Gambia, six hours flight from the UK is on the West Coast of Africa. The country which is about 30 miles in width (at its widest point) and 200 miles long, sits either side of the Gambia River. Its coastal area is on Atlantic Ocean and the rest of the country is completely surrounded by Senegal. The capital Banjul (formerly Bathurst in colonial days) is about 10 mins from the Kololi area which contains the biggest tourist area. Gambia is also home to the Kinte family of 'Roots' fame and the former slave trading post can still be seen at Fort St James.