The Gambia is awash with superb and life-soothing hotels and relaxations that make the country a one-stop destination for all tourists who want to know Africa at first sight. And one of these relaxations is none other than Sandele Eco-Retreat and Learning Centre right in the heart and soul of Kartong, the Western Region of The Gambia - the Smiling Coast of Africa.
In a brief chat with Tourism and Entertainment anchor, Sandele Eco-retreat assistant manager Lamin Camara said the eco-retreat is a community-based project.
Sandele Eco-Retreat and Kartong had an MOU over the land, which is under lease for 25 years and at the end of the 25 years the land will be handed over to the village, Mr Camara explained.
Most of the tourists who visit the retreat come from the UK and some times few from other countries, he said.
Sandele is quite different from many hotels because of its naturalness and touristic characteristics, on the backdrop of a local setting, which makes it a beautiful sight to behold.
In terms of job creation, Mr Camara said that most of the workforce at Sandele comes from Kartong.
“Most of our senior staff are trained at the hotel school [of The Gambia] and the local staff are trained by Sandele Retreat,” the assistant manager said.
Sandele Eco-Retreat is surrounded by nature and is very quiet, which also makes it the favourite of most tourists.