Exploring Sex Tourism in The Gambia aka The Smiling Coast

Views on sex tourism are very diverse; some consider it as a fair exchange, a transactional relationship where both parties know what they are getting into and no harm is done, while many see it as an intrinsically exploitative practice that preys on weaker and impoverished communities.

Setting the context: perceptions of sex tourism

Whatever your particular opinion on the subject, when you picture the average sex tourist, you most likely don’t see your friendly neighborhood grandma.

That is, unless you have visited The Gambia. Gambia is a small country on Africa’s west coast that is sandwiched between Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Its white sand beaches, abundant wildlife, and affordable package vacations have made it extremely popular recently.

However, The smiling coast has discovered that it caters to an older market rather than hordes of young partygoers looking for sun and fun after graduation. As a result, it has earned the dubious title of “West Africa’s sex paradise for retired women” and developed an unsavory reputation as a hotspot for sex tourism.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

Defining Sex Tourism

The act of traveling somewhere specifically to have sex is known as “sex tourism” or “sex travel.”

Massage parlors, full-service prostitutes, gentleman’s clubs, brothels, ping pong shows, and international dating services that target travelers seeking fun are a few examples of establishments that may fall under this category.

Thailand, The Netherlands, Brazil, The Gambia, The Philippines, Spain, Cambodia, and other Caribbean countries are the leading destinations for such travel.

Evolution of Sex Tourism Demographics

Although men have historically been the primary sex tourists (which explains why Pattaya is home to a large population of retired old farts), more and more women from the United States, Canada, and Europe are now going to developing nations specifically to have sex with local guys.

While local characteristics of female sex travel vary, most female sex tourists are older, white, middle-class women from developed nations who may find it difficult to connect sexually or find love at home and who fly abroad in search of romance and excitement.

In his book about sex tourism in Kenya, Wanjohi Kibicho conducted a poll in 2009 and reported that, “women who feel rejected by men in the developed countries for being overweight and older find that this is suddenly reversed in Kenya.” There, guys adore, respect, and romance them. This attractiveness may stem from the foreign lifestyle that the local guys lead or from the ethnic distinctions between the sex worker and the sex tourist. The majority of women that engage in sexual relations with these males are middle-aged and of European descent.

Men are generally aware of their status as sex tourists, which is one of the main distinctions between male and female sex tourism.

Understanding the Appeal for Female Sex Tourists

The Gambia has a special attraction for women traveling for sex. It’s a popular location because of its “smiling coast” reputation and reasonably priced trip packages. They offers older ladies the chance to experience a sense of desire and appreciation that they might not otherwise have in their own countries because of their age or physical shape. Offering a getaway from their daily life, the exoticism of the location and the cultural contrasts contribute to the attraction.

It’s controversial to discuss the morality of sex tourism. Some claim it gives locals economic opportunity and satisfies the interests of both sides, while others denounce it as exploitative and a step toward the objectification of people. In poor nations such as The Gambia, the power dynamics at play give rise to inquiries regarding consent and agency.

Challenges Faced by The Gambia

The Smiling Coast faces a number of obstacles related to sex tourism, even though it is a popular destination for female tourists. These include the potential for the spread of STDs, economic reliance on tourists, and social stigma. Concerns have also been raised concerning the effects on nearby villages and the decline of cultural values.

Stakeholders in the country need to act proactively to lessen the negative effects of sex travel. This entails putting laws in place to safeguard sex workers and making sure that tourism grows in an equitable and sustainable manner. Education and awareness-raising initiatives can also be very effective in changing public perceptions about sex tourism and encouraging the use of ethical travel methods.

Conclusion

Tourism for sex in The Gambia presents a complex and multifaceted issue. While it offers economic opportunities for some and fulfills the desires of others, it also raises ethical concerns and poses challenges for the host country. By addressing the root issues and promoting responsible tourism practices, they can strive towards a more sustainable and inclusive tourism industry.

FAQ’s

1. Is sex travel legal in The Gambia? Sex tourism is illegal in The Gambia, with strict laws against prostitution and engagement with minors.

2. How does sex tourism impact local communities? It can impact local communities positively through economic contributions but also negatively with increased risks of exploitation and social stigma.

3. What measures are being taken to regulate sex tourism in Gambia? Gambian government enforces laws to combat prostitution and trafficking, supported by NGOs offering support services for sex workers.

4. Are there any support services available for sex workers in The Gambia? NGOs in Gambia provide support services for sex workers, including healthcare, counseling, and legal assistance, aiming to empower and protect their rights.

5. What can tourists do to ensure ethical engagement while traveling to Gambia? Tourists can promote ethical engagement by respecting local laws, avoiding exploitative activities, and supporting businesses with ethical practices. It’s crucial to prioritize consent and educate oneself on the social and cultural contexts of destinations.