Tui launches winter service from Birmingham to The Gambia

Tui is expanding its programme to The Gambia with the addition of its first-ever direct flights from Birmingham to the Gambian capital of Banjul.

From November 2, the new weekly Monday service will fly customers to Banjul in about six hours, with prices for a package holiday from about £800 per person.

The route joins Tui’s existing Gambian services from Gatwick and Manchester airports.

Chris Logan, commercial director at Tui UK, said: “We know Brits are looking for winter sun that delivers great value without the long flight times, and destinations like The Gambia are seeing real growth as a result.

“You can be on the beach in just over six hours, enjoy guaranteed sunshine, and with a Tui package holiday everything’s included from flights, accommodation, transfers, luggage, food and drink making it an easy, great-value alternative to traditional long-haul hotspots.”

The operator said temperatures in The Gambia are around 30°C between November and April, and the country offers beaches and warm seas with “a laid-back vibe and buzzing beachside scene”.

Tui’s Linda Sharrocks, who has been a travel agent for 28 years, recently visited The Gambia and highlighted its beaches, friendly people, markets, wildlife and restaurants.

“There’s plenty to do beyond the beach too, from exploring colourful local markets to spotting wildlife or taking a river cruise along the Gambia River,” she said.

“I stayed at the African Princess Beach Hotel, which I’d really recommend, and I also loved the look of Tui Blue Tamala Beach right on the beachfront.

“Eating and drinking out is so cheap, you can get a meal and a drink for a few pounds.”

Matt Hazelwood, chief commercial officer at Birmingham Airport, added: “We are delighted to welcome The Gambia back to our list of direct destinations with Tui.

“This popular winter sun getaway is easily accessible from Birmingham Airport, offering beautiful sandy beaches, stunning scenery, and nature reserves rich in Gambian wildlife, all just a six-hour flight.”