Popularly known as ‘the Smiling Coast of Africa’, The Gambia boasts numerous unspoiled beaches. The miles of empty white sand beaches attract tourists from around the globe seeking rest and relaxation. And fortunately for them, the beautiful scenery is complemented by exquisite local accommodation. The Ocean Bay Resort, located on the beach in Cape Point, Bakau, and the Kairaba Hotel, found on Kololi beach, are the outstanding hotels in the region and have hosted many famous national and foreign personages.

“The hotel was officially opened by His Excellency Dr. Alh. Yahya A. J. J. Jammeh, President of the Republic of The Gambia, in July 2004,” says Ocean Bay’s General Manager Lucien Gibiser. “We are located along the beach on the mouth of the River Gambia, with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean, undeniably the best beach in The Gambia.”

Travelers love both the Ocean Bay Resort and Kairaba Hotel for their proximity to breathtaking beaches and spectacular amenities. The award-winning Ocean Bay Resort boasts 195 rooms, each with a complete bathroom, individually controlled air conditioning, direct dial telephone, electronic safe and 24-hour room service. Guests enjoy a lovely pool stashed between the resort’s Gambian-inspired villas.

For a true dining experience, the Ocean Bay’s famous restaurant, The Ocean Clipper, offers a fusion of Thai and Mediterranean food, an exclusive selection of wines stored in its signature cellar Cave Bacchus, and a range of handmade branded Cuban cigars and premium cognacs, all of which have helped it earn a distinct reputation amongst diplomats and foreign officials.

The luxurious five-star Kairaba contains equally impressive facilities. Located in the middle of 40 acres of lush tropical gardens and miles of sandy beaches, the Kairaba has more than 150 rooms, and boasts a spectacular swimming pool and gardens with over 60 different species of birds. Not surprisingly, guests have trouble leaving the hotel.

“People come to the Kairaba Hotel to relax and unwind,” says Gerard Lombardo, General Manager of the hotel. “That is why our guests keep returning. Sixty percent of our clients have been here before and have come back.” It not uncommon to find many of them enjoying a cocktail by the pool or strolling in the gardens before going to eat at the resort’s renowned restaurants.

After sumptuous meals, long walks on the beach and many hours by the pool, many guests want an added bit of pampering. The Vitala Beauty Studio is the beauty and health center and combines the ultimate in relaxing treatments and beauty services.

Exceptional amenities are complemented with an exceptional staff. The employees of both the Ocean Bay and Kairaba offer world-class service and professionalism thanks to good training and employee incentive programs. The range of amenities and quality of the staff were recognized in 2005 and 2006 when the hotels were awarded the Thomas Cook Mark of Excellence Award. Furthermore, both are members of the Great Hotels of the World.