The Gambia has a tropical climate, with a hot and rainy season from July till October and the dry period, in which cooler temperatures predominate. The Gambia has a beautiful ecosystem, which is mostly intact in the rural areas. The Gambia often is given the nickname: “The Smiling Coast of Africa”, which is given due to the overall friendliness that many people experience in The Gambia.
As the population is rather low, many families are inherited and are characterized by strong social ties. This is shown by the way people greet each other on the streets and the strong social system where the extended family is still living together in one compound.
The population of The Gambia is increasing rapidly, but poverty is still widespread in The Gambia, with a higher percentage in the rural areas. Currently the Gambian economy is dominated by fishery, agriculture and, especially, tourism.
Tourism came up some 40 years ago and started several initiatives in education, agriculture, business development and individual sponsoring. The tourist industry is one of the main assets The Gambia has to offer. Especially with a new political system, The Gambia is a very enjoyable holiday destination, which creates job for thousands of people.