10x why you want to go to Gambia

‘The smiling coast of Africa’ is the nickname of Gambia. And I understand that, because the people of Gambia walk around 24/7 with a big smile on their face. I have never met such cheerful people, and we Dutch can learn a lot from them. But yes, what do you expect with a continuous blue sky, shining sun, and an average temperature of 25 degrees in winter? In WINTER, yes. You naturally become cheerful, right? Although many large tour operators have already reached the country, Gambia still feels very African. As soon as I set foot on Gambian soil, I smelled Africa. My first visit to the continent was roughly in my previous life when I was still in elementary school. Although Gambia is small, there is so much to experience. Immerse yourself in the market of Serrekunda or visit Tanji Fishing Village where, with the setting sun, the smoke from the fish smoking houses, the pirogues (canoes) on the beach, and the beautiful colorful traditional clothing of the women, you are guaranteed a few beautiful photos. But there is so much more. Ready for a trip to the sun? Here are the reasons why you should get on that plane as soon as possible.

1. Beach

Long white beaches, swaying palm trees, swinging monkeys. Ultimate paradise, right? Most delicious? You run straight into the almost warm clear blue sea, without first spending ten minutes wetting your wrists. The terror.

2. Happy people

Always friendly and helpful. No Gambian passes you without greeting you and asking how you are. Happy children playing in the blazing sun. You have sellers of everything you can think of who immediately accept it if you are not interested. A very nice vibe.

3. Local markets

I found this the most fun. The many markets are the center of urban life in the West African republic. Here, food is eaten, haggling occurs, and valuable items change hands. Visitors come into contact with the most colorful and authentic aspects of West African culture. The largest and liveliest market is the market of Serrekunda where traders from all over West Africa and even from Arab countries come. You will find a colorful potpourri of foodstuffs, many spices, seeds and grains, perfumes, fashion items, fabrics, jewelry, and electronics.

4. Wildlife

To spot some wild animals, you don't even have to leave your hotel. When I walked out the door in the morning, I was always greeted kindly by a herd of monkeys. Just be careful not to leave your belongings lying around, as there is a good chance you won't find your hat again. But besides monkeys, you can find much more wildlife in Gambia. Birds, hippos, and crocodiles; it is a paradise for nature lovers.

25 degrees in winter? In WINTER, yes. You naturally become cheerful, right?

5. Always fresh fish

You can leave those supplements at home, girlfriend. There is no shortage of omega-3 in Gambia. What could be better than a guy delivering fresh fish straight from the sea to your plate?

6. Go local

The best way to get to know Gambia is to dive into the local population. Fancy a game of football with the little African kids? That's possible, but only barefoot. A game of checkers on the street? Why not? Gambians love to socialize, and you see that everywhere.

7. Religion

What I find particularly special is that different religions coexist perfectly here. 90% of the Gambian population is Muslim, and that goes remarkably smoothly with the slim 10% Christians. People respect each other, and you can feel that. Can we all take an example from Gambia from now on?

8. Food

I had to get used to the fact that Gambians are not as fond of vegetables as I am. They do eat it, but you hardly get further than a flower cut out of cucumber as a garnish. That doesn't mean you can't eat deliciously there. Because I did. Besides, of course, the freshest fish (love it), Gambia has three different traditional dishes: Yassa, Benejin, and Domoda. But more on that later.

9. Excursions

When you are in Gambia, you certainly don't just lie on your beach bed all day (which is nice too, by the way). If you, like me, love to float on the water (because: getting a tan), then you plop down on an African boat (where they serve the tastiest local lunch, by the way). And if you're lucky, you might spot a group of dolphins in the water. One of the most popular excursions in Gambia is ‘Roots by boat’, based on the book ‘Roots’ by Alex Haley. This book about his ancestor Kunta Kinte tells the story of an African who is captured and shipped as a slave to America. During this trip, you visit the villages of Albreda, Juffure, and James Island, now also known as Kunta Kinte. The island where the remains of the slave prison can be seen is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

10. The men

Well, last but not least. Do you want to spot handsome, half-naked men? Then book your ticket right away. Because Gambians are sporty, and you can see that during a game of Burreh, or wrestling, the national sport of Gambia. The matches are not just matches. They are very lively, noisy, and exciting events, and the boundaries of the game are sacred. Whoever is floored raises the hand of the other in the air, and blood or bruises are avoided. My ideal man was there, you know, in that ring. Still, I left it at that. No boundless infatuation for me anymore.