The Atlantic beaches of Gambia are soft, sandy and superb for sunbathing. But the country has so much more to offer than its captivating coast. On a typical day near the coast, you can both chill on a white beach, go for a boat trip along the Hallehein river and explore the rich forest with its stunning flora and fauna. All that without stress. But it's the cultural wealth and warm hearts of the natives that make Gambia a place you'll want to return to.

The locals want to celebrate their cultural identities as much with their friends and families as with visitors from overseas. The perfect opportunity to experience the hospitality and local traditions is by visiting the annual Kartong Festival end of March. Kartong is an authentic coastal village within easy reach of Banjul International Airport.

On the 26th and 27th of March 2010, the finest West African artists, musicians and dancers will come to Kartong to share their gifts with each other in a gentle, respectful manner. Their art will be exhibited in the Lemon Fish Art Gallery and performances will be everywhere in the village. The inhabitants are also happy to show their fishing centre at the Atlantic coast. Visitors are welcomed to view the Folonko Sacred Crocodile Pool and Museum, which is the spiritual centre of the village, the bird watching centre and the local reptile farm.

From the 29th of March to the 2nd of April, there will also be a workshop at Halahin Lodge in Kartong. Modou Diouf, a well-known percussionist who has previously performed at the British festival WOMAD, will teach participants to play the sabar. This is a Senegalese drum which is traditionally used to communicate with other villages. It is played with one hand and a stick and can be heard over 9 miles. Nowadays, the sabar is mainly used as musical instrument.

Don't miss the opportunity to get to know this beautiful African culture - check the available flights to Banjul now and visit the annual Kartong Festival!