Gambia’s relationship tourism debate: Retirees flock in
In Gambia, relationships between older European women and young locals fuel a growing “relationship tourism” debate as authorities court more respectful visitors.
Yerel Gündem 
SİYASETİN SESİ / BANJUL, THE GAMBIA — 2 NOVEMBER 2025
As the tourist season peaks in The Gambia, thousands of European women are flying in—and the visibility of age-gap relationships with young local men is once again stirring debate. On the ground, what many describe as “relationship tourism” doubles as a survival strategy for youths facing few job prospects, while officials warn of reputation risks for the country’s beach destinations.
The push for “respectable tourism” meets on-the-ground reality
Tourism authorities promote a vision of culture- and nature-respecting visitors, yet along Kololi and the Senegambia Street strip, conspicuous age-gap couples remain common. Hoteliers say authorities rarely intervene unless relationships are overtly commercial, but acknowledge the practice can tarnish the brand Gambia is trying to build.
Economic strain is shaping choices
With youth unemployment high, short holiday romances can mean tangible income. Hotel managers note that even brief stays may finance a motorbike purchase, seed a micro-business, or help a family budget. Social entrepreneurs point to a stark income gulf—foreign spending power can blur ethical boundaries and fuel dependency if not countered by broader opportunity.
Consent narratives and the loneliness factor
Some visitors insist these are consensual arrangements between adults, sometimes driven by loneliness and a search for connection. A portion of the relationships evolve into marriage and longer-term plans. Still, experts urge viewing the trend through the lenses of power asymmetry and economic pressure, which complicate the idea of free choice.
Law, grey zones, and child protection
Prostitution is illegal in The Gambia, and security forces say patrols target abuse and exploitation, applying zero-tolerance to any involvement of minors. In practice, if relationships are not formalized as transactions, enforcement is limited. Tour operators argue that long-term sector health requires clearer ethical standards, staff training, and awareness campaigns to protect both communities and visitors.
A sustainable exit: skills, diversification, and image
Analysts say shedding the “cheap romance” image will take vocational training, product diversification (eco-tourism, cultural routes, inland trips), and off-season campaigns that broaden demand. Unless tourism income circulates fairly and youth access alternative jobs, this debate is likely to persist, undermining efforts to move upmarket while keeping local communities on board.
