Why Visit The Gambia

Shopping

Bargaining is the name of the game for everything from shoes to souvenirs. You can expect to reduce the price by anything from 25% to 50%. Of particularly good value are elaborate wood carvings, items handcrafted out of straw, leather and cloth, African music cassettes, silver jewellery (buy with caution), sand paintings and batik pictures. Gambian tailors are gaining a great reputation for making almost anything to order, from a pair of shorts to a suit. Just show a garment you wish to be copied or simply describe your requirements, then choose from a wide choice of materials and colours, all at prices we are sure will provide you with a pleasant surprise. There are also a variety of African art items such as sand paintings and batik t-e dye cloth pictures.

There are also a few fixed price boutiques for those who prefer not to haggle, stocking imaginative African designer clothing and adapted European styles. Most hotels now have a mini-market nearby with the usual selection of groceries, bottled water and soft drinks. An authentic African experience can be encountered at the markets in Serrekunda, Bakau and Banjul although these are not for the faint hearted. It is truly an education to see how the locals socialise and shop for their everyday needs.