni Kansala District of Western Region,
the country home and birth place of
President Jammeh. This cultural festival is
normally in June every two years and has
become a household name where you can
join in and enjoy the cultural shows and
dancing for this 16-day festival.
Roots
Homecoming Festival:
Is a historical, cultural and
educational event which invites
all people of African descent
and all persons committed to
the well being of Africans and
the development of Africa, to
come home to The Gambia and
participate in the Festival, which
is also held in June, in alternate
years to the Kanilai Festival!
If you are unable to attend
either of the Festivals but
would like to experience
some of the wonderful
culture The Gambia has
to offer, Two of the most
spectacular places to be
entertained are Makasutu
and Kim Kombo, each with
their own unique display of
cultural entertainment.
Makasutu offers their “NIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA“ Watch the torch light
procession float down the creek and come ashore to entertain you with a
range of entertainment including African dancing and fire-eating while you
enjoy an African/European buffet dinner.
Kim Kombo offers a special “AFRICAN NIGHT“ twice weekly with original
dance troupes, an African/European buffet dinner AND as much of the locally
made liqueurs as you can drink!
21
Local Food and Drinks
Local foods: are worth trying. A word of warning, be prepared to eat a bit more than
“just a little spice” – Gambians like their food hot! The food is a melting pot for all the
nations and tribes from the sub-regions who live in harmony and enjoy sharing food
from all cultures. If you interact with local people don‘t be surprised to be invited to a
compound to share a meal as the Gambian culture is very friendly and hospitable. Food
is always shared, normally a group will eat from one bowl. As a guest you will be offered
a spoon and sometimes your own plate! It is said you will not argue with someone
you share a bowl of food with! Fish plays a major part in Gambian cuisine due to the
variety of fish available in both river and sea. Oysters fresh from the creeks make a quick
and easy stew, Ebeh is made from an amazing array of ingredients including smoked fish,
crabs, oysters and fish eggs amongst other things. Benachin meaning “one pot” is the
equivalent of an Italian risotto or a Spanish paella. The beach bars are the best place to
find many of the local tasty dishes. Some are better than others so choose wisely. Some
bars don’t have electricity or running water, so keep this in mind when ordering food!
Nefertiti Beach Bar, Banjul offers a great location with a fresh menu local food and
snacks daily and Kotu Point Beach Bar, Kotu offers a B-B-Q every Saturday lunch time,
join in the fun, come Jamming with Lamin and try your hand at drumming!
Local Drinks: The most popular are Wonjo and Baobab. Wonjo juice is made from the
dried red flowers of the Sorrel, which are boiled with sugar to make a refreshing, sweet
drink full of Vitamin C. Baobab juice is made from the fruit of the Baobab tree. The fruit
is soaked in water, sieved and the seeds extracted. The pulp is then mixed with a little
sugar to make the base juice. Other ingredients can be added according to taste; the most
popular are milk and coconut, but it is also tasty with mango, papaya or banana – making
a thick natural smoothie. Both Wonjo and Baobab are very nutritious, healthy and with a
unique flavour. They also make a wonderful cocktail when mixed together.
Great African Secret: Locally people use these drinks as regular source of nutrition, in
Europe it had been forgotten. During World War 2 it was given to soldiers in bread to
prevent scurvy. Recently rediscovered it is being branded as a
superfood of the future. It has been clinically proven that it is a
pro-biotic with 10 times more vitamin C than an orange and
5 times more calcium than a glass off milk as well as containing
antioxidants and Omega 3-6-9.
If you would like to try your hand or learn more about Gambian and West African Cuisine
the Taste of The Gambia Cook Book is a simple and easy Guide, available for sale for
D250 at all hotel shops and supermarkets or call 4460280
23
Sights of The Gambia
BANJUL
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Banjul International Airport
July 22nd Arch
Albert Market
Jane’s Boats, Denton Bridge
Banjul–Barra Ferry
4
3
5
1
S E N E G A L
2
FARAFENYE
N
km
0
10
BAKAU
Kololi Beach
SERREKUNDA
SUKUTA
Brufut
Banjul
Tanji
BANJUL
KEREWAN
BARRA
Tendaba
Abuko
Nature
Reserve
LAMIN
International
Airport
Makasutu
BRIKAMA
Riv
Jufureh
MANSA
KONKO
Kiang West
National
Park
er Gambia
Pirang
S E N E G A
Seleti
8
7
6
THE COASTAL AREA
6. Katchically, Serrekunda
7. Lamin Lodge, Lamin Creek
8. Brikama Craft Market
24
SOMA
9. Kololi Beach
10. Tanji Fishing Village
11. Makasutu
9
UP COUNTRY
12. Jufureh & Albreda
13. Wassu Stone Circle
14. Baboon Island
15. Janjangbureh
16. Bird Island
17. Basse
13
12
14
Wassau
Baboon Island
National Park
15
Janjangbureh
GEORGETOWN
Bird Island
BASSE
A L
16
17
10
11
25
Excursions
For the more adventurous, there is plenty to see and do! Details of one available
tour are below – for a full list see your representative, or if you are travelling
independently book direct with the tour operator. Excursions may differ, as each
operator has their own version of these tours. For your safety, book your tour with
a fully licensed and insured company. The following companies are mem­bers of
the TTAG which is your guarantee that they are fully insured and licensed:
Gambia Tours, West African Tours, Gambia River Excursions, Jane’s Boats
ORIENTATION TOUR
An all inclusive one-day tour touch­ing on the life and
culture of the Gambian people. The first stop of the
day is at Katchi­kally Crocodile pool. You will visit the
museum and have a chance to get really close up to
these unique reptiles. And you can actually stroke these
Crocodiles if you dare!
Our next port of call is the dye and batik factory in
Serrekunda, where you will see how the work is done
and buy materials at a very good price if you wish!
After visiting the batik factory you will be driven through
the busy Serrekunda market and on to a local school
where you will meet children in their classrooms and see
the education system. Next stop is the City of Banjul,
the capital of The Gambia situated on St. Mary’s Island.
As we drive our guide will tell you some of Banjul’s
history and how Independence was gained back in the 60s and we will pass by Arch 22,
which is a symbol of the Second Republic of The Gambia. You will stop for a short visit to
the National Museum before proceeding to Albert Market, the busiest market in the
country. Here you can visit the food, vegetable and fish markets as well as the material &
craft market. This is a truly excellent experience as it gives you a blend of different aspects
of Gambian life. Arts, crafts and materials can be bought at a very reasonable price if you
are willing to bargain! You will then return to Denton Bridge for a leisurely cruise along
the oyster creek to Lamin Lodge, on board a traditional style pirogue with a sundeck.
Lunch is served on board as you cruise, giving you a chance to relax and soak up some
of the Gambian sun. Upon arrival at Lamin Lodge tribal groups will entertain you with
dancing and music while you take refreshment.
Our final port of call is Kim Kombo Plantation and
Distillery, which produces liqueurs from locally grown
fruits. After a guided tour you will have the chance to
sample some of the liqueurs and you will be able to
purchase the bottles of your choice, they make a great
gift for friends and family back home. New for 2010 is a
display of solar cooking and fruit drying.
27
4-Wheel Drive
4 WD: Is a great opportunity to see and experience the real Gambia,
this excursion will take you off the beaten track, in a 4x4 Safari
truck or Land Rover following the coastline and stopping aalong the
way where you will meet villagers and visit a local school. Pens and
books are always welcome gifts for the schools, but please give any
donations to the head teacher and DO NOT bring sweets. Next stop,
the palm wine tappers, you can sample the freshly tapped wine and
learn more about how it‘s produced. Lunch is served at one of the
most beautiful beaches in the south of the country where there will
be a chance to swim and sunbathe. In the afternoon we visit Tanji
Village museum, a unique chance to find out more about Gambian
culture and tradition, and guides will be happy to show you around the mock village
and explain about village life. You will be able to watch weavers making hand woven
cloth. In the gardens they have some wonderful unusual flora and fauna. From the
museum we head for Tanji fishing village, where you can see and smell the local fish
smoking industry – there is always a chance to see the fishermen bring their catches in.
As we head back to the hotels we will make unscheduled stops to observe any
interesting birds and wildlife on the way.
South Gambia Experience: Go beyond the routes of normal tourist excursions and
visit the remote and isolated area of Southern Gambia combined with a cruise on the
River which divides us from neighbouring Senegal. As you drive through savannah-like
hinterland, towards the border, you will experience an excellent view of our countryside.
On route you will visit the reptile farm where you can see many different species of
snakes and lizards that reside in The Gambia, the next stop is at a local art gallery
for drinks and snacks before proceeding to the peaceful Kartong beach where a
traditional river craft is waiting to take you for a cruise around various inlets and islands
of the Allahein River. The scenery varies from mangroves to open mudflats where the
banks are full of oysters. Monkeys and varied birdlife can be spotted in this peaceful
area. Local fishermen can often be seen digging for mussels in the mud or collecting
oysters from the mangroves. After about two hours cruising we will stop for lunch.
We will drive close to the beach on the return journey to our various hotels.
29
River Gambia
Lazy Day River Cruise: Starting from Denton Bridge and taking you on a peaceful
cruise through the creeks. There‘s a chance to see many species of birds – binoculars and
bird books are available on board. Morning coffee, tasty snacks and chilled bubbly are
served before weighing anchor on a sandbank where you can cool off and take a swim
in the river. Lunch is a simple buffet served on board. After lunch try a spot of fishing or
relax on the sundeck. Arrive back to your hotel around 5pm.
Creek Fishing: Join a traditional African pirogue at
Denton Bridge for a 9am start. Our captain will steer
through the mangroves stopping off at various fishing
marks. Target fish include: Red Snapper, Lady Fish,
Butter Fish, Angel Fish, Sompat, Grouper. Guides are
on hand to assist beginners, it’s a great day out for all
the family. The waters of the creeks are always calm
and there is plenty of shade on board, a well-stocked
bar and freshly prepared hot & cold sandwiches.
Roots: The American author Alex Haley has made this ’ROOTS‘ trip a must!
He traced his African origin back to The Gambia and wrote the now famed book about
his ancestor Kunta Kinteh. which spurned the epic and world renowned TV series
‘Roots‘. You start out from Banjul for a two and half hour boat trip up the River Gambia.
On the journey you will often see dolphins swim and play alongside the boat. You will
arrive at the ancient trading station of Albreda, from there you take a short walk to the
adjoining village of Jufureh, where you can visit the National Museum of Slavery and
then on to the home of Alex Haley‘s ancestors and his present day family. Here you can
meet relatives and hear accounts from the family‘s history. Lunch is served on board the
boat before setting off for James Island, about 15 minutes away.
James Island (named after King James II) has the ruined remains
of the fortress and slave pens built by the British in 1610. It is
rich in slave history and is the place where hundreds of captured
slaves awaited transport to a life of enslavement in the west.
You can expect to be back at your hotels by 5.30.pm
31
Up-country Tours
This is an excursion which takes you over 300 km into The Gambia,
giving you a chance to see the true way of life in the provinces.
You will visit the heritage site of the mysterious Stone Circles and stay
over night at Jangjang Bureh Camp.
Your trip will cross by ferry from Banjul to Barra on the North Bank. From here you will take
a 4-5 hour journey to Georgetown. Along the way you will stop at Farafenni market
(lumo). Lumo is a relatively busy weekly market, selling local carvings, food and clothing.
You will pass many small villages where the views and sights can be quite spectacular and
unique. Next stop will be at the Wassu stone circles where your guide will explain the
nature, history and legend of how the stone circles came into existence. It‘s believed that
these circles were discovered around 750 AD and possibly date back to 100 BC.
From here we head to Janjangbureh Camp. After lunch you will cross by ferry to the
Island, named Janjangbureh after the brothers who discovered it. The British renamed it
McCarthy Island and the town George Town. It was used as a trading post and a place of
settlement for the freed slaves (Akus). Today there are still many Akus living in the area.
The Aku tribe originate from Freetown but were brought to The Gambia by the British for
resettlement as they had no way of knowing where they originated from.
Janjangbureh is also the administrative headquarters for the Central River Division. You
will have time to explore the old town and its unique surroundings, visit the local market
and buy some souvenirs. On our way back to the camp you will make a visit to a village
and meet the “Alkalo” (head of the village) before returning to your camp and relaxing
before the evening entertainment. Dinner will be served followed by traditional Gambian
music and dance performed by the villagers. The next day you have an early wake up for a
bird and animal watching walk around the camp. Green Vervet monkeys can be seen, they
often come to the guests for feeding. After breakfast you will
take a boat trip down river to Sapu. Along the way you
will see many different types of vegetation as well as,
monkeys, hippos and crocodiles. Lunch is served on
board as you cruise. Upon arrival at Sapu you
join your vehicle for your journey back to
Banjul and your hotels.
33
Ecotourism
3 Day Mini Safari:
This trip gives you a chance to see and experience the real life of The Gambia.
Day 1: The trip includes the morning at Makasutu Cultural Forest, a palm forest situated
on the banks of a beautiful meandering tributary of the Gambia River, encompassing many
different eco-systems including dense forest, savanna and mangrove. The area is home to
many varieties of birds, monkeys, lizards and deer which you may see on the canoe trip or
guided nature walk – if really lucky you may also see baboons. There is an opportunity to
observe local people going about their daily lives in the bush, including palm wine tappers,
local fishermen and women collecting oysters from the mangroves. Enjoy a traditional
West African lunch and watch dancers and drum troupes perform on the natural stage,
under the shade of the majestic Baobab tree. From Makasutu you will be driven to Kanilai,
the village where the President of The Republic of The Gambia was born. You will stay at
Sindola Safari Camp, a unique bush camp, constructed on nearly 30,000 sq. m of partially
landscaped tropical surroundings, where the President has his private home and has created
this beautiful environment amidst numerous palm and baobab trees, flowering shrubs and
bougainvilleas. The camp is modern with many facilities, including a swimming pool and
air-conditioned rooms. Relax by the pool or maybe take a horse cart to the village to meet
the local people, and learn more about the Jola tribe and their culture, before returning to
camp for dinner and cultural entertainment from the Kosamayu group.
Day 2: After breakfast, you will be driven to Tendaba Camp, situated at the riverside of
Kiang West National Park, approximately 62 km from Brikama. On arrival, there will be a
1½ hour boat trip along the creeks where you will have a chance to see some of the many
species of birds which live in the mangroves. After lunch you will be driven to Bwiam, a
lively village where you will meet the people and take a Gambian “Ataya” (tea ceremony).
You will have dinner and stay overnight at Bwiam lodge.
Day 3: After breakfast, you will return, stopping at Brikama,home of the famous local
woodcarving market. You will have a chance to observe how the crafts are made and
possibly pick up a bargain depending on your negotiating skills! Next stop is Lamin Lodge,
which stands on stilts over the creek in the middle of the mangroves, where you will be
served lunch and the monkeys may join you. From here you have a wonderful view over the
creeks and a good opportunity to see many birds before returning to your hotels.
35
Where to Stay
The Gambia offers a wide variety of
accommodation to suit all pockets;
Most of the major hotels are situated on or within easy
reach of the beach and there is a great variety on offer.
The Gambia caters for all walks of life and is an ideal
location for everyone, from families on a budget to those
looking for luxury. The Gambia has become a popular winter
destination over the past 25 years and because of the close
link The Gambia has with Europe, many people choose it
as their winter home. Retired or semi-retired people come
to The Gambia each year as it is the closest guaranteed
winter sun with no jet lag! Furthermore, unlike some other destinations, it is safe and
trouble-free. For such people who prefer to travel independently without sacrificing their
comforts but still wish to stay in a central location, a serviced apartment is a good option.
LUIGI’S COMPLEX is a small, family-run establishment offering well-designed one or two
bedroom self-catering apartments set in a beautiful landscaped garden. The apartments
are fitted out to a very high standard and include fully-fitted kitchens and all the facilities
you would expect to find at home. All rooms have either veranda or balcony and overlook
the pool and garden. There are no hidden extra costs, even Wi-Fi is free! A laundry service
is available for a small fee. Facilities include: good size swimming pool, jacuzzi, holistic
health centre, mini-market and tailor‘s shop. Just 50 m from Palma Rima beach, with
shops and nightlife nearby.
CALABASH RESIDENCE: offers spacious and luxurious
self-catering apartments and studios. These are equipped
with air-conditioners, satellite TV, wireless internet access,
microwave oven and combination safe, etc. The style and
design of these apartments is to cater for both short and
long term guests who appreciate good value for money.
There are also specialised accommodations
such as eco-lodges located along the Gambia‘s
beautiful coast line and river banks
MADINARA LODGE is set in a beauti­ful tranquil location
on the banks of the creeks at Makasutu. Ideally located for
birdwatching, these unique lodges are exquisitely built on
stilts over the waters edge.
JANJANGBUREH CAMP is a unique establishment located
up-country on the riverside of McCarthy Island (George
Town) surrounded by a lush canopy of huge trees giving you
the opportunity to get in touch with nature. You will stay
in locally made round mud block houses which offer you a
true eco-experience .
37
Night Life
No holiday is complete
without good food!
One of The Gambia’s best
kept secret is the vast variety
of restaurants. The Gambia
is a mixing pot of culinary
delights, you will find food
from all parts of the world
such as Chinese, Indian,
Thai. African, Afro-American,
Jamaican. British, Italian,
French, Lebanese and even
Moroccan. Quality speaks
for its self so to find the best
restaurant ask your Rep for
the most well established
places to eat:
Kotu and Kololi offer a quieter atmosphere for a more relaxed holiday, fewer bars
and restaurants more modest entertainment with a couple of bars with live music
playing tracks from the 60s, 70s and 80s, and Karaoke Nights.
Luigi’s Pizza & Pasta House: is located on Palma Rima Rd, Kotu Beach.
Renowned for it‘s “Good Food” the menu has a wide selection of Italian and
British food. Set on 2 floors, the second floor balcony offers a relaxed atmosphere
overlooking the sea. It‘s a great place to watch the sun go down! and on the ground
floor is an ideal place for families offering kids menu and play area. Open all day from
8am serving full English breakfast, lunch and evening meals till 11.30pm. Kids meals
D125
The Senegambia is the busiest area offering many bars, restaurants and night
clubs. It is one of the best places for people looking for an exciting night life. “The
Senegambia Strip” really comes to life after dark with an array of bars playing live
music, karaoke, big screen sports TV and many fast food outlets. Cheerz offers a
great friendly atmosphere with all that you would expect from a family run business,
situated at the top of Senegambia Strip on the High Rd. There are a number of
night clubs in the area which play ear-splitting modern music as well as reggae
sounds. They normally get going after midnight; the entrance fees are reasonable at
all the nightclubs, charging D100/D250 entrance fee. The cheaper night clubs are
frequented by (Bumpsters) locals youths looking to make “a friend” and tag along,
so do go along with someone you know. For the “night owl” Quality Catering
are open 24 hours on the corner of the Senegambia Junction for a quick snack after
dancing the night away. Always clean and freshly made while you wait !
39
Arts and Crafts
African art comes in the most wonderful abstract forms, from paintings to murals
to sculptures and wood carvings. Hand woven cloth, batiks, and mudcloth can be
made into soft furnishings or designed into unique high fashion clothing.
The textures and designs are underused in the western world, but in Africa the
rich vibrant colours are best used in the exotic clothes which are also embroidered
with wonderful original designs. The country of origin of traditional clothes can
be identified by the style and use of material.
Tie-Dye, Waxes & Damask Cloths
Melted beeswax is mixed with paraffin and applied to the fabric before being dipped in
dye. The beeswax will bind to the fabric and the paraffin wax will allow cracking, which
is a characteristic of batik. Several colours are used with a series of dyeing. Thin wax lines
can be applied with a canting, a wooden handled tool with a tiny metal cup and spout,
out of which the wax can seep. Other techniques to apply the wax onto the fabric include
pouring the liquid wax, painting the wax on with a brush, and applying the hot wax to
pre-carved wooden or metal wire block and stamping the fabric. After the final dyeing the
fabric is hung up to dry and then dipped in a solvent to dissolve
the wax, or simply ironed between paper towels or newspapers to
absorb the wax and reveal the deep rich colors and the fine crin­kle
lines that give batik its character. Gambian tie dye and batiks are
extravagant, rich in different shades of colour and are often seen
at tourist mar­kets and are tailored into men’s Kaftans (haftans),
women’s yara Wollof, or warambas (grandmubas), skirts, shirts,
ladies blouses, as well as bed sheets, curtains and tablecloths.
40
Mudcloth or bògòlanfini is a traditional Malian fabric dyed with
fermented mud, particularly associated with the Bambara. Bògòlanfini
is a Bambara word meaning “earthcloth.” To create it, simple cotton
cloth is woven, shrunk, and then soaked in a preparation of leaves
from certain trees. An artist then outlines an intricate design, often
taking several weeks to cover the entire cloth, with a mud dye.
The areas of yellowish mud are then treated with caustic soda,
bleaching them white and creating a stark black and white design.
Traditionally, a man will do the weaving while a woman will do the
dyeing. In recent years, fashion designers such as Chris Seydou have
employed bògòlanfini in international clothing lines, while Malian painter Ishmael Diabate
has developed it as a fine art form.
Wooden masks, either human, animal or some mythical crea­ture,
are one of the most common forms of art in western Africa. In their
original context, masks were worn by a chosen or ini­tiated dancer and
used for celebrations, initiations, crop harvesting, and war preparation.
During a mask ceremony the dancer goes into deep trance, and while
in this state,“communicates” with his ancestors. Masks can be worn in
three ways: vertically covering the face: as a helmet, encasing the entire
head, and as a crest, resting upon the head, usually covered by material
as part of the disguise. African masks often represent a spirit and it is
strongly believed that the spirit of the ancestors possesses the wearer.
Shopping
Within the vicinity of most of the major tourist hotels you will find
small craft markets called bengdulas made up of a number of stalls
offering a selection of items such as tribal masks, wooden carvings,
batiks, tie dye fabric prints, beads, gold and silver jewellery and locally
made hand woven baskets. There are larger markets at Serrekunda,
Bakau and, the most famous of all, Banjul’s Albert Market.
Despite the influence of tourism in creating mass production of such
art, there are some really beautiful original good quality handmade
items, such as leather hand bags and shoes, hand woven cloths or
solid silver jewellery but you will have to search for them. Special
items will be made to order for you in two or three days but they are
worth the wait. Watch out for dipped silver bangles! Mostly these
can be found being peddled on the beach or by street vendors.
You have to be prepared for the hassle in the markets and also
be prepared to do a lot of hard bargaining, the price is always
negotiable! So it depend on “your luck” as to the price you pay for
any item … Our advice is to start with about 1/3 of the asking price
then, depend­ing on your bargaining skills and your common sense,
it is up to you how much you pay!
DON‘T TAKE OFFENCE AT AN EXTORTIONATE PRICE …
the starting price is not meant to offend or to “rip you off”!
Bargaining is part of the way of life, and is meant to be part of the
fun! It‘s part of the culture and should be treated light-heartedly. In the same vein the
Vendor will not really take offence at your low offer even if he/she make out they are,
if you cannot agree and you walk away “9 times out of 10” they will call you back …
if they are not interested in your offer … then your offer was TOO LOW!
If you can‘t cope with the bargaining most hotels and gift shops will have fixed price
items for sale. You will expect to pay a little more for the convenience but sometimes
you may find a better selection and quality items than the local market.
43
HOLIDAY TIPS
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Do’s and Don’ts
SUN STROKE is very serious! The sun is deceivingly hot especially if there is a breeze.
DO NOT sit in the sun for long periods of time. DO always drink plenty of water
and DO always wear a hat when taking long walks. Dehydration occurs quicker
when drinking alcohol and with the combination of the sun, you increase the risk of
suffering sunstroke.
BANJUL BELLY as it is commonly known often occurs through not drinking enough
water. Alcoholic drinks ARE NOT a substitute for water. Symptoms may start with
a headache, dizziness and stomach cramps. In severe cases, high temperature with
vomiting and diarrhoea can occur. In such cases avoid dairy products and drink plenty
of water. DO take care where you eat too, contaminated food and water will also
make you ill. Make sure the establishment has running water and back up power
facilities.
SIMPLE REMEDY: A drink made from rice water with a little sugar and a pinch of
salt will help to settle the stomach, if symptoms persist seek medical advise from a
professional doctor.
DOCTORS CLINICS IN YOUR AREA:
Afrimed Clinic, Senegambia: Dr Omar Jagne Tel: 4465359 / 7739415
Kololi Clinic, Kololi: Dr Ceesay Tel: 4463434
Lamtorro Clinic Senegambia: Dr Sallah Tel: 4460934
Ndebaan Medical Center: Dr Jack Faal Tel: 4496426
PERSONAL SAFETY: DO NOT walk alone or on lonely roads at night, especially
dark areas. The Gambia is a relatively safe country, but DO use common sense, take
the same precautions as you would in Europe. Take care of your money, DO NOT
carry more than you need when you are walking around.
AVOID TEMPTATION: Rent a security box from your hotel if one is not provided
free. Elsafe have safety deposit boxes for rent in most hotels always make sure your
personal belongings and credit cards are safely stored, DO NOT leave them lying
around in your room.
DRESS CODE: Dress sensibly, DO NOT walk in the streets in
swimwear as this is SOCIALLY NOT ACCEPTABLE.
Topless bathing is permitted on the beach, but DO NOT walk
around topless. Simple casual cloths are fine during the day,
men should wear a shirt in the evening time.
Short sleeve and casual trousers are acceptable.
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Marketing campaign
In a bid to raise money to continue projects such as the
beach towers the TTAG have produced the following for sale:
a TASTE OF The gambia
Cookery book
Price D250
With colourful,
easy-to-follow recipes.
Every one loves
The gambia dvd
Price D300
Is a great souvenir of
your holiday which shows
highlights of places to see
and things to do in
The Gambia.
Available for sale
in hotels, shops
and supermarkets
For more information
tel: 4460280
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