Gambia - the Smiling Coast Of Africa

Famous for its natural sun- sea and sand endowments, friendly people, fascinating lifestyle and a welcome that is as warm as the weather, The Gambia is a country that appeals to many tourists who prefer the ambience of a place with a lot more colour and emotion than the quiet shores of Europe.

Tourism will continue to grow, rendering Gambia's potential as one of Africa's leading tourist destinations. The country has many advantages which together constitute a unique tourism product, attractive to both tourists and tour operators alike. The Gambia s tourist industry is mainly driven by the country's nature and ecosystem, including 550 bird species, wetlands, warm weather and endlessly long and sandy beaches. The country s beaches are beautiful and the climate is perfect. The people are friendly and their smiles are genuine.

In another development, The Gambia Tourism Authority, in collaboration with Shenkh Eternity a company based in Bristol UK, on Wednesday 12 November, 2008 brought young people from the UK of African and Caribbean descent ranging between 50 to 60 cultural tourists as part of their efforts to dispel misconceptions on Africa, normally portrayed in the western media.

The week-long visit from November 12th to 19th will serve as a cultural, spiritual and social trip. During their stay in the country, they will visit Juffureh and the NationalMuseum among other places and attractions. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation rates cultural travel as the fastest growing travel market world-wide.

Upon the arrival of the guests on Wednesday at The Banjul International Airport, The head of the delegation, Mr Madu Ellis Director Shenkh Eternity told journalists  in an interview that this is the first trip of its kind organised by The Gambia Tourism Authority. The head of the team thanked The Gambia Tourism Authority for the wonderful welcome they received at the airport.