Banjul, The Capital of Gambia
Banjul is The Capital of Gambia and one of the best examples of urban Africa. The sand-blown streets play host to colorful markets and fading colonial buildings, and a sense of history permeates every district. The Gambian capital may be one Africa's smallest cities, but it has a big personality not soon forgotten by travelers.
The Royal Albert Market is the bustling heart of Banjul. Named after the husband of Queen victoria, the market is an extensive emporium that comes alive with pungent aromas, lively scenes and the hum of shoppers and sellers haggling over prices on everything from vivid, shimmering fabrics and shining silver jewelry to fresh produce and the latest electronics. Packed to the brim, the market's labyrinth of alleys are a great place to immerse yourself in Gambian culture.
The National Museum offers a good introduction to the country's history. The wide range of exhibits covers everything from medieval trans-Saharan trade to, oddly, the dress beauty pageant queen Miss Gambia wore in 1984. The dusty display of photographs, maps and documents detailing Gambia's colonial history and struggle for independence is the most interesting display.
