I finally took my first trip to Africa. Starting with The Gambia. Why?

1. A wise friend suggested it.

2. It was within my budget.

3. The 6 hour flight seemed doable

4. There's no time zone difference (which means no jet lag!) and

5. Sun in January? A no-brainer (and also the first time I've ever been able to do so. Because, teaching.)

It was a good choice. My only real regret is that I didn't plan to stay for longer.

The Gambia is a long slim country situated on the West coast of Africa on either side of the Gambian River. It is surrounded by Senegal and has been nicknamed 'The smiling coast of Africa'. It's a hot, beautiful country whose Tourist industry is going from strength to strength. The population is 75% Muslim and 25% Christian. Everyone speaks English as well as one or more of 10 other languages including Wolof and Mandinka. I stayed at a hotel in Kotu beach near the capital, Banjul.

My reasons for visiting were personal and professional. The latter because my work using fabrics of African origin made me want to find out so much more about the countries they came from. I also wanted to visit a place that needed my money, if that make sense? The former? That's for another time.

My trip was exciting, relaxing, hot, eye-opening, life-affirming and lots in between. I learned a lot about The Gambia and, perhaps more importantly, even more about myself. It started badly as my luggage arrived 28 hours after I did (a glitch at Gatwick), but my experiences would fill a book and I shall probably dine out on some tales for a while yet. I'm so glad I went and I would love to return. But I would also like to visit and find out about many more African countries if I can. Suggestions welcome.

So I won't say much more... except enjoy the pictures!

First night. But with my clothing still at Gatwick Airport it meant Bedsheet chic and ready for dinner!

Julbrew. A refreshing local beer brewed in The Gambia.

President Yahya Jammeh and his winning smile.

The Batik Factory in Serrekunda is a family business. Batik in process - applying a layer of wax to the cloth.

Mud cloth drying in the sun. These might be used as Wall hangings or rugs or for heavier clothing.

Artwork hung out to dry under a large Mango tree. The central tables contain hundreds of folded and ironed fabric or handmade finished items such as tablecloths and bedding sets.

Beautifully intricate tie dyed fabric soaking in indigo dye. It will seep for 3 days before being rinsed, washed and dried. Then it will be completely colourfast.

Nafri (sp) the matriach expertly models a piece of finished tie dyed indigo cloth, her own handiwork. Usually worn as a skirt.

Cotton Damask cloth tie-dyed to perfection. LOVE. (now mine)

Kamefif bus station near the capital, Banjul.

Haberdashery and furnishings shop. Ribbons!

Battered but beautifully decorated passenger van.

Boys Marching band. Followed almost immediately by a Grown up Brass band (not pictured)

Grounds of the National Centre for Arts and Culture in Banjul.

Banjul National Centre for Arts and Culture is well worth a visit. It is a charity that, like all charities, needs donations to survive. It costs about 40 - 50 Dalasis entry fee. Less than a £1. If you're in The Gambia do go.