|
My first
impressions flying into the Gambia were of how unusual the country
looks from the sky. The coastline struck me as being particularly
striking with tiny tree areas dotted in huge stretches of water
which seemed to go well inland .
 |
| We
were greeted by dancers as we went to get our bus to the
hotel |
Arriving
at the Banjul Airport in the middle of the afternoon, our level
of excitement and anticipation was only matched by the heat
that hit us as we stepped out into the bright sunshine.
We had our
first experience of the attention the Roots Festival garners
in Gambia - I was interviewed by a Gambian TV crew before even
setting foot inside the terminal building .
 |
| Then
we were whisked off to rest up until tomorrow when the work
begins |
Leaving
the airport for the hotel was also different. A musical welcome
had been laid on and we were serenaded by about half a dozen
musicians and dancers as we got on the bus.
Local entrepreneurs
had also been alerted to our arrival, and so began what was
to be a constant dialogue to buy carvings, clothes and other
cultural accoutrements. Even currency exchange featured in their
business portfolio.
On reaching
the Hotel, another omen of what was to come greeted us in the
rooms. The King size bed came complete with four large, swirling
mosquito nets.
Dinner and
then bed - the first day done.
Read
about Dave's first day
|
