Money:
The Gambia's currency is the Dalasi (GMD), which is divided into
100 bututs. Dalasi are difficult to obtain outside of The Gambia
but there is a bureau de change at the airport. Currency can also
be exchanged at banks in the capital, Banjul, and at some hotels
and tourist resorts. Commission tends to be high. It is advisable
to bring travellers cheques or cash because only a few places
accept credit cards. Street moneychangers give the best rates, but
take care not to be conned and make sure you know the current
exchange rate before trading with them. Note that currency must be
declared on arrival and the export of foreign currency is limited
to the amount imported. Travellers cheques are accepted, US dollars
and Pounds Sterling are the preferred currency. Some hotels and
restaurants accept MasterCard and Visa, but it is unwise to rely on
them and a charge may be levied. ATMs are limited to a few areas,
and accept Visa but not MasterCard.
Time:
Local time is GMT.
Electricity:
230 volts, 50Hz. UK-style, square three-pin plugs are
standard.
Language:
The official language of Gambia is English, and Gambians
are educated in English. There are several tribal languages, but
overall the use of English prevails.
Health:
No inoculations are compulsory for entry to Gambia, but it is
recommended that travellers take health advice at least three weeks
before departing for the country. Malaria is prevalent throughout
the year, but the greatest risk is between June and November;
travellers should obtain up to date medical advice on the
appropriate prophylactics, as some (e.g. chloroquine) are not
adequate for Gambia. Visitors are advised to carry preparations for
dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, as well as
mosquito repellent and sun block, as these are not readily
available in Gambia. Water borne diseases such as Schistosomiasis
do occur and travellers should not swim or raft in contaminated
fresh water. Travellers should drink only bottled water, ensure
meat and vegetables are well cooked and avoid unpeeled fruit and
vegetables. Emergency medical facilities are of a low standard so
travel insurance with provision for emergency repatriation is
recommended.
Tipping:
A 10% service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant
bills, and further tipping is discretionary. Generally all services
rendered require a small 'cadeau' (gift or tip).
Safety:
Crime involving tourists is rare in the Gambia and safety is not
a major concern. It is wise, however, not to carry valuables or
large sums of money or display them in public. The most popular
beaches are manned by tourist police or hotel security officers.
Take precautions on more isolated beaches, in unlit areas and in
spots away from the 'tourist track'. Driving in Gambia can be
hazardous and many taxis are not roadworthy. Security checkpoints
are common on all major roads within the country. Road travel from
Gambia to southern Senegal should be avoided due to fighting
between rebel factions in the area and incidents with bandits.
Customs:
The Gambia is a Muslim country and therefore it is disrespectful
to dress immodestly away from the beach, swimming pools or tourist
centres. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during
the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during
daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim
culture. Homosexuality is illegal. It is prohibited to photograph
military institutions.
Business:
Business is conducted formally in The Gambia and a formal dress
code is to be observed. Punctuality is expected. Business cards are
catching on and advisable to bring along. Greetings are important
and a formal handshake is the norm for men and women; it is
important to acknowledge every member at a meeting. A personal
approach to business is favoured and Gambians like to get to know
the person with whom they are conducting business. Business hours
are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Duty Free:
Visitors arriving in the Gambia are permitted to bring the
following goods into the country without paying duty: 200
cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; one litre of spirits
and one litre of wine or beer; 284ml of perfume; and a still camera
and film for personal use.
Communications:
The international access code for The Gambia is +220. The
outgoing international code is 00 followed by the relevant country
code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). No area codes are required.
There are GSM mobile telephone networks, but not all countries have
roaming agreements; US mobile phones will not work. Coverage is
limited to Banjul and a few other areas. Internet cafes are
available in Banjul and the major tourist resorts.