Senegal News

The Senegal Experience launches new 2009/10 brochure

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senegal Experience releases its new November 2009 – October 2010 brochure this week. Since its first season of operation (Winter 08/09), the tour operator reports that bookings and passenger numbers have exceeded expectations, and it is pleased to now present an expanded brochure with many new features.
Highlights include:

Increased Programme to meet demand
The Senegal Experience has added three new hotels to its programme, meaning that the specialist now offers twelve hotels in total, split between the regions of Saly & La Somone and the Sine Saloum Delta.
The resort of Saly is located on the ‘Petite Côte’ approximately 50 miles south of Dakar and 40 miles north of the Sine Saloum Delta. As well as being one of the most important fishing ports in Senegal, it also constitutes an ideal beach holiday destination. The smaller resort of La Somone is only a short drive from Saly and enjoys an idyllic location beside a stunning lagoon, home to the Réserve de la Somone, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Formed where two rivers converge on the Atlantic Ocean, the Sine Saloum Delta (180,000-hectares) is a region of great diversity consisting of rivers, glorious beaches, mangrove swamps, sand islands and ever-shifting dunes.

New Hotels
La Somone: 4-grade Royal Decameron Baobab Resort
Operating on an all-inclusive board basis, this newly refurbished hotel is perfectly positioned between a sandy beach and the La Somone lagoon (home to the Réserve de la Somone) and is rich in the facilities and activities that one would expect from the Decameron brand.

Saly: 4-grade Hotel Neptune
Set amongst tropical gardens, the hub of which is the 400m2 fresh water swimming pool (largest in Saly), highlights of Hotel Neptune include its relaxed, tranquil atmosphere and excellent cuisine. Pétanque and badminton can be played, and canoes and surfboards are freely available for guests’ use, as well as other payable water sports on the hotel’s private beach.

Sine Saloum Delta: 4-grade Delta Niominka
Delta Niominka is uniquely located on the island of Dionewar, just a short boat ride from the mainland at the mouth of the Sine Saloum Delta, itself an area of natural beauty and a UNESCO heritage site. A stay at Delta Niominka offers a contrast of landscapes from sand beaches to the rivers and bolongs of the Delta.

New: Tours
A choice of three or seven night private Tours is also new to the 2009/2010 brochure.
The itineraries encourage further exploration, and cover areas north of Dakar, as well as the Sine Saloum Delta, Eastern Senegal and The Gambia. The Senegal Experience suggests booking a Tour as part of a longer beach / resort holiday. Sample Tours include the three night ‘Grand Coast Adventure Tour’, which incorporates Dakar, the Lompoul Desert, Saint Louis, Djoudj Park, the Pink Lake and Kayar. A discount of £100pp on seven night Tours and £50pp on three night Tours is valid for departures 01 November – 16 December 2009.

Choice of UK Departures on Scheduled Flights
The Senegal Experience offers scheduled flights with Brussels Airlines (via Brussels) from London Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester as part of its holiday packages. These UK departures operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with business class upgrades available.

Senegal & The Gambia Twin-Centre Holidays
The Senegal Experience welcomes twin-centre bookings within Senegal or with The Gambia. With sister company, The Gambia Experience, offering charter flights into Banjul from a range of UK airports, twin-centres between Senegal and The Gambia can be easily arranged. {The tour operator suggests flying into Dakar and out of Banjul to avoid supplement costs}.

Responsible Tourism
The Senegal Experience is now accredited with 5-star AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators) Responsible Tourism status - the highest level possible. The tour operator matches donations made by clients, and donates £10 for every 100 holiday questionnaires received. The money is fed into The Gambia Experience’s School Development Fund, which this year will be donating 145,000 dalasi to help four Gambian schools with essential building work.

Early Booking Offers
A number of Early Booking Offers are available, valid for holidays booked by 17 July 2009. These include ‘14 nights for the price of 11’ offers, resulting in savings of up to £196 per person.

The Senegal Experience offers 7-night holidays in Saly from £849 per person. This price is based on half-board accommodation at the 3½ -grade Hotel Royam and includes return flights from Gatwick to Dakar (via Brussels), transfers and taxes (valid for departures 27 November – 11 December 09). For more information and uptodate offers, please visit The Senegal Experience website www.senegal.co.uk The website offers a wealth of information on Senegal and also includes virtual tours of selected hotels. Alternatively, please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Department on 0845 338 8706.

Senegal to Appoint New Vice-President

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday Senegal’s parliament approved a bill to create a new of position of vice president which will be appointed by the president, 82 year old Abdoulaye Wade, but will not succeed him as head of state. There have been concerns that this will be used as a tool for Wade’s son Karim to become president but Justice Minister Madicke Niang and the president himself have disputed the claim. Niang previously defended the vice-presidency role saying it would give the government a better public presence and allow it to pay more attention to citizens’ needs.

The legislation must now be signed by President Wade to officially become law.

Senegal Wins California Beach Soccer Championships

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal fought off competition from 299 teams from across the world to win the California Beach Soccer Championship, the second largest beach soccer festival in the world.

300 male and female teams competed over two days on 16th & 17th May on 29 pitches. The final was held between Senegal and Team PUGG from Los Angeles and Santa Cruz in which Senegal won 4-3.

Warmest of Welcomes in West Africa

Jane Labous - The Sunday Express — Sun, 10 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

JANE LABOUS combines sunbathing at a Gambian resort with a 4x4 tour exploring the coast of neighbouring Senegal and visiting deserted islands.
A MAN PARADES a selection of extra-large men’s vests in front of me, and looks astonished when I shake my head. “But madame?” Men’s underwear isn’t the only thing I’m offered during my ferry ride across the river between Gambia and Senegal. There’s the water pistol, the scarlet satin skirts, the temptingly named Blue Feeling perfume, not to mention the ground millet (“makes you strong, madame!”), peanuts, matches and frozen bissap. I refuse all but the bissap, West Africa’s irresistible, all-natural version of Slush Puppie made from hibiscus flowers and sugar.
Gambia is a sliver of an English-speaking nation buried in Francophile Senegal.
By flying into Banjul and out of Dakar, Senegal’s capital, you can see both in one trip, combining sunbathing at one of Gambia’s Atlantic resorts with a 4x4 tour up the Senegalese coast. Both countries boast blue skies and sun, their cultures infused with a particular brand of West African flamboyance, music and cheerful opportunism.
In Banjul, the village-like capital of Gambia, Albert Market is a jigsaw of stalls selling pungent dried fish, rolls of tie-dyed cotton, cascades of vegetables and strange apothecary remedies for everything from impotence to headaches.
I’m staying at Ngala Lodge, a few miles outside Banjul on the stretch of blue Atlantic that the Gambians call the Smiling Coast. My room at the top of the old colonial mansion is furnished with wood carvings, a four-poster bed and a pair of spectacular orange curtains printed with the figure of an African woman. The balcony looks on to well-tended tropical gardens and, beyond, the ocean, where at sunset the smiling coast blushes rosy pink.
West Africans are proud of the “teranga”, or hospitality, that’s legendary in these parts.
When my guide Yamar and I reach the Senegalese border, the customs official nearly explodes with excitement when I attempt a few words of the native language. Heading north towards the Sine Saloum Delta, where the Sine and Saloum rivers meet the Atlantic, we cross flat plains dotted with baobabs, the giant trees with muscular, root-like branches, which can hold up to 1,000 gallons of water and live 3,000 years.
We enter the Palmarin region, where palm-fringed islands are scattered among “bolongs” or natural canals bordered by mangroves. Beneath the dome of white-hot sky the landscape is lush. Drifts of water lilies float beneath mango trees alive with birdsong and I spot ospreys, pelicans, weaver birds and the glamorous pink flash of a flock of flamingos.
Le Royal Lodge is the Delta’s most luxurious hotel, where I’m given my own “boutique version” of a mud hut with a spiralling bamboo roof, smooth red walls and all mod-cons. Most stunning are the bedspreads, chairs, lamps and curtains made from earth-printed Malian fabric in black and brown patterns.
During the day I visit uninhabited Sangomar Island. Afterwards, fisherman Bachir navigates our painted boat through the mangroves, pointing out the oysters growing on the roots and the tiny, single-pincer “violin crabs”.
Along the coast is Saly, Senegal’s most popular resort. I’m staying at the Lamantin Hotel, a serene place with air-conditioned rooms. On the crescent of white beach, the waitress brings chilled watermelon and families whizz about the calm bay on jet skis. The breakfast buffet is resplendent with baobab and bissap jams, fresh croissants and mangoes, while the evening spread features Senegalese dishes, from salted sea bass to marinated sardines.
Dakar is just 90 minutes from Saly. The battered yellow and blue minibuses that form its intercity service trundle along streets crowded with boys selling oranges from wheelbarrows and stately Senegalese ladies in vivid boubous, West Africa’s traditional dress. The country’s most famous musician, Youssou N’Dour, lives near my hotel, the Madrague in Ngor, on the coastal outskirts of the city. It’s a tranquil area; boys play football on the beach, goats drift among the sunseekers and a holiday atmosphere prevails.
Best of all is the painted fishing boat taking tourists across the bay to Ngor island, which costs just 50p. Here you can dine royally on thièbu dieun, Senegal’s national dish of rice and fish, for £3, or laze beneath a parasol. You might even be lucky enough to catch one of the rastafarians playing his “djembe” hand drum and when the lady trying to sell you a necklace starts dancing instead, you know you’re in West Africa.

GETTING THERE
The Gambia Experience / The Senegal Experience (0845 338 8706 / www.senegal.co.uk) offers an eight-night, twin-centre Gambia and Senegal holiday from £1,332pp (two sharing), including four nights B&B at Ngala Lodge in the Gambia, four nights half-board at Le Royal Lodge in Senegal and return flights from Gatwick.

A one-day Islands and Waterways of Saloum tour is from £84 for two people.

Gambia Tourism Authority: www.visitthegambia.gm Senegal Tourist Office: www.senegal-tourism.com

A Little Piece of Senegal in Stoke

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Strange as it may sound, there is now a little piece of Senegal in Stoke, and Stoke City supporters throughout the West African country. This is all thanks to five Senegalese footballers currently on the books for Premiership team Stoke City. All five have been brought in by manager Tony Pulis since he took over in 2006.

The first to join the team was Salif Diao who came to Stoke in January 2007. Amdy Faye, Abdoulaye Diagne Faye and Ibrahima Sonko all signed in August 2008 and in January 2009 Henri Camara joined the squad, on loan from Wigan.

Although all five haven’t appeared on the pitch together, Stoke now has many supporters following its progress in Senegal. Read more about the Senegalese invasion of Stoke at http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/8030655.stm

Senegal Launches Professional Football League

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal is due to launch a professional football league this week with two divisions. The league will be overseen by a new body, the LSPF, and there will be 18 clubs in the first division and 12 in the second. It is hoped the creation of the new league will produce more international stars such as Patrick Vieira and El Hadji Diouf and help the country’s prospects in international competitions.

Youssou N’Dour Film Traces Africa’s Musical Legacy

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A film featuring Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour and jazz pianist Moncef Genoud is has been released which explores the history of the slave trade and it’s musical legacy. Return to Gorée commences on the island of Gorée, Senegal, a former trading post where African slaves were taken before their journey to America.

The film by Pierre-Yves Borgeaud follows Youssou N’Dour as he traces the history of jazz from Dakar to Atlanta, New Orleans, New York and Luxembourg. As well as N’Dour, the film features some world-class singers and musicians from various genres including jazz, soul and gospel.

For more information and to view a trailer of the film visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWbEpj4MeeE&feature=channel_page

New Guide to The Gambia & Senegal

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Insight Guides have produced a new 352-page guide to The Gambia & Senegal, highlighting the best of the two West African countries using a large number of inspiring colourful images and detailed information. The book not only gives potential tourists the necessary details to plan a holiday, it also provides interesting background information on the countries’ culture, history, traditions and wildlife.

The top ten sights include the Atlantic beaches; the Senegambian Stone Circles at Wassu; the national parks of River Gambia and Niokolo-Koba; Makasutu Cultural Forest and Ile de Goree. Full-colour maps, restaurant guides and travel tips all help the more adventurous traveller looking to make the most of their time in the region.

For more information visit the Insight Guides website

Timeless Tranquility

Dave Goodban - Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We have a saying here, our guide Monty tells me – in perfect English – on our second night in French-speaking Senegal. “In Europe they are always running after the time. In Africa we let the time run after us.” I hadn’t known what to expect from a trip to the West African coast. Scorching sun? Check. Palm trees? Check. Picturesque beaches and luxurious hotels? Check. Just like plenty of other holiday destinations frequented by British tourists then? Not quite.
The holiday – sorry, work trip – turned out to be everything I hadn’t expected and more. But there is much more to Senegal than what you see in the brochures. The country is becoming increasingly popular with European holidaymakers, but remains largely undiscovered by British tourists, who have been visiting neighbouring Gambia in their droves for more than a decade. The heavily-starred hotels in the resorts of Saly and Sine Saloum, which all have private beaches, can offer serenity and solitude, and the perfect place for an idyllic, peaceful getaway. But it doesn’t have to be all tranquillity.
After our first night at the spectacular 5* Lamantin Beach Hotel in Saly, roughly 50 miles from the capital Dakar, the trip slipped into second gear as a convoy of excited schoolchildren pretending to be journalists set off in motorised buggies on a intrepid exploration through coastal villages and arid bush and across vast sandy plains.
We ended up at the stunning, secluded Bouba beach – worthy of gracing any postcard. A five-year drought from 1968-73 devastated the landscape and wiped out much of Senegal’s native wildlife. But the Bandia Nature Reserve, a short drive from Saly, has slowly reintroduced animals to the country by importing them from other parts of Africa and now boasts giraffes, monkeys, rhinos, and zebras, all wandering free in a natural environment. A far cry from seeing oversized animals crammed into undersized pens in European zoos.
The delightful Tama Lodge hotel, where accommodation comes in the form of a smattering of impressive beach huts, provided the setting for an exquisite seafood lunch on day two of the Senegal experience. Afterwards, we set off for our second hotel – the charming 4* Hotel Espadon. Although perhaps not as luxurious of the Lamantin, the Espadon offers a unique homely atmosphere perfect for families. It has three bars, a fishing centre, and even has its own pet – a pelican called Popsy!
A trip to the traditional Ndiaganiao market on our third morning provided a real glimpse into what everyday life entails for many natives. The men, women and children trading everything from clothes and crayons to soap and spices was a sight to behold, but the afternoon provided the trip’s real eye-opener.
The tiny village of Gour, near Sine Saloum, consists of a handful of huts and only basic facilities – a simple life and a humbling experience seeing the delight on the faces of the children receiving gifts our Western group take for granted as everyday essentials.
Our final overnight stay was at Le Royal Lodge in Sine Saloum, about 50km south of Saly – another 5* and one of most stunning and luxurious hotels I’ve ever had the fortune to stay at. In keeping with the laid back attitude we’d come to expect during our short visit to Senegal, the hotel’s French owner and manager David Lefebvre doesn’t even wear a watch. His staff will respond to your every whim and guests can eat, drink and be merry at whatever time of the day or night they like. The huge suite-like rooms all have a television, mini-bar, spacious sitting area inside and a private balcony outside. Oh yes – and all the rooms have their own jacuzzi in the bathroom.
Our final excursion was a flying visit to the tiny island of Goree, an UNESCO World Heritage Site and former slave trading port with 1,200 inhabitants and not a single car. A visit to the slavery museum, where children as young as six were held before being traded in the 16th century, provided a poignant and stark reminder of the comparative luxury we had left behind in Britain.
On the short journey back from the island to Dakar I thought about what British holidaymakers would make of Senegal. If you’re after an exotic, but affordable break with a difference, look no further. But you might want to leave your watch at home.

■ Dave Goodban travelled with The Senegal Experience, the UK's only specialist tour operator to Senegal. Seven-night holidays start at £749 and all prices include half-board accommodation and return flights with Brussels Airlines from Birmingham, Manchester or Gatwick (via Brussels).
The reservations team can be contacted on 0845 3388706, or you can order a brochure online at www.senegal.co.uk.

Festival of the Tale and of the Word of Gorée

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A week-long festival celebrating the culture of Senegal and focusing on the slave trade is scheduled for 10th to 17th May 2009 on the Senegalese island of Gorée, situated approximately four kilometres off the coast of Dakar.

The Festival of the Tale and of the Word of Gorée is organised by Ben Zimet and is now in its third year. Zimet anticipates performances from Senegalese artists as well as artists from Tunisia, Morocco, Niger, Cape Verde, France and USA. The event’s guests of honour will be the musician Baaba Maal and the percussionist Doudou N’diaye Rose.

Senegalese Local Elections

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal went to the polls on Sunday for the country’s local elections. Although official results aren’t expected for a few days, initial results suggest that the President’s ruling SOPI coalition has lost control of the council in Dakar and other key cities such as St Louis and Louga. The opposition coalition Benno Siggil Senegaal (United to boost Senegal) is already claiming victory.

President Abdoulaye Wade has been in power since 2000 when he was elected following four decades of Socialist Party rule since Senegal gained independence from France in 1960. He was re-elected in 2007 and will face the polls again in 2012 when his presidential term ends. It has been suggested his son Karim Wade will stand in the 2012 elections.

Senegal - the perfect holiday for anglers

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senegal Experience reports that its first winter season of operation is progressing well, with bookings and passenger numbers exceeding expectations. The specialist tour operator presents the regions of Saly and the Sine Saloum Delta within its first brochure and is also keen to highlight the overall appeal of Senegal to anglers.

Senegal offers excellent fishing for enthusiasts, as well as for holidaymakers with a casual interest. Deep sea fishing can be arranged in Saly, whilst more relaxing trips in the creeks, rivers and mangroves characterize angling in the Sine Saloum Delta. Depending on the time of year, a variety of fish can be caught. From June to November Sailfish, Dorado, Yellow Fin Tuna and, for the luckiest of anglers, Blue Marlin, are possible, whilst from November to May, different fishing techniques, such as trolling and static fishing can be used to catch Tuna, Dorado, Mackerel and Bonito.

Most hotels featured in The Senegal Experience brochure are happy to organise such fishing trips, either in small pirogues or motorised boats. The tour operator highlights the following properties however, that have a particular affinity with angling:

Sine Saloum Delta
Hotel Keur Saloum (3-grade)
Situated on the outskirts of Toubakouta, a typical Senegalese village, Hotel Keur Saloum enjoys a commanding position perched above the rivers of the Sine Saloum Delta. This 3-grade hotel has its own landing stage on the Bandiala River, which leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The quantities and the size of the fish can be quite surprising. In 2001, a red carp weighing 60kg (world record) was caught, followed in 2002 by a stingray weighing in at 111kg. The main types of fishing available at Keur Saloum are hand lining, trolling and surf casting.

Saly
Hotel Espadon (4-grade)
Enjoying a prime beachfront location, the 4-grade Hotel Espadon overlooks the bay of Saly and has its own fishing centre, considered one of the best in Senegal and offering some of the world’s best deep sea fishing. The fishing captain, Gildas Richardeau, has been fishing the offshore waters of Senegal and Guinea Bissau for many years and can improve the deep sea fishing techniques of all guests, regardless of their skill level. Taking advantage of the freshly caught seafood, arriving on the hotel’s own fishing boats, the French chef at Espadon ensures that the hotel maintains an excellent reputation for its cuisine.

Lamantin Beach Hotel (5-grade)
As the most luxurious hotel in Saly, the 5-grade Lamantin Beach Hotel, also with a beachfront location, offers a particular flair for gourmet cuisine, as well as its own spa. Facilities include a large swimming pool, private white sand beach and marina complete with watersports.
Deep sea fishing is available through the Saly Fishing Club, affiliated with the hotel. The Saly Fishing Club was created by Jean Touly and is now one of the largest fishing centres in West Africa. Every July, the Saly Fishing Club organises an international fishing competition. For more information, please visit www.salyfishingclub.com

This summer, The Senegal Experience offers a 7-night holiday at The Hotel Espadon from £799 per person. This price is based on a bed & breakfast board and includes return scheduled flights with Brussels Airlines from London Gatwick, Manchester or Birmingham, as well as transfers. For more information please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

Senegal Finish Fourth In CHAN

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal has finished fourth in the first ever African Nations Championship after losing to Zambia at the weekend in the third place play off.

Despite taking the lead after 22 minutes, Senegal finally lost 2-1 after Zambia scored twice in the second half. Senegal’s Moustapha Diallo had the opportunity to equalise in the 88th minute but his header was saved by Zambian defender Banda.

The Democratic Republic of Congo beat Ghana 2-0 in Sunday’s final to win the first ever African Nations Championship. The next tournament will be held in 2011 in Sudan when the number of participating teams will increase from 8 to 16.

Senegal Out of African Nations Championship

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal is out of the African Nations Championship after losing in a penalty shoot-out in yesterday’s semi-final. The match in Bouake (Ivory Coast) ended 1-1, the extra time was goalless forcing the teams to go to penalties to decide the outcome. Ghana eventually won 7-6 with substitute Kwadwo Poku scoring the winning goal.

Senegal will now meet Zambia in the third place playoffs on Saturday in Abidjan and Ghana will play DR Congo in Sunday’s final.

Senegal in Semi-Finals of African Nations Championship

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal will play against Ghana in today’s semi-final of CHAN, the African Nations Championship Finals in Bouake, Ivory Coast, after finishing second in Group A to Zambia. The other semi-final between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo will also be held today in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

In their group matches both Senegal and Ghana have won only one match and drawn two but Ghana have managed to score six goals whilst Senegal have netted only one. If Senegal manage to beat Ghana they will face either Zambia or DR Congo in the final in Abidjan on Sunday (8th). The third-place play off will be on Saturday (7th).

The Senegal Experience adds new hotels to programme

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senegal Experience reports that its current and first season of operation (Winter 08/09) is progressing well with bookings and passenger numbers exceeding expectations. The specialist tour operator launched its programme with five properties in the resort area of Saly and five in the Sine Saloum Delta region of Senegal. Due to demand however, it has added the following hotels to its select portfolio:

NEW to programme (Saly): The 4-grade Royal Decameron Baobab Resort opened in December 2008. Operating on an all-inclusive board basis, the hotel is perfectly positioned between a sandy beach and the La Somone lagoon and is rich in the facilities and activities that one would expect to be on offer from the Decameron brand. The La Somone lagoon is home to the Réserve de la Somone, one of the most protected wild life reserves in Senegal and home to some 150 species of bird.

NEW to programme (Sine Saloum Delta): The 3.5-grade Delta Niominka hotel is uniquely located on the island of Dionewar, just a short boat ride from the mainland at the mouth of the Sine Saloum Delta, itself an area of natural beauty and a UNESCO heritage site. A stay at Delta Niominka offers a contrast of landscapes from sand beaches to the rivers and bolongs of the Delta. Pirogues and small sailing boats are poised at the hotel’s private jetty should guests wish to explore, partake in sea or river fishing, or just enjoy some bird watching.

NEW to programme (Saly): The 4-grade Hotel Neptune is set amongst tropical gardens, the hub of which is the 400m2 fresh water swimming pool (largest in Saly). Highlights of the hotel include its own private beach, just a stone’s throw from the property, and also its excellent cuisine, which includes typical African as well as European dishes. Pétanque and badminton are amongst the games on offer and canoes and surfboards are also freely available for guests’ use, as well as other payable water sports.
Holidays at both The Royal Decameron Baobab Resort and Delta Niominka hotel are available now, while holidays at Hotel Neptune are available from 01 November 09. All are featured on The Senegal Experience website www.senegal.co.uk. The above hotels compliment the wider range of accommodation available through The Senegal Experience, which includes 5-grade luxury spa, waterfront lodges, tree houses set in baobab trees, as well as opulent suites overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Current season holiday prices start from £799 per person (departing March & April 09) based on 7 nights half board at the 3-grade Hotel Royam in Saly inclusive of scheduled flights via Brussels (from Gatwick, Manchester or Birmingham), transfers and airport taxes. A 7-night all-inclusive holiday at The Royal Decameron Baobab Resort starts from £949 per person, including flights and transfers (based on selected travel dates in April 09).

For more information or to book please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

Royal Decameron Baobab Resort

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new hotel has opened its doors to holidaymakers near the Senegalese resort of Saly, south of Dakar. The Royal Decameron Baobab Resort is a 4* all-inclusive resort which has undergone a total refurbishment and now offers a mix of contemporary and African style décor in a fabulous location.

The beach-front bungalows are particularly appealing, opening directly onto the sandy beach they provide the perfect location for a romantic holiday or honeymoon. The hotel has a number of bars and restaurants with stunning views over the beach and lagoon – in fact there are tables directly on the sand for the perfect spot to watch the sunset. During the day there is a wide variety of activities and a children’s club, but if you can tear yourself away, the lagoon is also home to the Réserve de la Somone, one of the most protected wild life reserves in Senegal and home to some 150 species of birds, with pelicans and flamingos being the most prominent.

International Jazz Festival of Saint-Louis

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 17th International Jazz Festival of Saint-Louis (Saint-Louis Jazz) will be held between 28th and 31st May 2009 in the Senegalese city of Saint-Louis, in the north of the country.

The festival is said to be the most important jazz festival in Africa but in recent years its reputation has suffered due to organisational problems. This year the organisers, the Saint-Louis Jazz Association, insists things will be better than ever thanks to the involvement of professionals.

Artists rumoured to be performing include Elizabeth Kontomanou, the Italian accordion player Richard Galliano and the French saxophonist Géraldine Laurentto. You can read more about the festival and the city of Saint-Louis at http://www.songlines.co.uk/documents/festivals/SaintLouisJazz.pdf

Beach to their own

James O'Donnell - Cloud Nine Magazine — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal - a unique winter sun retreat away from the masses, ideal for a cultural break off the beaten track or just lazing under a tropical sun on pristine beaches free from the mass-market throng.

Colourful Senegal a new paradise found

Andy Richardson - Express & Star — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Andy Richardson takes a walk on the wildside in Senegal

SENEGAL – is it Italy?
One friend asked me before I headed out to discover the delights of the West African country. French speaking Senegal has remained relatively untouched and unknown to the British holidaymaker who has travelled to nearby Gambia over years gone by to experience the delights of an African beach holiday.

But the status quo is set to change as travel company Serenity Holidays has decided to add the destination to its brochure as part of its Senegal experience.

I was given the opportunity to discover for myself the delights of the country with a group of journalists and I wasn’t to be left disappointed during a breathtaking five-day tour.

Initially flying out to Brussels from Birmingham International Airport with Brussels Airlines, we then changed flights to board our journey to the city of Dakar.

The journey from Dakar to the holiday resort of Saly where we were staying for our first night was quite a surreal and memorable experience as our coach hit the rush hour. I have never enjoyed being stuck in traffic so much as I watched the multicoloured buses and camper vans with people hanging off the back and goats strapped to the top of the vehicles make their way out of Dakar. Everywhere you looked there was another surreal moment from African life.

Our first stop was the five star Lamantin Beach Hotel. After a wonderful welcome by the staff we were shown to our accommodation, which was, a traditional African style two-storey bungalow situated amongst colourful, manicured gardens. The rooms are fully air conditioned, and are large, bright and airy and each has its own terrace. There is a superb pool which you can enjoy during the day or sample the delights of the hotel’s own private beach. I thought I had discovered paradise. Little was I to know the best was yet to come.

Having secured a good night‚s sleep in my luxurious bungalow the following morning we embarked on our first activity of the trip – an adrenalin pumping off road buggy adventure. It was a thrilling off-road drive through the bush where we were greeted by the friendly villagers along the way. Our oasis at the end of the tour adventure was a beach bar, which served a delicious chicken, rice and soup dinner. After a quick game of football on the beach we were back in our buggies for another adventure across the bush.

At night we went to one of the Saly nightspots to enjoy drinks with the locals and to dance the night away.

When I didn’t think things could get much better the following day, we were taken to the Bandia Nature Reserve for a tour of the wildlife park. Senegal suffered a huge drought during the 1970s, which drove many of the animals such as big cats, giraffe and antelope out of the country. Now environmentalists are introducing some of the animals back into Senegal from other African countries.

During our fascinating adventure in the national park we saw rhinoceros, zebra, giraffes, ostrich, antelopes and crocodiles. Then we enjoyed a splendid lunch at Tama Lodge hotel, with its superb fish dishes. We then headed off to our next hotel – the four-star Espadon close to the heart of Saly.

Hotel Espadon is simply fantastic. The rooms are arranged in a cluster of two-storey, traditional style bungalows, nestled among the palm trees. Once again the hotel has its own sandy beach and the eye-catching Le Ponton bar, which is reached to by a jetty. The hotel even has its own pet pelican called Popsi, which flew in to the bay 10 years ago and liked it so much it stayed walking to the poolside bar at night to sleep.

The following day we sampled some of the local culture and headed to Sine Saloum and to the market Ndiagnio. There we bought rice, soap, books and stationery then headed to Mbour Village to distribute them to the villagers. Although I had enjoyed fantastic activities during my trip, handing gifts to villagers and seeing the joy on their faces ranked on an equal par.

We enjoyed lunch at Souimanga Lodge before heading off to our next destination. All along the journey what struck me was the country‚s vast richness of scenery from fabulous beaches to coastal lagoons and waterways, which provide a rich array of wildlife.

We then drove on to the five-star Le Royal Lodge for our final night. Now when I was told they were saving the best to last they weren’t joking. Le Royal Lodge is simply paradise on earth if you want to impress that special someone this is the hotel to visit. The hotel is nestled on the outskirts of the Saloum Delta National Park. On arrival you are whisked away in a buggy to be taken to your room. Now when I say room I should really say house. This is no ordinary room. Relax in the suite’s jacuzzi before enjoying a drink on your own private terrace. Each suite has a large bedroom with a bed fit for a king and its own separate lounge. Your suite is only yards from a glorious beach. Back in the main hotel you can take a dip in the magnificent pool and swim up to the Pelican cocktail bar for a couple of afternoon beverages.

With great reluctance we left Le Royal Lodge the following day, which was also sadly to be our final day. We headed back to Dakar where we sailed over to the historic and infamous Goree Island which is a former slave trading port and is certainly a must visit for any visitor to Senegal. On arrival you are bombarded by street sellers trying to sell anything from jewellery to animal carvings. The sellers can be aggressive at times but if you are after a souvenir to take home you can certainly get a bargain if you are prepared to barter.

Catching the ferry back to Dakar, it was with a heavy heart that I said a final farewell to Senegal.

FACT BOX
Andy travelled with The Senegal Experience which offer flights with Brussels Airlines from Birmingham. Contact0845 338 8706 or www.senegal.co.uk
Prices start from £699 per person, based on seven nights half-board at Hotel Royam in Saly and includes return flights, transfers and taxes.

The face of new Africa

Katie Jarvis - Cotswold Life — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Katie Jarvis falls in love with Senegal and discovers the variety of activities on offer.

Winter Warmers For All

Ben Hall - The Sunday Express — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SENEGAL SERENADE
Visiting new destinations ahead of the pack is not only a pleasure but one bound to impress when people ask where you managed to get such a cool off-season tan. This winter’s newcomer is the old French West African colony of Senegal which, compared with the neighbouring Gambia, is barely known to Brits. The weather is ideal, while those looking for something other than beaches and watersports will find exotic birdlife, French colonial heritage and music everywhere (Senegal is the home country of Youssou N’Dour).
* Senegal Experience (0845 330 2080/www.senegal.co.uk) offers seven nights’ half-board at the Lamantin Beach Hotel from £919pp (two sharing), including return flights from Gatwick, Manchester or Birmingham.

Why Senegal is now on the winter sun map

Jill Crawshaw - The Observer — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As bright as butterflies in their billowing boubous, long iridescent pink, blue, and lime green gowns of satin and lace, a clutch of women sat gossiping on the sands of Kayar, Senegal's chief fishing port. The men struggled to haul their boats ashore out of the crashing waves while children darted about.

I soon became the focus of the women's attention: 'Where is your husband? How many wives has he?' asked one of them in a mix of Wolof, her own language, and fractured French. 'How many children have you? I have nine, you take one of mine,' pretending to hand over the pretty little girl she was holding. 'Are you French? English? Where is that?'

As I said my au revoirs, they all began to shake with mirth and my guide explained apologetically: 'They are laughing at your clothes. However poor they are they would never be seen outside their homes in anything but their finery. It's a status thing.' So much for my trendy cut-offs and new linen shirt.

The ladies of Kayar clearly had as little knowledge of the UK as most Brits have of Senegal. Hopefully, this might soon change; tour operator The Senegal Experience, whose parent company successfully launched holidays to The Gambia more than 20 years ago, has put its neighbour on the British holiday map this winter with a schedule of flights to Dakar via Brussels and hotels based around the beach resort of Saly and in the Sine Saloum Delta.

Bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau and encircling The Gambia, the former French colony gained independence in 1960. It is among the poorest countries in the world, though one of the most stable, democratic and tolerant in West Africa. It also helps in the tourism stakes that there is no jetlag from the UK as it is on GMT and it is among the cheaper winter sun destinations. Most deals include excellent full- or half-board accommodation.

Our pioneering group of holidaymakers were on only the second departure from the UK and none of us had any idea what to expect. Within 30 minutes of leaving the airport to travel to our various hotels through the outskirts of steamy Dakar, we were treated to an instant kaleidoscope of life in West Africa, the roadsides one long continuous market heaped with oranges, melons, clothing, hubcaps, bicycle sprockets, some even offering dental services. Among the dust and rubble, exquisitely dressed women, the married ladies in headscarves and single ones often wearing wigs of straight black hair (there were far fewer veils than in London), picked an elegant path, while young men strutted their stuff in hip T-shirts and jeans.

Our minibus threaded its way through wandering vendors, huge potholes and 'bush taxis', a euphemism for the cheerfully decorated rickety vehicles, their interiors packed with villagers returning home, roofs piled with everything from live sheep to three-piece suites. At one stage the driver of the taxi in front of us stopped suddenly and leaped out to separate two lads scrapping at the side of the road; his passengers cheered him on.

'Welcome to Senegal,' said our guide as he filled us in on his country's customs and culture en route. He also pointed out a 'voodoo village' or ndeup, where patients with psychiatric problems go to be healed, partly by music, and sacred baobab trees where storytellers have traditionally been buried.

Ninety per cent of the population practises a unique version of Islam in which Muslim marabouts (leaders) and brotherhoods carry much of the political and economic clout - but under the skin you feel that the heartbeat of an ancient Africa is never far away.

Most of the beach hotels are on the gentle Petite Côte around the cosmopolitan resort of Saly, a long-established favourite for Belgian and French sunseekers and packed with international restaurants, galleries, nightclubs and supermarkets - I even spotted a Rolls-Royce Club.

Silvery Atlantic ripples lap its pale golden sands which are patrolled by security guards to curb the enthusiasm of the vendors, and the resort has an array of watersports ranging from windsurfing to deep sea fishing.

My hotel, the Lamantin Beach, offered five-star comforts with superb seafood buffets, home-made breads and gargantuan breakfasts. Its young staff are friendly and eager to practise their English for the arrival of British newcomers. 'Perhaps I can have a little conversation with you later?' said my waitress Aimee in quaint textbook English. Her French was fluent.

In the mid-19th-century carve-up of Africa, France helped herself to Senegal while the British settled for the lilliputian Gambia, which somewhat ludicrously slices Senegal into two. Both colonial powers profited from the slave trade and, after that was abolished, from the export of peanuts. But despite echoes of the French occupation - in the language, cuisine and sense of fashion - the French influence is waning as Senegal looks more towards China and South America. No coincidence then that I had shared the flight from Brussels with more than 100 Chinese labourers, all issued with identical kit bags and sleeping mats on arrival - to work on the roads or the rice fields.

While most resort hotels are thoroughly westernised, few of the excursions can be described as picture-book tourist fodder - though for me that made them no less interesting.

One of the 'must sees' of the Ile de Gorée just outside Dakar is the Maison des Esclaves, where slaves awaiting deportation were kept in dungeons under warehouses surrounded by the mansions of the French merchants.

On the Grande Côte I visited Lac Rose, Senegal's Dead Sea, its pink hue the result of a high concentration of minerals; local men stand for hours in the saline water collecting salt which the women then bag - at €1 per 25kg sack. It was the only place where I was besieged by souvenir sellers - and considering the bleakness of their surroundings and employment prospects, you can hardly blame them.

The lake is also the finishing line for the Paris-Dakar motor rally; you can stage your own rollercoaster rally by 4x4 on monster sand dunes nearby and then drive along the firm breezy sands of the Atlantic coast, utterly desolate apart from wheeling cormorants, terns and sea eagles. No developer will ever be able to build hotels on these glorious beaches - the waves are far too dangerous.

On another excursion my guide Yamar, who speaks fluent English, French and several tribal tongues, drove me deep into the bush, the relentlessly flat savannah punctuated only by flat-topped acacias and thousand-year-old baobab trees. In the fields women harvested peanuts by beating them with sticks.

When we reached the tiny farming community of Gnignig, I was introduced to the headman who invited me to visit the compound he shares with 17 relatives; it's a collection of thatched huts (his own has a corrugated iron roof) with a communal bucket shower and a wooden shrine to his ancestors. There is no electricity, no running water.

For a few moments the women and children sitting in the shade of a tree and I gazed at each other silently, separated by an abyss of communication and culture. Then, in a flash of inspiration, thanks to my football-mad sons, I scored. 'Diouf,' I dredged up the name from memories of conversations about the Senegalese soccer stars who play in our Premiership. The floodgates opened: 'Beckham, Lampard, Michael Owen,' they shouted back at me.

I used the same ploy when I met the pupils of the primary school, L'Ecole Mbafaya Sandock, a breezeblock construction for six- to 14-year-olds, where there can be up to 80 in a class. The top class, however, were quietly studying the complexities of volume and density in French. The only classroom aids were a blackboard and chalk - and the latter was in short supply.

'My girls are good keen students,' said their teacher Karamba Bayo, 'but not all the boys,' he looked sternly at two reprobates sitting in the front of the class. They grinned at me, unabashed and curious - I was the first Brit they'd ever met. Humbled, I handed over pencils, rubbers and pens I'd brought from the UK and wished I'd added exercise books, crayons and chalk. Schooling is free but parents must pay for all extras.

The star attraction in Senegal is the Sine Saloum Delta, 180,000 hectares of labyrinthine watery wilderness made up of limpid lagoons, shimmering salt plains, sandy spits, tangled mangroves and bolongs, hidden creeks and estuaries which are home to a rich collection of wildlife from pelicans and flamingos (there are 600 bird species in the country) to manatees and the occasional dolphin. Haunting and mysterious, it seemed a privilege to intrude on this world.

I explored its magic in a pirogue with wildlife expert Bashir who identified pied kingfishers for me, herons hiding in the mangroves and tiny oysters and mussels clinging to the mangrove roots. For three months each year local women move into the little shell mounds in the delta to smoke and dry the oysters, leaving their shells to form new islets: recent research has shown that their ancestors have probably been doing the same for thousands of years.

Boatman Babou had his own priorities. At every stop, rather than let me wade ashore, he lifted me out as if I were as light as a feather (I'm not). It turned out he was in training for the local wrestling contest; wrestling is one of the most popular sports in Senegal.

You can visit the delta from the five-star Royal Lodge, set on a peerless beach nearby and oozing luxury. You can also stay in a couple of tiny and highly imaginative eco-lodges, simple but stylish, with all the necessary mod cons plus pools and views to die for. The Lodge des Collines, on a shell mound in a grove of palm and tamarind trees, is the brainchild of French woman Sylvie Gaborit, with accommodation consisting of a pair of tree houses which wrap themselves around the branches of huge baobabs, three water bungalows on stilts and adobe cottages, all furnished in local style.

I was lucky enough to spend a night at Souimanga Lodge (souimanga means sunbird) where French owner Denis Mencière lives out his dream. Here at dawn I was woken by an orchestra of terns and pelicans, herons, avocets, cormorants and egrets. I spent a lazy day watching hornbills feeding their young, gaudy finches and weavers dipping in the pool, and tiny bee-eaters quivering among dusky pink hibiscus blossoms. Towards sunset I sipped a hibiscus juice and sat spellbound as egrets returned in their hundreds to roost, wishing I could have holed up there for the winter.

The 60-second guide to Senegal
Location
Senegal is on the west coast of Africa, with Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, and Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south. The Gambia is surrounded almost entirely by Senegal, stretching 300km inland from its western coastline.

Government
There are an incredible 80 political parties, and Senegal has one of the most successful democratic cultures in Africa. It is a republic, with presidential elections every five years. However, religous leaders also exercise strong political influence.

Language
Many languages are spoken due to the different ethnic groups which make up the population of 11 million. Around 43 per cent of people speak Wolof and in many areas, particularly the capital, Dakar, this is the main language. However, there are colonial links to France and a sizeable expatriate population. The official language is French.

Climate
Senegal has well-defined seasons, with most of the rainfall occurring between June and October, when temperatures are at their hottest. Temperatures are at their coolest (a minimum of around 63F) between December and February, but they differ widely between the coast and inland.

Religion
Islam is by far the biggest religion; approximately 95 per cent of the population are practising Muslims. Many children are educated in formal Koranic schools (a daara), where much time is spent memorising as much of the Koran as possible.

Food
There is a strong French influence in Senegalese food; rich chicken and fish casseroles, served with piles of couscous and rice. Roasted peanuts - one of the country's biggest crops - are everywhere.

Health
Yellow-fever innoculations and malaria tablets are both necessary for travel in Senegal.

Is it safe?
The Foreign Office classes Senegal as 'generally calm and stable', although it advises against road travel in the Casamance region south of the Gambia due to landmines and some fighting with rebels.

Essentials
Jill Crawshaw travelled with The Senegal Experience (0845 338 8706; senegal.co.uk). Seven-night holidays start at £799. A week at the five-star Lamantin Beach Hotel starts at £919. A seven-night stay combining the Royal Lodge and a tree house at the Lodge des Collines starts at £1,154. Trips combining four nights at Souimanga Lodge and four at the Coconut Residence in Gambia, cost £1,322. All prices include half-board and flights with Brussels Airlines.

Senegal has so much to offer tourists

Peter Kennedy - The Solihull Times — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Peter Kennedy considers Bandia Nature Reserve a highlight and is impressed with the quality of the hotels that he visits.

A warm welcome from Senegal

Shahid Naqvi - Birmingham Post — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Africa. Cradle of humanity. Home to one seventh of the world’s population and a fifth of its total land area.

Up until now the nearest I’ve got to the great continent has been BBC wildlife documentaries, Bob Geldof and that song by Toto.

All that changed recently, however, following a trip to Senegal.

Of course, one country with a population of 11 million can not be representative of a land mass made up of 61 nations and 922 million people.

But the former French colony is stable, keen to promote itself to Western tourists and therefore a good place to start.

Its west coast location will already be familiar to some Brits who have visited the ex-British colony of The Gambia. Senegal is a bigger country with a different history and its French connection means, if nothing else, you can get a decent cup of coffee.

The journey out from Birmingham requires a short hop to Brussels before boarding a six-hour flight to the capital city of Dakar. But the good news is unlike other popular long haul winter sun destinations, Senegal is on the same time zone as Britain between the tourist season of November to April, meaning no jet lag to contend with.

Stepping off the plane at Dakar airport the first thing to hit home is the heat – 32°C is something of a contrast to the single figure temperature in Britain.

Luckily, though, it was the end of the rainy season, which runs between July and October, meaning it’s a dry heat which you adjust to surprisingly quickly.

The second thing that strikes the senses in the hordes of people walking on the motorway on the drive south to the holiday resorts of Saly about 50 miles out. It felt as if Dakar’s entire population of two million was spreading out from the city the entire length of the journey.

Among the many sights you wouldn’t ever expect to see on the M6 was a goat strapped to the roof of a car.

Arriving at Saly’s “most luxurious hotel”, the Lamantin Beach provides just the kind of escape from the maddening crowds you’d want after more than 12 hours’ travel.
This was the first example of Senegal’s Government-controlled bid to capitalise on the lucrative Western tourism market.

Though the country’s climate, attractive beaches and decent standard hotels have been familiar to people from other parts of Europe, it’s a relatively new destination to British holidaymakers.
The five star Lamantin Beach offers the kind of standard of luxury many western tourists have come to expect with good food, quality wine and a spa. In addition, there’s a private sandy beach and – best of all – warm tropical waters to swim in.

A far cry from my last buttock-clenching dip in the sea off the Cornish coast this summer. There are a string of similar hotels along the coast. In Saly we also visited the four star Hotel Espadon which features a bar built on a jetty and the boutique-style Tama Lodge.

Further south in Sine Saloum is the sleepy Delta de Niominka, accessed by boat, and the marvellous Lodge des Collines de Niassam – one of the world’s most unusual hotels with rooms built into trees overlooking a lagoon.

But perhaps best of all was the luxurious Le Royal Lodge which has 28 beautifully appointed hut-style suites all of which contain a sunken jacuzzi!

Away from the pampered hotel world, there are a number of ways to explore Senegal. One of the most fun is heading out into the countryside on a souped-up golfing buggy-type vehicle where you get to see sights such as a massive ant hill, a crab-infested lake and local villages.
We also visited a colourful local market where we bought supplies to pass on to villagers living a traditional rural life. Though on the edge of poverty, it was impossible not to be struck by their sense of community, humour and spirit. Something that was underlined many times during our visit.

Saly also boasts the Bandia Nature Reserve, where a trip on the back of a jeep will bring you into close proximity to wild rhino, giraffes, zebras and various other animals native to Africa.
Visitors to Senegal should also make an effort to visit the famous Gorée Island – once a staging post for the transportation of slaves to America and Europe. It’s a moving experience, though watch out for the super-persistent street hawkers!

Senegal may have bugs the size of a small child’s hand, but for the more adventurous tourist the country offers a memorable holiday experience. And a great introduction to the Africa.

Factfile

The Senegal Experience is the UK’s only specialist tour operator to Senegal and offer flights with Brussels Airlines from Birmingham, Manchester and Gatwick. Visit www.senegal.co.uk
November to April is the main holiday season during which temperatures range from 32° to 27°C
Prices go from £699 per person for a week’s half board including flight (at the 3½ star Hotel Royam) to £1,266 (at the 5-star Le Royal Lodge).
Flights leave Birmingham on Wednesday and Saturdays at 6.30am and arrive in Senegal at 4.30pm

Julie Vasey enjoys 'The Senegal Experience'

Julie Vasey - Live24Seven Magazine — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal Experience proves a trip of a lifetime

Gurdip Thandi - Birmingham Mail — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

IT wasn’t the best of starts. Going to Senegal without sunblock, insect repellent, shorts or flip flops at the hottest time of the year was not the smartest move I’ve ever made.

Throw in the lack of a non-compulsory but allegedly highly recommended yellow fever jab and surely I’d have been forgiven for thinking this was set to be a holiday from hell.

But the beauty of my visit to west Africa was that, despite these omissions, it turned out to be exactly the sort of trip of a lifetime you’d see advertised in a brochure.

Our group sampled The Senegal Experience, which gave us a whistle-stop tour of some of the activities and hotels on offer in this delightful West African country.

There were so many breathtaking sights that I’m surprised that I avoided the need for oxygen therapy.

Senegal remains largely undiscovered by British holidaymakers, despite it being popular with other Europeans.

The first hotel we stopped off at was the luxurious Lamantin Beach Hotel, which is in the resort of Saly, around 50 miles south of the city of Dakar, where we flew into.

And it isn’t long before you see exactly how it has earned each and every one of its five stars. It boasts gorgeous rooms set in two-story low-level buildings, three restaurants, offering a range of food, a spa and did I mention a private beach?

I was actually worried about having such a fantastic start to my trip as I feared the rest could end up an anti-climax. But those fears were soon blown out of the clear blue Senegalese water.

On our second day we were treated to an activity which sounded like great fun on paper but turned out to be far better than I ever could have imagined. Going for a buggy ride through Saly villages and the bush before ending up on a beach bar for lunch.

After a few early nervy moments, I soon got to grips with my motorised buggy and was able to pretend I was Lewis Hamilton, even if I barely clocked up more than 40 mph. Truly exhilarating, even if we were left covered in mud and sand!

Having enjoyed another delicious meal in one of the restaurants, we left the hotel and sampled a Saly nightclub where the locals were friendly and interested only in having fun. We were even treated to some freestlye breakdancing to top off a great night.

It was with a heavy heart we left Lamantin but we hadn’t reckoned on the further delights that were to follow. The first of which was the incredible Bandia nature reserve.

Following a five-year drought in the early 1970s, Senegal lost most of its wildlife including big cats, giraffes and antelope but Bandia now seeks to reintroduce these animals by importing them from other African countries.

Seeing them roam around freely in a huge wildlife park is a wonderful experience and having been just a few feet away from rhinos, zebra, giraffes and ostriches I don’t think I will ever be able to visit a zoo again.

Lunch was taken at a real gem of a place, the Tama Lodge, just outside Saly, where the vibe was so laid back that I’m surprised I didn’t end up fast asleep on the soft sand.

Our next overnight stop was spent at the charming Hotel Espadon which, amongst other things, boasts its own resident pelican, Popsi!

Again, like virtually all the hotels in Senegal, it has its own beach, as well as not one, not two but three fabulous bars and a fishing centre.

While the emphasis of The Senegal Experience so far had been on fun and luxury, the following morning saw us take part in a very different but immensely worthwhile venture.

After leaving Espadon, we headed to Sine Saloum and, in particular, the traditional Ndiaganio market where we saw friendly and hardworking Senegalese grafting to earn a living.

Having purchased essentials such as rice, soap, books and stationery, we paid a visit to the nearby Gour village to hand the goodies out to local children. It was an incredible feeling being mobbed as if I was a rock star and seeing the smiling, happy faces as we came bearing gifts.

They may seem to live more simple lives than us and have a lot less, but they sure look happy. A sobering thought for a Western journalist who would be lost without his laptop.

We took lunch in the glorious Souimanga Lodge before heading off for our final hotel, the Royal Lodge. I truly believed they had made a mistake with my room. Well, I say room as it was more like a one-bedroomed bungalow, complete with its own jacuzzi!

And get this. ALL the rooms at the Royal Lodge have a jacuzzi. If you want to feel like a true VIP, then check yourself in here. As we checked out the next morning, staff gave each of us a ‘Juju’ necklace to wish us good luck and a safe trip home. A lovely touch.

Our final excursion for The Senegal Experience provided a mixed bag of emotions. Having returned to Dakar, we boarded a ferry and travelled out to the delightful Goree Island.

And if the journey seemed like a delight itself, my first view of the island, which is only 28 hectares in area, was amazing.

It features colonial style housing and has no cars. It does, however, have hard-selling market traders who will follow you around all day to secure a sale. But even they had a certain charm about them and they are open to intense bartering. I walked away with a wood carving of a giraffe for 20 Euros below the original asking price. Result!

But all these features are put into stark perspective when you visit a former slave trading station that is based on the island. Millions of slaves were brought to Goree with the aim of being shipped around the world during a 300-year period from the 16th century.

Seeing the squalid rooms that have been maintained for visitors to see was a poignant moment. Senegal will not let anyone forget how millions of people lost their lives and, quite rightfully, marks the end of slavery.

While the country’s general beauty is obvious and will delight tourists, visiting Goree Island and the trading station in particular, is educational and a must.

It was with a heavy heart I left Senegal. Prior to the trip I knew precious little about the place but, as I boarded the plane, I realised I didn’t want it to end.

The Senegal Experience is a real eye-opener. Even the most ill-prepared visitor will enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Trust me!

The Senegal Experience anticipates a successful first season

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Senegal Experience is pleased to announce that its first customers will be flying into Dakar this Saturday to holiday in either the beach resort of Saly or the Sine Saloum Delta in Senegal.
The tour operator launched its inaugural brochure in June this year and anticipates a successful first season, with bookings looking particularly strong for its more luxurious hotels.

One example such luxury is the 5-grade hotel, Le Royal Lodge, which benefits from an enviable location, positioned both on the outskirts of the Saloum Delta National Park and directly on a virtually-deserted sandy beach. Each suite demonstrates African architecture, with luxuries such as a private terrace and Jacuzzi bath.
An infinity pool, framed by palm trees and a token Baobab tree, offers an inviting tonic to relax in during the day, and, when illuminated at night, makes a perfect backdrop to the restaurant, charmed further by views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Senegal Experience offers flight services into both Dakar in Senegal and Banjul in The Gambia. As a result its clients may consider twin centre holidays within Senegal itself or between Senegal and The Gambia.
Brussels Airlines will operate the scheduled service into Dakar, whilst sister company, The Gambia Experience, will continue to charter the Gatwick Monarch flights into Banjul.
Being located in the Sine Saloum Delta, Le Royal Lodge is easily accessible from Dakar. Both Gatwick and selected regional UK departures are available.

In relation to the resort of Saly, a deluxe hotel beginning to attract the UK market is the 5-grade Lamantin Beach Hotel. As the most luxurious hotel in Saly, the Lamantin offers a particular flair for gourmet cuisine, as well as its own spa, which reflects principles of Chinese energy medicine and offers treatments such as thalassotherapy. In addition to a large swimming pool, the hotel also owns its own private white sand beach, as well as a marina, from where one can undertake a whole host of watersports if desired.

The picturesque resort of Saly is located on the ‘Petite Côte’, approximately 50 miles south of Dakar. Its importance as a fishing port explains its lure for anglers, but there are also many other draws, which undoubtedly account for the high number of returning French and Belgian tourists each year.
In addition to watersports, dry land pursuits include quad and buggy tours, horse treks and golf.
For those wanting to ‘go ape’ Senegalese-style, the Accrobaobab Adventure Park should not disappoint with its collection of rope swings and ladders suspended amongst the baobab trees.
The Bandia Nature Reserve wildlife park will also delight, courtesy of the opportunity to see the animals roaming freely through the park.

Saly contrasts perfectly with the Sine Saloum Delta - a region of great diversity consisting of rivers, glorious beaches, mangrove swamps, sand islands and ever-shifting dunes.

The Senegal Experience offers 7-night holidays in Saly from £699 per person. This price is based on half-board accommodation at the 3½ -grade Hotel Royam and includes return flights from Gatwick to Dakar (via Brussels), transfers and taxes (valid for departures 26 November – 11 December 08).
This Christmas, The Senegal Experience is also offering 7nights at Le Royal Lodge from £1478pp (based on half board in a Garden View Suite) and including return flights from Gatwick to Dakar (via Brussels), transfers and taxes (valid for departures 20 December 08). For more information please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

Double delight

Diarmuid Macdonagh - The Senegal Experience — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

THINK African holidays and the usual suspects leap to mind – safaris, the cities and beaches of Morocco and Tunisia, cruises on the Nile and the ancient wonders of Egypt.

Gambia has become popular in recent years, although its neighbour Senegal will barely register on most holidaymakers’ lists of prospective destinations.

But Senegal has been luring European visitors for decades and now it is the turn of the British to explore this fascinating country of the west coast of the dark continent.

Serenity Holidays has just launched its first-ever dedicated Senegal Experience brochure.

Serenity can tailor the holiday to your requirements, allowing you to spend some time in the Gambia and Senegal. The two countries have much in common, but the former was a British colony, while the influence of the French is evident everywhere in Senegal.

After spending a night in the luxurious Ngala Lodge in Gambia, I was up early for the trip to Senegal – and the journey itself was breathtaking.

Clambering into a 4x4 we headed for the ferry across the Gambia River. The bustling crowds vied for space with army trucks and heavily laden lorries, cars and livestock, but the passage was smooth enough.

The same could not be said of the roads as we headed for the border and beyond. We spent more time off-road as much of the “highway” had been washed away and a huge EU-funded re-building programme was under way.

But there was something wonderfully liberating about the journey as we swept along, alternating between road and salt plain, scrubland and road again as the sun beat down.

We headed north for a heady six hours until we reached the spectacular Le Royal Lodge, which sits alone on a beautiful beach on the northern fringes of the Sine Saloum Delta, exuding luxury, with 28 suites with top-class fittings and exquisite detailing.

With the focus on quality, relaxation and tranquillity, the Royal Lodge does not go in for loud entertainment but can arrange excursions into the surrounding areas, fishing or birdwatching trips.

It is a state-of-the-art beach resort with an infinity pool, swim-up bar and stunning beachfront location – but it would be criminal to travel all this way just to lounge by the pool. The scenery is breathtaking and ever changing, and the area is rich in wildlife.

Close by is another hotel in a spectacular setting. Lodge des Collines, built by a French couple, is an eco-friendly lodge nestled on a tributary of the Saloum. It offers a series of stunning rooms, from tree-houses built into the baobabs and low huts on stilts over the river to adobe-like bungalows carved into the small hill on which the lodge is situated.

Joal-Fadiout is a village at the southern end of the Petite Côte of Senegal. Joal lies on the mainland, and is well worth visiting for the incredible expanse of fish smokeries and busy harbour. Fadiout, linked by a bridge, lies on an island of clam shells, and is universally known as Shell Island. It is also the birthplace of the first president of Senegal.

The island has a mixed Christian and Muslim population, with cemeteries side by side on an adjoining island.

You can also visit the animal reserve at Bandia, where you can see a wide variety of typical African savannah animals including giraffes, white rhinos, waterbucks, forest buffalos, wart hogs, crocodiles and several species of monkey.

We headed back south again towards the border to spend a few days in the heart of the Sine Saloum Delta. This is a vast 180,000-hectare area that encompasses a national park.

Formed where two rivers converge, it’s a region of great diversity consisting of a unique estuarine environment, glorious beaches, mangrove swamps and sand islands.

The Keur Saloum Hotel is perfectly placed on the banks of the river with mangroves stretching into the distance. Set among the well-kept grounds are 48 African-style round bungalows with air-conditioning and en-suite facilities. A recent addition has been six luxurious new suites in a fantastic location overlooking the jetty and the river.

The hotel also has its own pool and tennis court. It has been attracting anglers and birdwatchers for many years, but even if you’re not tempted to try either pursuit, a trip aboard a traditional pirogue is a must.

I headed off with the hotel’s boatmen to explore the mangroves and stopped at a riverside village that has probably changed little over many generations.

Toubakouta lies on the hotel’s doorstep and offers some pleasant places to eat, but the hotel itself has a great open-plan bar and restaurant serving great fresh food.

Again, although the hotel has a great deal to offer, a holiday here is all about getting out and exploring the area and meeting the people.

The region is magical, and quite unlike anything you will have experienced before.

If you want a more traditional beach resort holiday Senegal Experience is expanding its repertoire this year and the area around Saly, around 40 miles north of the delta, is well established, having attracted French and Belgian holidaymakers for many years.

But it was time for me to head south again and back to the Gambia for the last few days of my two-country experience.

I returned to the sumptuous surroundings of Ngala Lodge, a hotel that really is the archetypal oasis of calm amid the hustle and bustle of this part of the country.

The emphasis here is very much on individual service, and the restaurant is renowned as one of the best in the country.

The main building of Ngala Lodge was originally a colonial mansion and the grandeur of the area is still very much in evidence.

Ngala enjoys a magnificent setting looking out from its cliff-top position across the swimming pool and gardens to the ocean beyond.

The area boasts some top-class restaurants, great beach bars and the lively Senegambia Strip offers some good bars and a few clubs.

Factfile

Senegal Experience offers seven nights at Keur Saloum from £832 per person, based on two sharing a room, half-board, including return flights (Gatwick-Banjul), transfers and all taxes and fuel surcharges. The company also offers seven nights at Le Royal Lodge from £1,158 per person, based on two sharing a suite, half-board, including return flights (Gatwick-Dakar), transfers and all taxes and fuel surcharges. Call Senegal Experience on 0845 338 8706 or visit senegal.co.uk
Gambia Experience/Senegal Experience offers a twin-centre holiday incorporating three nights at Ngala Lodge and four nights at Keur Saloum from £2,032 per person, including flights. Also seven nights at Ngala Lodge from £839 per person, based on two sharing a suite, including breakfast, return flights (Gatwick–Banjul), transfers and all taxes.
Call Gambia Experience on 0845 330 2087 or visit gambia.co.uk

AITO adopts new green travel ratings

Oliver Smith - The Senegal Experience — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

UK organisation has revised its Responsible Tourism ratings in an effort to encourage eco-friendly travel.

The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) has revised its Responsible Tourism Star classification system.

AITO, which encourages a commitment to green travel among its members, has altered the number of points awarded to certain areas such as destination activities and carbon reduction.

Previously, its ratings system ranged from one to three stars. The revamped questionnaire will rate eco-friendly travel operators from one to five stars.

"We hope that through the increased emphasis on destination activities, members will be encouraged to work more closely with local communities," said Roger Diski, founder of Rainbow Tours and the Chairman of AITO's Responsible Tourism committee.

An AITO spokesman said that the new classifications would push a number of tours operators down from the top rating, which he hoped would encourage them to continue improving their green credentials.

A spokeswoman for charity Tourism Concern, which campaigns against irresponsible tourism, said that the changes were "much-needed" and encouraging, but called for greater transparency.

"We would like to see the results," she added. "Corporate checklists are rarely sufficient – they need to be robustly policed by third parties."

"Unless the actual impact is verified, customers really have no idea what they are buying into."

Travel companies must now re-apply for AITO membership to receive their new rating.

So far seven operators have been awarded the new five star rating: Corsican Places, Explore, Himalayan Kingdoms, Journey Latin America, KE Adventure Travel, Serenity Holidays and Tribes Travel.

Companies must achieve a minimum of one star to gain AITO membership.

XL Leisure Group

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 01:00:00 GMT

The Senegal Experience would like to extend its sympathies to holidaymakers who were booked to travel with XL Leisure Group, which announced that it would cease trading as of today (12 September). XL going into administration does not affect clients travelling with The Senegal Experience, nor any of its sister companies, which are all part of Serenity Holidays Limited.

Serenity Holidays Limited has been in business for 21 years and The Senegal Experience was launched this year as a result of increased interest in the destination, and to complement the largest tour operator to The Gambia, The Gambia Experience (also owned by Serenity Holidays Ltd).
The Senegal Experience, through Serenity Holidays Ltd, is ATOL protected (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence Number, 1866) - an accreditation administered by the Civil Aviation Authority, which gives clients security and reassurance when booking a package holiday.

Chris Ayling, Serenity Holidays director said:

“Serenity Holidays is an experienced tour operator that is fully bonded to ensure peace of mind when booking a package holiday. My message to the public would be that if you do choose to book your flights, accommodation and transfers separately, then check now to ascertain if you are covered financially.”

Serenity Holidays Ltd is also a member of AITO, The Association of Independent Tour Operators and ABTA, The Association of British Travel Agents. Both maintain strict guidelines for membership.

As well as The Senegal Experience and The Gambia Experience, Serenity Holidays Ltd also owns The Cape Verde Experience, Turkish Places, Corsican Places, Sardinian Places and Great Escapes.
For more information, please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

For AITO’s Quality Charter, please visit:
http://www.aito.co.uk/corporate_QualityCharter.asp

For more on ABTA’s Code of Conduct, please visit:
http://www.abta.com/about/industry_standards

Ends

AITO comment on XL Leisure Group

Association of Independent Tour Operators - — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ANOTHER FINE MESS YOU’VE GOT US INTO, HMG...
Government-created two-tier travel industry causes chaos for consumer in the wake of XL’s collapse

XL Holidays, Britain’s third-largest tour operator, last night went into administration, grounding 21 planes and causing chaos for 85,000 people who are currently on holiday in addition to the 200,000 who were due to travel on its flights or via its collection of disparately-named holiday companies (Kosmar, Freedom Holidays, The Really Great Holiday Company, etc., etc.).

Says Derek Moore, Chairman of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO): “We have long warned of the likely implications of the Government allowing a two-tier industry to exist, and here we have a prime example of what happens when things go wrong. Consumers who booked holidays through ATOL-protected tour operators, e.g. with AITO members, will be helped by their tour operator to find new flights – not easy when 21 planes each carrying 170 people on several flights a day have been removed from the flight market overnight. Additionally, the tour operator will cover all extra costs involved, which can be considerable.

“Consumers who booked holidays independently, e.g. direct with the airline and direct with their accommodation provider, will have to sort themselves out. If they can’t find new flights, or if the flights they can find are too expensive for them, they will still be obliged to pay for their accommodation - even if they can’t reach it. Unprotected consumers lose out both in terms of potentially losing their holiday and in terms of it costing them a lot more than they had budgeted.

“It’s a ghastly mess all-round, and needn’t have been so had the Government followed the travel industry’s recommendations - including those of its own select committee on transport - to insist that airlines were also brought within the remit of the ATOL regulations. That would have meant fair play all round, for consumers and for holiday companies.”

How can consumers ensure they don’t fall into the crack if an airline collapses?
1. Book with a fully-bonded tour operator, e.g. AITO member (www.aito.co.uk). This is the safest and least-hassle route, as it’s the tour operator’s responsibility to ensure you get your holiday and to absorb any and all costs incurred in rebooking flights, amending accommodation arrangements if necessary, etc.
2. Pay by credit card and the credit card company will refund the money lost – but it won’t cover any higher costs incurred re-booking flights late in the day. NB debit cards do not offer this cover or get you home if you are stranded abroad.
3. Buy airline failure insurance – but, again, be aware that - unless stated to the contrary in the policy - it won’t cover any higher costs incurred due to last-minute re-booking of flights. When airlines get into difficulty, airline failure insurance is sometimes withdrawn by the insurers.
To summarise, Derek Moore of AITO says: “In the current troubled financial climate, play it safe and book your trip away, whether short break or longer holiday, via a fully-bonded tour operator. You won’t lose flexibility – but you will lose the worry that your holiday might disappear or end up paying a lot more for it.”

Moore confirms that AITO will again be lobbying Government to bring the airlines within the ATOL remit to avoid repetition of this problem. “Two airlines – Zoom and XL – going bust in the space of two weeks ought, we think, be enough to make the Government reconsider the situation. Airlines can’t continue to claim that they are impervious to potential collapse with fuel prices being so high and with exchange rates so volatile.”

Ends
12th September, 2008

Note for Editors:
1. ATOL is the CAA’s Air Travel Organisers’ Licence. All tour operators selling flight-inclusive holidays are required to gain an ATOL licence, which means that the CAA monitors their finances closely and that the CAA will repatriate and refund their customers if a company fails.
2. Airlines are currently outside the ATOL system, although they sell holidays in exactly the same way that tour operators do (e.g. via XL.com in the XL situation).
3. This two-tier system means that some people on XL’s flights and holidays are protected while some are not – and it’s doubtful that the consumers concerned were aware of this differential when they booked their holiday or flight.
4. All 140 members of AITO (www.aito.co.uk) are fully bonded for the financial protection of their customers.
5. Many AITO members are currently working hard to re-protect their clients’ flights and holidays as a result of the collapse of XL the airline. All additional costs incurred will be absorbed by the tour operator and not passed on to customers.
6. If consumers booked a “dynamically packaged” holiday via a travel agent, they will need to check with their agent to find out if they are financially protected or not.

Press: For further information, or to interview an AITO spokesperson, please call Ian Bradley on 020 8891 4440 (i.bradley@travelpr.co.uk) or Sue Ockwell on 07831 126 356

Senegal Out of Qualifying Places With One Match Remaining

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal lost their penultimate World Cup Qualifier against Algeria on Saturday, leaving them third in Group 6.

Their final match against neighbours Gambia will be crucial as both teams currently have eight points, one point behind leaders Algeria, with The Gambia ahead on goal difference. Only the twelve group winners and best eight runners-up will advance to the final qualifying phase where they will be divided into five groups; the winners of each group joining hosts South Africa at the finals in 2010.

Saturday’s match remained goalless until the second half; despite taking an early lead, Senegal were soon 3-1 down after Algeria scored three times in just 13 minutes. Mamadou Sougou managed a stoppage-time consolation goal but it was not enough for the previously unbeaten Senegalese.

Senegalese Presidential Term to Be Extended

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal’s presidential term of office is set to be extended from five to seven years after the country’s lawmakers voted overwhelmingly in favour of an amendment.

The amendment to Article 27 of the country’s constitution will not come into effect until 2012 when President Abdoulaye Wade’s term comes to an end. He could still benefit however, as the 82 year old could stand in the 2012 elections to challenge for another term. The bill needs the approval of the President, senate and congress before being passed but due to the overwhelming majority of Wade’s ruling Parti Democratic Senegalaise, it is unlikely to be opposed.

The country’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice Madické Niang says the reforms are essential due to the government’s inability to perform on time but opposition groups argue that a referendum should be called for such an important constitutional change.

Goalless Draw Not Good Enough

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite their standing at the top of Group 6 in the round two qualifiers for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Senegal's Lions of Teranga cannot afford to be complacent. The goalless draw against Libya in this month’s friendly in Tripoli definitely didn’t live up to expections.

The team’s poor attacking display against Libya must be improved upon if they are to succeed in Blida next month when they meet Algeria in a crucial World Cup qualifier. Questions still remain whether French-based striker Mamadou Niang will make himself available after he opted out of the national team in June after becoming disillusioned with preparations for the African Cup of Nations. Niang finished second-highest scorer with 18 goals in Ligue 1 in France last season with Marseille, and his return would be a big boost to Senegal's qualification hopes. However, Stoke City midfielder Salif Diao, who helped Senegal reach the last eight at the 2002 World Cup, is back in favour after a four-year absence from the national side.

The appeal of the beach resort 'Saly'

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since releasing its first dedicated brochure to the destination in June, The Senegal Experience anticipates a successful first season of operation to Senegal this winter.
Within its inaugural programme, the independent tour operator (sister company to The Gambia Experience) features five properties within the beach resort of Saly; a region made more accessible by the specialist offering flights into Dakar with Brussels Airlines.

The picturesque resort of Saly is located on the ‘Petite Côte’ or ‘Little Coast’, approximately 50 miles south of Dakar and 40 miles north of the Sine Saloum Delta (which The Senegal Experience also features).
As well as being one of the most important fishing ports in Senegal, Saly is an ideal holiday destination that has long been popular with French and Belgian tourists who return year after year.

The palm-fringed sandy beaches and clear waters are an obvious lure for holidaymakers, but also for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking a more active holiday.
Saly has several excellent watersports centres facilitating a range of activities, such as jet-skiing, water-skiing and windsurfing, as well as providing catamarans and kayaks.
There are also several well-established fishing clubs in Saly offering world-class, deep-sea fishing.

On dry land the choice of pursuits continues. Quad and buggy tours or horse treks are available in and around the resort. Saly is home to one of Senegal’s best 18 hole golf courses, as well as the Accrobaobab Adventure Park, where both adults and children alike can climb, swing and slide on a series of nets and ropes amongst the baobab trees.
The nearby Bandia Nature Reserve wildlife park will also delight, courtesy of the opportunity to see the animals roaming freely through the park. Inhabitants include giraffes, rhino, zebra, ostrich, antelopes, buffalo, bush pigs and impala, as well as the many colourful species of birds, which flock to make the warmer climes of Senegal home.

Outside of the hotels there is a small selection of shops offering a range of colourful goods, such as paintings, jewellery and ornaments, as well as several bars, restaurants and supermarkets.

The Senegal Experience offers 7-night holidays in Saly from £699 per person. This price is based on half-board accommodation at the 3½ -grade Hotel Royam and includes return flights from Gatwick to Dakar (via Brussels), transfers and taxes (valid for departures 26 November – 11 December 08).
Additional hotel options offered by the specialist include the 5-grade Lamantin Beach Hotel, the most luxurious hotel in Saly. Set in African style, two-storey bungalows amongst manicured gardens, the hotel boasts a large swimming pool, its own spa, gym, marina, private white sandy beach and restaurant offering gourmet cuisine.
A 7-night holiday at Lamantin Beach Hotel this winter starts from £899 per person, including flights and transfers.

The Senegal Experience is currently running a number of special offers, including discounts of £75 per person on all 14-night holidays at any of its featured hotels, valid for departures 1 November - 6 December 08.
The tour operator offers a choice of twice-weekly scheduled flights into Dakar with Brussels Airlines (via Brussels) as part of its holiday packages. Departures are offered from London Gatwick, as well as regional departures from Birmingham and Manchester. For more information please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

An adventurous tour on Africa's wilder side

Tony Dawe - The Times — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This must be as good an adventure as you can get on a package holiday - and its starts in that benign destination, The Gambia. After a night in the comfort of the Coconut Residence, with two pools and an acclaimed restaurant, the excitement begins with a short drive to Banjul port to catch the ferry across the Gambia River.

Those in the know and with a few dalasis in the hand will be allowed through the port gates to reach the quayside. When they and their vehicles are aboard, the gates open and hundreds of locals rush for the ancient vessel - women with children on their backs and sacks of flour on their heads; men pulling trolleys and carrying suitcases; peanut vendors and iced-drink sellers.

The overcrowded ferry takes 50 minutes to reach Barra and from there the border with Senegal is a 20-minute drive. A new road is being built with EU funds to replace the current sand-blown track.

Into Senegal, the road is less dusty, but so potholed that drivers head off on to tracks across the plain, only returning to the highway when a stream has to be crossed. The villages along the way are a mixture of straw huts and stone houses with corrugated iron roofs. Cattle, goats, donkeys and the odd boar roam in and out of the houses and the traffic.

The four-hour journey on this Gambia Experience trip to the Sine Saloum Delta is broken with a stop for a snack and a drink in a café in Kaolack, an oasis of calm in a chaotic town at the centre of the salt industry.

The spirit of adventure is still present on reaching Les Collines de Niassam, an eco-lodge a mile from the Atlantic. Guests have the choice of walking out along a pontoon to one of four thatched huts on stilts in the lagoon or climbing into a house in a baobab tree. The less nimble can settle for a simple bungalow.

The excursions on offer are just as exciting or nerve-racking as the journey to the delta: a microlight ride, canoeing in the mangrove, trekking, a trip in a local fishing boat.

I settled for an evening ride in a primitive horse-drawn cart in search of hyenas and a morning sail up the lagoon in a rickety pirogue, excellently piloted by Ousman, who had restored the traditional craft and is creating a museum in the neighbouring village.

The eco-lodge is charming, but has one disadvantage: although all the accommodation has a shower, sink and toilet, the water is cold. If you insist on hot water, a waiter will bring a bucket from the kitchen to your room.

So it is a pleasure to decamp a mile to the Royal Lodge and luxuriate in a vast spa bath in a bright and airy bathroom. This is a remarkable hotel, a fully-fledged resort amid the bougainvillea and baobab trees on the edge of Africa. It has most things you would expect in a western resort: a large infinity pool with a spa bath at the centre, a sandy beach, an accomplished and airy restaurant, a beauty salon, laundry and 24-hour a day service.

The Gambia Experience offers a week's holiday combining The Gambia and the Sine Saloum Delta region of Senegal from £1,049. This price is based on a flight from Gatwick to Banjul, transfer to Coconut Residence for half-board for a night, travel to the delta for three nights' half-board at Les Collines, two nights' half-board at the Royal Lodge and return to Banjul for a final night's half-board at Coconut Residence.

From November, The Gambia Experience will be offering holidays direct to Senegal with flights to Dakar, the capital, thus cutting out the ferry trip and reducing the journey time to the delta to three hours.

For those happy to settle for the sunshine in The Gambia, the company offers a range of holidays, with prices for a week's B&B at the four-star Kombo Beach Hotel in Kotu starting from £399 this month, including return flights from Gatwick and transfers.

www.gambia.co.uk 0845 3302087

Serenity Holidays launches The Senegal Experience 08 09 Brochure

Press Office - The Senegal Experience — Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Leading tour operator Serenity Holidays continues to build on its West African specialism by expanding its programme in Senegal and launching its first ever dedicated Senegal Experience brochure this week.

Serenity Holidays is well known for its flagship, award-winning travel company The Gambia Experience, which, with over twenty years of operation, has established itself as the leading specialist to The Gambia, offering exclusive accommodation and leading the way with Responsible Tourism initiatives.

Prior to this current launch of The Senegal Experience brochure (November 2008 – October 2009), The Gambia Experience has featured two hotels within the Sine Saloum Delta region for the last five years.

Now, as a stand-alone operation, The Senegal Experience includes five properties within the Sine Saloum Delta region and five within the beach resort area of Saly.

Formed where two rivers converge on the Atlantic Ocean, the Sine Saloum Delta (180,000-hectares) is a region of great diversity consisting of rivers, glorious beaches, mangrove swamps, sand islands and ever-shifting dunes. Properties featured here include the deluxe Le Royal Lodge Hotel.

Nestled on the outskirts of the Saloum Delta National Park, Le Royal Lodge is located on a virtually-deserted, unspoilt sandy beach, and exudes both tranquility and luxury.
Le Royal Lodge is exclusive to The Senegal Experience, as is the character property, Lodge des Collines, where guests can choose from a selection of inspiring ‘room’options – tree houses set in a majestic baobab tree, stilted water lodges on the lagoon, or stylish African ground lodges with straw roofs.

Both hotels also offer a varied excursion programme for their guests.

The resort of Saly is located on the ‘Petite Côte’ or ‘Little Coast’, approximately 50 miles south of Dakar and 40 miles north of the Sine Saloum Delta.

As well as being one of the most important fishing ports in Senegal, Saly is an ideal holiday destination that has long been popular with French and Belgian tourists and that has a very established feel with its variety of hotels surrounding the idyllic palm-fringed sandy beaches with calm, clear waters.

Bars, restaurants and shops are plentiful, as are the abundance of activities, which include water sports, golf and horse-riding. The area is also home to the Bandia Nature Reserve - a wildlife park where animals such as giraffes, rhino and zebra roam freely.
Exclusive properties to The Senegal Experience include Lamantin Beach, the most luxurious hotel in Saly.

Set in African style two-storey bungalows, the hotel boasts its own Spa, marina and a private white sandy beach.

Alternate hotel options include Tama Lodge, where accommodation takes the form of typical thatched Senegalese huts, whose doors open directly onto the golden sands.

View our Senegal hotel collection »

Senegal sits on the Atlantic Ocean, at Africa’s most westerly point between Mali, Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania, with The Gambia almost entirely enclosed within it.

Although relatively new to British holidaymakers, Senegal has long been a favourite holiday destination for our European neighbours, with French as the official language, but English becoming more widely spoken.

In line with The Gambia, Senegal shares guaranteed winter sun, the same time zone, and a vibrant, welcoming culture, however it has ample defining features to offer a completely unique holiday experience.

Discover more about Senegal »

The Senegal Experience includes twice-weekly scheduled flights into Dakar, Senegal with Brussels Airlines (via Brussels) as part of its holiday packages. Departures are offered from London Gatwick, as well as regional departures from Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester.
Similarly, through the winter season, sister company The Gambia Experience offers twice-weekly flights into Banjul (in The Gambia) from London Gatwick and the following regional airports; Bristol, East Midlands and Manchester, and a weekly departure from Glasgow.

With viable flight options into both Dakar and Banjul, the tour operator can easily tailor multi-centre holidays within Senegal and with The Gambia and to suit its clients’ requirements.

View flight information to Senegal »

The Senegal Experience is offering a selection of Early Booking Offers, valid if booked by 30 June 2008. These include a discount of £75 per person on all 14-night holidays departing 01 November – 06 December 2008.

View all Early Booking Offers »

Holidays with The Senegal Experience start from £699 per person. This price is based on 7-nights half-board at the 3½ -grade Hotel Royam in Saly and includes return flights from Gatwick to Dakar (via Brussels), transfers and taxes (valid for departures 26 Nov – 11 Dec 08 and not including any offer discounts)

For more information please call The Senegal Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 338 8706 or visit www.senegal.co.uk

Senegal and Gambia fishing agreement

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Gambia has signed an agreement with neighbouring Senegal over the issue of sustainable fishing policy to ensure the two countries can maintain their resources for the global dynamic food industry.

The Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission from 1985 was the Western African countries' first attempt to harmonise the fisheries polices on the coast.
Its members include Gambia, Senegal, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Mauritania.

"The Senegalese-Gambian fishing agreement was to strengthen the fisheries industry of the two countries, noting that the two had a common fishing understanding," Senegalese minister of state for maritime economy, maritime transport, fisheries and aquaculture, Souleymane Ndene Ndiaye, told Panapress.

Senegal Plans ‘African Renaissance’ monument

Reuters - — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Senegal's President Abdoulaye Wade launched the building of an "African Renaissance" monument on the continent's westernmost tip late on Thursday, which he said would stand taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York.

The 50-metre bronze statue, which will stand atop a 100-metre hill looking out over the Atlantic Ocean on the edge of the capital Dakar, is meant to symbolise Africa's liberation from "centuries of ignorance, intolerance and racism".

"There is a Statue of Liberty in the United States, an Arc de Triomphe and an Eiffel Tower in Paris," Wade said at a ground-breaking ceremony as North Korean construction workers laid the foundations behind him.

"I wanted to give flesh to the African Renaissance so that people know that we came through six centuries of darkness and we are going towards the light," he said on the eve of the former French colony's April 4 independence day celebrations.

The octogenarian leader, who began his second and final five-year term last year, wants infrastructure and cultural landmarks to remain as his legacy after he leaves office.

His administration has already transformed parts of Dakar over the past few years with four-lane highways and five-star hotels, and Wade is also planning West Africa's largest theatre and a huge Museum of Black Civilisations for the city.

But some Dakar residents complain he has focused on glamorous building projects while neglecting more basic needs, such as ending regular power cuts or dealing with a sharp rise in food prices and in the cost of living.

The Monument of the African Renaissance shows a muscular man with a cloth wrapped around his waist rising from a volcano, a baby in his left hand and a woman in his right.

"By chance this statue will stand 150 metres tall, one or two centimetres more than the Statue of Liberty," Wade said.

He said replicas of the monument, due to be finished by December 2009, would be given to other African nations and to any other foreign cities which expressed an interest.

Green Turtle Nesting Sites Discovered In Senegal

ScienceDaily - — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ScienceDaily — A WWF survey has discovered several marine turtle nesting sites on the beaches of Senegal, prompting calls from conservationists to improve protection of the endangered species.

The survey — conducted by WWF staff, Senegalese wildlife officials and the local community between July and September — discovered nine new green turtle nests on the beaches of Joal-Fadiouth in the Saloum Delta south of the capital, Dakar.
Turtle tracks in the sand left by female turtles were also discovered at nearby Palmarine Beach as well as at Langue de Barbarie at the mouth of the Senegal River in the northern part of the country.

“The nests confirm that these beaches are important nesting sites and must be protected,” said Dr Mamadou Diallo, WWF Senegal’s programme manager for species.

“Even beaches with tracks but no nests are important to protect as they are potential nesting sites.”

In Joal-Fadiouth, where the nine nests were found, each was marked and enclosed with wire mesh to protect them from predators.

Thanks to a broadly supported public awareness campaign, illegal turtle capture and consumption has dropped by over 80% in Joal-Fadiouth.

"By protecting the nesting beaches, we not only help conserve this rare species but also provide the basis to develop sustainable tourism to watch these rare turtles in their natural setting,” Dr Diallo added.

In October and November, as hatching time draws near, the surveillance teams will work all night to take photographs and count the hatchlings as they find their way back to the sea.

In addition to green turtles, the waters of Senegal, and the greater West African Marine Ecoregion, are also home to other marine turtle species, including the loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback.
Adapted from materials provided by World Wildlife Fund