Though many Europeans prefer short flights for vacations, Mr. Bensouda was convinced that The Gambia would be attractive, only six hours from most European countries, with a perfect year-round climate and no hurricanes. Soon after construction began, marketing the hotel commenced: small, exclusive travel agencies in Germany and Switzerland were invited to visit the set-up. By the time construction was finished, the Coconut Residence had received contracts from various agencies in Germany and the United Kingdom. Among the problems: staff were not used to offering the level of service required. They quickly adapted with training by the Spanish chef, who has long experience in European hotel management, and because of management openness to staff.
Contacts: Mr. Farid Bensouda-Nettlau, Mr. Walter Lohn, The Coconut Residence, P.O. Box 3160, Serrekunda, The Gambia. E-mail: coconut@qanet.gm
