What We Think
If it’s a hotel-based holiday you prefer, Laico Atlantic Beach could be for you.The hotel continues to attract many repeat guests who place importance on beach location and activities in a friendly, lively atmosphere.
It has recently (August 2009) been taken over by the management company Laico Hotels and Resorts. This is a Tunisia-based company who own or manage a diverse range of hotels throughout Africa.
Set directly on a beautiful stretch of sandy beach - one of the biggest in The Gambia - this hotel is located away from the majority of tourist hotels and is spacious, comfortable and well deserving of its 4 grade rating. The reception area and public rooms are spacious and comfortable including an inside lounge area built around a huge tree which grows high above the roof. The rooms are serviced by two lifts and are of a good standard,with air-conditioning, minibar, safe, television, hairdryer and telephone, and with the option of interconnecting rooms it’s an ideal choice for families too. A limited number of sea/pool view rooms are available as an upgrade and are very popular; full Wi-Fi internet connection is available in some guest rooms and public areas.
Away from the beach, guests can choose to simply relax by the large pool where two Jacuzzis offer the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun, or take advantage of the wide range of daytime activities. During the winter there is a wide range of sports facilities and organised activities throughout the day including tennis, squash, croquet, basketball, volleyball, pool and snooker. A varied entertainment programme is provided in the evening. A particular feature of the hotel is the charming bird garden which is home to many different species, both resident and migratory, and is popular with all guests, not just birdwatchers.
There is plenty of choice for dining, with three restaurants serving a range of traditional buffet dishes, Italian and à la carte cuisine. Evening entertainment is provided on a regular basis, so you’ll probably be happy to relax at the hotel, however a good choice of restaurants can be reached in just 20 minutes by taxi. There is also a hairdresser, gift shop, games room and disco. There is now a cash-free system in operation within the hotel.
Situated about ten minutes' walk from the centre of Banjul, which has little to offer by way of nightlife, this hotel really caters for guests wishing to stay in during the evening with a full winter entertainment programme. The location does provide an ideal base for those wishing to explore the capital, shop at Albert Market, or for the adventurous, take the local Barra ferry to the North Bank. Tourist guides and taxis can be hired from the hotel's reception.
