The Gambia is mainland Africa’s smallest nation. It is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal and stretches along the length of the River Gambia. However what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in diversity.

It is an incredible country made up of stunning sandy beaches, tropical forests, swamps, marshes and wooded savannah. It has a population of over 1.5 million with the Mandinka tribe making up the majority.

For holiday makers, The Gambia is still very much a new and intriguing destination. Its growing popularity is in part due to the best selling book and TV series “Roots” by Alex Hayley. But of course it may also have something to do with its incredible 25 mile (40km) sandy coastline and stunning resorts such as Kololi and Kotu Beach. This tropical splendour has resulted in it being dubbed the “smiling coast” enhanced by the friendliness of the locals.

The capital is Banjul which is located on the side of the river estuary on St Mary’s Island where the River Gambia meets the Atlantic Ocean. Being the commercial centre of the country it is often overlooked by tourists and seen merely as a gateway to the hotels and coastal resorts.

The Gambia isn’t all about sun, sea and sand. It is also a birdwatchers paradise as it is home to over 540 different species. It also has 2 incredible nature reserves – Kiang West National Park and the River Gambia National Park.

The currency in The Gambia is the Dalasi (GMD). It is difficult to get hold of outside of The Gambia. Any currency you take into the country must be declared on arrival and when you leave, you can only export the same amount that you imported.

It is advisable to carry traveller’s cheques (U$, sterling or Euro) or cash as very few places take credit cards. Money can be exchanged at banks, the airport and some hotels but commissions can be high. The best rates are given by the street money changers but make sure you know the rate before trading.Some hotels will accept MasterCard and Visa (although you may be charged). ATMs are very limited and normally only accept Visa.