The Gambia for perfect winter sunshine

Why go there?
Gambia is a great winter sun destination with temperatures averaging over 30 degrees and virtually no rainfall. An English speaking former British colony, with extremely friendly people, it is dominated by the river Gambia which runs through its heart and is characterized by its wonderful wide sandy beaches. Gambia provides a variety of accommodation at prices suitable to all budgets.


Resorts and Beaches
The busiest resort in Gambia is Kololi, with plenty of bars and over 30 restaurants serving a variety of different cuisines. Kololi also has a casino and numerous small shops. During the day it is fairly relaxed but the “strip” gets busy in the early evening through to the small hours.

Kotu is an up and coming resort but is much lower key than Kololi. It has a wide sandy beach and is perfect for families. There is also a golf course nearby.

Bijilo is a very quiet resort just 5 minutes drive from Kololi, with a long unspoilt sandy beach and a couple of hotels and beach bars. Cape Point and Bakou are small but developing resorts.




History and Culture
The Gambia was the first English settlement on the West coast of Africa. Many slaves were sent from Gambia to the Americas, causing American author Alex Haley to trace his ancestors back there for the TV series Roots.

During your holiday in the Gambia you can go on a “Roots” tour, taking in the ancient trading station at Abreda, the museum of slavery at Juffere or the fortress ruins at James Island, the centre of the slave trade




Activities
There is a wide range of activities and possible excursions in The Gambia. It is famous for its fishing, both deep sea and river water.

A four wheel drive truck excursion can be taken through the Gambian countryside, visiting traditional villages.

The Makasuto Nature reserve is a great excursion, exploring the dense sub tropical rain forest on foot or the mangrove swamps in dug out canoes.

Neighbouring Senegal provides great opportunities for seeing the variety of monkey species or bird watching. Also a must is a visit to Chimpanzee Island.

Overall, a holiday to Gambia provides an opportunity for a great relaxing Winter holiday with guaranteed sunshine at an affordable price.

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Chill out in Barbados

GO THERE WITH MONSTER TRAVEL

Overview
Part of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean, Barbados is renowned as a tropical paradise with one of the highest standards of living in the world. This former British colony was once exclusive to the rich and famous, but has now become one of the most popular destinations in the world for holidaymakers from all walks of life. Check out the Platinum coast to the west of the island for a swathe of luxury villas, hotels and resorts – or head east for surfing, hiking and the beauty of the Scotland district.



Resorts
The capital Bridgetown affords the most urban experience Barbados has to office, with a gorgeous location on the island’s only natural harbour, Carlisle Bay. Some of the liveliest resorts in terms of nightlife are a stone’s throw from Bridgetown on the south west coast, particularly St Lawrence Gap, which is something of a magnet for those seeking a decent nightlife. It’s only a fifteen minute cab ride from St Lawrence to Christchurch, which offers an incredible selection of accommodation from the Hilton through to more affordable lodgings. Those seeking a more sedate resort should consider the white sandy beaches at Hastings – and don’t forget your surfboard.





Beaches and Activities


Think ‘Barbados’ and you probably think ‘beaches’ but there is much more to the Pearl of the Caribbean than meets the eye; making it the perfect destination for holidays of any sort. Of course the peach coloured, sandy beaches are an enormous attraction for family holidays; the year round sunshine, glittering seas and the world famous beach culture are synonymous with the island. However, the mere 166 square miles that this island covers are packed with attractions, activities and one of the most vibrant and friendly cultures you are ever likely to encounter. Holidays here could see you on safari, snorkelling with sea turtles, horse riding, surfing or watching Polo matches, cricket and rugby.


If you’re taking a break from the stresses and strains of life, the Barbadians certainly provide the right atmosphere. The beach life is as chilled out as you can possibly get and, whether it’s day or night, the inhabitants really know how to party. There are festivals practically all year round, with parades, music and dazzling costumes, some lasting for over three weeks!






Food


Foodies who book Barbados holidays will not be disappointed either; the Bajan food mirrors the diverse range of cultures that have been embraced by the island. Holidaymakers will be well served by the local fare, such as the famous rice and peas to fragrant, curried fish. If you don’t fancy the traditional ‘Fish Fry Friday’, gourmets can sample dishes from many of the fine restaurants that populate the island, from Polynesian, Greek and New World to Japanese.


Accommodation is plentiful in Barbados, offering apartments and villas, as well as hotels catering for package deals at all price points. The beaches play host to many of the exclusive high-class resorts, boasting spas and private golf courses.


Whatever your reasons for choosing to book Barbados holidays, it is sure to leave you with memories that will last forever.

GO THERE WITH MONSTER TRAVEL