Mango Trees
© 2008
Gambia
Food Shopping
Supermarkets in The Gambia sell pretty much everything you could need, for prices slightly higher than you might be used to at home.
A full list of supermarkets can be found by clicking here.
Marouns is the nearest to Mango Trees and stocks most items, including some imported from Tesco in the UK.
Colourful fruit stalls line the road and vendors are always happy to help you chose. Most will speak English and these make very convenient shopping options on the way home from the beach. Baku and Banjul markets are bigger and more hectic but offer a wider range of produce.
Souvenir Shopping
There are stalls and vendors selling souvenirs everywhere! Sometimes they can seem a little oppressive but a polite and firm "no thank you" is usually enough to move them on. Most hotels have bazaars and there are little markets dotted along the beach. For greater choice and better prices travel to Baku or Banjul markets.
Gambian salesmen are almost comical in requiring you to haggle - think monty Python's Life of Brian. Start by offering at least half of what they ask for but have some idea of what you would like to pay and don't be afraid to walk away from ridiculous prices.
Abdu Rahman is an excellent shopping guide and can help you find the best stalls and achieve a price everyone is happy with.
