Soma: The Heartbeat of The Gambia

• HelloSalam
  [sa-lam]
• GoodbyeTijaa
  [ti-jaa]
• YesWaaw
  [waaw]
• NoAla
  [a-la]
• Please/You're welcomeNanga def
  [nan-ga def]
• Thank youJerejef
  [je-re-jef]
• Excuse me/SorryBa beneen
  [ba be-neen]
• How are you?Nanga def?
  [nan-ga def?]
• Fine. And you?Jërëjëf. Ñaata la?
  [je-re-jeef. nyaa-ta la?]
• Do you speak English?Noppaale Angalees?
  [nop-paa-le an-ga-lees?]
• I don't understandDégg naa la
  [degg naa la]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNoppaale menu, jàppale
  [nop-paa-le me-nu, ja-ppa-le]
• I don't eat meatMangi ko ci yapp
  [man-gi ko ci yap]
• Cheers!Jërejëf!
  [je-re-jeef!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNoppaale baax, jàppale
  [nop-paa-le baa-x, ja-ppa-le]

• Help!Ndanka!
  [n-dan-ka!]
• Go away!Jéegum!
  [je-gum!]
• Call the Police!Noppaale polis!
  [nop-paa-le po-lis!]
• Call a doctor!Noppaale doktora!
  [nop-paa-le dok-to-ra!]
• I'm lostMangi tudd
  [man-gi tud]
• I'm illMangi jëf
  [man-gi jeef]

• I'd like to buy...Noppaale xarit...
  [nop-paa-le kha-reet...]
• I'm just lookingNoppale nopp
  [nop-paa-le nop]
• How much is it?Ñaata laa?
  [nyaa-ta laa?]
• That's too expensiveWu ko def
  [wu ko def]
• Can you lower the price?Mangi def
  [man-gi def]

• What time is it?Ñaata ñetti?
  [nyaa-ta nyet-ti?]
• It's one o'clockÑetti wàcce
  [nyet-ti wa-cce]
• Half past (10)Wàcce ñetti (10)
  [wa-cce nyet-ti (10)]
• MorningSuba
  [su-ba]
• AfternoonNderet
  [n-de-ret]
• EveningJikkoy
  [ji-kkoy]
• YesterdayNdeff
  [nde-ff]
• TodayNopp
  [nop-p]
• TomorrowBópp
  [bo-pp]
• 1Benn
  [ben]
• 2Juj
  [juj]
• 3Samb
  [samb]
• 4Një
  [nje]
• 5Juroom
  [ju-room]
• 6Woxtaan
  [wox-taan]
• 7Jàpp
  [jap-p]
• 8Jiri
  [ji-ri]
• 9Jokk
  [jokk]
• 10Fukk
  [fukk]

• Where's a/the...?Na waa...?
  [na waa...?]
• What's the address?Noppaale alkaal
  [nop-paa-le al-kaal]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mangi layy dem (ci reew)
  [man-gi lie dem (ci rew)]
• When's the next (bus)?Mangi ci jëf (bus)?
  [man-gi ci jef (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Billet (du ...)
  [bil-let (du ...)]

Soma, located in the Lower River Division of The Gambia, has a rich history dating back to its founding. As a strategic town on the southern bank of the River Gambia, Soma has long been a hub for trade and commerce. Its early history is marked by the interactions between indigenous tribes, including the Mandinka and Fula peoples, who settled in the area due to its fertile land and access to water resources.

During the colonial period, Soma became an important location for British activities in The Gambia. The town's proximity to the River Gambia made it a crucial point for transportation and communication. British colonial administrators established trading posts and infrastructure in Soma to facilitate the export of agricultural products and other goods. The influence of British colonial rule is still evident in some of the town’s architecture and administrative systems.

Soma played a significant role in the trans-Saharan trade routes that connected West Africa to North Africa and beyond. The town served as a key trading post where goods such as gold, salt, ivory, and textiles were exchanged. This bustling trade brought wealth and diverse cultural influences to Soma, contributing to its growth and development. The remnants of ancient trade routes and marketplaces can still be explored in the area.

Soma is not only historically significant but also culturally vibrant. The town is known for its traditional music, dance, and crafts, which are integral to the identity of its residents. One of the most notable cultural events is the annual Soma Cultural Festival, which showcases local music, dance, and art, attracting visitors from across The Gambia and neighboring countries. This festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Soma and provides a platform for local artisans and performers.

In recent decades, Soma has undergone significant modernization and development. The town has seen improvements in infrastructure, including better road networks, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. Soma's strategic location along the Trans-Gambia Highway has made it a vital link between the northern and southern parts of the country, boosting its economic significance. Despite these modern advancements, Soma retains its historical charm and cultural richness.

Soma is located in the Lower River Division of The Gambia. The nearest international airport is Banjul International Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Banjul, you can take a taxi or a minibus (locally known as 'gelli-gelli') to Soma. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Private car hires are also available and can offer a more comfortable and direct route to Soma.

Soma is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and 'gelli-gellis' are readily available and reasonably priced. Bicycles can also be rented for a more eco-friendly way to explore the area. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring surrounding areas and nearby villages at your own pace.

The official currency in The Gambia is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and rural areas. ATMs are available in Soma, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Banjul before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Soma is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Soma does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 118 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Soma. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. Use the right hand for greetings and giving items. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always wash your hands before and after meals.

To experience Soma like a local, visit the bustling local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Gambian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the nearby Tenda and Wassu Stone Circles, which are significant historical and cultural sites. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the River Gambia to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.