25 August 2009 - The Gambia Experience - Press Office

The Gambia Experience Luxury Collection portfolio presents a range of properties perfect for a honeymoon in Africa’s ‘smiling coast’, The Gambia.

These include the boutique, former colonial mansion, Ngala Lodge, whose cliff top position, just outside Bakau, lends to views across the ocean. Each of the 18 suites are special, but for added indulgence The Penthouse - set over two floors with a private roof terrace and skylight overlooking the bed – should be considered, as well as the Atlantic Suites, complete with their own private Jacuzzi. Honeymooners receive a complimentary bottle of wine and cocktail, as well as personal waiter service for one evening. Extras such as beauty treatments in the suite can also be arranged at a supplement.

The award-winning Mandina Lodges at Makasutu set in a 1000-acre forest on a tributary of the River Gambia offer a unique honeymoon setting and can be booked as a complete holiday or as a three or four night add-on with a stay at a coastal hotel. Guests can choose from Floating, Stilted or Jungle Lodges, and by day can discover the bush on foot, observe wildlife, visit the resident Marabou (holy man) and explore the river by pirogue. The authentic African experience is heightened in the evening with local fire dancers. Those on honeymoon receive complimentary wine and flowers in their Lodge.

Since opening in December 2008, the boutique Coco Ocean Resort & Spa has raised the standard of accommodation in The Gambia, and is comparable to luxurious hotels in the Caribbean or Asia, yet costs much less. Sister property to the acclaimed Coconut Residence, Coco Ocean Resort & Spa occupies a prime elevated position on an unspoilt beach in Bijilo, and its Spa is the first of its kind in The Gambia. Moorish architecture, swaying palms, tropical gardens and stylish interior design provide the perfect setting to celebrate a special occasion. Honeymooners receive flowers and champagne on arrival, as well as a complimentary Hammam treatment in the Spa.

Commenting on The Gambia Experience Luxury Collection and its suitability for honeymooners, product manager Karen Durham comments:

“The Gambia has evolved and is attracting increasing numbers of ‘luxury’ clientele, including those wanting to celebrate their marriage or honeymoon abroad. The Gambia is excellent value for money meaning that indulgence can be enjoyed at a much-reduced rate. Our portfolio however, is wide, and includes suggestions for every budget, from 2 grade upwards.”

This winter, The Gambia Experience offers seven-night holidays at Ngala Lodge from £854 per person in a Suite on Bed & Breakfast, including flights, transfers and taxes.

The Gambia Experience also has a dedicated wedding coordinator who is able to assist couples in arranging their wedding, as well as their honeymoon in The Gambia. Each property within the tour operator’s Luxury Collection offers specific wedding packages. For more information, please call The Gambia Experience reservations department on 0845 330 2087, visit www.gambia.co.uk or email holidays@gambia.co.uk