a Gambian friend of mine has had his beach bar burnt down!! It was in between Kolloli and Kotu ...he thinks the government are behind it!!!

HI, Nothing surprises me I take it that it was wooden built and accesible only from the beach, maxie

There is a clamp down every now and then. They can be a nuisance but lets not forget that this is the only way to earn some money, we are loaded by comparison, and anyone who has been there knows that chosing a good guide or driver can make the holiday. Dont feel threatened, dont be rude, have a conversation, say thanks and goodbye. By day 2, they know you, you know them and its not a problem. Try to have something to hand over at the end of the holiday to anyone who is particularly helpful. (I always give to the girls who clean, cash and clothes, football shirts for the kids from a quick trip round the charity shops befire I go......all Oxfam etc stuff is sold on the market anyway)

HI Very interesting when you say dont be rude,try being civil when you have been followed all along kotu highway, turn left at the junction all the way to sennigambia taxi rank,It would try the patience of a saint, this isnt the norm,but it happens,my advice deal with it any way you can cheers maxie oh I never bring clothes home I give em away, by and by we sponsor 2 gambian kids,one of whom has been picked up by 2 gambian soccer academys, so he has full time school and three whole days at the soccer academys, now thats working

Excellent. That is the best help anyone can give.