According to forum posts, several restaurants in Gambia come highly recommended by travelers. Paradisio is a favorite for its memorable dining experience. Restaurants such as Scala, primarily known for its steakhouse offerings, and Al Rawshe, a Lebanese restaurant, are also popular. Moreover, Figaros is noted for its surprisingly good steak and chips.

For those interested in local Gambian cuisine, Spanglas in Brusubi is recommended for its local dishes like plasas, made from potato leaf or cassava leaf. Additionally, Kadi Kadi on Koiloi New Road is favored by locals for lunch, offering traditional dishes around 2 to 2:30 PM.

While most of these restaurants are accessible and offer a variety of dishes, travelers have mentioned that it's best to specify if you prefer less spicy options when ordering local fare to avoid overly hot meals.

According to forum posts, the price for a meal can vary significantly based on location and type of eatery. For instance, a three-course meal at a restaurant may cost between GBP 13.61 and GBP 37.00. Local restaurants offer Gambian dishes for as low as 75-100 dalasis, whereas more upscale options like Italian cuisine could go from 500-600 dalasis per dish.

Travelers have noted that the cost of beer also varies. For example, a 500ml beer on the strip is generally priced around 100-120 dalasis. Julbrew, a popular local beer, can be found for about 60 dalasis in some places, with prices rising up to 150 dalasis in others depending on the establishment. Bottles of Julbrew were mentioned to cost around 45 dalasis at some local bars.

According to forum posts, the Kartong river crossing in the south of Gambia is a popular but informal entry point into Senegal. Although UK citizens don't require a visa for Senegal, the absence of Senegalese border control means entry through this point could be considered illegal without a proper stamp in the passport.

For a more formal and legal crossing, travelers have mentioned the main border at Sileti as a reliable point where proper entry and exit stamps can be obtained. Documents necessary for crossing include a passport and, depending on the direction of travel, a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Some travelers said that local border guards on the Gambian side might allow passage informally, but emphasized the risk of encountering issues in Senegal if stopped by authorities without an entry stamp. For peace of mind, travelers have pointed out that using recognized and official border crossings is advisable.

According to forum posts, Gambia has a wide availability of currency exchange options. Travelers have mentioned that it is easy to exchange pounds, euros, and dollars at numerous exchange booths located in the main resort areas and that these booths often stay open late.

Some travelers said that pounds are the easiest currency to exchange and are generally preferred for exchanging into Gambian Dalasi. The exchange rates mentioned vary slightly, with rates around 74 Dalasi to the pound noted in some areas. It was also noted that exchange rates inside hotels are similar to those found outside on the streets.

For many users, using money transfer services like APS is recommended, allowing them to transfer money and pick it up at various locations within Gambia. This method is highlighted as a safer alternative to carrying large amounts of cash.

Travelers have called out the importance of counting exchanged money carefully, as issues like folded notes being counted twice can occur.

According to forum posts, Banjul Airport offers limited facilities for passengers with disabilities. There are no tunnel access from the plane, only steps, but help is available for descending the stairs or being carried down in a wheelchair. Assistance at the airport is reportedly efficient in navigating through the terminal chaos.

Travelers have mentioned that Banjul Airport includes basic services such as an outdoor smoking area near the departures. The airport provides a chaotic but functional process for entry and exit, involving standard immigration and security checks. For non-vaccinated travelers, COVID-19 testing is required, while vaccinated individuals can bypass the test.

Some users noted that the airport has an outdoor café area where smoking is permitted. There are also luggage storage services available, making transitions smoother for travelers with extended layovers or waiting times. Despite some operational inefficiencies, the overall traveler experience seems manageable with the available services.

According to forum posts, purchasing Dalasi outside of The Gambia is challenging, as it is a closed currency in many countries, including the UK. Some travelers mentioned that it might be possible to obtain Dalasi at some UK airports, but the rates are not favorable.

Travelers have called out that the best places to exchange currency are within The Gambia itself. It is recommended to carry British Pounds (£) and exchange them locally for a better rate. Many users suggested using street bureaus or hotels, which are known to offer competitive exchange rates compared to the airport.

Some travelers said that GBP and other major currencies like Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted in The Gambia, especially for taxi fares and tips. However, for the best value, it is advisable to convert these into Dalasi once in the country.

According to forum posts, Independence Day on February 18th is a significant celebration in Gambia, with local and international participants soaking up the festive atmosphere in Banjul.

Some travelers mentioned that Christmas in Gambia is quite low-key compared to other places, with minimal decorations and a traditional feel reminiscent of the 1960s in the UK. In contrast, New Year’s Eve is described as far more lively, featuring buffets, fireworks, and celebrations.