he Gambia is a narrow strip of land wedged tightly between the northern and southern halves of Senegal. Its main geographic feature is the River Gambia. While many of those who visit Senegal on an Alken Tour also make a brief visit to the Gambia, this small country has many features that make it an interesting destination all on its own. The Gambia is home to Juffure, the riverside village that is now famous - due in large part to the novel "Roots", written by Alex Haley in his legendary search for his ancestors. As the birthplace of boy slave Kunte Kinte, it has inspired the annual Roots Homecoming Festival held each June. During this week-long event, the Gambia receives hundreds of visitors who come in search of their own "roots". Throughout the week there are workships in arts and crafts, African cooking, local music, and drumming and dance. Visitors are treated to traditional cultural performances and receive honors at special banquets and events like the Naming Ceremony.

During the rest of the year, the Gambia is worshipped for its miles of powdered sand beaches and a warm tropical climate that draws Europeans and Americans alike to its Atlantic shore. The country is also home to wetlands and several of the world's most important bird sanctuaries.

The capital Banjul features typical African markets and guilds of craftsmen who turn out masks, carvings and beads both for tourists and for trade across the African continent. Here, time marches to a different drummer, a land small in size, but big on tradition and hospitality. When shopping takes its toll, it's time to relax by the pool - or take a solitary stroll along the beach to watch fishermen returning with the daily catch. The Gambia offers the holiday-goer the full spectrum: from hectic bargaining and throbbing nightlife, and wonderful cuisine, to simple relaxation and the passing of a quiet vacation without a care in the world. Visit the Alken Gallery to view Richard Goodman's photographs of The Gambia

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