samhargreaves71
April 6, 2025
We have just returned from a 10 night holiday and our first time in Gambia and all that can be said about this hotel and the people is amazing. Hopefully some helpful points for you: You have to pay £20 per person to enter and exit Banjul airport. Bring cash, Gambia is a cash nation. The hotel will charge you for using your bank card to pay any bills. You can also keep your room on for 7 euros an hour, so no need to book in advance with Tui. There is a cashpoint outside of the hotel, but if it doesn't work it's a taxi ride into the town to find an ATM that is working. Mr Fixit just to the right of the hotel gives a good rate to exchange cash. Like all other reviews l used the guys in orange t shrts to book trips, they are honest, local people who go out of their way to make your trips memorable, safe and fantastic. We booked a Senegal safari and walking with the Lions with Modou who was absolutely the best. He made sure we were happy and even after our trip came to see us every day to make sure we were having the best holiday. The food in the hotel is some of the best we have ever had and we also went out to eat, Calypso does the best pint of king prawns and a speciality burger. You can eat really cheaply outside. The ladies selling fruit on the beach are really nice and the fruit is so fresh, please try it. One main tip is don't say to anyone that tries to sell you something ' maybe tomorrow or later' they don't forget and come back. You are better just being strong and saying no thanks. Listen to what you are told by those that are regulars at the hotel and you cant go wrong. All the locals that hang around the little shop outside and the streets will hassle you and it can be overwhelming but don't be put off by them, as they are friendly. The area is safe and full of smiles. Just remember you are in a very poor country, but do go out and see Gambia it is a beautiful country with beautiful people. The hotel staff bend over backwards to do all they can to make your stay the best ever. They are a credit to the management and all of them have made a place in our hearts, for their friendly and exceptional service. I left my sun glasses at the pool bar on my first day and one of the bar man kept them safe for me over night, handing them back to me in person the following day. If you want a really chilled holiday, with loads of smiles great food and service this is definitely the hotel to go to. One final thing, there is an English man called Rod who stays at the hotel for months on end and knows all the tips and will be happy to talk to you and offer advice. . We will be back next year as this has been the best holiday made by all the people we met. Love you Gambia.