The gambia experience malvern world travel brochure

The Gambia

& Senegal - West Africa November 2013 - October 2014

UNIQUE

Contents WELCOME to The Gambia Experience WHY CHOOSE The Gambia or Senegal, or both?

4-5 6-7

THE GAMBIA What to expect Eating out Gambia resort areas Out & about - 10 memorable days Our hotel collections All-inclusive & dining packages Pure Indulgence The Luxury Collection The Unique Collection Other hotels in The Gambia More online Rivers of West Africa cruise & stay

8-10 11 12-13 14-15 16 17 18-19 20-29 30-37 38-53 54 55

SENEGAL Discover Senegal Senegal tours Senegal resort areas Hotels in Senegal More online

56-57 58 59 60-66 67

FURTHER INFORMATION Multi-centre holidays Birdwatching & fishing Weddings, honeymoons & special occasions Group travel Sustainability A-Z Things to know before you go Summer holidays FAQs and AITO charter Flight information Premium class and travel insurance How to book Fair trading charter

68-69 70-71 72 73 74-75 76-78 78 79 80 81 82 83

GAMBIA HOTELS A-Z African Village Hotel Bakotu Hotel Bijilo Beach Hotel Bungalow Beach Aparthotel Cape Point Hotel Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp Coco Ocean Resort & Spa Fajara Hotel Hibiscus House Kombo Beach Hotel Laico Atlantic Beach Hotel Leo’s Beach Hotel Mandina Lodges Ngala Lodge Ocean Bay Hotel Palma Rima Hotel Sandele Eco-Retreat Sarge’s Hotel Senegambia Hotel Sheraton Gambia Hotel Sunset Beach Hotel The Kairaba Beach Hotel

Cover: Coco Ocean Resort & Spa | Bijilo Beach This page: Ngala Lodge beach

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

52 50 48 49 54 34-35 22-23 54 54 40-41 46-47 28-29 32-33 24-25 42-43 53 36-37 51 44-45 38-39 54 26-27

I’ve spent longer in The Gambia than ever before over the last year, this being our 25th anniversary. To commemorate this, we provided funds for over 25 innovative projects which are dramatically improving conditions for the Gambian people. Many projects are run by individuals introduced to The Gambia as customers of ours, who fell in love with the country, returned year after year on holiday, then also wanted to ensure that tourism benefited the country – something we wholeheartedly agree with.

New, quality accommodation is hard to come by but this year I discovered Leo’s - a lovely new boutique hotel which is a great addition to our programme. There should be other possibilities later in the year to help accommodate the growing number of tourists: British visitor numbers remain strong, and Dutch and Scandinavians are discovering in greater numbers what the British have known for years - that there is nowhere closer offering reliable winter sun, an excellent range of hotels and restaurants, no time difference, and genuinely friendly, English-speaking people. Established, good quality hotels are now virtually full during winter, therefore we strongly suggest that you secure the holiday of your choice early – most of our brochure prices remain the same as last year and we still only ask for a £95 deposit.

Whether it is your first or 25th visit, travelling alone or with a group, we look forward to welcoming you to The Gambia.

CHRIS ROWLES Managing Director

Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed in this brochure. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected.

Please see our booking conditions for information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ ATOLCertificate. Our ATOL number is 1866. We are also members of ABTA and AITO, the AITO quality charter is on page 79.

5113

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

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INTRODUCTION

Welcome to The Gambia Experience Nobody knows West Africa like we do. We have been arranging holidays to The Gambia for over 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 of Cape Verde.

The range of holidays we offer gives you the best choice of accommodation and flights to suit all budgets and we realise the importance of matching each individual to the right hotel – it can make the difference between a good holiday and an unforgettable experience! But you don’t need to take our word for it, 90%* of our customers would recommend us to their friends.

Staff with first-hand experience All our reservations staff have visited The Gambia at least once and each year return to ensure they have up-to-date information 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.

They’ll be happy to share this knowledge with you to ensure you book the perfect location for your holiday.

In fact, in the last year our staff spent well over 200 nights in West Africa, ensuring that we are the experts.

Honeymoon and wedding planners Looking for something different to the large all-inclusive resorts of the Caribbean? The Gambia offers an unspoilt and exotic alternative, and is an increasingly popular wedding and honeymoon destination. For some suggestions on our favourite locations in both The Gambia and Senegal please go to page 72.

Dedicated groups department We have an experienced groups team in the UK and in resort who can help with arrangements as well as negotiate the best possible price for your requirements.

For more information on free places and the service we provide, please see page 73. *Figure from winter 2012/13 holiday questionnaires.

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Biggest and best resort team We realise our service to you does not stop the moment 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 for us for the last 16 years. We actively recruit Gambian representatives, many of whom have been with us for 10 years or longer. They are keen to share their love for their country, providing useful local information to help you make the most of 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 for a perfect 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 after our customers in resort.

Unbeatable holiday choice to The Gambia We offer the widest range of holidays, from boutique hotels to value for money properties, along with direct, daytime flights and upgraded flying options.

We also specialise in multi-centre and tailor-made holidays and with our experience we can help you select your perfect trip.

Unbeatable holiday choice to Senegal The Senegal Experience offers a wide range of quality accommodation in carefully selected river and beach locations – or why not choose one of our private tours?

You can enjoy this beautiful, French-speaking country either by scheduled flights into Dakar or via Banjul in The Gambia.

INTRODUCTION

Here is a sample of the holiday options we can offer for your next winter sun holiday, but don’t forget that we fly to both destinations throughout the year.

See page 78 for information on summer holidays in West Africa.

What’s new?

• Leo’s Beach Hotel is a fantastic addition to our Luxury Collection – this intimate, boutique hotel offers high quality accommodation and fabulous sea views • ‘Bon Appetit’ half board dining package at The Kairaba offering 4 buffet meals in the hotel with 3 nights at your leisure • New, impressive Mangrove Lodge at Makasutu to cater for increasing demand for this unique and special place • Bird viewing deck at family-run Bakotu Hotel, favourite of Chris Packham who describes it as a ‘home from home’

The luxury experience The best boutique properties, spa hotels and unique lodges in The Gambia and Senegal are exclusively available through us. Premium Class flights from Gatwick to Banjul and private transfers are also available to enhance your holiday experience.

All-inclusive holidays This year we feature 4 hotels on all-inclusive, with alternative dining packages available at a wide range of hotels (see page 17).

It is always a pleasure dealing with such a professional team who are always willing to help and who have gone the extra mile to ensure all our demands were met.

KENNY ALvAREZ Royal Gibraltar Regiment

Multi-centre holidays Your holiday in The Gambia and beyond can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you wish. If you want to split your holiday between a luxury lodge and beach hotel, an eco-property and a spa hotel, or venture further afield to Senegal then we can help you choose and make it all happen as smoothly as possible. Some ideas of our favourite combinations can be found on pages 68-69.

Birdwatching You don’t have to be an avid twitcher to enjoy the variety of birdlife on offer in this region, whether it be wandering around the grounds of your hotel or on an organised birdwatching tour. We are delighted to be working once again with Chris Packham – see pages 70 & 71 for information on his 2014 tours.

More online – Gambia.co.uk & Senegal.co.uk Visit our comprehensive websites where you can book securely online 24 hours a day and view more in-depth information about the countries and all our carefully selected accommodation – including maps, hints and tips, customer, staff and press reviews, online chat facility, plus extensive photo galleries and videos.

The Serenity service Both The Gambia Experience and The Senegal Experience are part of Serenity Holidays Ltd, an independent, fully bonded tour operator which prides itself on the quality of its holidays and the personal service provided to customers.

• Over 25 years’ experience of organising holidays to West Africa • In-depth knowledge of the destinations • FREE Gambia/Senegal Guide with money off vouchers for holidaymakers staying in The Gambia • Loyalty discounts for repeat customers • 5★ AITO sustainable tourism status • Brochure priced holidays include in-flight meals and transfers plus 20kg luggage allowance (46kg for Dakar flights) • Low deposit • Fully bonded to ensure customers have complete financial security

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INTRODUCTION

Why Choose...

The Gambia or Senegal, or perhaps both The neighbouring West African countries of The Gambia and Senegal share a lot of similarities in their traditions, landscapes, climate and culture but there are also many differences.

Primarily, The Gambia is an easier option both in terms of travel and communication as it is English speaking and serviced with direct flights from the UK, with resort areas being easily accessible. Senegal requires a little more effort but for more adventurous travellers this will be well rewarded.

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Both countries benefit from: • Fantastic winter sun, from November to June • Uncrowded sandy beaches • Same time zone, so no jet lag • Varied birdlife, wildlife and fishing • Exotic, vibrant cultures Here we try to highlight the main differences to help you make your decision but, if you need any more help, do not hesitate to call us or visit our very detailed websites, incorporating an online chat facility.

INTRODUCTION

The Gambia – The smiling coast of Africa

Senegal – The French coast of Africa

The Gambia is the perfect, safe introduction to Africa. If you’re a first time traveller to this area or to The Gambia itself you need to be prepared for visiting a developing country but also to fall in love with the place; we have and so too have many of our customers, in fact last winter over 50%* of those travelling with us had been to The Gambia before. As well as the many attractions of the country and its people, it’s hard to find another winter sun destination that enables you to leave the cold of England on a winter’s morning and be at your hotel in 30°C sunshine by the afternoon. But there are many more reasons to visit The Gambia including:

Senegal remains a relatively undiscovered destination for British holidaymakers, although it has long been a favourite destination for the French and Belgians. There are many reasons why a number of our customers are choosing to venture to Senegal, many opting to combine it with a visit to The Gambia, here are just a few:

• Excellent, uncrowded beaches of golden sand • Direct flights – approximately 6 hours and transfers are short • English speaking and locals are very friendly • Outside the Euro zone, offering good value for money • Wide range of quality accommodation and restaurants • Unspoilt and uncommercialised • River, bush and beach excursions to experience the wildlife and people • Permanent team of European and Gambian staff offering expert support *Figure from winter 2012/13 holiday questionnaires.

• Clear blue water and fabulous beaches • Interesting tourist sites: île de Gorée, Le Lac Rose • Extensive birdlife, wildlife and animal reserves • Activities including watersports, sailing, horse-riding and golf • World class ocean and river fishing • Exotic, friendly 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 infectious exuberance of the people – but they also offer a very different type of experience.

PHILIP BRIGGS Author of Insight Guide to Gambia & Senegal

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THE GAMBIA

What to expect...

The smiling coast of Africa For winter sun and an introduction to Africa, The Gambia is hard to beat – the climate, friendly English-speaking people and short flight and transfer times all add to its appeal; summer offers a quiet alternative to the busier resorts of Europe.

Our experienced UK staff will be happy to share their first-hand knowledge with you so you are well-prepared for what to expect.

Some background information The Gambia is a former 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 of the smallest countries in Africa, situated on approximately the same latitude as Barbados. Mostly flat, the country is dominated by the impressive River Gambia from which it takes its name.

Coco Ocean Resort & Spa

Value for money

Experience something different

The Gambia is outside the Euro zone and offers better value for money than many other popular tourist destinations, both when in resort and in the cost of your holiday, particularly The Luxury and Unique Collections and summer holidays. The Gambia’s currency is the Dalasi and in the last year the exchange rate was between 49 and 53 Dalasi to the pound.

Although 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 feel as though you’ve truly arrived in Africa. Travel to rural villages to watch palm wine tappers, drive through the African bush to hear the monkeys chattering and watch flocks of colourful birds fly overhead; even from the comfort of your hotel you can listen to the drums of local entertainers and watch incredible energetic dancing.

However, The Gambia isn’t right for everyone and it is important to know what to expect and to choose the right location – that’s where we can help.

People travelling to a developing country for the first time can find it a culture shock – there is poverty and begging but there is also genuine hospitality and you will meet some of the friendliest people on Earth. Outside the hotels and on the beaches there are Gambians selling fruit, nuts and handicrafts but it is the ones trying to work as unofficial 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 there’s no need to worry.

No language barrier The official language in The Gambia is English and this is widely spoken; newspapers and road signs are also printed in English so you’ll immediately feel at ease. Gambians are educated in English but there are several tribal languages including Mandinka, Wolof and Jola so most Gambians are at least bilingual.

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THE GAMBIA

Properties within our Unique Collection do not have a grading attributed to them. We consider these to have unique features and so are hard to classify despite offering quality accommodation.

Activities and excursions For many guests, relaxing in the sunshine followed by a refreshing swim is as much activity as they’re looking for on their holiday, but if you want a little more to do, there is plenty to choose from. There are excellent spa facilities at Coco Ocean and The Sheraton hotels, good fishing and birdwatching opportunities, an 18-hole sand golf course at Fajara, as well as sports facilities within some hotels. We also offer a range of organised excursions which include travelling through the African bush in a 4-wheel drive truck and cruising the waterways by boat or African pirogue, or we can suggest a host of things to do for the more independent holidaymaker. For more suggestions on memorable days out see pages 14-15 and 70-71 or visit Gambia.co.uk/Excursions

Get out and see the real Gambia

Laid back nightlife The appeal of The Gambia is how quickly you unwind and leave behind the stress of the UK. For most of our guests evening entertainment usually involves a nice meal, a few drinks and perhaps watching a local band.

There is a good selection of bars and restaurants, particularly in Kololi and Kotu, either within walking distance or a short taxi ride from your hotel.

There are also a few nightclubs, two small casinos and most hotels offer some entertainment – from a single kora player to an African dance troupe.

If you want to travel independently in The Gambia most hotels have a taxi rank nearby. However, although they are regulated, most wouldn’t 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 of getting around and absorbing the local flavour. There is a fully lit tarmac road from the airport to the hotel areas but off the main highways road surfaces can be a little bumpy, to say the least!

Hotel standards As 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 offer. As a destination it is not over-developed with no high-rise hotels, and there are a number of internationally recognised sustainable tourism projects – if this is something that interests you, consider staying at Mandina Lodges, Leo’s Beach Hotel or Sandele Eco-Retreat or read more online at Gambia.co.uk/ST The official hotel ratings, awarded by the Gambia Tourist Board in February 2010, are currently under review. We prefer to use our own rating system, which is represented with a hibiscus flower and based on the views of our customers and our own 26 years of experience.

5

/ Boutique hotels – Coco Ocean, Ngala Lodge, The Kairaba, Leo’s

4

hotels – Sheraton, Ocean Bay, Laico Atlantic

3.5 / 3 hotels – Kombo Beach, Senegambia, Bijilo Beach, Bungalow Beach, Sunset Beach, Bakotu 2.5

/2

hotels – Palma Rima, Cape Point, Sarge’s Hotel, African Village

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THE GAMBIA

Religion

A fantastic climate

The population of The Gambia is mostly Muslim, although there is a small number of 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 of dress when outside the hotels, particularly in more rural areas. The festival of Ramadan lasts for one month from 27th June 2014.

An ideal winter sun destination, The Gambia enjoys almost uninterrupted sunshine and high daytime temperatures from November to June, and rainfall is virtually unheard of. It is less known as a summer destination but many customers prefer this quieter time when the landscape is transformed into lush green with colourful flowering trees.

Families Adventurous children will find 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 for the first time is an experience at any age. And then there are the uncrowded, sandy beaches to explore and enjoy. The majority of hotels offer child discounts and, although there are no organised kids’ clubs, several have ad hoc activities and facilities for children and separate children’s pools – our staff would be happy to offer specific advice.

Sunshine hours (Average) Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

8

9

9

10

10

10

10

9

6

6

6

8

2

1

1

2

4

5

6

7

6

6

5

3

Temperature C (Average maximum) O

Medication We strongly suggest you consult your doctor before booking. Although no inoculations are compulsory for entry from the EU, certain medication, including anti-malarial tablets, will be recommended. Up-to-date advice is available from the World Health Organisation at www.who.int/ith and the Department of Health leaflet (Ref T7.1) “Health Advice for Travellers” is available from your GP, travel agent or online.

The Gambia is one of many countries where the risk of contracting malaria is very real but this is an avoidable illness provided precautions are taken.

We suggest using an effective insect repellent to avoid being bitten and ensuring you complete the full course of anti-malarial medication prescribed.

Visiting Gambia was an inspiring, beautiful, thought-provoking experience. Every moment was special as the country and people were always giving and giving yet needing. The Gambia Experience provides a great platform to taste a progressing country and subtly leaves you wanting more. The Gambia is more than a destination, it is a developing journey.

MR HANSON, Surrey

10

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

32

31

31

32

34

33

32

32

30

29

31

32

10

7

6

7

10

13

17

20

22

21

19

14

London Averages =

EATING OUT

The Gambia has a good choice of restaurants serving a range of cuisine both within the hotels and resorts, which have attracted a number of international chefs who now live and work in the country.

You can choose between Chinese, Indian, Thai, Lebanese, Italian, English and of course Gambian cuisine, to name just a few. The standard is generally good and prices are a little lower than in the UK – a 3 course meal in one of the country’s top restaurants costs around £30 per person excluding drinks whilst a simple meal and a beer can cost around £10.

Of particular note is the abundance of freshly caught seafood including ladyfish, barracuda, captain fish, snapper, butterfish, lobster and huge Atlantic prawns. Vegetarians are increasingly well catered for and many hotels will offer a vegetarian dish or cook something to order.

Eating out

A wide range of cuisine to choose from Restaurant guide and discount vouchers All of our package holidaymakers receive a complimentary Gambia Guide with their tickets, which includes a restaurant guide with descriptions of the restaurants, the type of cuisine they serve and their locations. Better still, there are discount vouchers of up to 10%, valid in the featured restaurants to save you money whilst on holiday. To get a flavour of the excellent cuisine you can expect before you book, visit our online restaurant guide Gambia.co.uk/Restaurants. For those who prefer to budget for their holiday in advance, all-inclusive holidays and dining packages are now available at a selection of hotels, please see page 17 for further details.

Whilst most of our hotels are based on bed and breakfast or all-inclusive, it is possible to book half board if you prefer. Mandina Lodges and Sandele Eco-Retreat are based on half board due to their locations and provide an opportunity to sample fresh local produce, often cooked to order. A stay at Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp will be on a full board basis.

Here are some examples of restaurants and cuisine to be found close to resort areas: • Ngala Lodge

• Calypso at the Cape

Fine dining in a cliff top setting

Beachside dining and crocodile watching

• Clay Oven Popular Indian cuisine

• Captain’s Table

• Boss Lady

International cuisine with shrimp specials in Kotu

Gambian open-air restaurant/café

• Scala Family-run restaurant with an extensive international menu and good steaks

• Seashells Friendly atmosphere with lobster thermidor as a favourite special

• Al Basha Lebanese cuisine

• Tao Restaurant Asian restaurant in Kololi

• El Sol Mexican cuisine and cocktails

A personal experience ’Whenever I visit The Gambia, I always look forward to dining out and discovering any new restaurants that have appeared – the small, friendly Seashells Restaurant in Kololi is a notable addition this year and proving very popular with tourists and locals alike. There is such a wide variety of sumptuous cuisine on offer, whether it be for a light bite of Mexican tapas or Lebanese delicacies, or for a fine dining experience in one of our boutique hotels. But I never miss the opportunity to sample some of the freshly caught fish and tiger prawns that The Gambia has to offer – I can’t wait to get back!

KAREN DURHAM, Product Manager, The Gambia Experience

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RESORT AREAS

The Gambia offers a good choice of resort areas of different sizes and atmospheres, however it is easy to visit other resorts if you wish to explore further afield.

Some assume that on holiday in The Gambia people are confined to their hotels but this really isn’t the case at all. Whilst some customers do choose a hotelbased holiday, the coastal area is only small so it is fairly quick to travel from one resort to another, and to/from the airport; it is possible to stay in a quiet area but still enjoy the attractions of a busier resort – for example it takes 20-30 minutes in a taxi from Banjul to Kololi, depending on traffic. Alternatively, why not choose a twin centre with one of our more remote lodges to enjoy the best of both worlds?

Although not overdeveloped like some tourist destinations, most resorts have a taxi rank, bank, telephone centre, supermarket, craft market, bars and restaurants. All areas are busier during winter and some of the bars and restaurants will close in summer so it’s best to check with us for the most up-to-date information. Here are brief details to help you select the ideal location for your holiday but call us if you would like more advice as all of our staff have visited each of the resorts. All transfer times are approximate from Banjul airport.

Gambia resort areas Which resort to choose?

ATLANTIC OCEAN

African Village Ngala Lodge

5

SCALE 0 0

Fajara Bungalow Beach Bakotu Kombo Beach Sunset Beach

Km

Golf Course

3

Senegambia The Kairaba

KEY Villages Properties

Coco Ocean Bijilo Beach

Bijilo National Park

ESSAU

BUNIADU

Laico Atlantic Beach

Oyster Creek

OLD JESWANG

Ferry to North Bank & Senegal

SERREKUNDA

Sarge’s Hotel KOLOLI

BIJILO

Cape Point Ocean Bay

FAJARA

KOTU

MAYAMBA

BARRA

BAKAU

Palma Rima

Miles

CAPE POINT

BANJUL

BAKOTEH SUKUTA

Leo’s Beach The Sheraton

ATLANTIC OCEAN

GHANA TOWN

Abuko Nature Reserve

Hibiscus House BRUFUT

THE RIVER GAMBIA

LAMIN

OLD YUNDUM

MANDINARI JEREH KUNGOTO DOG ISLAND

TANJI YUNDUM

TUJURING

Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project Camp

THE GAMBIA

Sandele

SOUTH SENEGAL

Sandele

12

Sitanunku Lodge

Mandina Lodges

JAMBUR

NORTH SENEGAL

ATLANTIC OCEAN BANJUL

Banjul International Airport

BRIKAMA

RESORT AREAS

Bijilo beach

Kololi – The Gambia’s liveliest resort

Cape Point – Quieter area with fantastic beach

Stay here if you want the convenience of everything on your doorstep.

This is by far the most established resort in The Gambia; known locally as ‘The Strip’ it consists of three streets of bars, restaurants and nightclubs which cater for tourists, locals and the ex-pat community. In total there are over 30 restaurants, 2 casinos, a craft market, banks, internet cafés and shops. The sandy beach is suffering from erosion so the size does vary.

The highlight of Cape Point is the beach which is one of the best in the country. There are also a few restaurants as well as a small craft market, mini-market and exchange bureau plus bustling Bakau is only a 10-minute walk away. Crocodiles can be spotted near Calypso bar/restaurant.

Hotels in Kololi: The Kairaba, Senegambia and Sarge’s 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 of beach bars and restaurants, most within hotels. It is a good choice for families as the beach is flat and sandy, and the area is also popular with birdwatchers. Other facilities include a taxi rank, exchange bureau, small mini-market, telephone centre and a craft 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 of small dirt roads and is an ideal area to experience the real Africa – watch boats bringing in their catches at the fishing port or wander around the market where Gambians shop every day for their essentials. You will find a few restaurants serving traditional Gambian dishes, as well as banks, a small supermarket, post office and the popular Kachikally crocodile pool. The area of Fajara is close by.

Hotels in Bakau: African Village. Ngala Lodge is just outside Bakau.

Transfer time: 40 minutes

Hotels in Cape Point: Ocean Bay and Cape Point.

Transfer time: 45 minutes

Brufut – Cliff top residential area A popular residential area approximately 8 kilometres south of Kololi.

There is a long stretch of unspoilt beach.

Hotels in Brufut: Sheraton, Leo’s and Hibiscus House (inland).

Transfer time: 25 minutes

Banjul – The Gambia’s capital The capital is mainly an administrative centre with little aimed at tourists although there is one museum, the Arch 22 and a few restaurants serving lunch. There is also a large market where Gambians barter for their everyday needs. The beach is one of the largest in The Gambia.

Hotels in Banjul: Laico Atlantic Beach.

Transfer time: 55 minutes

South Kotu – For a more informal atmosphere There are a number of small restaurants and bars on the road leading down to the beach which is sandy with only a couple of buildings beside it.

Hotels in South Kotu: Palma Rima.

Transfer time: 30 minutes

Bijilo – For peaceful relaxing holidays The beauty of Bijilo is that there is very little here although it is only a 5-minute drive to the lively resort of Kololi. It is slowly developing but as yet there are no nightclubs to disturb the peace, just a few hotels and beach bars on a long stretch of beach with very few people on it.

Hotels in Bijilo: Coco Ocean and Bijilo Beach.

Transfer time: 25 minutes

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13

OUT & ABOUT

10 memorable days Out & about in The Gambia

The Gambia offers an easy and safe opportunity to experience the untamed, raw culture of West Africa.

The Gambia may not have the big game safaris or large attractions of some other African countries, but what it does have are genuine cultural experiences, not artificial 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 of an organised excursion or, for the more independent, can be explored alone.

1

Visit a local school

The teachers and children of schools welcome visitors, often with demonstrations of their singing and methods of teaching. This is an excellent way to learn about everyday life in The Gambia but be warned, it can be a very emotional and humbling experience. We recommend taking donations of pens, exercise books or footballs with you which you can buy at markets in The Gambia.

2

Spend a day on an unspoilt secluded beach

Many of the beaches directly outside the hotels are sandy and uncrowded but travel just a short distance and you can find some virtually empty, unspoilt beaches. If you prefer some facilities we suggest a visit to Sanyang in the south where you’ll find a beach bar, a few sunbeds and hammocks but little else! You may even be lucky enough to catch some local wrestling matches on Sundays.

3

Spot some of the 540 species of bird

You don’t have to be a serious birdwatcher to enjoy the colour and sheer number of birds in The Gambia - even in the hotel gardens you’ll spot many different species. However if you are one of the many who want to take things a little more seriously, we recommend one of the birdwatching tours led by TV presenter Chris Packham or his guide in The Gambia, Malick Suso (see pages 70-71 for more information).

4

Visit a Gambian family compound

Whether this is as part of an organised excursion or privately arranged, Gambians will be happy to welcome you into their homes, especially the children who are very inquisitive and endearing. The sense of community will hit you as everyone works together to provide for the extended family (including multiple wives!), often in very primitive and basic conditions.

Why not consider donating a low-energy stove, please see page 75 for further details.

At Tanji the vibrant colours of the boats and the women’s dresses, the sound of seagulls and raised voices and the strong odour of fish create an unforgettable feast for the senses.

Nick Elvin – Locate Magazine

14

OUT & ABOUT

9

Our school visit has left a permanent mark on my mind. As with everywhere in The Gambia, we were welcomed with open arms. The children’s smiles were so bright, their faces so eager and excited and their complete attention and enthusiasm for learning was an eye-opener.

TESSA WEBBER Hampshire Society Magazine, February 2013

5

Watch a local football match

Gambians love football and you’ll see international football shirts and find locals asking you which team you support. If you get the chance to attend a local match it’s a great way of experiencing the passion for the sport – it can be very noisy though with cheering, singing and drumming.

10 Pamper yourself at Coco Ocean’s world-class spa The boutique hotel has a 1800m2 spa facility with thalasso pool, Finnish sauna, Moroccan Hammam and full range of beauty treatments.

For more ideas of places to see enabling you to experience more of this wonderful country, its wildlife and its people, and for a full list of organised excursions, visit Gambia.co.uk/Excursions or speak to your representative.

Support the local industry

Head to any of the local craft markets for the chance to try your hand at bartering and pick up some souvenirs. Bakau craft market is one of the best places for woodcarvings and the tie-dye factory in Serrekunda is also worth visiting to see how the fabrics are made.

6

Home cooking course with Ida

Experience a day in the life of a Gambian on this fascinating home cookery course. Ida will escort you to the local market to take in the hustle and bustle of shopping for ingredients before returning to her home to prepare and eat a traditional Gambian dish.

7

Watch local fishermen bring in their catch

The fishing markets at Tanji and Bakau are full of colour, sounds and smells as the men bring in the catch and the women and children help to unload and prepare the fish. A great way to experience local flavour and get some colourful photographs (just don’t forget to ask permission first).

8

Get up close with a crocodile

Kachikally crocodile pool in Bakau is one of the most famous tourist spots in The Gambia and has been attracting visitors for 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 of the crocs basking in the sun, and learn more about traditional beliefs that the pool has special fertility and healing powers. If you prefer 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.

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

15

HOTEL OPTIONS

Since we began travelling to The Gambia in 1987 the standard and choice of accommodation in the country has improved dramatically.

We believe we work with the best properties The Gambia has to offer and our brochure and website feature a wide range of properties to suit all travellers, from luxurious boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, relaxing spas right through to simple, African-style hotels and unique river lodges.

Over the past 26 years we’ve learnt just how important it is to match the right hotel to each individual – it can make the difference between a good holiday and an unforgettable experience; to help you, the hotel descriptions on the following pages have been written by members of our team who have visited the hotels and know them well. They accurately list the facilities of the properties, their locations and the ambience you can expect to help you narrow down your choice of holiday; if you are finding it difficult to choose, why not give our knowledgeable staff a call or even visit two or more properties!

Something special We are delighted to be offering the opportunity to view the chimpanzees in the River Gambia National Park once again, for 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 Harmony V, with optional excursions along the way? Further information can be found on pages 34-35 and 55.

Our hotel collections

Choosing the right hotel for your holiday The Luxury Collection

All-inclusive & lively hotels

The best beachfront hotels The Gambia has to offer. Each property has its own individual appeal so it’s important to read the property descriptions or speak to one of our experienced staff if you are looking for a particular style, location or specific facilities. Coco Ocean is visually stunning with accommodation and cuisine levels to match, Ngala Lodge is a small boutique-style hotel with very personal service and excellent customer reviews. Newly opened Leo’s Beach Hotel is a smaller contemporary alternative, whilst the larger but tranquil Kairaba Hotel is a well-established favourite right in the heart of Kololi.

Some of The Gambia’s larger hotels are ideal if you’re looking for 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 of activities for couples, groups and families. Several hotels now have all-inclusive options, such as the 4 Sheraton Gambia, 4 Laico Atlantic Beach and 2.5 Palma Rima hotels.

The Unique Collection An exciting collection of lodges which offer an excellent introduction to the ‘real Africa’. Whilst sharing many of the characteristics of the ‘Luxury Collection’, they offer a more informal, laid-back atmosphere. Individually styled with many artistic flourishes, each property manages to convey a sense of relaxed indulgence with friendly service and freshly prepared cuisine. Located away from the main tourist areas, memorable settings, such as Makasutu Forest surrounding Mandina Lodges, provide a stunning African backdrop for a truly unique holiday experience.

16

Small & full of character Some of our hotels offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and the chance to immerse yourself in the local community or wildlife. The stunning Mandina Lodges in the Makasutu Forest contrast perfectly with the coastal hotels on a twin centre holiday; Hibiscus House is a welcoming hotel within a thriving local community, and Cape Point and African Village are Gambianrun hotels with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Exclusive Hotels or room types identified as ‘Exclusive’ indicate that, at the time of going to press, they are not on sale through any other UK tour operator.

You will also find many photographs, video clips and more information and reviews online to help you select your ideal holiday at Gambia.co.uk/Hotels

ALL-INCLUSIvE

All-inclusive & dining packages All-inclusive holidays All-inclusive holidays are becoming increasingly popular in The Gambia as well as Senegal, and are available in a range of properties to suit all budgets.

Although the Gambian hotels, unlike in Senegal, don’t offer a 24 hour all-inclusive service, with the majority of your food, drink and activities included in the price, these holidays still offer you an excellent value for money option. Please note, all-inclusive packages do not include excursions but for details of what is included see the individual hotel pages.

Sheraton Gambia Hotel

Royal Decameron Baobab

See Gambia pages 38-39

See Senegal page 60

This property offers quality accommodation with stunning views on an unspoilt stretch of beach in Brufut.

An elegant property nestled between a white sandy beach and the lagoon of La Somone just 20 minutes from the resort of Saly.

Laico Atlantic Beach Hotel

Palma Rima Hotel

See Gambia pages 46-47

See Gambia page 53

Ideal for a hotel based holiday, this hotel is set directly on a wide stretch of sandy beach and offers extensive facilities.

An excellent value, lively option with spacious, bungalow accommodation ideal for families.

For more information visit Gambia.co.uk/Allinclusive or Senegal.co.uk/Allinclusive

Dining packages

Ocean Bay Hotel

Several Gambian properties now offer dining packages to appeal to those looking to budget for their holidays. However, all the hotels featured can also be booked on either a more traditional half board basis, or on bed and breakfast for those wanting to sample some of the excellent restaurants available in The Gambia. Credits are sometimes available if you wish to eat in the hotels’ à la carte restaurants for those booked on half board, allowing additional dining flexibility.

See Gambia pages 42-43

An all-inclusive light option offers full board plus unlimited soft and hot drinks during the day and a limited number of alcoholic drinks.

Kombo Beach Hotel

The Kairaba Beach Hotel

See Gambia pages 40-41

See Gambia pages 26-27

A lively hotel offering a dinearound package, allowing the flexibility of dining both in the hotel and sampling restaurants in the surrounding area and beyond.

Multiple dining options are available including Full Board Plus, the popular Wine & Dine package and a new ‘Bon Appetit’ 4 night half board package.

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

17

PURE INDULGENCE

Pure Indulgence

More than just a room with a view...

As the specialist to The Gambia we are able to offer the best properties and room upgrade options the country has to offer, and most of these are exclusive to us.

Gambian dignitaries and foreign Heads of State are regular visitors, however tourists are equally welcome to experience all that there is to offer, from the sumptuous suite of rooms making up Coco Ocean’s Presidential Suite to the private Jacuzzis of Ngala Lodge’s Atlantic Suites. So if you are looking to celebrate a special occasion, or simply looking for a luxurious holiday experience, we are sure to have something to suit. And remember to check out our upgraded Premium Class flights and other holiday extras on page 20 to make your holiday even more memorable and comfortable. Here are some of our favourites but more images and information can be found on our website at Gambia.co.uk/Luxury or by speaking to a member of our expert reservations team.

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE Sheraton Gambia Hotel - Page 38

BEACH HOUSE | PRESIDENTIAL SUITE Coco Ocean Resort & Spa - Page 22

18

PURE INDULGENCE

STILTED LODGE Mandina Lodges - Page 32

CLUB VILLA & BEACH HOUSE POOL Coco Ocean Resort & Spa - Page 22

ATLANTIC SUITE | NGALA POOL Ngala Lodge - Page 24

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

19

LUXURY

In addition to the choice of luxurious and unique accommodation, we can also arrange other benefits to enhance your holiday experience and to make your journey more comfortable.

We are pleased to offer the only upgraded flights direct to Banjul, and can arrange additional extras to ensure you are relaxed at every stage of your holiday. Availability on these exclusive services is fairly limited so we would recommend booking early.

The Luxury Collection & travel upgrade options Fly in style

First Class Lounge

Premium Class is available on all our Friday Gatwick flights from Christmas until Easter, offering a wide range of benefits both at the airport and on board which are not enjoyed by passengers travelling in economy. Airport lounges at both Gatwick and Banjul are included, along with a 30kg luggage allowance, a dedicated check-in and priority boarding. Once on board you can benefit from a seat pitch of 33’’ at the front of the aircraft, whilst enjoying complimentary drinks, an upgraded meal service and your personal entertainment system. Further details can be found on page 81.

Premium Class flying includes increased Airport Passenger Duty (Government tax) charges of £134 per person. Return supplement from £299

As well as being included in our Premium Class and Airport Gold packages, the air-conditioned airport lounge in Banjul can be purchased independently either in advance or locally, however availability is limited. Prices from £15

Extra legroom seating On our Tuesday flight from Gatwick year-round and on Fridays when Premium Class is not operating, we can offer a dedicated area at the front of the aircraft with a 33’’ seat pitch and pre-bookable seating. We now also include a dedicated check-in and, therefore, extra legroom seats plus our Airport Gold package together offer many of the benefits of Premium Class flying for a lower combined price. Alternatively, a limited number of emergency exit seats may be available. Return supplement from £100

Airport Gold Holidaymakers can relax at the airport before departure with our Airport Gold package, possible when travelling from Gatwick on Tuesdays or when Premium Class is not available. It entitles you to the use of a business lounge in the UK, an extra 10kg luggage allowance, a complimentary drink in each direction on board the aircraft and entry to the First Class lounge at Banjul Airport on your return. Prices from £95

Private transfers On arrival at Banjul Airport, avoid the crowds and get whisked away to your hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. Visit Gambia.co.uk/Luxury for further information. Prices from £40 per car each way

20

Pampering spas Whether you want to spend a whole week pampering yourself, or are looking for just one or two treatments during your stay, there are some fantastic spa hotels in The Gambia and Senegal; imagine enjoying a relaxing massage whilst listening to the sound of the waves in a treatment room overlooking the ocean. Also, if there are members of your party that are not interested in the spa, the hotels are located beside sandy beaches with excellent cuisine and a range of other facilities so there should be something to please all.

For more details see: Boutique Coco Ocean Resort & Spa, The Gambia – pages 22-23 4 Sheraton Gambia Hotel, The Gambia – pages 38-39 5 Lamantin Beach Hotel, Senegal – page 61 Although it does not have spa facilities, guests staying at Ngala Lodge in The Gambia can enjoy a massage, manicure or other treatment in the comfort of their own room. Guests taking the all-inclusive light package at Ocean Bay Hotel will receive a complimentary 15 minute massage during their stay.

For more information visit Gambia.co.uk/Spa

ON THIS PAGE Coco Ocean is quite simply the most luxurious hotel in The Gambia

21

Coco Ocean Resort & Spa Bijilo

Boutique Hotel – Exclusive Beachfront – Spa – Fine Dining BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

A

s the most luxurious hotel in The Gambia, Coco Ocean continues to attract celebrities as well as holding great appeal for discerning holidaymakers looking for elegance and exquisite surroundings. Perfect for any special occasion, it also offers excellent value compared with spa hotels internationally, especially during summer months, and the beachfront location is hard to beat.

A gorgeous resort made all the better by its friendly staff, sumptuous food and dazzling ocean views.

Gavin Haines, Vantage Magazine

Whilst for many guests the main attraction is the fantastic spa facility, its stunning location on an unspoilt stretch of beach just 2½ kilometres from the lively resort of Kololi, and the quality and choice of cuisine make this much more than simply a spa hotel. The Moroccan-inspired architecture and décor, featuring high ceilings and domes, keep the buildings cool and maximise the use of natural light.

You will find sunbeds in tranquil spots around the lush, tropical gardens and private seating areas close to the hotel’s main tiered swimming pool; as well as on the beach. The grounds slope towards the sea, enhancing the views, although golf buggies are available to help avoid the many steps. Visiting Heads of State and businesses often hold large functions in the stunning gardens and the hotel is a perfect wedding venue.

All the open-plan suites and villas are light and airy, but for added comfort we recommend one of the sumptuous room upgrades. The fourteen Club villas have impressive private outside relaxation areas and share a swimming pool beside the ocean, but for the best location in the hotel try one of the three Beach houses, which are extremely spacious and sit directly on the beachfront.

Within the hotel there is a choice of restaurants and menus, with international chefs producing dishes from Morocco and Thailand, as well as European cuisine. In addition there are specialities of the day featuring cuisine from around the world. The main restaurant offers al fresco or more formal dining and is the perfect place to start the day with a relaxing champagne breakfast, whilst the Coco Beach, serving lunchtime grills and an evening Thai menu, has possibly the best views of any restaurant in The Gambia.

10% SPA DISCOUNTS FOR OUR GUESTS The Coco Ocean’s 1800m2 spa facility offers an exciting range of treatments and facilities, which are unrivalled anywhere in The Gambia. These include a Thalasso pool, ice-cold plunge pool, Hammam, Finnish sauna and relaxation area. The full range of treatments available is listed on our website but includes massages, body wraps, facials, waxing and manicures; Gambia Experience guests receive a 10% discount.

PRIVATE TRANSFERS

CUISINE

We are unable to include these as standard due to limited availability of vehicles. However, private transfers are available at £40 per car each way (maximum 4 persons)

The Courtyard/Safran restaurant – à la carte breakfast and evening dinners Coco Beach restaurant – lunchtime grills and salads overlooking the beach, evening Thai menu

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Tiered swimming pool, plus private Club villa/Beach house pool Sugar Cane Bar Individual beach cabanas Gift shops, hairdresser Chauffeured car for hire Internet/business facilities, Wi-Fi in lobby 89 rooms

King size beds (twin mattresses) Air-conditioning Satellite television Minibar Safety deposit box, telephone, hairdryer Bathrobe, slippers, toiletries Unpacking service (on request)

Deluxe suites are larger with a private balcony or terrace £18 Superior suites have a bedroom with lounge area and a private terrace £24 Club villas have a large terrace and share a private pool, from £34 Details of other suites are available on request – Penthouses, Royal suites and Beach houses

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

22

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/CocoOcean

£28 included £32 -£25 -£25

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

Club villa and Beach house private pool

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

1172

1156

1065

1058

1563

1620

1207

1188

1205

1282

1195

1170

1286

1286

1137

1028

1057

999

10

1467

1453

1330

1577

2016

1882

1513

1502

1587

1587

1484

1463

1624

1624

1421

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1698

1657

1521

1925

2334

2045

1739

1725

1738

1765

1723

1704

1832

1748

1634

1342

1342

1310

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Junior suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £79, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £98, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £81, 1 May – 30 June £49 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

23

Ngala Lodge Bakau/Fajara

Boutique Hotel – Exclusive Tranquil – Couples – Romantic

N

gala Lodge is a small, intimate hotel which is increasingly popular with repeat guests so early booking is recommended. As a child-free property, the tropical, well kept gardens overlooking the ocean remain peaceful throughout the day. It is a fantastic choice for a romantic break and, with one of the best restaurants in The Gambia you’ll find it hard to leave.

This was our first time at Ngala Lodge – how we wish we’d discovered it sooner! Just so relaxing and peaceful with very friendly and helpful staff and excellent cuisine.

The atmosphere at Ngala Lodge is extremely relaxed with very individual service; to help you unwind you can enjoy a massage or manicure in your suite or choose to have breakfast on your private balcony or terrace – nothing is too much trouble. In addition to ten unique, open-plan suites in the main lodge including The Penthouse, there are four spacious Manor suites available as an upgrade with a separate bedroom. These enjoy sea views and a shared Jacuzzi can be found in the tranquil gardens below. For honeymooners or anyone looking for something truly special, we recommend the exclusive Atlantic suites which have their own private Jacuzzi on the terrace or balcony.

Reverend & Mrs Railton, Swindon

As well as having its own swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip, the tidal beach at Ngala is a sandy cove which can be reached via steep steps – ideal for a romantic stroll at low tide or for a spot of fishing. The addition in 2012 of an attractive wooden raised decking area, complete with sunbeds and parasols, allows guests to enjoy the beachfront location at high tide as never before.

If the beach is not for you, the tropical gardens provide plenty of space for sunbathing with loungers dotted throughout, or for you to enjoy a relaxing drink and a quiet book.

In the evening, the cliff top restaurant not only serves excellent food with daily specials inspired by its English chef, Jonathan Groves, but has a wonderful view of the ocean at sunset. A la carte dining is also available (a few unique dishes will incur a supplement for half board guests) and sumptuous sample menus can be viewed online at Gambia.co.uk/NgalaRestaurant. The low key entertainment, along with a weekly African night with dancers, create an inviting atmosphere.

With just 18 suites, excellent customer questionnaire feedback and a high percentage of returning guests, this unique property really is a little gem so early booking is strongly recommended, although specific suite requests cannot be guaranteed. Or why not visit Ngala Lodge during the quieter summer months when you can really appreciate the lush, tropical gardens, birdlife and tranquillity of this intimate, boutique hotel.

TRIP ADVISOR AWARDS In terms of quality, Ngala Lodge goes from strength to strength. The hotel’s Trip Advisor Award for Excellence in 2012 has been followed in 2013 with further recognition as one of the Top Ten Hotels for Romance in Africa, as chosen by the public. Combine this with a 97% score with independent review body FEEFO and 94% overall rating from our own customer questionnaires and you are ensured of a wonderful, memorable holiday.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Ngala

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Swimming pool Large gardens with sunbathing areas Shared Jacuzzi in Manor gardens Main bar plus drinks/snack service around the gardens and on beach Television in Bantaba near reception Book swap service Wi-Fi in public areas 18 suites

King size beds (twin beds on request) Air-conditioning, mosquito nets Telephone, Wi-Fi Hairdryer and bathrobes Safety deposit box Tea and coffee-making facilities Television (Manor Suites only) Minibar (stocked on request) 2 and 3 pin (UK) sockets

Suite 10 – larger in size with a private Jacuzzi on the terrace £19

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

24

The Penthouse – on two floors with steep spiral staircase plus private rooftop terrace. The double bedroom has a skylight £19 Manor suites – separate bedroom, television, internet connection and stunning sea views £25 Atlantic suites – the largest suites with picture windows and private outdoor Jacuzzi £39

£28 included £65 n/a n/a

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

1128

1109

1088

1072

1547

1585

1191

1178

1202

1257

1169

1136

1271

1271

1088

938

949

895

10

1384

1360

1336

1489

1927

1813

1460

1441

1538

1538

1427

1399

1524

1524

1296

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1595

1563

1539

1918

2206

1959

1652

1637

1666

1685

1631

1598

1772

1654

1455

1157

1157

1144

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £72, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £88, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £74, 1 May – 30 June £36 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

25

The Kairaba Beach Hotel Kololi

Couples – Relaxing

A

long-established favourite, it is hard to choose one particular feature of The Kairaba to explain its appeal.

For some it is the warm welcome and friendly staff, for others it’s the tranquillity of the spacious grounds. Despite the ongoing erosion of Kololi beach, the hotel’s facilities, ambiance and close proximity to many restaurants and bars ensure its continued popularity.

The Kairaba is suitable for almost anyone – I liked the gardens and wildlife, and especially the friendly bar with no loud music, I would certainly have no hesitation in recommending it.

Barbara O’Neil, Travel Counsellors

This hotel is all about peace and relaxation, which is only interrupted by the vervet monkeys and birdlife visiting from the neighbouring forest, along with the resident peacocks. There are no pool games or loud music during the day, although there is the occasional local band for evening entertainment.

The hotel’s excellent conference facilities make it popular for functions and also ideal for groups. Unlike some holiday companies, we base our holidays on the Deluxe rooms; these are situated in two-storey buildings within the extensive bougainvillea-filled gardens, along with the highly sought after upgraded rooms, and enjoy views across the attractive lawns. They are superior in size, quality and location, although a limited number of standard rooms are available at a discount. As this hotel is very popular and often fully booked, we recommend booking early to secure your preferred room type.

When it comes to dining, you have everything from à la carte to a lively, outside bistro. Breakfast is served in the elevated Kingfisher restaurant, allowing you to start your day feasting on views over the gardens. Dining may be Half Board, now with a 4-night option, Full Board Plus or try our popular ‘Wine & Dine’ package, available in winter, including two dinners in the Shikra à la carte restaurant (exclusions apply), two dinners in Casa Fernando’s and three buffet dinners, each with a bottle of wine (per room). For those wanting to sample life outside the hotel, there is a wide variety of restaurants on your doorstep in Kololi.

DINING AT THE KAIRABA Many customers choose to dine within the hotel – either with Half Board, Full Board Plus or our Wine & Dine package. For the more adventurous, we now offer a NEW, flexible, half board ‘Bon Appetit’ option including 4 sumptuous buffet meals per week (or à la carte in Casa Fernando’s during summer), leaving you free to dine outside the hotel and sample some of the excellent restaurants The Gambia has to offer for the remainder of your holiday.

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

Croquet lawn Table tennis Giant chess Management cocktail party (winter only) Some evening entertainment Limited daytime activities Afternoon tea & coffee on terrace

Kingfisher restaurant (extensive breakfast buffet) Malimbe poolside snack bar for lunches and half board buffet (winter only) Shikra à la carte restaurant (winter only) Casa Fernando’s bistro (half board here in summer is à la carte menu plus salads/grills) Half board guests receive a credit at the hotel’s restaurants

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Feature pool with sun terraces Landscaped gardens 2 bars Massage/beauty salon (payable locally) Small gym, nurse Ice-cream parlour/coffee shop Wi-Fi in lobby Conference facilities 160 rooms

Deluxe room Twin beds, bath with shower over Air-conditioning Hairdryer Safety deposit box Minibar, stocked on request Telephone, television Tea and coffee-making facilities 2 pin sockets

Superior deluxe rooms are twin rooms located on the first floor, corner position with large picture windows on both sides £9

Half board/Full board plus Bon Appetit Wine & Dine Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

26

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Kairaba

Premium suites situated on the ground floor have a living room and separate double bedroom £9 Standard rooms are twin, smaller, and not in the gardens, but are available at a reduction -£10 All rooms include air-conditioning

£15/£29 £60 per week £165 per week £20 -£15 -£18

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

951

922

878

869

1377

1414

1029

1018

1055

1105

1024

993

1088

1088

895

846

857

835

10

1168

1155

1086

1398

1745

1642

1268

1259

1343

1343

1255

1229

1385

1385

998

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1292

1277

1198

1697

1956

1735

1432

1420

1439

1457

1412

1381

1498

1434

1066

998

998

981

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Deluxe room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £50, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £78, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £59, 1 May – 30 June £23 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

27

Leo’s Beach Hotel Brufut

Boutique Hotel – Exclusive Couples - Tranquil

W

e are excited to introduce this delightful, family-run boutique property to our Luxury Collection for Winter 2013. Its contemporary style and high quality finish are bound to impress, along with its spacious gardens with stunning views towards the ocean from its elevated location.

Opened earlier this year, the hotel has been lovingly designed and created by Austrian husband and wife team, Luis and Nina, who have decided to make The Gambia their home. They have incorporated environmentally-friendly systems where possible such as photo-voltaic cells and solar power for hot water, and local craftsmen were employed to build the good quality furniture found throughout the property. They will personally arrange your transfer to and from Banjul airport in air-conditioned vehicles.

My first impression of Leo’s was how light and airy everywhere is; it’s positioned perfectly facing the sea, enabling cool breezes to waft through the hotel, whilst the clean, modern lines of the rooms give a feeling of space.

Alison Collins, Product Executive

The rooms are all located on the first floor and are bright and modern, offering a high degree of comfort with all amenities at your fingertips.

The 5 standard suites all face the ocean in the distance, with views over the swimming pool and gardens beyond. There is also a larger suite available with a spacious living room and separate bedroom, however this does not overlook the main gardens.

You will find sunbeds in tranquil spots around the gardens or by the impressive swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip – with so few guests in the hotel you will easily be able to find a peaceful spot to relax with a drink and a good book. The idyllic, deserted beach can be reached via wooden steps followed by a gentle 2 minute stroll along sandy tracks.

When it comes to dining, Leo’s has already gained a reputation for providing good food since it opened and is becoming popular with local residents, even though the menu is not extensive. Start the day with a continental breakfast along with hot dishes cooked to order, and finish with a Julbrew or two whilst watching the sun set. If you are looking for a change of scene, Kololi is only a 10-minute taxi ride away.

With only 6 suites, a child-free policy, and its quiet location in Brufut, Leo’s is ideal for a romantic break or for those seeking peace and tranquillity away from the busier tourist resorts. It would also be a good choice for a twin centre holiday.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN...

Following a holiday to The Gambia in 2009, Luis and Nina decided to exchange their careers in publishing back home in Austria to run a small but good quality hotel in the sun. After much searching, they purchased the cliff top piece of land in Brufut in 2010, and started work on the design of Leo’s Hotel - named after their lucky mascot lion! It is the first hotel in The Gambia to use a photo-voltaic system, which feeds back into the national grid, NAWEC. More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Leos

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Swimming pool with Jacuzzi corner Bar/lounge area Leo’s Restaurant – Mediterranean cuisine using fresh local produce Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel Small lilbrary and games 6 suites

Double beds (twin mattresses) Air-conditioning, fan Flat screen TV Stereo system with Ipod/MP3 connection Minibar, safety deposit box Mobile phone (credit for personal use payable locally) Hairdryer, toiletries Bathrobe and slippers on request

1-bedroom suite – large living space with sofa bed and separate double bedroom however the bathroom is off the lounge. The balcony does not directly face the sea £11

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

28

£18 included from £25 -£25 n/a

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

978

969

948

929

1387

1425

1031

1018

1042

1117

1011

978

1099

1099

948

927

939

910

10

1174

1150

1126

1279

1696

1583

1230

1211

1308

1308

1197

1169

1293

1293

1112

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1315

1293

1269

1648

1922

1674

1367

1352

1381

1395

1346

1315

1487

1369

1295

1188

1188

1174

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £51, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £65, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £54, 1 May – 30 June £39 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See page 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

29

UNIQUE

This exclusive collection of lodges has proved very popular this year, with increasing demand for both twin centre and stand-alone holidays from those wishing to discover more of West Africa without venturing too far off the beaten track. Each property offers you relaxed indulgence with very individual service and style, plus the opportunity to venture beyond the usual tourist resorts and experience more of this wonderful country, its people and wildlife.

Imagine waking up in a four-poster bed in a lodge floating on the river with the sound of The Gambia’s incredible dawn chorus as your alarm clock; or escaping to a secluded eco-retreat on a deserted stretch of beach; perhaps dining to the call of hippos and viewing chimpanzees upriver – all this and more is possible with a stay at one of our Unique Collection lodges.

The Unique Collection Experience more on your holiday

A stay in a Unique Collection property is the chance to truly unwind, to escape from your usual pressures and relax in peaceful surroundings whilst immersing yourself in the local culture. Expect low-key but very personal, friendly service and simple, freshly prepared cuisine – two elements that are really representative of Gambian hospitality. Whilst the facilities and standard of accommodation at Unique properties don’t quite meet the high standards of our Luxury Collection hotels, these nonetheless offer very good quality – just with a more laid-back style.

It is possible to spend the whole duration of your holiday at one of these unique properties, although we would not recommend this at the Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp, however it is perhaps as appealing to combine a few days in one with a stay at one of our coastal hotels, or with a trip to neighbouring Senegal. To help you select which of these properties or combination of unique experiences will appeal to you, read our full descriptions on the following pages or on our website. Alternatively you can find our favourite combinations on pages 68-69 or speak to a member of our expert team.

Mandina Lodges at Makasutu Forest Impressive floating or jungle lodges in the forest with a large swimming pool and included private guided forest walks and river trips.

Sandele Eco-Retreat Stylish suites and spacious guest rooms on an unspoilt stretch of beach.

Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp A comfortable yet basic upriver camp offering a unique opportunity to view the extraordinary wildlife of the River Gambia National Park.

30

ON THIS PAGE Mandina Lodges Opposite (top to bottom) Stilted Lodge at Mandina Lodges, Chimp Camp, Sandele Eco-Retreat.

31

Mandina Lodges Makasutu Forest

Unique Lodges - Exclusive Relaxing – Birdwatching – Guides BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

F

or peace and tranquillity in the heart of the African bush, the striking riverside Mandina Lodges at Makasutu Forest offer an unforgettable experience in the wilderness with the chance to discover the people and wildlife of The Gambia that have made the forest their home: the amazing birdlife, monkeys, monitor lizards and ever-increasing troupes of baboons.

A slice of Gambian paradise: beautiful lodges, luxurious pool, amazing food and a tranquil river setting - all topped off with unrivalled hospitality. It’s also home to a great diversity of wildlife which is easy to enjoy from boat or bank.

Situated just 30 kilometres from the coastal resorts on a tributary of the River Gambia, the 1000 acre Makasutu Cultural Forest is the result of over 20 years’ hard work by two Englishmen. James English sadly passed away in 2011, but his wife, Linda, has now joined Lawrence Williams and his pet dogs and cats to lend her personal touch and attention to detail to lift Mandina to even greater heights in terms of quality and service. Emphasis has always been placed on using local materials and employing staff from the surrounding village communities. Service is therefore very friendly and personal with such a small number of guests, making your stay even more memorable.

Chris Packham, BBC Wildlife Presenter

During the day you can choose to relax by the large pool, blissfully soaking up the atmosphere, disturbed only by birdsong and the hum of chattering monkeys; or take advantage of the expert guides provided, to explore the forest and mangroves on foot or by canoe. This personal service gives you great flexibility to plan your days: following a leisurely breakfast, why not enjoy a walk through the forest, learning about the local plant life from one of the guides and maybe spotting the baboons that inhabit the area? Or visit international street art project at nearby Kubeneh village. In the evening, you may opt for a romantic sunset cruise, followed by dinner and drinks under the stars.

There are now 9 lodges, ensuring an exclusive yet slightly rustic feel, for an authentic bush experience. These are very impressive and unique in style - 3 spacious Jungle lodges with roof terrace are set back from the river, whilst the popular River lodges are either floating or on stilts. The new Mangrove lodge combines a stunning interior with a tranquil location bordering a river inlet.

After a 10 year cooperation, we still believe that a stay at Mandina provides a unique chance to experience the real Africa in comfortable and striking surroundings and we are not alone – the lodges have won a place in the book ‘1001 Escapes To Make Before You Die’, a guide for those in search of the world’s most unusual and beautiful places. They were also awarded the National Order of The Gambia by the President in April 2012.

VOTED TOP BY OUR GUESTS Following subtle changes at Mandina, this year has been the best yet according to our guests. For example, on Winter 2012/13 questionnaires it scored 99% for location, 88% for meals and 96% for hotel staff. Whether you are planning to spend your entire stay at Mandina or combine with a coastal hotel or possibly the Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp upriver, the experience that Linda and Lawrence provide is hard to beat.

Please note that the standard excursion programme is not possible from Mandina.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Mandina

FACILITIES

LODGE FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Large pool and sun terraces Bar and al fresco dining areas Dug-out canoes Forest guides Optional Sunset Cruise/River Fishing excursions No credit card facilities 9 lodges

Four-poster bed Fan, safe Mosquito nets 3 pin UK sockets Tea/coffee delivered to your lodge each morning No energy-sapping air-conditioning or fridge/minibar. Solar power is used where possible.

Mangrove lodge – impressive thatched lodge with indoor bathroom and large, private sun terrace overlooking the mangroves £9

Half board included Air-conditioning n/a Single room £75 3rd person sharing a Jungle lodge -£40 Child sharing a Jungle lodge (2-15 years) -£40

Airport transfers: 30-40 minutes

32

Floating lodge – on a single-storey platform jutting into the river with al fresco bathroom £15 Stilted lodge – separate bedroom, unique outside bathroom, open-air lounge area and secondstorey dayroom £35

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

Floating lodge

14 night prices also available

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

3*

425

399

375

349

475

475

425

399

435

449

425

375

425

425

349

275

275

249

7

1329

1308

1296

1280

1675

1688

1365

1347

1364

1442

1348

1321

1425

1425

1285

1097

1140

1075

10

1689

1668

1636

1784

2120

1997

1731

1709

1780

1780

1715

1690

1826

1826

1632

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Jungle lodge from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement. *3 night add-on prices do not include flights but do include a transfer from a coastal hotel.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £109, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £125, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £114, 1 May – 30 June £65 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

FLIGHT CHOICE Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

33

Chimp Rehabilitation Project River Gambia National Park Unique Camp - Exclusive Tranquil – Wildlife – Guides

A

visit to the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project’s (CRP) camp, situated on the south bank of the River Gambia 270km inland from coastal resorts, is an unforgettable experience and one which we are delighted to offer within our Unique Collection.

Established in 1979, this is Africa’s longest running chimp rehabilitation project and is now home to over 100 chimps. They can be found on Baboon Islands, a group of three islands in the middle of the River Gambia set within the River Gambia National Park, and the eco-friendly camp itself is located on the banks of the river overlooking the islands.

I have visited The Gambia at least 20 times now but nothing can beat my experience at ‘Chimp Camp’. To float down the river in the company of expert guides pointing out an endless array of birdlife and monkeys; to come face to face with families of chimps in their natural habitat...

The highlight of your stay will undoubtedly be the 2 hour daily boat trips around the islands to view the chimps and natural beauty of the area, with expert guides to teach you more about these amazing creatures and the work being done to protect them. The area is also home to a wide variety of animals including Red Colobus and Green Vervet monkeys, which often visit the camp, Western baboons, hippos, crocodiles and a vast array of bird life, so be sure to bring binoculars.

There are a number of other activities available such as night walks and climbing to the alleged site of the demise of the last Gambian elephant for fantastic views, many at no additional cost although you may choose to tip the excellent local guides. CRP also works closely with the local villages, for example by setting up garden projects which can also be visited. Or why not arrange to drop in to the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust charitable project located nearby?

The camp has 4 twin-bedded safari tents so you will be one of only a handful of guests. These are situated approximately 50 metres apart on elevated platforms high above the river bank, reached via many steps, with fantastic views over the islands of the National Park. As an eco-camp the tents are comfortable but basic with a hand basin, outside shower, and composting toilet, located a short distance away. All meals are included - these are simple, freshly prepared dishes served by friendly staff from the local villages in a Waterhouse on stilts. This has a partly shaded veranda and open terrace, ideal for relaxing, watching the wildlife by day and star gazing by night.

This is a unique property which offers a wonderful opportunity to experience more of the real Africa and its wildlife. However, as a working project, conservation is the priority and the camp is therefore closed 3 days each week to allow the team to focus on the chimpanzees. When open to visitors there will be ample opportunity for you to view (and hear) the chimps in their natural habitat - by boat as access to the islands is prohibited - and to understand more about the work being done to protect this species.

...on the islands they call their home; to enjoy freshly prepared food in good company and gaze at the stars whilst listening to the calls of hippos definitely worth the 4 hour drive and our customers last winter seem to agree with me!

Karen Durham, Product Manager

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/ChimpCamp

FACILITIES

ACTIVITIES

Waterhouse for meals and relaxation

Afternoon chimp viewing boat trips (included)

We suggest you visit our website at Gambia.co.uk/ChimpCamp where you will find further details and many more photographs of the camp and tented accommodation to ensure it suits your needs.

4 tents with shaded terrace and sunbeds

Early hike to Chassing Cliffs

Twin beds with mosquito nets

Village and Environmental Educational Centre visit

This property is not suitable for those with walking difficulties and no children under 13 are permitted.

Composting toilet (shared between 2 tents)

34

Outside private shower (NB No mains electricity or air-conditioning)

Morning ‘little Africa’ boat trip (included for 3 night stays)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FLIGHT CHOICE

TAILORMADE HOLIDAYS

The journey to the camp is fairly arduous.

Transportation is by either air-conditioned 4WD or minibus for the 4 to 4½ hour drive.

A reasonable level of fitness is needed to maximise enjoyment of this trip and to manage the many winding stairs to the tents. It is hot during the day with cool nights during the winter, getting hotter from March onwards.

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

2 or 3 night stays at the CRP camp are possible and we suggest that you discuss the best itinerary with our expert team as the camp is closed to tourists on certain days.

All flights are direct to The Gambia

Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats

For example, a 7 night stay combining 3 nights at Mandina Lodges (Half Board), 3 nights at CRP camp (Full Board) including a daily boat trip and an overnight at a coastal hotel will cost from £1499, with transfers based on 2 sharing.

See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

*On full board including transfers but excluding flights.

In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays

2 nights from

* £399 per person

35

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Sandele Eco-Retreat Kartong

Unique - Exclusive Eco friendly – Beachfront – Tranquil

S

et back from a palm-fringed expanse of unspoilt beach in the south of The Gambia, this eco-retreat and learning centre offers beautifully designed accommodation in relaxed and tranquil surroundings.

It is run by a British couple, Geri and Maurice, in conjunction with the local community of Kartong located 4 kilometres away, who will assume complete ownership in the future. Built using sustainable and eco-friendly construction techniques, local craftsmen and materials are sourced from the surrounding area and you can see how the mud bricks are made during your stay.

Everything about Sandele works with the natural environment….the beautiful circular lodges are a masterstroke. The almost deserted perfect beach and bath-warm sea are a huge draw, but so are the colourful markets, not to mention the sunset yoga.

Cherry Maslen, Green Magazine

Nestled amongst the trees, about 100m from the untouched, sandy beach below, which is reached via natural sandy trails, are the 4 airy, spacious suites, each benefiting from a private roof terrace and sunbathing area. Whilst there is no swimming pool, there is a plunge pool for every two suites. The light and airy circular rooms have comfortable, rustic furnishings under a high, domed ceiling. Alternatively, spacious yet more basic, sea-facing guest rooms, often used for small study groups, are proving popular. These are located a short walk from the suites and some benefit from views down towards the sea in the distance but have no plunge pool and are available at a reduction.

Our guests stay on a half board basis with the option to upgrade to full board, which we would recommend due to the property’s location away from tourist bars and restaurants; the Pakaya Restaurant, with its rooftop terrace and bar on both levels, offers healthy cuisine with the emphasis on using fresh, local produce. On request or for a special occasion, your meal can also be served in the privacy of your own suite or in the shade of the wooden beachside terrace whilst listening to the sound of the waves.

With the busier resorts only a 45-60 minute drive away, Sandele offers you the chance to relax and unwind in a quiet, unspoilt location, enjoy birdwatching or visits to local artisans at work to observe and learn their skills. At the same time you can understand the importance of protecting the environment and working with the local community. A stay at Sandele can be taken as a stand-alone holiday, or 3 or 4 night add-ons can easily be combined with a busier resort hotel for a multi-centre stay.

Please note we would not recommend this property to customers with walking difficulties. Our standard excursion programme is not available from Sandele Eco-Retreat, however alternatives can be arranged locally.

MULTI-CENTRE HOLIDAYS A large proportion of our guests choose to combine a stay at Sandele Eco-Retreat with a larger hotel, or even with another centre such as Mandina Lodges in order to experience different aspects of The Gambia, its wildlife and people. Any combination is possible and our add-on prices start at £299 per person in a suite on a half board basis, including transfers but excluding flights.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Sandele

FACILITIES

SUITE FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Deserted beach with sun beds Pakaya restaurant & bar with rooftop terrace Birdwatching, fishing and bush walk excursions (payable locally) 24 rooms including 4 suites

Mosquito net Shared plunge pool Rooftop terrace Composting toilets No energy-sapping air-conditioning or fridge/minibar

Guest rooms are fairly basic but spacious and comfortable with views from the shared terrace or balcony towards the sea. They do not have a plunge pool -£10

Full board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

Airport transfers: 50 minutes

36

£10 n/a £20 -£25 -£25

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

Guest room

14 night prices also available

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

3*

349

325

299

299

395

395

349

325

349

375

349

299

375

375

299

249

249

225

7

1169

1155

1138

1125

1512

1531

1193

1170

1182

1248

1179

1156

1237

1237

1124

998

1013

985

10

1458

1440

1425

1628

1933

1824

1497

1464

1535

1535

1480

1445

1549

1549

1405

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Suite from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement. *3 night add-on prices do not include flights but do include a transfer from a coastal hotel.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £79, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £93, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £82, 1 May – 30 June £49 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

FLIGHT CHOICE Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

37

Sheraton Gambia Hotel Brufut

Beachfront – Spa – All-inclusive

T

his beachfront property is now extremely popular as an all-inclusive hotel. Its fantastic location beside the ocean ensures 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 oceanfacing balcony or terrace. Standard baobab rooms are located in the Baobab wing closest to reception on the cliff top; there is also a variety of upgrade options such as the superbly located Beach rooms.

A very relaxing holiday in this attractive hotel with extensive grounds fronting the beach. Bedrooms are superb with panoramic views across the grounds to the beach and ocean, and what friendly staff.

We would return again!

Irene & Jeff Knott, Hampshire

Dining is buffet style, usually served around the pool in winter but may be in the elevated Crematata buffet restaurant (not air-conditioned) where breakfast is also served. A new pizza oven and barbecue station provide live cooking and excellent burgers during the afternoon. An à 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 table tennis, beach volleyball and billiards, there is plenty to do along with simply relaxing. The lively resort of Kololi is just 8 kilometres away and the hotel works with tourist taxis to transport you there twice daily. The spa offers a good choice of treatments and we particularly recommend a massage overlooking the beach in an outdoor treatment cabana.

Since the introduction of the popular all-inclusive option the hotel caters largely for tourists. Whilst improvements are constantly being made, this property cannot be compared to some Sheraton hotels in other destinations.

Customer feedback has been very positive this year, however we still believe our 4 grade rating to be 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 3pm-5pm – 20% 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

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

Table tennis, badminton, pétanque Volleyball, water polo Billiards, darts, mini-football Step and water aerobics Evening entertainment (at least 3 times a week, winter only)

Balafon – al fresco lunch and dinner buffets plus pizza oven and barbecues with live cooking Crematata - buffet breakfast restaurant with outdoor terrace and fantastic view Buffet meals and à la carte menu may be served in either restaurant

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Large swimming pool Separate children’s pool, play area Unspoilt sandy beach Fitness/spa facilities with small pool Link@Sheraton internet café Barracuda pool bar Taxi shuttle twice daily (one way) World class conference facilities 186 rooms

Twins and doubles Air-conditioning Safety deposit boxes Satellite television Internet (payable locally) Hairdryer Telephone

Beach baobab – close to the beach, either ground or upper floor rooms, terrace or balcony £14

Half board/Bed & breakfast -£11/-£26 Air-conditioning included Single room from £25 3rd person sharing -£10 Child sharing on all-inclusive (2-15 years) -£25

38

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Sheraton

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

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on All-inclusive No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

1143

1115

1094

1079

1520

1562

1159

1145

1161

1230

1148

1119

1248

1248

1094

1073

1088

1064

10 & 11

1414

1398

1372

1534

1928

1790

1447

1428

1515

1515

1420

1393

1551

1551

1366

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1672

1647

1628

1956

2251

2016

1695

1664

1697

1713

1675

1656

1799

1724

1618

1512

1512

1499

Prices are in £s per person on All-inclusive in a Standard baobab room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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, 1 May – 30 June £64 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

39

Kombo Beach Hotel Kotu

Beachfront – Lively – Families – Groups

S

ituated on a great sandy beach, this is a well-established, lively hotel with a full time entertainment team and plenty of 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 busy day, why not unwind and watch the sun set with a drink at the hotel’s beachside wine bar?

For a great family holiday Kombo is hard to beat, with its superb beachfront setting, relaxed and informal style, variety of kids’ entertainment, wide selection of food including pizzas and ice-cream, and friendly, smiling staff.

Louise Thomas & family, Hampshire

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 with kitchen facilities and are ideal for families.

The hotel boasts 2 bars and 3 restaurants offering buffet and à la carte dining as well as Gecko’s all-day snack bar serving a wide range of dishes.

An improved dine-around package is also available for those who prefer a little more variety. In the evening there is usually entertainment beside 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 it’s 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. Its focus on water and energy conservation is also commendable.

NEW DINE-AROUND PACKAGE

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

Daytime activities and evening entertainment Table tennis Tennis courts and coach (payable locally) Pétanque/boules Volleyball Small outdoor gym Bird guide and golf coach (payable locally)

Kudula – themed buffets every evening The Brasserie – great food and ocean views with daily specials and à la carte menu Gecko’s – snack bar/restaurant Barracuda Bar – beachside drinks and sandwiches Dine-around package – a mixture of hotel dining and outside restaurant dinners with transport Half board guests receive a credit at The Brasserie

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

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, children’s play area 258 rooms

Majority double beds, limited twin beds available on request (cannot be guaranteed) Air-conditioning Safe facilities (payable locally, free in upgraded rooms) Television Mini fridge Hairdryers on request (included in upgraded rooms) 2 and/or UK 3 pin sockets

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

Half board Dine-around package Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

40

Following customer feedback, we have introduced a new-feel, flexible dining package for you to experience. For £125 per person the programme includes 4 meals in the 3 hotel restaurants plus an evening at a popular restaurant in Kotu. You will also be transported outside of the resort for 2 dinners at other selected restaurants on evenings of your choice (drinks excluded).

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Kombo

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

£13 £125 per week included £16 -£5 -£20

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

718

699

688

675

1098

1130

765

754

775

840

758

729

844

844

693

688

711

682

10 & 11

850

822

797

958

1339

1228

890

882

947

947

881

852

991

991

804

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

884

868

839

1183

1444

1256

945

933

954

962

930

898

1035

997

830

824

824

815

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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, 1 May – 30 June £17 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

41

Ocean Bay Hotel Cape Point

Beachfront – Couples – Families

T

he Ocean Bay sits within beautiful gardens in a beachfront setting. This popular hotel offers a good range of facilities, as well as 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 new soft furnishings and duvets, a good range of amenities and are arranged in 2-storey buildings throughout the gardens. We choose to base our prices on the larger, deluxe rooms with private terrace or balcony, however standard rooms are available at a reduction.

The staff were amazing and nothing was too much trouble. There was always a good selection of food for breakfast, and the homemade pizzas, direct from the poolside oven, were delicious – not to mention the lemongrass tea.

Karen Linton & Nicki Hill, Hampshire

Within the hotel there is a choice of 2 restaurants, one serving buffet-style breakfast and dinner including Gambian delicacies and the Ocean Clipper à la carte, which is in an unrivalled position next to the ocean. Drinks, including the hotel’s 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 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 few local bars, small restaurants, shops and a craft market all within easy reach and the popular resort of Kololi is only 10 kilometres away. The hotel’s official rating has been changed to 4+, however we believe our 4 rating based on customer feedback and our own observations better reflects the facilities and service levels offered.

ALL-INCLUSIVE LIGHT UPGRADE (not 24 hours) • Buffet breakfast, table d’hôte/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

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

Table tennis, pool table, daytime activities Evening entertainment with live music by the pool and shows (daily in winter) Management cocktail party (winter only) Children’s activity programme (subject to minimum numbers)

Buffet restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner Ocean Clipper à la carte serving Mediterranean and Asian cuisine (winter only) Snacks available from pool bar/pizza oven Beach bar All-inclusive light package available as an upgrade

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Large sandy beach Pool with children’s area Children’s playground 3 bars, medical clinic, hairdresser Laundry service/valet service Wi-Fi in lobby Conference centre 195 rooms

Deluxe room Twin beds Air-conditioning Minibar Telephone, television Hairdryer Safety deposit box 2 pin sockets

Standard rooms are smaller with a shared balcony or terrace and are available at a reduction -£3

Half board All-inclusive light Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

42

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/OceanBay

Suites have a double bedroom and separate living room with a sofa bed and dining table.

The bathroom is off the living room £14

£16 £30 included £16 -£5 -£10

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

Deluxe room

Ocean Clipper

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

760

745

734

718

1189

1240

805

794

817

878

806

783

891

891

748

745

772

739

10 & 11

888

864

852

1046

1430

1314

956

943

1010

1010

952

926

1054

1054

882

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

943

928

909

1320

1623

1382

1013

992

1039

1061

1034

998

1115

1063

927

918

918

910

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Deluxe room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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, 1 May – 30 June £24 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

43

Senegambia Hotel Kololi

Beachfront – Groups – Lively

T

he Senegambia Hotel is the largest and one of the bestknown hotels in The Gambia. It is situated beside the beach 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 hotel’s 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 usually much 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.

We had our wedding at the Senegambia and couldn’t have had a more memorable, special day anywhere. Many thanks to all concerned – hotel, staff and Gambia Experience.

Mr & Mrs White, Bristol

All the rooms are in 2-storey buildings, the majority being dotted amongst the gardens, so you won’t need to go further than your balcony to witness the varied birdlife that calls the Senegambia home. The new Kololi apartments are finished to a high standard with separate bedroom and living area, available at a supplement. The Gambia Experience resort office is also located by the entrance to the hotel and our representative, Jatta, will ensure your stay is a memorable one.

The extensive half board buffet is served in the attractive restaurant (closed in summer), with the Portofino pizzeria in the hotel providing an excellent value, alternative dining option. However, if you want to sample The Gambia’s 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. Although the beach is suffering from erosion, the hotel’s wonderful gardens and excellent location in Kololi ensure guests return to this hotel year after year.

WILDLIFE IN THE GARDENS The 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 hotel’s resident bird guides are always on hand to share their knowledge and give tours of the grounds.

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

Tennis (payable locally) Volleyball Varied evening entertainment Vulture feeding daily Children’s playground

Buffet breakfast Buffet dinner service (closed in summer) Portofino pizzeria Beach bar – drinks and snacks

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Beach with snack bar Large, tropical gardens 2 swimming pools (1 in summer) Safari bar, pool terrace bar Wi-Fi in lobby Bank in reception Boutique and hotel shops Nurse (limited hours) Hairdresser, mini-market 351 rooms

Twins and doubles Air-conditioning Ceiling fan Safe facilities (payable locally) Television Mini fridge 2 pin sockets

Studios have a lounge, kitchenette with 2 electric hot plates and separate double bedroom £11

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

44

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Senegambia

Kololi apartments are very spacious with a separate bedroom and living area, and tea/coffeemaking facilities £29

£13.50 included from £13 -£9 -£12

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

753

738

725

699

1141

1163

804

785

814

860

786

764

880

880

749

738

766

734

10 & 11

892

876

859

1078

1410

1255

955

929

978

978

923

898

1047

1047

858

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

940

923

906

1293

1556

1324

1003

982

1011

1027

980

965

1109

1062

905

895

895

883

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £32, 1 May – 30 June £20 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

45

Laico Atlantic Beach Hotel Banjul

Beachfront – All-inclusive – Families

I

f it’s a hotel-based holiday you prefer, the Laico Atlantic Beach 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 the option of interconnecting rooms, it’s an ideal choice for families too.

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

Nina Barlow, Administrator

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. 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, our prices are based on all-inclusive during winter. However, bed and breakfast or half board options are still available for a reduction as there is plenty of choice for dining, with 3 hotel restaurants offering traditional buffet dishes, poolside hot and cold snacks and à la carte dining (there are very few restaurants in Banjul itself). Evening entertainment is provided daily in winter so you’ll probably be happy to relax at the hotel, however if you feel like exploring further afield, a good choice of bars and restaurants can be found in Kololi, approximately 20 kilometres away; the resort of Cape Point offers a closer alternative.

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 but the all-inclusive package is proving popular with new guests too.

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE (not 24 hours, winter only)

ACTIVITIES

CUISINE

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) Children’s activity programme (winter only, subject to minimum numbers)

Bantaba restaurant serving buffet breakfast and dinner (may be table d’hôte in summer) Dunda à la carte restaurant (small half board/ all-inclusive credit provided) Riverside restaurant serving poolside snacks and a table d’hote menu. Buffet lunch for all-inclusive guests may be served here.

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Large sandy beach Pool and 2 Jacuzzis, children’s pool 2 bars, hotel shop, hairdresser Massage centre Hotel gym, disco Wi-Fi in reception (payable locally) Internet café 204 rooms

Twin or double beds Air-conditioning Minibar, safe Direct dial telephone Television, hairdryer Complimentary toiletries Interconnecting rooms UK 3 pin sockets

Pool/sea view rooms £5 Suites have a separate living room and double bedroom £19

Half board -£15 Bed & breakfast -£25 Air-conditioning included Single room from £11 3rd person sharing -£4 Child sharing on all-inclusive (2-15 years) -£20

46

• Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner • Local spirits and beer, house wines and soft drinks 11am-11pm (excludes premium brands and minibar/room service) • Complimentary ice-cream selection • Games and sports facilities e.g. tennis, squash More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Atlantic

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on All-inclusive No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr *1-May *19-May 30-Apr 18-May 31-May

*1-Jun 30-Jun

7

953

934

919

907

1294

1327

984

972

995

1066

980

956

1057

1057

930

n/a

n/a

n/a

10 & 11

1164

1143

1125

1291

1578

1470

1191

1184

1267

1267

1188

1163

1286

1286

1143

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1328

1309

1290

1572

1785

1614

1376

1362

1378

1392

1360

1348

1469

1425

1297

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on All-inclusive in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £60 * For May to October prices on bed & breakfast visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

47

Bijilo Beach Hotel Bijilo

Exclusive Beachfront – Long stays – Relaxing

A

popular hideaway to the south of the main resort areas, Bijilo Beach is a small and quiet hotel with breathtaking views. Situated on an unspoilt expanse of beach, the hotel attracts many repeat guests year after year, tempted by the tranquil, spacious gardens, welcoming atmosphere and of course the enviable beach location.

The airy rooms are situated in two-storey buildings within the well-kept grounds and all have air-conditioning, however their elevated positions mean you will also get a pleasant sea breeze as well as stunning views overlooking the gardens, pool and ocean beyond.

This is a popular choice for guests looking for a long stay during winter and apartments are also available with a separate living/dining area and basic cooking as well as tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel restaurant looks out towards the sea, offering both table d’hôte and à la carte menus.

There is occasional evening entertainment, a selection of beach bars close by and the lively resort of Kololi is only 2½ kilometres away.

This attractive, family-run hotel will suit couples wishing to relax in peaceful surroundings yet be within easy reach of a livelier resort.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Main pool and separate children’s pool Internet access in reception (payable locally) Wi-Fi (payable locally) Mini-market 55 rooms

Buffet breakfast Lunchtime snacks and full menu at the restaurant overlooking the beach (winter only) Evening set menus and à la carte options (winter only)

ROOM FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

Twin beds Air-conditioning Safe facilities (payable locally) Fan, mini fridge Direct dial telephone Television, hairdryer 2 pin sockets

One-bedroom apartments have a separate living/ dining area with basic cooking facilities £6 SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

£11 included £25 -£5 -£12

LONG STAY HOLIDAYS Bijilo Beach is a good choice for long stay holidays and the apartments provide greater space and tea/coffee-making facilities. Long stay holidays are available for any duration from three weeks to three months and, as an example, a three week holiday in an apartment costs from £1155 on bed and breakfast.

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

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Bijilo

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

735

714

702

695

1027

1055

762

749

770

835

754

733

835

835

708

n/a

n/a

n/a

10 & 11

870

851

839

946

1178

1127

896

873

942

942

889

864

980

980

815

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

899

886

874

1077

1279

1130

943

928

947

964

935

918

1021

964

842

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £25, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £32, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £27

48

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 holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

Bungalow Beach Aparthotel Kotu

Exclusive Relaxing – Beachfront – Singles

T

he “BB” is an old favourite with many holidaymakers, enjoying an enviable position on Kotu Beach. It is one of only a few hotels 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 – it’s 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 studios are available with no supplement, however air-conditioning is not an option in these.

Each apartment has a small, equipped kitchenette, lounge/dining area and separate bedroom, except singles which comprise one open-plan area.

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 selfcatering holiday is that you also get to sample the local specialities. There is a choice of restaurants close by, plus the hotel has its own restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with an à la carte menu.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Pool with separate children’s pool 2 bars, mini-market, boutique Internet café, massage parlour (privately owned) Small children’s playground Safety deposit boxes in reception (payable locally) 114 apartments

Breakfast pack plus daily fresh bread Restaurant, mixture of table d’hôte and buffets A la carte restaurant Beach bar ACTIVITIES Some evening entertainment during winter

APARTMENT FACILITIES Separate bedroom with twin beds Kitchenette with 2 electric rings and fridge Fans and air-conditioning on request (payable locally) Studios for single occupancy are open plan with a single bed and no air-conditioning APARTMENT CHOICE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Half board Air-conditioning Single room Smaller single studio 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

£10 payable locally £15 nil -£7 -£16

COMPLIMENTARY WELCOME PACK This aparthotel offers bed and breakfast with a difference. On arrival all our customers receive a complimentary welcome pack which includes provisions such as milk, fruit juice, tea, coffee, cheese and jam. You will also receive fresh bread daily.

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

Sea view apartment £5 Deluxe apartment including air-conditioning and television £16

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/BungalowBeach

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

733

716

705

697

998

1026

745

739

755

826

739

724

797

797

690

n/a

n/a

n/a

10 & 11

840

823

814

928

1130

1077

863

859

924

924

855

837

932

932

789

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

884

869

857

1062

1215

1086

908

892

910

933

894

875

965

913

798

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard apartment from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £25, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £32, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £26

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 holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

49

Bakotu Hotel Kotu

Birdwatching – Small & Friendly

T

he Bakotu Hotel has been a firm favourite of our guests (and 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; there’s 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 be spotted along with the abundant birdlife and resident tortoises. Some rooms have air-conditioning for a supplement, which can only be pre-booked by our guests, and families can also be catered for.

Once again, we have arranged for our guests to receive their choice of hot dish from the à la carte breakfast menu, in addition to the basic continental breakfast provided. For dinner, Captain’s Table, the hotel’s à 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. Alternatively you can relax by the pool within the hotel itself, or spend some time on the new birdwatching deck overlooking Kotu stream.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Small pool with sun terrace and pool bar Attractive tropical gardens with nature walk Mini-market Dongle hire from reception Laundry service (payable locally) Resident bird guide and birdwatching deck In-house massage service (payable locally) Limited safety deposit boxes (payable locally) 80 rooms

Baobab Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner including table d’hôte Cooked breakfast now included Snacks, brunch and lunch at pool bar Captain’s Table – à la carte restaurant Boss Lady restaurant Half board guests dine in the Boabab Restaurant with the exception of one meal per week (main dish only) at the Captain’s Table restaurant ROOM CHOICE

ROOM FACILITIES

Family rooms with double bed, bunk beds and a sofa bed

Twin or double beds 2 and/or UK 3 pin sockets Fridge and fans (both payable locally)

BIRDWATCHING WITH CHRIS PACKHAM Once again, BBC’s Chris Packham will be using Bakotu Hotel as his base for two, 3-day birdwatching holidays in February 2014. 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.

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

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

704

690

678

669

967

992

726

714

722

798

719

694

797

797

678

n/a

n/a

10 & 11

792

775

760

878

1115

1051

823

819

887

887

823

799

918

918

786

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

832

813

800

1006

1177

1038

849

843

865

898

861

827

964

901

795

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £20, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £30, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £23

50

n/a

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

£10 £8 from £18 -£5 -£6

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

Sarge’s Hotel Kololi

Central Location – Groups

U

nder the same management team as Bungalow Beach in Kotu, Sarge’s Hotel offers simple but comfortable accommodation with a friendly atmosphere and is centrally located in the popular resort of Kololi.

The standard rooms were refurbished during summer 2012 and offer a good level of accommodation for this grade of hotel. Rooms are arranged on three floors surrounding the central courtyard housing the swimming pool and sun terraces. The standard rooms are fairly small but well furnished with duvets and television. Air-conditioning is available locally for a supplement, or is included in upgraded deluxe rooms which are much larger with lounge area, tea and coffee-making facilities and mini-fridge.

If the pool is not for you, the hotel has access to a sandy beach no more than 400 metres away. Evening entertainment takes the form of local shows, although you may find the hotel can be less busy in the evenings due to the convenient location in the centre of Kololi. There is an excellent variety of restaurants, plus a number of bars, nightclubs and casinos all just outside the hotel, therefore we do not offer this hotel on a half board basis, although this is available by special arrangement for groups.

Close to the hotel entrance you will find an exchange bureau, mini-market and massage parlour plus the craft market is just a short stroll away. This is a good value choice for both groups and those wanting a simple hotel in the heart of a lively resort.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Small pool with children’s pool Pool bar with snack service Massage studio and hairdresser (privately owned) Wi-Fi Snooker table Occasional evening entertainment 82 rooms

Basic hot and cold breakfast

ROOM FACILITIES

Half board Air-conditioning Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing

Twin or double beds Television Safe facilities (payable locally) Fridge/fan (payable locally) UK 3 pin sockets

ROOM CHOICE Deluxe rooms are larger with air-conditioning, fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities £14

With its excellent location in the centre of Kololi, which offers numerous restaurants, the newly refurbished rooms facing the pool and the friendly, helpful staff, Sarge’s Hotel offers good value for a relaxing holiday in the sun!

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS n/a payable locally £7 -£4 -£4

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

Josh Adams, IT Support Assistant

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Sarges

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

694

675

659

637

928

944

708

699

718

783

697

689

798

798

665

657

681

649

10 & 11

795

778

766

863

1062

1019

824

812

861

861

804

790

921

921

759

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

808

787

774

995

1129

1012

834

818

837

855

828

807

943

899

778

765

765

754

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £19, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £26, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £20, 1 May – 30 June £12 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

51

African Village Hotel Bakau

Singles – Small & Friendly – Groups

T

he friendly African Village Hotel continues to attract a high number of individual guests and groups each year with its relaxed 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 larger with fantastic views of the ocean from their cliff top setting. This property is also a good choice for single travellers as there are a limited number of rooms for single occupancy with no supplement during winter.

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. There is access to the beach from here at low tide if you fancy a stroll. The extended pool area boasts a circular bar right in the centre so there’s no need to go too far for a refreshing drink.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Pool with circular feature bar Man-made sunbathing area Massage room on beach Safe facilities in reception (payable locally) Wi-Fi in public areas Small shop 73 rooms

Restaurant overlooking the ocean Continental breakfast Snack service at beach and pool area SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Half board Air-conditioning Single room Smaller single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

ROOM FACILITIES Twin beds Fans Fridge on request in advance (payable locally) 2 pin and UK 3 pin sockets

£8.50 payable locally £8 nil -£4 -£5

A little gem which sparkles on the smiling coast.

If you want a taste of real Africa, without frills and fuss, then head for African Village where the welcome is as warm as the weather.

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Gambia.co.uk for May to October supplements

ROOM CHOICE

Derek James, Head of Features - Norwich Evening News

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/AfricanVillage

Sea view rooms are slightly larger £5

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

644

625

619

549

858

887

671

660

679

746

662

641

736

736

635

629

656

625

10 & 11

728

706

697

794

969

930

748

739

788

788

751

728

854

854

726

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

729

715

706

898

1076

922

760

747

771

782

754

733

857

808

729

718

718

709

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £14, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £20, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £15, 1 May – 30 June £11 For July to October prices visit Gambia.co.uk

52

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

Palma Rima Hotel South Kotu

Families – All-inclusive – Lively

A

lively and colourful hotel offering spacious accommodation, Palma Rima is a good value option for a fun holiday. With entertainment and activities on offer throughout the day and evening, it is ideally suited to a budget all-inclusive holiday.

The focal point of the hotel is undoubtedly the huge swimming pool and sun terrace, in between refreshing dips in the pool, guests are never short of things to do with many daytime activities. If you want to feel the sand between your toes, the beach is a short walk away, past a few bars and restaurants including Luigi’s ice-cream parlour, where there are loungers and sun shades for use with a small charge. A sociable, informal atmosphere continues into the evenings, and guests are regularly entertained by local bands, plus the hotel has its own nightclub and bar. Located midway between the tourist areas of Kotu and Kololi, you are only a short taxi ride away from other restaurants and bars if you fancy a change of scene.

We offer bed and breakfast or all-inclusive holidays in spacious, simple rooms located in bungalows. These are dotted throughout the gardens, rather than in the main building where rooms are smaller and available at a reduction.

Each bungalow room has patio windows opening out onto a small terrace.

These rooms sleep up to 4 people and, together with the children’s pool and lively atmosphere, provide an ideal option for families.

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Large pool with children’s pool Pool bar and separate all-inclusive bar Giant chess, Wi-Fi in reception Local entertainment, nightclub, shop Safety deposit box in reception (payable locally) Table tennis, tennis (payable locally, free for all-inclusive guests) 161 rooms

Basic buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner Table d’hôte dinners with a mixture of buffet and waiter service Sunshine poolside snack bar

ROOM FACILITIES Twin beds, UK 3 pin sockets Air-conditioning, fans, fridges (payable locally, on request)

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Half board Bed & breakfast Air-conditioning in bungalows Single room Smaller single pool room 3rd/4th person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

-£7 -£13 payable locally £9 nil -£3 -£4

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

ROOM CHOICE

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE (not 24 hours, winter only) • Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner • Snacks and hot drinks from restaurant (limited hours) • Local spirits (gin, vodka, rum and tequila), local beer and house wine, mineral water and soft drinks 11am-11pm • Free activities: tennis, table tennis, giant chess, water polo/aerobics

Pool rooms in the main building are smaller with a balcony. There is no air-conditioning but fans are available (payable locally). -£1

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/PalmaRima

NOVEMBER 2013 - JUNE 2014 PRICES on All-inclusive No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec

11-Dec 17-Dec

18-Dec 24-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE

25-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 26-Jan

27-Jan 13-Feb

14-Feb 22-Feb

23-Feb 6-Mar

7-Mar 31-Mar

1-Apr 10-Apr

11-Apr 19-Apr

20-Apr 30-Apr

1-May 19-May 18-May 31-May

1-Jun 30-Jun

7

774

755

748

699

968

997

781

770

792

856

772

751

856

856

745

n/a

n/a

n/a

10 & 11

898

876

867

972

1159

1110

898

889

938

938

891

868

1024

1024

858

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

959

945

936

1130

1306

1152

970

957

979

995

964

943

1087

1049

934

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prices are in £s per person on All-inclusive in a Bungalow room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 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 £31, 11 Dec – 31 Dec £39, 1 Jan – 30 Apr £33

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 holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See pages 80 & 81 for further flight information

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

53

MORE ONLINE

Please see our website for more information and photographs of the properties featured below.

FAJARA

Fajara Hotel

For more hotels

visit Gambia.co.uk/Hotels

ANTICIPATED

Located on one of the best stretches of beach in The Gambia, the Fajara Hotel is undergoing a full renovation and is due to reopen as a 4 grade hotel later this year. This large property, a previous favourite with British guests, will offer 3 room types including apartments and is set in extensive gardens gently sloping towards the sea. Please check our website for updates.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/Fajara

BRUFUT

Hibiscus House

This charming property provides an ideal opportunity to relax as well as to explore the real Gambia, due to its village location and unique ties with the local community. Hibiscus House has a very intimate feel with only 8 individually designed rooms, located around the small swimming pool and Jacuzzi. A selection of treatments such as massages can be arranged on request.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/HibiscusHouse

KOTU

Sunset Beach

A small hotel overlooking the beach and stream in Kotu, the Sunset Beach offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With its well-equipped rooms and apartments set in well-tended, tropical gardens, it is very popular and attracts a large number of repeat guests, including families and birdwatchers.

The facilities of Kotu with its craft market, supermarket and small selection of bars and restaurants are just a short walk away.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/SunsetBeach

CAPE POINT

Cape Point Hotel

This popular family run, well-maintained hotel offers spacious rooms and is located close to the lovely Cape Point beach. The focal point of the hotel is the small swimming pool while the poolside bar serves good, simple food.

The high level of customer service and friendly atmosphere is very much in evidence which ensures a large number of repeat guests.

More Online – Gambia.co.uk/CapePoint

54

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

CRUISE HOLIDAY

Once again we are pleased to introduce, in collaboration with Variety Cruises, our Rivers of West Africa cruise aboard the MY Harmony V. Sailing from Banjul or Dakar, this cruise will give you a real opportunity to experience what this area of Africa has to offer.

Rivers of West Africa Cruise and stay holiday Enjoy a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, along with an exciting voyage of discovery, unravelling the wonders of West Africa. You can choose to set sail on this amazing cruise from Banjul or Dakar passing through Senegal’s Sine Saloum Delta, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and area of natural beauty, and heading upstream 250 nautical miles along the Gambia River. Your cruise will also be combined with 4 nights in a coastal hotel in The Gambia or Senegal. Throughout the cruise there is a varied, optional excursion programme enabling you to explore this fascinating region and the yacht’s Gambia River naturalist will assist you in discovering the amazing flora and fauna.

Banjul The combined 11 night cruise and stay package will depart on Fridays from 20th December 2013 – 28th March 2014.

What’s included • Flights to Banjul or Dakar with transfers to/from the airport, hotel and the port • 4 nights’ accommodation in a 4 coastal hotel (first night in a Dakar hotel if starting the cruise in Senegal)

11 nights from

£1949

Dakar 11 nights from

£2289

On board the MY Harmony V: • 7 nights’ accommodation in double or twin cabins with private shower, wc and air-conditioning • Full board: American buffet breakfast and two main meals daily • Complimentary regular (filter) coffee, tea and water throughout the day • Use of fishing equipment, English speaking Cruise Escort, port charges

The Mega Yacht Harmony V The MY Harmony V is a modern elegant yacht with a sleek high-tech look very similar to private yachts in famous ports of the world, which accommodates up to 50 guests in a relaxed, congenial atmosphere. Life on board will centre around the Bar Lounge and Dining Room on the Main Deck and the Sun Deck bar where meals are served al fresco depending on the weather and the yacht’s location. Surrounded by large windows, they provide beautiful views of the ports of call. The Sun Deck is the ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery. The 25 cabins of the MY Harmony V are located on the Main Deck and Upper Deck and are decorated with soft colour furnishings. All cabins offer large windows and en suite bathrooms with shower and are equipped with flat screen TVs, DVD players, mini fridges, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C and safe deposit boxes. Service on board is provided by your captain and his experienced marine and hotel crew members. It will be attentive or unobtrusive according to your requirements and priority is always given to the safety and comfort of passengers.

You can also choose to take the shorter option of a 5 night cruise from Banjul combined with 6 nights in a hotel (or 2 nights if flying from Manchester) and enjoy cruising along the Gambia River. Please speak to our sales team for more details. For more information, a detailed itinerary and optional excursion programme, please see our websites Gambia.co.uk/Cruise or Senegal.co.uk/Cruise

A wonderful way to enjoy the undoubted delights of the River Gambia and its flora and fauna.

David Morley British High Commissioner, Banjul

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

55

UNIQUE

Discover Senegal

The French coast of West Africa awaits you

Although relatively new to British holidaymakers, Senegal has long been a favourite holiday destination for our European neighbours who, for many years, have enjoyed the year-round warm welcome and sandy beaches of this unique and beautiful country.

Senegal sits on the Atlantic Ocean, at Africa’s most westerly point between Mali, Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania, with The Gambia almost entirely enclosed within it. It has three mighty rivers and these provide a good deal of fertile land and some wonderfully intricate coastal lagoons and waterways that are a joy to explore. Because of this abundance of water and fertility it supports a great wealth of wildlife, including numerous birds from coastal waders to large raptors, and various mammal species such as warthogs, monkeys, manatees and dolphins.

Senegal’s people and its culture Some might argue that Senegal’s greatest attraction is its thriving culture, which draws from centuries of the region’s tribal history and also the many incursions from outside cultures, including the French who were the dominant imperial power here during the 19th and 20th centuries until independence in 1960. This myriad of influences has fused into an eclectic whole, which you can see in the local dress, music, cuisine and architecture.

Many of the ethnic groups of The Gambia and Senegal are related, so share many customs and indigenous languages and, as in The Gambia, visitors should adopt an informal but modest standard of dress as the majority of Senegalese are Muslim. You are guaranteed a warm welcome from them, as they adhere to the traditional values of respect for others and good manners.

Language As Senegal is a former French colony, French is the official language and a basic knowledge of the language would certainly be useful. Generally speaking, in the resort areas, English isn’t widely spoken but hotel staff, particularly at reception, and tour reps will usually speak some English.

Of the local tribal languages, Wolof, Malinké, Mandinka and Fula are the most widely spoken.

Our Senegal hotels You will discover that Senegal offers a range of excellent accommodation, with a number of luxury hotels, some with spa facilities, and properties generally provide a level of cuisine that is some of the finest in West Africa.

We are proud to have selected a range of hotels that reflects this high standard. We are specialists, and we work closely with a carefully chosen agent in Senegal, who knows the country inside out. Our agent provides

56

Souimanga Lodge

SENEGAL

transfers to your chosen hotel as well as providing a representative service and excursion programme in the majority of our hotels. Ultimately we believe it is essential that we match the right hotel with the right customer.

Our staff will be happy to discuss which hotels suit your needs, so please use their personal knowledge and call them on 0845 338 8700.

Hotel standards As we have mentioned, Senegal offers some excellent accommodation, however an official system of classification is not yet in place. Therefore, to give guests a clearer picture of what to expect from a hotel, we have our own rating system based upon standards within the country, a thorough inspection by our own staff and any feedback from our customers.

It’s important to remember that our hotel gradings may not compare to a corresponding star rating in the UK or Europe so we have therefore placed more emphasis on the accuracy of our descriptions and photographs so our guests can gain an honest and fair view of a hotel before they book. Further details on our hotels can be found online at Senegal.co.uk/Hotels

Get out and see the real Senegal If you like to take time out from soaking up the sun there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore Senegal, whether it’s just for an afternoon or on longer organised trips. Many guests love to browse the colourful African markets and they are the perfect place to pick up memorable souvenirs and practise your bartering skills! Most sell traditional fabrics, pottery and costume jewellery and craft markets will offer an array of intricate and extremely attractive woodcarvings, artwork, musical instruments and metalwork.

During your holiday, it’s also worth taking time out to sample some of Senegal’s fabulous music. Senegal is home to some of Africa’s most famous musicians and singers, including Youssou N’Dour, Baaba Maal and Ismaël Lô.

Every May, Saint-Louis in the north of Senegal plays host to the Saint-Louis International Jazz Festival, which attracts performers and audiences from all over the world.

Sport is also extremely popular in Senegal; like most African countries, the Senegalese are mad about football and you’ll spot impromptu matches taking place in most towns and villages you pass through. Another favourite spectator sport is ‘lutte’ wrestling; this traditional wrestling, with muscular fighters dressed in loin-cloths and adorned with lucky amulets is best experienced in village surroundings under the light of flickering oil lamps.

Medication We strongly suggest you consult your doctor before booking a holiday to Senegal. Although no vaccinations are compulsory for entry from the EU, certain medication, including anti-malarial tablets, will be recommended.

You may be required to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate if travelling between Senegal & The Gambia.

A fantastic climate Senegal’s climate is pleasantly tropical with year-round average temperatures between 29 C and 34 C, uninterrupted sunshine from November to July and a short rainy season between the months of August and October, when sudden but spectacular rainstorms can punctuate the hot sun.

O

O

Sunshine hours (Average) Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

8

9

9

10

10

10

10

9

6

6

6

8

2

1

1

2

4

5

6

7

6

6

5

3

Temperature C (Average maximum) O

At each hotel you’ll also find a range of excursions on offer including 4x4 bush trips, mini safaris, quad biking or visiting local towns and villages, all run by experienced guides who can give you a real insider’s view of the local area – go online at Senegal.co.uk/Excursions to see what trips are available.

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

32

31

31

32

34

33

32

32

30

29

31

32

10

7

6

7

10

13

17

20

22

21

19

14

Senegal currency The local currency is the West African CFA Franc, although Euros are also accepted in the hotels (fixed rate of 1 Euro = 656 CFA Francs). Credit cards are generally accepted in hotels and restaurants though they may incur a surcharge. Traveller’s Cheques cannot always be changed.

= London averages

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

57

TOURS

Senegal tours

Get up close in this amazing country For a fantastic holiday away from the beach why not get up close and personal in this incredible country and experience the true sights and sounds of Senegal.

Our choice of 3 & 7 night private tours give you a real insight into Senegal and Africa by venturing into the heart of traditional villages, colonial towns, countryside and through stunning natural parks. As a private tour, you can choose when to stop to take photos or explore areas that interest you, unlike on mass organised tours.

With our professional English speaking guides you will travel along diverse routes by boat, 4x4 and even on foot. Stay in charming hotels, enchanting village camps, or sleep under canvas beneath starry skies, sampling traditional, local cuisine.

From the busy capital, Dakar, and the poignant history of Gorée Island, to the natural beauty of the Pink Lake and the Sine Saloum Delta, to the splendour of the old, colonial town of Saint-Louis, to the magnificent scenery across the ochre dunes of the Lompoul Desert, there is

so much to take in. You can also combine a tour with an extended stay at the hotel of your choice in Senegal or even The Gambia.

We can also offer a variety of Senegal tours from The Gambia, flying in and out of Banjul and combined with a stay in one of our Gambian hotels; choose from the following: • Grand Coast Adventure • Senegal Panorama • Eastern Senegal & The Gambia For further details on all our tours from Dakar or Banjul, please visit Senegal.co.uk/Tours or call our reservations team and we will help choose the perfect tour for you – tour prices include transfers, accommodation, all meals and excursions as detailed in the itinerary, local guides and an English-speaking guide/driver who will accompany you throughout the whole of your tour. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure...

Grand Coast Adventure* - Saharan Camp in the Lompoul desert - Djoudj Park or the Langue de Barbarie National Park - Fishermen at Kayar - Saint-Louis - Pink Lake

3 nights from

£599

per person

Sahel Adventure - Domaine de Bango - Djoudj Park or the Langue de Barbarie National Park - Saint-Louis - Journey through the bush and Lake Guiers - Visit to Thiès and Richard Toll

3 nights from

£649

per person

Senegal Panorama* - Saint-Louis and Sine Saloum Delta - Missirah, deserted beaches of Djinack - Djoudj Park or Langue de Barbarie National Park - Grand Mosque of Touba - Shell Island and Bandia Nature Reserve

7 nights from

£1219 per person

Eastern Senegal & The Gambia* - Safari in Niokolo Koba National Park - Bedik & Malinké villages - Dindéfélo waterfall - Kedougou market - Colonial Janjangbureh

7 nights from

£1299 per person

Prices based on 2 sharing, excluding flights. *Tours also available from The Gambia.

58

RESORT AREAS

Senegal has much to offer holidaymakers of all ages and tastes and we offer the choice of holidaying in two different regions – Saly & La Somone and the Sine Saloum Delta, 65 kilometres south of Saly.

Senegal resort areas Which resort to choose?

Saly & La Somone

The Sine Saloum Delta

The resort of Saly is located on the “Petite Côte”, approximately 80 kilometres south of Dakar and 65 kilometres north of the Sine Saloum Delta. As well as being one of the most important fishing ports in Senegal, Saly is an ideal holiday destination that has long been popular with French and Belgian tourists and as such has a very established feel, with its variety of hotels, palm-fringed sandy beaches, calm clear waters, bars, restaurants, shops and a wide range of activities.

The Sine Saloum Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a 180,000 hectare area that encompasses the Saloum Delta National Park, and a truly stunning part of Senegal. Formed where two rivers converge on the mighty Atlantic Ocean, it’s a region of great diversity consisting of a unique estuarine environment, glorious beaches, mangrove swamps, sand islands and ever-shifting dunes.

The region is a joy to explore, and whether you’re picking your way in a horsedrawn buggy through the great herds of baobab trees and salt craters dug by the local women, or quietly navigating the lush greenery of the labyrinthine waterways in a pirogue, you’re sure to absorb the region’s gentle magic.

The smaller resort of La Somone is only a short drive from Saly and enjoys an idyllic location beside a stunning lagoon, home to the Réserve de la Somone, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Nearby you can also visit the Bandia Nature Reserve, a small but perfectly formed wildlife park where you can see roaming freely: giraffe, rhino, zebra, ostrich, antelope, buffalo, bush pigs, impala and many other birds and animals. For the more active, both Saly and La Somone have several excellent water sports centres, offering a range of activities such as jet-skis, water-skiing, catamarans, kayaks and windsurfing, and several excellent fishing clubs offering world-class deep sea fishing. Quad and buggy tours or horse treks are available in and around the resorts and Saly is home to an attractive 18–hole golf course as well as the Accrobaobab Adventure Park, where you can climb, swing and slide on a series of nets and ropes amongst the baobab trees.

Thanks to its ecological diversity it is also rich in animal life, and for birdwatchers, the Delta will certainly not disappoint; home to a stunning variety of birds, such as flamingos, pelicans, herons, gulls, terns, egrets and avocets, many of the hotels will arrange special birding trips to view them in their natural habitats.

For the fisherman, it is an angler’s dream with a wealth of fish in both the rivers and the ocean; you might even spot the odd manatee or dolphin in the coastal lagoons. Many of the hotels have their own boats or pirogues and offer specialised fishing trips, as well as more leisurely sightseeing trips along the rivers to deserted beaches and local villages. For some hotels in the south of the Sine Saloum Delta it is easier to fly into The Gambia due to shorter transfer times.

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

59

Royal Decameron Baobab Resort La Somone

Exclusive Beachfront – Lively – Birdwatching

T

his elegant all-inclusive hotel enjoys a fantastic location nestled between a sandy beach and the lagoon of La Somone, with the resort of Saly only a 20-minute drive away.

Decameron Hotels & Resorts is renowned for providing unique, high quality holiday experiences and this hotel is no different, suiting all ages. The spacious comfortable, bungalow-style rooms are decorated in a colourful blend of modern and African décor and are scattered amongst the pretty gardens, all with a private terrace and attractive view; some of the beach front rooms open directly on to the sandy beach for a blissful panorama as soon as you wake up.

Your all-inclusive package offers good variety with dining of a high standard in the two restaurants, each with commanding views over the beach and lagoon and terraces to enjoy al fresco dining during the balmy evenings.

The hotel has everything you need for an active or relaxing holiday, as many activities are also included in your package, such as a scuba diving trial in the swimming pool, a range of non-motorised water sports from the beach, tennis, volleyball and even the weekly manager’s cocktail party.

The lagoon next door is home to some 150 species of birds, including pelicans and flamingos. The sight of these beautiful birds will appeal to everyone, whether you’re a keen ‘twitcher’ or not!

Transfer time from Dakar to La Somone: 2¼ hrs HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Large swimming pool with children’s pool Private beach, 3 bars, discotheque Gift shop, beauty salon (payable locally) Entertainment team – day and night Nightly live music and evening entertainment Scuba lessons, aqua aerobics and water polo Tennis, beach volleyball Pétanque, table tennis, watersports Laundry service 142 rooms

La Plage restaurant – buffet meals Restaurant Atlantis – à la carte restaurant ROOM CHOICE Ocean view – with a partial sea view £11 Ocean front – larger beachfront room £29 Family rooms are also available on request

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-11 years)

ROOM FACILITIES Air-conditioning Telephone, satellite television Bathroom with shower Hairdryer Safety deposit box

from £34 -£10 -£27

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

• All meals and snacks • Unlimited local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • Wine served with lunch and dinner • Non-motorised water sports: windsurf, kayaks, etc.

• Daily activities programme (aerobics, soccer, volleyball, etc) • Nightly entertainment featuring local and staff shows More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Decameron

FLIGHT CHOICE

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on All-inclusive No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

1167

1158

1147

1136

1468

1479

1268

1212

1198

1286

1185

1179

1245

1236

1098

1105

1127

1092

10

1329

1322

1316

1419

1724

1756

1459

1365

1383

1468

1352

1343

1419

1398

1237

1239

1258

1229

14

1545

1536

1529

1788

2105

1987

1684

1617

1634

1659

1574

1557

1628

1594

1416

1417

1436

1412

Prices are in £s per person on All-inclusive in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £60, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £90, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £70, 1 May – 30 Jun £52 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

60

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price See page 80 for further flight information

Lamantin Beach Hotel Saly

Exclusive Beachfront – Luxury – Spa

T

he Lamantin Beach leads the way amongst its neighbouring hotels, providing a real ‘wow’ factor when it comes to superb accommodation and excellent service in serene, beautiful surroundings.

Days can be spent relaxing by the pool or on the hotel’s sandy beach where, for the more energetic, there are a number of water sports available as well as the Beach Club, with its fitness centre and floodlit tennis court. The Saly Fishing Club also offers deep sea fishing trips from the hotel’s own marina.

To totally unwind, you need go no further than the hotel’s spa; relax in the hydrotherapy pool and the therapeutic baths or with one of the many beauty and massage treatments on offer.

The prime beachfront location is just one of the hotel’s outstanding features; the accommodation itself is impressive, designed in an African style, with two-storey bungalows set amongst colourful gardens, each with light and airy rooms complete with their own terrace.

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, with sumptuous themed buffets served in the restaurant Les Palétuviers and à la carte meals at the Beach Club, in its enviable position overlooking the beach.

Transfer time from Dakar to Saly: 2½ hrs HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Large swimming pool and children’s pool Private beach with Jacuzzi Sunbeds with mattresses, shades and towels Thalassotherapy spa, gift shop Activities team, fitness centre, tennis court Table tennis, beach volleyball, nightly music Water sports centre, fishing centre Internet and library corner Wi-Fi, laundry service 136 rooms and 9 suites

3 restaurants - Les Palétuviers, Le Beach Club, La Terrasse du Port.

ROOM CHOICE Balcony from £13 Deluxe from £40 Deluxe seaview from £58 Suite/suite seaview also available on request

THALASSOTHERAPY SPA

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Full board Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-11 years)

ROOM FACILITIES Air-conditioning King size bed Minibar, telephone, satellite television, Wi-Fi Bathroom with shower, hairdryer Separate wc and twin basins Gowns and slippers (upgraded rooms)

£17 from £23 -£34 -£34

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

Treatments are based on the energetic principles of traditional Chinese medicine and the “Five Element Theory” (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water). The therapists will evaluate your skin condition, body shape and even your Chinese biorhythm to select the products and treatments best suited to you, and help you not only to look better, but to feel better too.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Lamantin

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

1265

1254

1246

1238

1549

1844

1398

1315

1309

1374

1315

1297

1328

1319

1225

1212

1227

1205

10

1458

1447

1439

1585

1896

2157

1626

1534

1547

1598

1537

1539

1577

1546

1384

1388

1409

1384

14

1744

1733

1725

1984

2508

2459

1927

1838

1845

1897

1828

1836

1894

1855

1676

1634

1658

1622

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price See page 80 for further flight information

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Standard garden room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £74, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £125, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £80, 1 May – 30 Jun £65 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

61

Hotel Royam Saly

Exclusive Lively – Beachfront – Families

T

his attractive, friendly hotel is fantastic for both families and couples looking for well-priced accommodation with a good range of facilities. Its pretty African-style bungalows are dotted throughout the colourful gardens in a beautiful beachfront location within easy reach of the resort centre.

The unique spiral-shaped pool is definitely a focal point of the hotel – shaded sunbeds surround it and the pool bar serves drinks and snacks all day to keep guests refreshed. Out of the sun, the lounge, which is adjacent to the pool area, offers books, board games and satellite television to occupy restless sun worshippers and you’ll also find an internet area and gift shop selling souvenirs and displaying artwork from local Senegalese artists.

For dining, the hotel restaurant spills out onto the pool terrace, offering a variety of local Senegalese and European dishes. Another striking feature of the Hotel Royam are the extensive lawns, bordered by colourful shrubs and bougainvillea, which lead down to the palm tree-lined sandy beach that’s reserved for hotel guests. Here, relax on the golden sands or take advantage of the various water sports on offer.

Unwind further at the hotel’s beauty salon situated close to the beach where, in cool and airy studios you can enjoy a therapeutic massage or one of the many beauty treatments on offer.

Transfer time from Dakar to Saly: 2½ hrs

HOTEL FACILITIES

ROOM CHOICE

Swimming pool, children’s pool Nightly live music and occasional entertainment Massage and beauty salon, gift shop, TV lounge Local art gallery, internet and Wi-Fi area 120 rooms

Superior - with minibar, located in a prime position from £10 Deluxe - as superior with flat screen TV and direct sea view from £23

ROOM FACILITIES

All-inclusive Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-11 years)

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Air-conditioning Bathroom with shower, hairdryer CUISINE

£15 from £14 -£9 -£19

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

Restaurant - continental breakfast, à la carte lunch and dinner Pool bar serving a selection of drinks and snacks

WATER SPORTS Royam enjoys a fantastic location overlooking the bay of Saly and there are a variety of water sports on offer for the more active, including water-skiing, wake boards, jet-skis, pedaloes and kayaks. Professional instructors are on hand for tuition and will even arrange jet-ski tours of the local area.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Royam

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

1068

1059

1048

1045

1368

1389

1076

1067

1059

1138

1097

1066

1145

1138

1065

998

1029

967

10

1184

1176

1145

1324

1595

1436

1184

1178

1193

1275

1219

1198

1256

1237

1179

1085

1112

1049

14

1339

1335

1287

1599

1823

1574

1339

1344

1338

1444

1386

1345

1419

1414

1306

1177

1205

1154

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £47, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £70, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £47, 1 May – 30 Jun £40 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

62

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price See page 80 for further fight information

Hotel Espadon Saly

Exclusive Relaxing – Beachfront – Couples

W

ith a long-standing reputation for offering its guests excellent cuisine and comfort, the Hotel Espadon is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind but still have the convenience of the resort within easy walking distance.

The hotel enjoys a superb beachfront location and a friendly, relaxing atmosphere, with rooms nestled amongst the palm trees in two-storey bungalows. Each is comfortably furnished with a private terrace, whilst the colourful furnishings and décor add a certain African charm.

A pool and sun terrace area offer plenty of space to relax, plus the white sandy beach is right on your doorstep, its clear, calm waters dotted with boats and water sports. For keen anglers the hotel has its own world-class fishing centre with four professionally crewed boats.

The Espadon has a reputation for fantastic cuisine and the hotel chef takes full advantage of the fresh produce of the area, in particular the seafood, which arrives directly off the fishing boats. Meals are served in the main restaurant alongside the swimming pool where you can choose to dine under the stars on the candle-lit terrace. The ‘Le Ponton’ bar, built over the water and reached by a jetty, is the perfect place to enjoy a light lunch. Come the evening, it is transformed with coloured lighting and cushioned seating into a stylish cocktail bar for the perfect end to a perfect day.

Transfer time from Dakar to Saly: 2½ hrs

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Swimming pool and children’s pool Sunbeds with mattresses, shades and towels Gift shop, beauty spa (in adjacent hotel) Free Wi-Fi in public areas Occasional evening entertainment Water sports, golf course nearby 49 rooms

L’Espadon restaurant – buffet breakfast, à la carte lunch and dinner Le Ponton – restaurant/bar offering light lunches Club House Bar – terrace bar by the pool/beach SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

ROOM FACILITIES Air-conditioning, twin beds, minibar Telephone, hairdryer, satellite flatscreen television Free ADSL internet access ROOM CHOICE Sea view - overlooking the sea £15

Half board Full board Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-11 years)

£19 £37 from £15 -£9 -£24

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

FISHING The hotel’s fishing centre is one of the best in the country for deep sea fishing and the knowledgeable staff are on hand to help both experienced and novice anglers improve their technique. Depending on the time of year, you can catch a variety of fish including Tuna, Mackerel, Grouper, Sailfish, Dorado and Blue Marlin.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Espadon

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES Bed & Breakfast No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

1118

1107

1086

1069

1416

1427

1188

1177

1168

1239

1174

1165

1198

1195

1096

1055

1074

1049

10

1254

1239

1223

1255

1614

1599

1355

1339

1347

1408

1336

1328

1347

1313

1218

1165

1186

1158

14

1436

1425

1388

1587

1978

1823

1574

1566

1572

1624

1555

1537

1554

1512

1367

1317

1333

1312

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price See page 80 for further flight information

Prices are in £s per person on Bed & Breakfast in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £54, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £68, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £63, 1 May – 30 Jun £46 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

63

Delta Niominka Dionewar, Sine Saloum Exclusive Exclusive Beachfront – Relaxing – Birdwatching

D

elta Niominka, situated on the island of Dionewar, offers guests the best of both worlds with white sandy beaches bordering a blue ocean and the natural delights of the nearby rivers and bolongs of the Sine Saloum Delta.

The hotel offers its guests extremely comfortable accommodation and good cuisine in a spectacular location – the Sine Saloum Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site - and is a superb choice for those seeking natural beauty, peace and tranquillity.

The spacious rooms are set in cottages amongst the colourful gardens, all decorated in a modern style, but still very much in keeping with their African surroundings. Choose a beachfront cottage and you will open your doors directly onto the hotel’s stunning, white sandy beach. The atmosphere here is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday – the two pools, one with a Jacuzzi, are adjacent to the beach with fabulous views of the Delta and beyond. If you do want a change of scenery, the private jetty has a selection of pirogues and small sailing boats for you to enjoy some sea or river fishing, bird spotting or even just for a leisurely cruise relaxing and topping up your tan whilst taking in the wonderful surroundings.

Transfer time from Dakar to Dionewar: 4½ hrs (including a boat transfer of approximately 30 minutes) HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

2 swimming pools and Jacuzzi Sunbeds with mattresses, towels and shades Beauty & massage salon (payable locally) Fitness room, gift shop Free Wi-Fi in bar 54 rooms

Bar and restaurant offering continental buffet breakfast and themed buffet meals ACTIVITIES Occasional evening music or entertainment Boat trips, kayaks/sailboards Table tennis, pétanque Fishing centre and excursion programme

ROOM FACILITIES Air-conditioning Terrace or balcony Bathroom with shower Hairdryer

EXPERIENCE LOCAL CULTURE

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS Full board Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-11 years)

ROOM CHOICE Cottage – larger garden view room with minibar, satellite TV, DVD player £13

£13 £14 -£13 -£22

There are some unique opportunities to experience the culture of the region at this special property: watch traditional Serer wrestling contests or attend a Catholic Mass in a local village with African drums and the accompanying voices of the congregation.

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

Cottage sea view – larger sea view room with minibar, satellite TV, DVD player £19

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/DeltaNiominka

FLIGHT CHOICE

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

1174

1166

1159

1194

1425

1398

1274

1285

1286

1344

1289

1278

1346

1335

1237

1234

1259

1228

10

1285

1278

1273

1359

1568

1559

1436

1448

1439

1508

1437

1429

1462

1456

1378

1375

1394

1372

14

1443

1434

1426

1615

1862

1776

1647

1666

1658

1725

1668

1657

1715

1694

1566

1566

1587

1559

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £47, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £60, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £58, 1 May – 30 Jun £55 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

64

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price See page 80 for further flight information

Souimanga Lodge Fimela, Sine Saloum Boutique Hotel Relaxing – Couples – Birdwatching

L

ocated by the water, Souimanga Lodge offers exclusive, comfortable accommodation in a picturesque, tranquil setting.

The Lodge is small but perfectly formed with the emphasis on ensuring guests are well looked after and receive personal attention. The individual lodges are nestled amongst the trees and by the water’s edge, each beautifully decorated to a high standard with African style furnishings, fabrics and ornaments. The large picture windows open on to a private decking area where you can sunbathe, sit and take in the unspoilt views across the gardens and river or even enjoy a private breakfast or dinner.

The small, infinity swimming pool benefits from views over the water, where you can sunbathe in comfort on cushioned sunbeds. You can also enjoy a relaxing treatment in the massage suite, set over the water at the end of its own jetty. Only a short walk away is the bar for a cooling drink whilst the adjacent restaurant produces excellent, freshly cooked food, which is served in style either inside the restaurant or on one of the terraces. You can even enjoy a romantic, private meal on the covered decking at the end of the Lodge’s private jetty.

Whilst the atmosphere at Souimanga Lodge is peaceful and calming, you can also venture out and explore the local area on one of the excursions on offer or go fishing along the local rivers. Birdwatchers will be in their element, with so many colourful species available both at the Lodge and in the surrounding area.

Transfer time from Dakar to Fimela: 4 hrs HOTEL FACILITIES

ACTIVITIES

Infinity swimming pool with sun terrace Pool towels available Massage suite 7 lodges

Excursions available to book ROOM CHOICE Standard lagune – as Standard jardin lodge but set by the river £10

ROOM FACILITIES

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Air-conditioning/ceiling fan Double bed Mosquito nets Minibar Bathroom with walk-in shower Safety deposit box

Single room

from £34

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

ROMANTIC BREAKS The Souimanga Lodge is an ideal place for couples whether on their honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary or just enjoying a romantic break.

You can share a private dinner on your own terrace or on the covered decking at the end of the hotel’s jetty, and also both enjoy a massage together in the airy treatment suite set over the water.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Souimanga FLIGHT CHOICE

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow to Dakar via Lisbon

7

1344

1333

1328

1319

1486

1463

1334

1335

1329

1396

1335

1322

1414

1405

1324

1248

1259

1246

10

1529

1537

1529

1597

1685

1659

1528

1532

1525

1579

1534

1528

1605

1597

1483

1409

1427

1398

In-flight meals, 46kgs luggage allowance and transfers to and from Dakar are included in the brochure price

14

1798

1785

1777

1888

1998

1914

1799

1794

1785

1857

1798

1789

1866

1854

1686

1622

1635

1616

See page 80 for further flight information

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Standard jardin lodge from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD and £140 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £75, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £78, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £75, 1 May – 30 Jun £60 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

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Keur Saloum Toubakouta, Sine Saloum Exclusive Fishing – Relaxing – Birdwatching

T

he Keur Saloum Hotel sits in a fantastic position perched above the stunning rivers of the Sine Saloum Delta, which meander into the distance in each direction.

A highlight for many is the hotel’s panoramic terrace that allows guests to relax in comfortable chairs or hammocks and take full advantage of the amazing views, with the sun setting over the mangroves beyond. Set amongst the gardens are 48 African–style round bungalows, surrounded by numerous shady trees, aromatic shrubs and flowering plants. Each is individually decorated, offering simple but comfortable accommodation for a relaxing holiday. For an extra special location overlooking the jetty and the river we would recommend upgrading to one of the spacious suites, which are beautifully decorated, with a lounge area and an extensive private terrace.

Away from the busier tourist areas, you are perfectly placed to discover the real Senegal and the hotel offers a varied excursion programme, enabling you to explore the local area; this includes making use of its many boats to take you fishing, for a picnic on a deserted beach or to explore one of the other villages along the river. In the evening, the open-plan bar and restaurant is a great place to mingle and swap stories about your day whilst enjoying freshly cooked food.

Transfer time from Banjul to Toubakouta: 3 hrs (including a ferry transfer of approximately 45 minutes).

HOTEL FACILITIES

CUISINE

Swimming pool with sun terrace Gift shop Panoramic terrace Free Wi-Fi in bar 54 rooms

Bar and restaurant offering continental breakfast and table d’hôte lunch and dinner ACTIVITIES

Suite

Tennis, table tennis, mountain bikes, kayaks Fishing & excursion programme

ROOM FACILITIES

BIRDWATCHING

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS

Air-conditioning Twin or double beds

Full board Single room 3rd person sharing Child sharing (2-15 years)

ROOM CHOICE Suites – larger rooms with lounge area, bathroom with walk-in shower and separate wc, dressing room, terrace/balcony £19

£13 from £9 -£10 -£16

The spectacular Île aux Oiseaux nearby is home to the world’s biggest nest colony of the king stern, as well as caspian sterns and herring gulls. Other species spotted in the area include the great Abyssinian hornbill, the fish eagle and goliath heron to name just a few.

All supplements and room upgrades shown are per person per night based on twin occupancy for November to April. Please visit Senegal.co.uk for May to October supplements

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/KeurSaloum

NOVEMBER 2013- JUNE 2014 PRICES on Half Board No. of Nights

1-Nov 15-Nov 25-Nov 11-Dec 18-Dec 25-Dec 14-Nov 24-Nov 10-Dec 17-Dec 24-Dec 31-Dec

FLIGHT CHOICE 1-Jan 9-Jan

10-Jan 27-Jan 14-Feb 23-Feb 7-Mar 1-Apr 11-Apr 20-Apr 1-May 19-May 1-Jun 26-Jan 13-Feb 22-Feb 6-Mar 31-Mar 10-Apr 19-Apr 30-Apr 18-May 31-May 30-Jun

7

944

938

899

938

1069

1028

939

934

925

1009

938

925

1009

995

934

919

964

915

10

1046

1039

1032

1094

1175

1136

1048

1037

1034

1116

1038

1032

1115

1106

1027

n/a

n/a

n/a

14

1188

1182

1177

1249

1328

1275

1189

1182

1178

1253

1177

1169

1257

1248

1156

1144

1188

1139

Prices are in £s per person on Half Board in a Standard room from Gatwick on a Tuesday and include £67 APD, €20 ADF and £35 of other known taxes and charges.

For 11 night holidays from Gatwick or Manchester, add the extra night cost to the 10 night price and add the applicable flight supplement.

Extra nights (per person per night) 1 Nov – 10 Dec £42, 11 Dec – 9 Jan £44, 10 Jan – 30 Apr £42, 1 May – 30 Jun £40 For July to October prices please visit Senegal.co.uk

66

Twice weekly flights from Gatwick and Manchester. Weekly flight from Birmingham.

Weekly Gatwick flight from May to October All flights are direct to The Gambia In-flight meals, 20kgs luggage allowance and transfers are included in brochure priced holidays Upgrade to Premium Class or legroom seats See page 80 for further flight information

MORE ONLINE

Please see our website for more information and photographs of the properties featured below.

For more hotels visit Senegal.co.uk/Hotels

SALY

Hotel Neptune Set amongst colourful, tropical gardens, the Hotel Neptune has an excellent reputation for service and quality and appeals in particular to guests who are looking for a peaceful retreat. The serene and spacious suites are in keeping with the hotel’s tranquil atmosphere whilst the Neptune’s restaurant is well known for its excellent cuisine.

SINE SALOUM

SINE SALOUM

SINE SALOUM

SALY

Tama Lodge

Unique

Nestled amongst a grove of coconut trees, is the unique and wonderful Tama Lodge. The thatched Senegalese-style huts exude charm and character, their doors opening directly onto the golden sands. While away the day in one of the shaded hammocks scattered on the sand and dine in the open-air restaurant by the light of the flickering lanterns.

Les Collines de Niassam

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Neptune

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Tama

Unique

This is an enchanting and unique lodge, lovingly created to blend with the natural beauty of the landscape. Stay in a quirky lodge within the grounds, a stilted lodge over the lagoon or even a tree house lodge cradled in one of the majestic baobab trees! Dine on the open veranda and enjoy the wonderful views at sunset.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/CollinesDeNiassam

Le Royal Lodge Nestled on the outskirts of the Saloum Delta National Park, the Royal Lodge is a truly beautiful hotel offering the highest standards in accommodation. Located next to a deserted sandy beach, the focus here is on quality and relaxation. Each suite is beautifully decorated and furnished in African style with a spacious bedroom and separate lounge area.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/RoyalLodge

Domaine les Palétuviers Overlooking the river, this hotel is a great place to relax and unwind or use as a base to explore the surrounding region of the Sine Saloum Delta.

Thatched bungalows are scattered throughout the grounds, along with a swimming pool, sun terrace and a restaurant with lovely views down to the jetty where pirogues and kayaks can be taken to explore the creek.

More Online – Senegal.co.uk/Paletuviers

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

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MULTI-CENTRE

You do not have to be an adventurous traveller to combine stays in two or more different hotels or locations. This extremely safe region of West Africa has a lot to offer and those that venture a little further afield experience more of the true personality of the countries and their people.

Twin and multi-centre holidays are becoming increasingly popular within The Gambia and the small distances involved add to the appeal; alternatively why not consider travelling into Senegal for a chance to discover a different culture and landscapes? We arrange transfers for all tailor-made holidays.

Multi-centre holidays Experience the diversity of West Africa Holidays within The Gambia and Senegal It is possible to combine virtually any combination of hotels in The Gambia or Senegal usually with a minimum of 3 nights in any one place, however our Unique Collection properties and boutique hotels lend themselves particularly well to a multi-centre holiday. As many of these have a limited number of rooms it is advisable to book early.

To the right are some of our favourite combinations. Call us if you would like to discuss your ideas and our staff can help guide you regarding the most ideal order of properties to suit your needs.

At most properties, room upgrades and different board bases will be available so the trips can be tailored to suit your taste and budget.

Twin centres between The Gambia and Senegal You can choose to fly in and out of Banjul or start your holiday with a flight to Dakar and travel through Senegal to end in The Gambia. Transfers are generally via the Barra ferry which is a way to experience the real Africa in its own right. Here are some suggestions but we are happy to tailor-make holidays between the 2 countries and can advise you on distances and travel times involved.

68

• A coastal hotel with a more remote, peaceful add-on, either on the beach or in the African bush - e.g. Ngala Lodge & Sandele Eco-Retreat/ Mandina Lodges, The Gambia & Lamantin Beach Hotel and Delta Niominka, Senegal • 2 boutique hotels for an opportunity to sample the best of The Gambia - e.g. Leo’s Beach Hotel & Coco Ocean Resort & Spa • 2 or 3 Unique Collection properties to experience more of the real Gambia - e.g. Mandina Lodges and Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp

• 2 luxury hotels to experience the 2 countries in sumptuous surroundings, or for a special occasion - e.g. Coco Ocean Resort & Spa in The Gambia & Lamantin Beach Hotel in Senegal • 2 all-inclusive properties, both in excellent beachfront locations - e.g. Royal Decameron Baobab Resort, Senegal & Sheraton Gambia Hotel, The Gambia

MULTI-CENTRE

A personal experience Experiencing a multi-centre holiday in the Gambia allowed me to discover not only two sides to this enchanting country but also another side to myself.

On paper I am definitely more of a Ngala Lodge person.

This boutique hotel perched on tangerine cliffs comes with smiling service, unique decor, free Wi-Fi and a highly praised restaurant.

But at Mandina Lodge – staying in a floating river lodge amongst mangroves, oysters and baboons – I learnt how to breathe. Waking up to a fresh cup of tea, watching the birds swoop and fisherman punt by, is an experience I may not normally choose for myself, but is one I shall never forget.

From the sunset cruise to the nature walks and street art of the Wide Open Walls project; I shall remember my time at Mandina most fondly.

Each location has its own share of local markets and wildlife to keep you busy but sometimes the best activity on holiday is doing nothing. I cannot think of two better places to do that in

Cruise and hotel twin centre Our Rivers of West Africa cruise is back, now offering 5 and 7 night options which can be coupled with a stay in a hotel of your choice. This cruise, operated by Variety Cruises, will allow you to join the boat in Banjul or Dakar and cruise up the majestic River Gambia with an extension into Senegal on board the friendly and comfortable MY Harmony V with a maximum of 50 guests. Optional excursions enable you to explore the natural beauty of this region of West Africa. For further information on the boat, facilities on board and itinerary choices please see page 55 or visit Gambia.co.uk/Cruise or Senegal.co.uk/Cruise

The Gambia than at Ngala and Mandina.

JaYne GORMAN, Travel Blogger

Tours of Senegal - also available from The Gambia We also arrange tours of Senegal with a private driver/guide. In addition, we can offer customers flying into Banjul the opportunity to experience more of Senegal on one of our customised 3 to 7 night tour itineraries.

For more information on all options see page 58.

For more information about multi-centre holidays and to discuss your ideas call 0845 330 4567 or 0845 338 8700, email holidays@gambia.co.uk or holidays@senegal.co.uk or visit Gambia.co.uk/Multicentre

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

69

OTHER HOLIDAYS

Birdwatching

&

Fishing

Birdwatching

The Gambia packs a great deal into a compact space – not least the sheer number and variety of birds (some 540 species!). If you’ll allow us to get technical for a moment, The Gambia sits right at the centre of something called a transition zone, which means, for a relatively small country, it supports a huge variety of habitats. These include forest-savannah environments and drier woodland ones, marine systems and, of course, the life-giving River Gambia with its estuary mudflats and the intricate mangrove tributaries of the interior. In short, with all these habitats in a relatively small area, The Gambia is a fantastic destination Malick’s knowledge of birds is nothing short for birdlife!

The Gambia therefore, provides an amazing opportunity for birdwatching and, with everything being in relatively close proximity, you don’t have to travel far to see some amazing things – you’ll even find a whole host of exotic species in your hotel gardens…. So whether you’re a first timer, a keen amateur or an enthusiast looking for particular species, we guarantee you’ll find something to amaze and inspire you.

of breathtaking... What’s more, he can pick up the slightest tweet, warble or whistle and instantly identify the bird making the sound. Within just a few hours, I was in awe of the man.

RON TOFT TheTravelEditor.com - talking about the Malick Suso Tour

Fishing The Gambia and Senegal are well-known destinations for both salt and freshwater fishing, offering world-class angling opportunities. Bluewater fishing this year has produced Sailfish and Dorado as well as Yellow fin Tuna plus a host of localised species. The River Gambia is vast and largely untouched by commercialism while the off-shore waters of the Senegal coast offer some fantastic opportunities for big game fishing.

For those with a casual interest, a day’s fishing can be booked through your representative or hotel reception on arrival in The Gambia or Senegal.

We also work with World Sport Fishing to offer professional off-shore trips on new sport fishing boats and six separate wreck sites have now been identified within easy reach of their base at Tanji.

For more details please visit Gambia.co.uk/Fishing or contact World Sport Fishing on 01480 403 293 or at Worldsportfishing.com

70

OTHER HOLIDAYS

Birdwatching with Chris Packham

More birdwatching tours

21st & 28th February 2014

Malick Suso... the next best thing

The ultimate birdwatching trip to The Gambia: spend 3 days accompanying BBC presenter Chris Packham in The Gambia searching for a wide variety of species, both on land and water. With a maximum of 17 people on the trip there will be plenty of opportunity to learn from Chris’s extensive knowledge of wildlife as well as photography. The supplement for this 3 day trip based in Kotu is £425*.

When Chris Packham is in The Gambia he uses a local guide, Malick Suso – a man he has described as one of the very best bird guides in the whole of The Gambia - to help him find the best locations for spotting particular species and he admits this local knowledge is invaluable.

Chris then moves on to Mandina Lodges at Makasutu Forest to explore the forest and river and help you discover the abundance of wildlife that they harbour. A 3 night stay at Mandina Lodges from 25th February 2014 can be booked alone or added to the above tour, costing from £649 for 3 nights including accommodation for twin occupancy on half board (excluding flights). For more details visit Gambia.co.uk/ChrisPackham

The Gambia has to be unrivalled in the traveller’s £ per bird category of

This year we are once again offering 3 day birdwatching tours led by Malick himself; he will take groups (maximum of 8 people) to a variety of habitats including the following: Kotu stream where you’ll see all kinds of waders and kingfishers and, if you’re lucky, the elusive bittern; Abuko Nature Reserve with its amazing pool where all sorts of species congregate, from African darters to hammerkopfs; Tanji shore and fishing village which is home to a mix of shore and sea birds as well as the rare golden-tailed woodpecker; and also the community project at Brufut woods, where the local experts will lead you to the white-faced scops owl and the impossibly camouflaged long-tailed nightjar.

For further information and departure dates please check with our reservations team or online at Gambia.co.uk/Birdwatching

3 nights from

£425 per person

holiday. With 170 species regularly seen in three leisurely days birding on the coast alone, and four hundred more waiting to be discovered further afield, this is

The supplement for this tour is £175*. Alternatively, Malick may be available for private day trips on request, please contact our reservations department for further information. * in addition to the cost of the hotel and flight

Fully escorted birdwatching holidays are also available with: Birdfinders.co.uk Naturetrek.co.uk

Limosaholidays.co.uk Ornitholidays.co.uk

ornithological nirvana. And many of the species are pretty exotic too; Rollers, Kingfishers and Bee eaters are spangled spectacles whilst the dynamic array of raptors are truly impressive. Many others are simply tamer and more easily approached than in the UK so keen photographers always return home with a few ‘trophies’!

It’s only a few hours away, inexpensive, safe and very friendly.

The food is fab, the sun shines and there is a great range of hotels, although I find myself returning year after year to the small, quiet and simply superb Bakotu Hotel, which is both comfortable and perfectly placed for birding. In recent years I have also found the wildlife haven that is Makasutu Forest to be an irresistible draw.

I’ve been to The Gambia every year for the last twenty and I can’t wait to get back!

CHRIS PACKHAM, BBC Presenter

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

71

OCCASIONS

Weddings The Gambia is a fantastic choice for a wedding and offers excellent value for money, enabling you and your guests to enjoy an unforgettable day without the expense of a wedding in the UK or other destinations abroad.

We have arranged over 100 weddings in The Gambia, everything from a simple service just for the couple, to large functions for parties of over 50 people. Whatever your budget and party size we can find a location that will make your occasion truly special. Popular choices include taking your vows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at the stunning Coco Ocean Resort & Spa, hiring Ngala Lodge exclusively for your wedding party or a simple ceremony in the exotic gardens of the Senegambia Hotel. Our wedding planners have visited all the hotels and they will be happy to assist you in choosing the perfect location for you. For more information and to download a brochure visit Gambia.co.uk/Weddings or email our wedding co-ordinators at weddings@gambia.co.uk

Honeymoons Both The Gambia and Senegal are exotic honeymoon destinations with accommodation to suit all tastes – whether you’re looking for complete luxury and relaxation, or a unique cultural experience you won’t forget.

More adventurous newly-weds may wish to see the contrasts between these two neighbouring countries on a twin or multi-centre honeymoon, see pages 68-69 for ideas. Listed below are some of our favourite honeymoon locations.

A special holiday

Weddings, honeymoons & special occasions Special occasions Are you looking to book a special holiday for yourself or a loved one to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion?

Whatever the celebration, we have selected the best hotels in the best locations and have many upgraded rooms that are not available through other operators. We can also arrange private transfers, upgraded flights, flowers, champagne, cakes and other extra touches to make the event truly special.

Atlantic Suite at Ngala Lodge – The Gambia, pages 24-25 Relax and unwind with your own private hot tub on the terrace overlooking the gardens and ocean.

Floating Lodge at Mandina Lodges – The Gambia, pages 32-33 Stay in a four-poster bed in a unique lodge floating on the river in the heart of the African bush.

Beach House at Coco Ocean – The Gambia, pages 22-23 Celebrate in style with relaxing spa treatments, à la carte cuisine and luxurious surroundings beside the beach.

Ocean Front Room at Royal Decameron Baobab Resort – Senegal, page 60 Step directly out of your room onto the white sandy beach at this all-inclusive hotel in a breathtaking location in La Somone.

Sea View Suite at Lamantin Beach – Senegal page 61 Enjoy beautiful sea and marina views from your luxurious, spacious suite in one of Senegal’s best hotels.

For more ideas and help with planning your honeymoon call our reservations team on 0845 330 4567 or 0845 338 8700.

72

GROUP TRAvEL

Group travel

Competitive prices and expert advice...

We have assisted many groups over the years travelling to The Gambia including educationalists, sports teams, extended families, musicians and conferences, with and without accommodation – in fact, in the last year alone, we have organised trips for more than 60 groups.

With over 25 years of experience we have the knowledge and expertise to tailor-make your perfect itinerary and whether you are interested in African life, education, music or medical care, we are sure to find someone to assist with your specialisation through our excellent network of contacts.

Our dedicated group co-ordinators can advise and assist you before your trip whilst our resort staff can offer help and support during your stay.

Our complimentary group service includes: • Competitive prices • Free places year round – from 1 free for every 6 paying passengers • Subsidised leader familiarisation trips* • Group leader pack – containing useful information and tips • Free Gambia ‘Know before you go’ guide • Pre-booked seats together on London Gatwick flights, dedicated check-in, excess baggage assistance* • Private airport coach transfers* • Dedicated local representative* • Pre-bookable excursions including free places – from 1 free for every 10 paying passengers • Pre-bookable transport, conference and meeting room hire and restaurant reservations * Based on 15 passengers travelling

For more details of what we can offer and the free places available for your travel dates visit Gambia.co.uk/Groups or call our groups team on 0845 330 2116.

Camp Africa Established in 2011, we are pleased to welcome Camp Africa into our groups programme. This innovative event brings together college and university students from both the UK and West Africa to experience cultural diversity through sports and education. Participants have the opportunity to take part in community and environmental activities, local sightseeing excursions and to support healthcare, education and developmental projects within The Gambia. If you would like to learn more about Camp Africa and be part of these exciting events, please see our website Gambia.co.uk/CampAfrica or call our groups team on 0845 330 2116.

The Gambia is an ideal destination for group study visits especially with the support of The Gambia Experience. It is only 6 hours away with no time difference, English is spoken widely and above all, The Gambia is safe and friendly.

ALAN HUTCHISON AND TONY REA Directors, Gambia-Extra Limited

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

73

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability

Working positively for The Gambia Last year was our 25th in The Gambia and, while over time we’ve seen so much change within the country, one thing has remained constant - the ongoing passion and love people feel for this unique African nation.

To celebrate our 25th anniversary, in addition to our School Development Fund and carbon offset programmes, we decided to give something back and offered charitable organisations and projects £25,000 worth of direct funding and £25,000 worth of flight seats for charitable trips to The Gambia. We were inundated with applications and our panel of judges were overwhelmed by the variety of excellent and innovative projects - from adult literacy courses, to supporting the Gambian fire service, bee-keeping programmes to solar lighting projects, the spectrum was vast. For more information on the projects we supported, visit our website Gambia.co.uk/25years Please rest assured that this is not a one-off donation and we are currently looking into an ongoing legacy following this initiative.

Charity directory We recognise that many individuals and organisations undertake excellent work supporting The Gambia and its people. We believe that sharing knowledge, experience and resources provides the best support for these organisations, hence we have set up a charity directory to act as a hub. If you are part of an organisation who would like to be added to the directory, or if you are keen to learn more about projects operating in The Gambia, please visit our website Gambia.co.uk/CharityDirectory

74

Volunteering We have joined forces with the award-winning volunteer organisation, people and places, to enable those who wish to give their time, expertise and enthusiasm and travel to The Gambia as a volunteer. Regarded as the best in their field and having won the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award for Best Volunteering Organisation, people and places, like us, know and love The Gambia. They work closely with the Gambian people to ensure that volunteers have the best possible experience and are committed to providing meaningful and rewarding placements. If you would like to learn more about the volunteering options available, what they entail and the costs involved, please visit our website Gambia.co.uk/Volunteering or contact our volunteering team on 01489 866979.

Education in The Gambia Schooling in The Gambia is fairly basic and under-resourced. We are therefore proud to assist its development throughout the country and to support others in similar endeavours.

The School Development Fund Our School Development Fund was set up in 1989 with the aim of building, renovating and equipping schools in The Gambia and, together with the help of our customers, we have assisted over 120 school projects. We are now also looking at including communitybased projects which will provide long-term sustainable improvements to children’s education.

Development Fund

School

The Gambia Experience

SUSTAINABILITY

The Gambia Experience matches all monies donated by our customers and, for every 100 completed holiday questionnaires received, we also donate £10.

For more information about the School Development Fund and to subscribe to our newsletter, please visit Schooldevelopmentfund.org Customer involvement Although school education from the age of 7 is generally free, parents have to provide pens, paper, books and even desks and chairs as well as paying for exams. If you wish to help in a small way, pencils, paper, chalk and so on are always welcomed and can be bought locally to support Gambian industry or will not take up much room in a suitcase. We recommend that you see our resort staff locally who can advise you on distribution, but please bear in mind your luggage allowance.

Protecting The Gambia Tourism brings many benefits but at the same time it can adversely affect destinations, both environmentally and socially. We strive to work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of our destinations so that future generations can continue to enjoy them.

We have been awarded 5 star sustainable tourism status, the highest level possible, by the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) for our policies and practices and continually encourage our clients to behave in a sustainable manner.

Further details of our sustainable tourism policy and how customers can get involved can be found on our website at Gambia.co.uk/ST Opt in & offset – a carbon offset scheme We work with Dick Sisman, founder of the Tourism Industry Climate Change Service (TICOS) and former managing Director of Green Globe and Green Flag International, offering you the chance to help offset some of the environmental damage aircraft emissions cause. By opting in to our Carbon Offset Scheme, a donation of £5 per person will be invested into our new Gambian community tree planting programme which not only offers carbon benefits but at the same time economically supports rural villages. Visit our website Gambia.co.uk/Carbonoffset to see how your contribution can make a difference.

I was lucky enough to witness the colourful opening ceremony of one of The Gambia Experience’s tree planting projects on a recent trip. It brought four villages together in a huge celebration and the excitement was palpable. This project will make a real difference to people’s lives.

KATRINE CARSTENS, Travel Writer and Blogger

&

optin offset Caring for the climate & local communities

Community stove initiative Highly commended by AITO, the community stove initiative allows you to donate an alternative fuel stove to a family in The Gambia which not only saves time and money but reduces deforestation and provides health benefits. Costing only £20, the stoves come with an initial supply of fuel and personal training by one of the programme’s staff in use and maintenance. To buy a stove or learn more about the project, visit our website Gambia.co.uk/StoveInitiative

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

75

INFORMATION

A-Z

Things to know before you go

What is included

There are no hidden extras to add to our brochure prices, which include a luggage allowance, all taxes, transfers and meals on outbound and inbound flights. The brochured holiday price includes: • Return flight between the UK and Banjul/ Dakar with in-flight catering of a hot meal • Luggage allowance of: economy flights to Banjul 20kgs (30kg if you purchase our Gold Package), Premium Class 30kgs.

The luggage allowance on flights into Dakar with TAP Portugal is a very generous 46kgs, Business Class 64kgs • Transportation between the airport and your accommodation • Accommodation based on 2 sharing and meal basis as detailed on your booking confirmation invoice • The services of our resort staff and local office – please note that our representatives do not visit any of our Unique Collection properties, Leo’s Beach Hotel or Hibiscus House in The Gambia or hotels in the Sine Saloum Delta, Senegal where a 24 hour contact number is provided • Welcome meeting (excluding above hotels) • Airport departure taxes from both the UK and The Gambia/Senegal • CAA ATOL protection contribution • UK Air Passenger Duty (APD) £67 (Premium Class/Business Class £134) • £5 Gambian Government tourism tax (for Banjul flights) • Banjul Airport Development Fee (ADF) of €20 • Welcome drink on arrival in Banjul/Dakar • A Gambia Guide with discount vouchers and/or Senegal Guide for package holidays • Resort map for Gambia holidays • Christmas and New Year Gala dinners

76

In order to help you plan your visit we have compiled a short A-Z of useful information about our holidays to The Gambia and Senegal.

You will find a wealth of further information relating to these and other subjects on our websites or alternatively call one of our reservations team and use their first-hand knowledge.

Airport hotels, car parking and lounges We can offer a range of hotels with or without parking to suit all budgets located at or near the airport of your choice. For your convenience we can also arrange business lounges at all of our UK airports and the air-conditioned First Class Lounge in Banjul Airport on certain days. Conveniently located car parks are available at all airports, which offer a free 24 hour transfer service to and from the airport terminal. To make a booking please visit Gambia.co.uk/Holidayextras or Senegal.co.uk/Holidayextras or call Holiday Extras on 0800 093 5478.

Book with confidence The Gambia Experience and The Senegal Experience are trade names of Serenity Holidays Limited. Most of the holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 1866.

Please see page 3 or our Fair Trading Charter for more information.

We are also members of ABTA, ABTOT and AITO. AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service as well as sustainable tourism. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. See page 79 for the AITO charter.

Child and infant discounts To qualify for a child discount, children must be between 2 and 15 years old on return to the UK if travelling to The Gambia (2 and 11 years old to Senegal). They must share a room with 2 adults paying brochure price. Infants under 2 years on return to the UK are charged a fee of £45 to cover administration costs but are not allocated a luggage allowance (except Monarch Airlines at 10kgs) or a seat on the aircraft.

INFORMATION

Medication No inoculations are compulsory if travelling from the EU although you may be required to show a yellow fever certificate when passing between The Gambia and Senegal. You should consult your doctor before booking, who will recommend certain medication especially for malaria prevention.

All medicines should be carried in hand luggage.

Passports and visas A full, valid British passport is required for entry into The Gambia and Senegal; for Senegal this should be valid for at least 3 months on return to the UK. If you need to apply for a passport, do so at least 12 weeks before departure. For other nationalities, call our office for details. For long stay holidays in The Gambia, travellers must have their passport stamped by the Immigration Office every 28 days. There has been talk of introducing a tourist visa for entry to Senegal but this has not been confirmed at the time of publication.

Check-in

Flight delays

For all flights to Dakar and Banjul from Gatwick please check in at least 2 hours prior to the departure time shown on your tickets (3 hours from Banjul) except when travelling in Premium Class or extra legroom during winter, which is 90 minutes. For regional flights to Banjul check-in is also 90 minutes prior to departure time. Our airport representative will be at the check-in desk to assist with any queries that may arise. If you are collecting a ticket on departure, please allow sufficient time to pick up your documents.

Occasionally, despite the best efforts of all concerned, flights are delayed for reasons beyond our control. In the event that such a delay occurs, we will always do our best to provide a snack or meal when appropriate and in the case of an overnight delay, provide accommodation, although this may not be your holiday accommodation. Should there be an extended delay to your homeward flight we will endeavour to delay your departure from your holiday accommodation.

Currency

Foreign Office travel advice

The Gambia’s currency is the Dalasi (50 Dalasi to £1 in April 2013). Credit cards may also be accepted, although conversion to US dollars is now used; please check with individual hotels (surcharges will apply). Visa debit cards may be accepted at ATMs. The currency in Senegal is the West African CFA Franc but Euros are also accepted in hotels (fixed rate of €1 = 656 CFA Franc).

We are working with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to do all that we can to help British travellers stay safe overseas.

Their website at Gov.uk/Foreign-travel-advice is packed with essential tips, travel advice and up-to-date country specific information.

Excess luggage

Telephone: 0207 229 9633

Our prices are based on the cost of fuel as of 17th April 2013. If the cost of fuel does rise, we may be forced to introduce a fuel surcharge to cover the increased costs to us. In the event of any other security costs or taxes being levied, there may also be an increase in prices printed in this brochure, please see section 11 of our Fair Trading Charter on page 83 for more details.

The publication date of this brochure is 15th May 2013; prices will be superseded by any subsequent editions of this brochure.

Airlines are very strict about luggage allowance and only consider limited requests for an increased allowance from registered charities.

If you are carrying more than your allocated amount you will have to pay an excess luggage charge at check-in (approximately £15/kg) and we cannot guarantee that the airline will accept all your luggage. If you do have a large amount of luggage, we can advise on sending it by freight.

Holiday questionnaire

Private transfers

To help us improve our service and ensure standards are maintained, we should be most grateful if you would take the time to complete our questionnaire in resort and return it to our resort staff prior to your departure. Your feedback will now influence the ratings displayed online for each property, as will FEEFO (an independent review body) survey results. We will also donate £10 to The Gambia Experience School Development Fund for every 100 completed questionnaires received.

Unfortunately we are unable to include private transfers as standard within any of our holiday packages due to a shortage of suitable vehicles in The Gambia. However, on request we can organise private transfers to your accommodation in either air-conditioned cars or minibuses for £40 per car each way to/from the airport (maximum 4). There is a supplement for Unique Collection private transfers, however standard transfers for these hotels usually operate direct and with small numbers. For prices in Senegal please contact us.

Language

Requests

The official language in The Gambia is English and in Senegal it is French. In both countries tribal languages are also spoken, these include Mandinka and Wolof.

If you have any requests for your accommodation or flights, please ensure they are requested at the time of booking. We shall be pleased to pass your request to the airline or hotel, however we cannot guarantee that they will be met.

Gambia Tourism Board 92 Ledbury Road, London W11 2AH

Prices and surcharges

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

77

INFORMATION

Time difference No difference in time except April – October when the UK is one hour ahead, due to British Summer Time.

Transfers

Room check-in and out times

Tickets

The standard international practice is to let rooms from midday to midday, however times do vary. Check-in times are usually between 2pm and 3pm, check-out times between 11am and 12 noon on the day of departure.

These can be expected 2 weeks prior to your date of travel together with your accommodation voucher, luggage labels and our “Gambia Guide” or “Senegal Guide” for clients taking accommodation, which we hope you find useful. Your actual flight timings will be those shown on your tickets; please check them carefully as soon as you receive them. In addition, please check your return flight details with your representative or our resort office.

Senegal Embassy 39 Marloes Road, London W8 6LA Telephone: 0207 938 4048

Transfers will be in coaches, mini-buses or 4x4 vehicles and may not be direct to your hotel, however please contact us if you would like to arrange a private transfer for your party.

Transfer times from the airport to your hotel in The Gambia vary from 25 to over 50 minutes depending on the hotel and route taken. For more details see pages 12-13. Transfer times in Senegal can be anything from 2¼ hours to 4½ hours. The transfer to Senegal from Banjul will also include a crossing on the Barra Ferry, which may be on foot (escorted) to avoid traffic queues. Some of the journey to hotels in the Sine Saloum Delta will be along an unlit bumpy track. For transfer times see hotel pages.

Summer holidays In The Gambia & Senegal

Although The Gambia & Senegal are often thought of as purely winter sun destinations, some of our customers prefer to travel in the ‘green season’ when the beaches are virtually empty and the resorts are quieter.

Throughout the summer the average temperature remains at 30°C; May and June are particularly good months to travel as the weather is much the same as during winter. From July to October humidity is higher and there are short, spectacular tropical storms which normally occur at night, however July and August holidays offer great value, especially in luxury hotels, when it is high season in the busier Mediterranean resorts.

We fly to The Gambia throughout the summer from Gatwick, and to Senegal from Gatwick and Heathrow via Lisbon, Portugal. Not all hotels, restaurants and facilities will operate during summer so if you have any queries or to request a summer pricing supplement, please contact our reservations team on 0845 330 4567 or 0845 338 8700. For details of additional hotels open during summer and any special offers please visit our website.

78

Coco Ocean Resort & Spa

Ngala Lodge

Boutique Hotel

Boutique Hotel

See Gambia pages 22-23

See Gambia pages 24-25

See Gambia pages 26-27

Sheraton Gambia Hotel

Sarge’s Hotel

Royal Decameron Baobab

See Gambia pages 38-39

See Gambia page 51

See Senegal page 60

The Kairaba Beach Hotel

INFORMATION

FAQs

Frequently asked questions As a specialist tour operator, we have compiled an extensive list of regular questions to ensure you make the most of your holiday and know what to expect.

Please see online at Gambia.co.uk/FAQs but here are answers to some of the most common.

Q. What are the beaches like?

The Gambia is renowned for its uncrowded, sandy beaches and there are beautiful, wide stretches of sand in most resorts. Kololi suffers from ongoing erosion from the strong Atlantic currents, however it remains a popular resort for holidaymakers. In Senegal, Saly and La Somone have glorious sandy beaches and calm waters, ideal for swimming and water sports. The Sine Saloum Delta’s riverine landscape is also dotted with small, sandy beaches.

Q. Is it safe?

Crime in The Gambia and Senegal against tourists is low so venturing outside the hotels is safe.

In The Gambia you will experience ‘bumsters’, locals who try to make a living selling private excursions, handicrafts and working as unofficial guides. They can be persistent to the point of nuisance and although the Gambia Tourism Board has successfully reduced the number of bumsters, there is still more work to do. You will experience less hassle in Senegal. In both countries we would advise you to exercise caution and not show off valuables, as in any foreign country.

Q. Will I find Wi-Fi in my hotel?

A growing number of hotels do now have Wi-Fi access either in public areas or rooms, and some have internet cafés; we can advise on which properties are best suited to your needs.

However, please note that the connection can be very erratic.

Quality Charter 5113

EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.

FINANCIAL SECURITY An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK government regulations.

Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis ACCURATE BROCHURES & WEB SITES All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE & CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENTS All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays.

They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards.

MONITORING STANDARDS AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.

Q. Will one of your representatives visit our hotel?

In The Gambia we have a large, year-round resort team and our representatives visit the hotels every day except Sunday to help guests make the most of their holiday. Our reps do not currently visit any of our Unique Collection properties, Leo’s Beach Hotel or Hibiscus House as these all offer their own very personal service.

In Senegal a representative will visit the hotels in Saly and La Somone; in other hotels the hotel staff look after our guests and telephone numbers will be provided in case we can assist in any way.

Q. Can I eat outside the hotel?

The Gambia is fortunate to have a wide selection of excellent quality, good value restaurants, including Lebanese, Thai, Indian and traditional Gambian cuisine. Many are within walking distance of the hotels but it is also possible to book a taxi with waiting time for a special evening out. Our Gambia guide includes money off vouchers at many restaurants. Alternatively, several hotels offer flexible dining packages.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

Those demonstrating their achievements beyond the pure acceptance of this principle are recognised by the award of 2 to 5 star status.

CUSTOMER RELATIONS All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise.

In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.

Serenity Holidays is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators.

To contact the Association, visit www.aito.com or call 020 8744 9280.

ABTOT Charter As a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT), Serenity Holidays has provided a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. In the event of Serenity Holidays insolvency, protection is provided for non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK and other non-flight packages excluding pre-arranged travel to and from your destination. Please note that packages booked outside the UK are only protected when purchased directly with Serenity Holidays.

In the above circumstances, if you have not yet travelled you may claim a refund, or if you have already travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point of your non-flight package.

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

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FLIGHTS

Flights

The Gambia Experience offers the widest choice of year-round flights to The Gambia.

The Gambia Winter 2013/14

Airport gold package

• Tuesday and Friday direct daytime flights from Gatwick (weekend breaks, 10 & 11 nights and longer duration holidays available) • Wednesday and Saturday flights from Manchester (10 & 11 nights and longer duration holidays available) • Tuesday flights from Birmingham • Premium Class upgrades and legroom or exit seats at a supplement • 90 minute regional and Premium Class/legroom check-in in UK • Airport Gold packages available including airport lounges

On departure dates when Premium Class is not available we are able to offer an enhanced service from Gatwick Airport, exclusive to The Gambia Experience.

This package will include use of the business lounge in both the UK and in Banjul on your return, an additional 10kg luggage allowance and a complimentary drink on board the aircraft in each direction. When taken with extra legroom seats at the front of the aircraft, this offers an alternative to Premium Class at a reduced combined supplement. Airport Gold Package supplement from £95pp.

The Gambia Summer 2014

Transfers times from Banjul airport to our resort hotels range from 25-55 minutes. See page 13 for more details.

• Direct, daytime flights from Gatwick (long duration holidays available) • Legroom and exit seats at a supplement • Airport Gold packages available including airport lounges

Flight only tickets For flight only prices, including one ways, flexible tickets and long duration flights, please visit Gambiaflights.co.uk

Transfers

Senegal flights All Senegal brochure prices are based on Tuesday and Friday scheduled flights from Gatwick and/or Heathrow (with 46kgs luggage allowance) to and from Dakar (via Lisbon), except hotels Keur Saloum and Domaine Les Palétuviers, which are based on flights to Banjul.

Winter 2013/14 – Flight details to Banjul (The Gambia) International Airport Programmed flights operate from November to April and are non-stop. Additional Christmas flights may be arranged, call for details.

From

Day Depart

UK Depart

UK Arrive

Flight Supplements

THE GAMBIA

to 10/12

11/12 to 31/12

Available Upgrades from 01/01

Gatwick

Tuesday

0900 +

2240

nil

nil

nil

Legroom

Gatwick

Friday

0900

2255

£10

£30

£20

Premium/Legroom

Manchester

Wednesday

0810

2220

£30

£70

£40

–

Manchester

Saturday

1410

0415*

£40

£90

£50

–

Birmingham

Tuesday

0800

2150

£30

£90

£40

–

Carriers are: Monarch Airlines and Thomas Cook Airlines. Flight schedules are subject to change. + Flight operates year-round. Flight arrives the following day. *

SENEGAL

Winter 2013/14 – Flight details to Léopold Sédar Senghor (Dakar) International Airport From

Day Depart

UK Depart

Senegal Arrive

Senegal Depart

UK Arrive

Approximate Transit Times

Available Upgrades

Gatwick

Tuesday

1630

0050*

0150*

0925*

1h 30m

Business Class

Gatwick

Friday

1630

0050*

n/a

n/a

1h 30m

Business Class

Heathrow

Friday

1325

0050*

0150*

1120*

3h 35m

Business Class

*Flight arrives/departs the following day. All flights operate via Lisbon with TAP Portugal (NB: transit time may be longer on return flights).

Flight schedules are subject to change. n/a - not available.

80

FLY IN STYLE

Fly in style Premium Class is available on Friday Gatwick flights between Christmas and Easter. On other Gatwick flights legroom seats are usually available - to the right are details of the benefits they offer: Supplements

Premium

Legroom*

Seat pitch

33”

33”

Pre-bookable seats

✓

✓

Dedicated check-ins in UK & Banjul

✓

✓

Executive lounge at Gatwick

✓

X

Priority boarding at Gatwick Premium

Legroom

Return

£299

£120

One way from UK

£190

£60

One way from Banjul

£130

£60

✓

X

30kg

20kg

Separate cabin

✓

X

Individual entertainment system

✓

X

Enhanced meal service

✓

X

Complimentary bar service

✓

X

Comfort kit

✓

X

First Class lounge in Banjul Airport

✓

X

Baggage allowance

Premium Class flying includes increased Airport Passenger Duty (Government tax) charges of £134 per person.

Christmas and New Year additional Premium Class supplements apply to each sector as follows: From UK: 20 Dec £80, 24 Dec £80, 27 Dec £50 From Banjul: 27 Dec £50, 31 Dec £50, 03 Jan £80, 07 Jan £80

Priority boarding at Banjul Airport

✓

✓

Number of seats

50

30

* These can be combined with our Airport Gold package for additional benefits.

Travel Insurance

Our customers should be adequately insured ahead of their holiday, and we are pleased to offer our travel insurance policy through tagis, still including ZERO EXCESS on claims made (excluding personal liability) where usually this would be £50 or more. This policy is tailor-made to the specific needs of our customers travelling to The Gambia and Senegal and includes additional areas of cover, such as delays or cancellation due to snow, sandstorms or volcanic ash.

Premiums per person (including 20% Insurance Premium Tax) Single Trip Up to 10 days Up to 17 days Up to 24 days

Adult 18-65 £36.50 £42.80 £47

Adult 66-79 £73.40 £87.50 £97

Child 2-17 £21.80 £24.90 £27

Longer durations, couples, family and worldwide annual policies (excluding US, and including 17 days winter sports cover) are also available.

Annual multi-trip 1 year from date of purchase

Adult 18-65 £88

Couple £153

Family £169

Summary of Cover • Cancellation or curtailment – £5,000 • Medical expenses including medical emergency assistance – £5,000,000 • Missed departure – £1,000 • Missed connection – £1,000

• Personal accident – £25,000 • Personal effects – £2,500 (£400 single item limit) • Personal liability – £2,000,000 • Legal expenses – £15,000 (All maximum limits per person)

BOOK WITH MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL ON 01684 562406 or malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

Full details of the policy will be sent with your confirmation invoice.

There is a 14 day cooling off period from the date of sale wherein the policy may be cancelled without charge.

The policy does not cover any pre-existing health conditions of the persons travelling and others upon whose health the trip may depend unless a health check has been carried out by calling 0845 408 0585, and cover is confirmed in writing.

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Book

How to

Ring Malvern World Travel on 01684 562406

Call our

Expert Team Our reservations staff will be happy to share their knowledge of the countries and help you plan your holiday. Our office opening hours are: 9am – 7pm Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 4pm Sunday The office may be closed during national and bank holidays.

Calls may be recorded for training purposes.

Loyalty discount Valued clients who have previously travelled with The Gambia Experience or The Senegal Experience in the last 3 years will qualify for a discount of £35 per person, a reduced deposit of £50 and a 10% discount on insurance premiums. The discount must be claimed at time of booking and is available throughout the year on hotel-inclusive holidays only, booked at the full brochure price and cannot be used in conjunction with a group discount.

Visit your local

Travel Agent If you obtained this brochure through a travel agent, you will be able to book with them.

Booking Checklist • Deposit - only £95 per person • Seek travel health advice from GP

Once you or your travel agent have confirmed your holiday reservation, we will issue our confirmation invoice by the following day. It is essential you check that all the details are correct and advise us immediately if they are not. Any changes at a later date may incur an amendment fee.

• Check your confirmation invoice

Payment

• Make sure you have adequate insurance

• Pay balance 8 weeks prior to departure • Payment by cheque, bank transfer, online, debit card or credit card (2% charge) • Complete Additional Passenger Information (API) online

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Making your booking

On confirming your holiday we require a deposit of £95 per person (£50 for repeat customers), payable by debit or credit card (2% charge). In addition, if our insurance is taken this must also be paid for at this time. The balance must be paid at least 8 weeks prior to departure, either online or by telephone, by cheque, bank transfer, debit or credit card. For bookings made within 8 weeks of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

If we do not receive the appropriate payment, we reserve the right to cancel your booking and you will be liable for cancellation charges in accordance with our Fair Trading Charter. Please make cheques payable to The Gambia Experience/The Senegal Experience and send to Serenity Holidays, Atlantic House, 3600 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7AN. Any monies paid by credit card are currently subject to a 2% charge to cover costs levied by the providers (no charge for debit cards).

FAIR TRADING CHARTER The Gambia Experience and The Senegal Experience is operated by Serenity Holidays (Serenity Holidays Ltd). We are committed to a policy of fair trading and make every effort to ensure that you have an enjoyable holiday with us. Our terms of trade have been formulated as a result of our responsibilities under law and in no way affect your statutory rights as a consumer. We accept responsibility for the quality of the holidays we provide and the excursions booked with our local representatives. Please read this carefully and keep with you on holiday as it sets out the basis of the contract between you and Serenity Holidays Ltd. We are a member of ABTA, membership number V5963. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. Further information on the Code and arbitration can be found at http://www.abta.com DATA PROTECTION When you make an enquiry or booking with us, information about you is collected. This refers to information such as your name, contact details, travel preferences and any special needs/disabilities or dietary requirements. By giving us these details, you consent for these to be used as necessary in processing your booking and complying with legal requirements (e.g. forwarding passenger lists to airlines). We may also use your details to send you future holiday brochures or advise of special offers from ourselves - should you NOT want to receive these, please tell us. Some of your information may be considered “sensitive personal data” under the Data Protection Act 1998, which will only be used when it is necessary for us to communicate your needs to a hotel or airline. For more information – please refer to our ‘Privacy Statement’ shown on our websites Gambia.co.uk or Senegal.co.uk We sell the following arrangements: Package Holiday A “package holiday” is a combination of at least two of the following services (a) transport, (b) accommodation or (c) other tourist services (not ancillary to any transport or accommodation and forming a significant part of the arrangements) where booked through us at an inclusive price.

Accommodation or Flight only If you book accommodation or flight only through us, we will accept responsibility for your booking in accordance with the terms set out in the relevant sections below. As this is a single component, the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 do not apply.

FINANCIAL SECURITY: If you book a package holiday through us the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 require us to provide security for the monies that you pay for the package holidays booked from this broczhure.

For packages that include flights we provide this security by way of an ATOL (number 1866) administered by the Civil Aviation Authority.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package, or flight only arrangements, you will receive a confirmation invoice from us (or via your travel agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number [1866]. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable).

You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. The price of our air holiday packages includes the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This charge is included in our advertised prices.

For packages that do not include flights, as a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) Serenity Holidays Ltd has provided a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992.

In the event of Serenity Holidays’ insolvency, protection is provided for non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK and other non-flight packages excluding pre-arranged travel to and from your destination. Please note that packages booked outside the UK are only protected when purchased directly with Serenity Holidays Ltd. In the above circumstances, if you have not yet travelled you may claim a refund, or if you have already travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point of your non-flight package.

Flight Only arrangements are protected by our ATOL (number 1866) as described above.

1. YOUR HOLIDAY BOOKING When making a booking you must be aged over 18 years and have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. All correspondence and documents are sent to the party leader who is responsible to us for all payments in respect of the booking. The contract is made on the terms of the information in this brochure, the details set out in the confirmation invoice. We agree that the courts of England and Wales have jurisdiction and English Law applies (unless you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland, in which case you can bring proceedings in your local court under Scottish or Northern Irish law, as applicable). Our confirmation invoice is our acceptance of the booking (as detailed therein), and the contract is made on its issue. We ask you to check the details and any anomaly should be reported to us or your travel agent immediately otherwise the details shown on the confirmation will be presumed to be correct. Verbal quotations should not be considered binding until the first invoice confirmation is received. All holidays and offers published in this brochure are subject to availability at the time of booking.

2. PAYMENT If you wish to confirm a booking you must pay the deposit of £95pp. Your final payment will be detailed on your invoice and must be paid in full no later than 8 weeks before your departure, or your booking may be deemed cancelled and your deposits retained. If payment for your holiday is made by credit card a handling fee, currently 2% will be levied.

3. IF YOU WISH TO CANCEL YOUR BOOKING You will need to let us know as soon as possible either by telephone or in writing (or must ensure your travel agent does so on your behalf). Since we incur costs from the time we confirm your booking, the cancellation charges set out below will apply, calculated from the date on which we receive your notice of cancellation. You will then receive a cancellation invoice detailing any charges.

No of days before departure

Amount for each full paying adult

More than 42 days 29 - 42 days 22 - 28 days 6 - 21 days 0 - 5 days

Loss of deposit 50% 75% 90% 100%

The charges above apply to your total holiday price excluding any insurance premiums, amendment charges or charges for goods sold and dispatched. The conditions of your travel insurance policy may allow a refund claim. Please note: if any members of your party cancel, but the others still wish to travel, it may be necessary to re-calculate the cost per person based on the new party size as the accommodation may now be under-occupied. This may result in an increased amount per person payable to secure the original booking.

4. CHARGES FOR NON-INCLUSIVE HOTEL ITEMS AND DAMAGES You enter into a separate contract with the hotel or residence for these items (e.g. parking, bar bills etc.), and agree to pay locally for any charges for items or services used by your party and not included in your holiday price. The accommodation we arrange for you can only be used by those people named on your Invoice. You are not allowed to share the accommodation with anyone else or let others stay there.

5. IF YOU REQUEST A CHANGE TO YOUR BOOKING All amendments to your booking, e.g. name changes, dates of travel or accommodation, will incur a charge, the amount of which will depend on the nature of the change and the time before the date of travel. Any changes made within 8 weeks of departure may be treated as cancellations and re-bookings. The lead name on a booking cannot be changed under any circumstances and this would also be classed as a cancellation and re-booking.

6. IF YOU BOOK THROUGH A TRAVEL AGENT we will assume that in dealing with us the agent is acting on your behalf. All monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times.

7. IF WE CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY Although it is unlikely, we may occasionally have to change your holiday arrangements and we reserve the right to change or cancel your booking.

Most changes are minor and we will always endeavour to advise you or your travel agent of any such changes at the earliest possible date.

Note: Any amendment or cancellation fees you incur in terms of other arrangements you have made with other providers under separate contracts are not claimable from us.

Package Holiday & Flight only: A change of airline, aircraft type, overseas airport of destination, travel timings by 12 hours or less and accommodation of a similar or higher standard in the same resort or region are classed as minor changes which do not entitle you to cancel or change to another holiday / flight without paying our normal administration charges, and for which no compensation or refund is due.

In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your flight/connecting flight/transfer. We do this by listing carriers to be used or likely to be used as follows: Monarch Airlines, Thomas Cook Airlines and TAP Portugal. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. The carrier may occasionally have to change the type of aircraft used on a particular flight without advance warning. In such circumstances where you have booked and paid an additional seat supplement and such seat cannot be provided, then you will receive only a refund of the supplement paid.

Occasionally, we have to make major changes to your travel arrangements or accommodation.

A major change is a change made before departure, which, on the basis of the information given to us by you at the time of booking we can reasonably expect will have a major effect on your holiday. The following changes are examples of major changes: changing travel times by over 12 hours, your UK departure airport (excluding London airports), your holiday region, a change to a lower standard or type of accommodation or reducing the number of days’ holiday.

If we have to make a major change or cancel your holiday we will tell you as soon as possible.

Where possible, we will offer the following options: you can either a) accept the changed arrangements b) purchase another holiday/flight from us at the advertised current selling price or c) cancel your booking upon which we will refund your monies in full and final settlement.

If you have booked a Package Holiday, subject to the note below, irrespective of whether you choose a), b) or c) we will pay compensation to passengers who paid the full brochure price as follows: No of days before departure

Amount for each full paying adult

More than 56 days 29 - 55 days 15 - 28 days 8-14 days Less than 7 days

nil £15 £25 £35 £50

Accommodation only: If we make a change to your accommodation and you don’t want to accept it, you can take any alternative we are able to offer you (you will pay the increase in cost if the replacement is advertised at a higher price than your original booking, or receive a refund of the difference if it is less expensive) or a refund of the money you have paid to us. This does not apply where the change is not material. Examples of non-material changes include, but are not limited to, temporary withdrawal of facilities or seasonal unavailability of amenities. If we have to cancel your accommodation, again we may be able to offer you an alternative. If you accept it, you would pay the difference if it was advertised at a higher price than your original accommodation, or receive a refund of the difference if it was advertised at a lower price.

Or we will refund the monies you have paid us for your accommodation. We will not be responsible to pay any compensation following a change or a cancellation by us.

Applicable to Package Holiday, Accommodation or Flight only bookings: Note: If a change or cancellation occurs because of circumstances beyond our control, for example war, threat of war, riots, civil disturbances, actual or threatened terrorist activity and its consequences, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disasters, fire, health risks, adverse weather conditions, hurricanes, floods, unavoidable technical problems with transport, closure or congestion of airports or ports, epidemic or pandemic illness and all similar situations we will have no liability to you. No compensation payments, expenses or any other sums, including the cost of securing alternative accommodation will be paid by us.

8. IF YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT In the unlikely event you have cause for complaint whilst abroad, about the accommodation or about any other element of your holiday, you must refer it immediately to our local representative. It is unreasonable for you to take little or no action whilst on holiday and wait until you return to complain, and you must take reasonable steps to minimise the consequences of the problem. If you fail to follow this simple procedure we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint whilst you were in resort and this may affect your rights under this contract. If a problem cannot be resolved locally you should complete and sign a Guest Comment form in resort, setting out the details of the problem. This should be handed to your representative who will give you a copy; it is essential that you also report the problem to any supplier of the service you are complaining about. Any complaint must also be followed by written confirmation of all the details, with any supporting evidence, within 28 days of your return from holiday.

9. OUR RESPONSIBILITY Package Holiday: If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However, we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall.

Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of [3] times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to: (a) The contractual terms of the companies that provide the transportation for your travel arrangements. These terms are incorporated into this contract; and (b) Any relevant international convention, for example the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions.

You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices: Serenity Holidays Ltd, Atlantic House, 3600 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 7AN. We do not accept liability for happenings or actions outside our control, e.g. delays to travel services, the temporary invasion of pests, the presence of indigenous animals or insects, government action, industrial disputes, damage or inconvenience resulting from the weather (e.g. drought conditions) or from acts of God, or your party’s negligence resulting in loss or accident.

If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances. If you have taken our recommended insurance cover, you must make an insurance claim in respect of any legal fees incurred abroad for that purpose, and if you have taken alternative insurance, you must do likewise under any Legal Expenses cover provided by it. You must also provide us with the confirmation from the insurance company of receipt of your notification to them of your claim.

Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.

Accommodation only: We have a duty to select the accommodation providers with reasonable skill and care. We have no liability to you for the actual provision of the accommodation, except in cases where it is proved that we have breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. Therefore, providing we have selected the provider with reasonable care and skill, we will have no liability to you for anything that happens at the accommodation or any acts or omissions of the provider or others. We also have no liability in the following situations: i. where the accommodation cannot be provided as booked due to circumstances beyond our control (see the Note in clause 7) ii. where you incur any loss or damage that could not have been foreseen at the time of your booking, based on the information provided by you. iii. where you incur any loss or damage that relates to any business activity. iv. where any loss or damage relates to any services which do not form part of our contract with you.

If we are found liable to you on any basis, we limit the amount we have to pay you to a maximum of three times the cost of your accommodation. This limit does not apply to cases involving death or injury.

10. YOUR RESPONSIBILITY You undertake to exercise due and reasonable care in respect of your holiday accommodation and its contents, to leave it in a clean and complete condition, to respect local and on-site regulations and bye-laws, to limit party numbers to those on your confirmation, to remit payments as invoiced on or before the due dates, to indemnify us against all loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from any act, default or omission of your party, and not to exceed the published occupation capacity of the accommodation. Any serious abuse of a property or its contents may render you liable to eviction without compensation.

11. PRICES AND SURCHARGES The price of your holiday was calculated using the exchange rate of £1 = €1.18 on 30th April 2013. We reserve the right to increase or reduce prices, and the current price of your holiday will be advised to you at the time of booking.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all the information and prices provided to you, regrettably errors do occasionally occur. In the event that an incorrect price has been given in error, any booking made based on this price, will not be valid. You will be advised of the mistake at the earliest opportunity and you will then have the option either to pay the correct price for the travel arrangements or to cancel and receive a full refund of any monies you may already have paid. Once you have booked your holiday we reserve the right to surcharge for cost increases due to government action such as changes in VAT or any other government imposed charges, transportation costs (including the cost of fuel), taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes, embarkation or disembarkation fees at airports, and exchange rates.

Package Holidays There will be no charge within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb such increases up to 2% of your basic holiday price (excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges).

If the surcharge is greater than 10% of your holiday price you have the option of changing to another holiday that we offer (if we are able to offer an alternative you will not have to pay more, but if it is of a lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price) or you have the right to cancel (within 14 days of receiving surcharge notification), in which case we will refund in full all monies paid to us except insurance premiums and any amendment charges. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes will have no impact on the price of your holiday due to contractual and other protection in place.

Accommodation and Flight only We reserve the right to pass on all increases. If we ask you to pay us any increases in taxes, similarly, if any taxes you have paid to us are reduced or abolished, you will be entitled to claim a refund. Such right shall not apply in respect of any surcharge paid in respect of aviation fuel costs.

12. TRAVEL SERVICES When you travel by air the relevant carrier’s ‘Conditions of Carriage’ will apply to your journey, some of which may limit liability or exclude liability in accordance with the relevant international conventions. Copies of the conditions are available for inspection at any ABTA travel agent. Information given by us about such services is for guidance only and the carriers concerned accept no responsibility for our brochures. It is your responsibility to report promptly at the check-in times given by the carriers and with the appropriate valid travel documents (e.g. passports), and we cannot be held responsible for any costs incurred by you if you fail to do so. Occasionally there are times beyond our control when a flight is delayed.

We will work closely with the airline and our resort office to make sure any delay is as short as possible and that your overseas transfer and accommodation arrangements are changed if necessary. Our aim is to minimise the inconvenience of delays as far as possible.

Under EU law you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delays to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. Please note that reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7 ‘if we change your holiday’. . If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Passengers Advice and Complaints team at the CAA (email: passengercomplaints@caa.co.uk website www.caa.co.uk). In March 2006 the European Commission published a list of airlines considered to be unsafe and which are therefore not permitted to fly passengers or Cargo in the EU or operate within the European airspace.

This list is updated every three months and can be viewed by clicking on the website for the European Commission http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm. Alternatively, should you wish to be sent a copy of the list, please contact us either by telephone or in writing.

13. TRAVEL INSURANCE You agree to our requirement: at the time of booking your holiday you either accept our travel insurance or you or your travel agent make immediate alternative arrangements with cover at least equal to our own policy.

14. SWIMMING POOLS AND OTHER FACILITIES Where a swimming pool or other facility is referred to as being available for use, such availability is at the hotelier’s discretion and is understood to be conditional upon temporary or unavoidable closure necessitated by: the hotels essential maintenance programme, accident, damage or malfunction of equipment, and in the case of swimming pools: compliance with any water conservation regulations imposed in times of drought, damage or malfunction of the mains water supply. The above are understood to be a result of force majeure and not to reflect on our failure to deliver an advertised facility.

15. ARBITRATION In the unlikely event that a complaint cannot be settled amicably between us, you may if you wish refer the matter to arbitration under a special scheme, which, though devised by arrangement with ABTA is administered quite independently (details on request or from the ABTA website www.abta.com). This is a simple method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted cost liability to the customer. The rules of the scheme provide that the application for arbitration must be made within eighteen months of the date of return from the holiday but in special circumstances it may still be offered outside of this period. The scheme does not apply to claims over £5,000 per person or £25,000 per booking, nor to claims mainly or solely in respect of injury or illness or their consequences. Alternatively, AITO’s Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and amicable solution.

16. PASSPORT/VISA It is the responsibility of all customers to ensure they have a valid passport and to check entry requirements such as passport validity and any required visa. In addition, you must consult your GP for advice regarding recommended medication and antimalarial drugs before you book.

17. HOLIDAY PARTICIPATION Should anyone be refused admission to the flight or to the destination country by the airline or government authority due to the correct documentation not being in order then we are powerless to assist and cannot be held responsible. Any passengers considered being unacceptably under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be denied boarding to the aircraft or entry into the country. In these circumstances we shall consider the customer as having given notice of cancellation and be under no liability for any costs or charges incurred as a result of our doing so.

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We are an independent company where emphasis is very much on quality and service.

We offer specialist holidays to other destinations and all provide excellent value and choice.

The Cape Verde Experience

Corsican Places

Sardinian Places

Great Escapes - Short Breaks

Travel Agents Stamp

Reservations 01684 562406)

MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 44 Somers Park Avenue Malvern Worcestershire WR14 1SD 01684 562406 malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk TTA Q0833

Reservations 01684 562406)

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Serenity Holidays Ltd, Registered in the U.K number 01744872 Atlantic House, 3600 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7AN Thanks to: Photography: Jon BanďŹ eld Photography, Piers Golden Photography, The Gambia Experience Team, Chris Packham | Print: Taylor Bloxham Ltd. Design: Serenity Design Studio | Copyright Š2013 Serenity Holidays. All rights reserved.