The Gambia Travel Forum

Hi all
Myself and my boyfriend are off to the gambia for the 1st time in December / January and are staying at the Balmoral Apartments near to the Senegambia strip - has anyone else on this forum stayed there before? If so can you tell me what the security at the complex is like?

We are there for new year's eve - any info on what local new year celebrations take place and where is the best place to go in the area we are staying?

Just a few more questions - for now, am sure i'll think of more! Does it get chilly in the evenings this time of year and what is the best anti malaria tablets around? i got bit terrible in thailand 8 years ago and want to avoid the same thing happening again! I have also seen an advert for patches from dontbiteme.com which aparently stop mozzy bites - does anyone know if these work?

Thanks in advance, any other 1st timer info will be greatly received x

Mosquitoes, Malaria and Dengue Fever.

This is a question that appears quite a lot here on VT.
You will hear from people who never take any kind of medication.
You will hear from those who do.

May I suggest that you contact your own doctor, practice nurse or travel clinic and ask for their advice?
If they recommend that you use some form of medication, get them to recommend the treatment.
You may find that some treatments you make you ill, if so, ask the doctor for an alternative.

Different anti malaria medication effects different people in different ways, what is good for one person is not always good for another. You won't know this until you have tried a particular medicine.

At present, there is no cure for Dengue Fever.
Unlike the mosquitoes that cause malaria, dengue mosquitoes bite during the day.

Is prevention better than the cure?
Of course it is.
DEET based products are the most effective way of repelling mosquitoes.
Available in different forms and strengths, users should always read the instructions carefully

“I will only be there 3 or 4 days, do I really need to take the medicine”
It does not matter, if it is an infected area, 3 or 4 minutes is all it takes to get Malaria.

Either way, you can return from your holiday with some great photographs, a sun tan and good memories or in a body bag.
The choice is yours.

True fact: - Malaria has killed more than half the people who have EVER lived.

This reply may appear to be a little melodramatic and over the top.
IT IS MEANT TO BE.
Too much irresponsible and bad information is given out over forums regarding the mosquito and its potential to kill.

The Gambia has the nastiest mozzies I have ever come across, take care.

Trying to predict the weather can be difficult because of local on the day variations.
This information should be used as a guide only.
Here is the average weather for Banjul for this time of year.
Enjoy your holiday.

December.
High 88f / 31c
Low 65f / 18c

January.
High 88f / 31c
Low 63f / 17c

You will not get cold in the evening.

The Balmoral Apts, are very nice - run by an English lady. She gave us a guided tour last year, when we were living in The Gambia. Security no problem, so no worrries. Small swimming pool area, but you are so near the beach, hopefully you will not need to use it much! Good choice for self-catering.

Senegambia is just a walk away, where you will find numerous bars, supermarkets, exchange bureaus etc. Nightlife centres around here, always plenty going on. Have a scout around New Years Eve and see where you fancy going. The Hotels have very good entertainment on this night, usualy with a sumptious buffet included, but you may need to purchase a ticket. Usualy everyone gathers in the Senegambia strip at 12.00 to see fireworks and generaly celebrate with each other. It is common that a lot of people come in from up-country for this celebration, so it can get rather busy! Don't miss it though, lovely experience while in The Gambia. Just be sensable, and watch out.

Suggest that you pack a lightweight jumper/fleece/cardigan for the evenings. Yes, it will be warm, but because it is so hot during the day, you notice it when the temperature does drop slightly.

Malaria medication a must. Most people take Doxicylene or Malarone. Your GP will advise. I found that to take Peritin alongside the medication help'd a lot with bites (ie itching) This I bought in England before we came.

Hope this helps!