The Gambia Experience

Bristol to The Gambia: Tour Operator Offers Increased Capacity and More Luxury Holidays

Book by 30 September to take advantage of Early Booking Offers

The UK’s leading tour operator and specialist to The Gambia commences its winter programme of holidays and twice weekly flights to the West African destination in November and, for the new season, reports an increase in capacity and Luxury Collection holidays from Bristol International.

The Gambia Experience, now in its 21st year of operation, is the largest UK tour operator to The Gambia and the only company to offer a regional flying programme from Bristol. Reporting a 10% year-on-year increase in its Bristol bookings for ‘Luxury Collection’ properties, The Gambia Experience anticipates a strong season and welcomes the addition of a new luxury spa resort as well as a new eco-retreat in the south of the country.

The new Coco Ocean Resort and Spa will welcome its first guests this November (08). The boutique hotel has been developed by the owners of one of The Gambia’s most elegant hotels, the Coconut Residence, and equals the same first class surroundings and service. The pinnacle of the hotel has to be its 1800sq metre Spa facility, offering guests a range of luxurious treatments in beautiful surroundings and where Gambia Experience clients will receive a complimentary hammam exfoliating treatment. There are 42 guest suites in total, including upgraded suites, penthouses and club villas; in addition, the four Royal Suites offer the ultimate in luxury, with private plunge pools, sea views and a private maid service.

The Sandele Bay Eco-Retreat is situated on a palm-fringed beach in the south of the country. Created by a British couple, this inspiring retreat was built using sustainable, eco-friendly methods and local materials, all in conjunction with the local community; the villagers themselves will assume complete ownership of the project in 25 years’ time. There are currently four luxurious suites, with six more planned for 2009. Each suite includes its own private cabana on the beach.

For travellers wishing to enhance their journey through the operator, a new Airport Gold upgrade package is offered at a supplement of £39 which includes use of the business lounge, an additional 10kg luggage allowance, priority boarding and a complimentary drink on the outbound flight.

Shaun Browne, Head of Commercial Aviation and Route Development at Bristol International Airport, said:

“The Gambia Experience’s decision to increase capacity from Bristol indicates that the holiday market in the South West remains strong, and the addition of new resorts to the programme means even greater choice for those looking for guaranteed winter sun.”

The Gambia Experience 2008/09 brochure features 19 hotels in total, representing a wide range of properties designed to suit all tastes and pockets, from simple 2 grade to luxury 5 grade. Prices start from £299 per person based on 7 nights bed & breakfast at the 2-grade, Sarge’s Hotel. This price includes return flights from Bristol, in-flight meals, transfers, all airport taxes, fuel surcharge and government tourist tax (valid for departures on Tuesdays from 25 November - 9 December 08).

Chris Ayling, Director at The Gambia Experience, said:

“The Gambia offers excellent value for money, particularly at the top end of the market; we’re seeing an increase in sales for our Luxury Collection this winter with people switching from other more expensive winter sun destinations, plus your money goes 20% further that it did this time last year due to the improved exchange rate against the Dalasi.”

Twin centre stays combining The Gambia’s French-speaking neighbour, Senegal, are also available from the tour operator whose sister programme The Senegal Experience offers holidays in the stunning Sine Saloum Delta and popular beach resort of Saly.

Early Booking Offers are available for holidays booked by 30 September 2008.These include Christmas-period savings of up to £150 per person on 7-night holidays, departing 19 December 08, and on 14-night holidays, departing 12 December 08.

For bookings or to order a copy of the 72-page brochure, please visit www.gambia.co.uk or call The Gambia Experience Reservations Team on 0845 330 2087.