General Tips for Volunteers
Full integration into the new environment of the country that a volunteer spends time in is rarely possible, so do not be ashamed of being who you are; an individual from another culture.
However, not attempting to integrate at all is shameful. After all, choosing to be a volunteer in The Gambia is asking for an adventure!
Learn the local languages (in its entirety is obviously not possible, unless you plan to stay for years). Even just a few phrases will really go a long way here in The Gambia and locals will appreciate the effort taken.
Eat the local food. Gambian dishes are very delicious and offer enough variety to suit most dietary needs. As a volunteer you can likely not afford to eat at the nice restaurants all the time anyway so get used to eating such things as benachin and tapalapa sandwiches.
Travel upcountry (unless you are already stationed there. Even then, try to travel the country). Seeing the rural parts of The Gambia is a must, as this is the real Africa. Locals upcountry are very welcoming, there is a lot of wildlife and unspoiled wilderness, and seeing the thousands of stars in the quiet of night is something not to be missed. It's easy to stay in the comforts of the Kombos area, however, a few trips upcountry offer true serenity, away from all the hustle and bustle.
Give yourself a break. Most, if not all volunteers go through an emotional cycle that includes many highs and many lows. Usually, the first month or so can be very exciting, where everything is new. Once the excitement wears off however, depression can sink in quickly. It can be set off by having had a bad experience, having been ill, or even just the realization that you are far away from your family and friends back home.
You can and will get over this depressive state. Give yourself some time before making any haste decisions on going back home. Go out with friends, treat yourself to good food, even spend a night or two in a touristy hotel if you have to (just don't get too used to the luxury!
You can even email the author at info(at)destinationgambia(dot)com with your troubles. After a few weeks you will feel much better and begin a journey of acceptance to your situation. An acceptance that you chose, as a volunteer, to commit to. At the end of the journey it will all have been worth it and you will have had a life-changing experience that you will never forget.
Sweating. It is inevitable while in The Gambia and therefore using an antiperspirant is basically useless. Instead, try using a deodorant. The best option is to use an all natural mineral salts rock deodorant (sometimes called the crystal) which is very effective in eliminating odour while allowing the body to naturally perspire (as it will anyway). In addition, this deodorant will last at least a year or more.
Bring a little from home. In addition to the items on the What to Pack list, bringing a few items from home can be an instant mood enhancer:
Photo album. Consider bringing a small photo album with photos of family, friends, and your country. This can also be shown to Gambians who would love to see them, especially to those you may be living with or working with.
World map. A folded world map doesn't take up much space in your luggage and not only does it make a good wall accessory, it can be very entertaining to Gambians if you show them where The Gambia is in relation to your home.
Favourite snacks. Ok, so you can't bring a juicy burger and fries with you (though these are available in The Gambia anyway), you could bring a few dry items with you that can remind you of home. Maple syrup candies from Canada for example were a great hit.
Presents sent from home. Make sure your family and friends send you packages in the mail, at least once anyway. It's great to receive mail while you are here, if you end up receiving it that is...the postal system in The Gambia is not reliable so make sure nothing of value is sent through to you as you may never see it.
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