How to get there

Senegal is served by Dakar International Airport. Air France flies daily to Dakar, at a cost of about €800 return.

Where to stay

Hotel Sokhamon, a sumptuous Lebanese style hotel on the sea front, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Tel: (221) 889 7100. Email: hotelsokhamon@sentoo.sn

Sofitel Teranga, in the city centre with views of the ocean and a heated pool. Tel: (221) 889 2200. Email: h0563@accor.com

Novotel Dakar, in the city centre, overlooking the ocean and Goree Island. Has a swimming pool and tennis courts. Tel: (+221) 849 6161. E-mail : H0529@accor.com

Méridien Présidential, a bit outside the city centre at Pointe de Almadies, this is where visiting presidents stay when they come to town. Tel: (221) 869 6969.

Where to go

Goree Island, the former slave fortress and now known for its beach and mellow atmosphere. Regular ferries take passengers between the island and the port in Dakar.

Lac Rose (the Pink Lake, also called Lake Retba). A salty lake with a bright pink colour. Day trips available through local travel agents or by booking with an internet broker such as Lastminute.com.

Marche Sandega to buy African handicrafts and clothing. After shopping, drop into Aux Fins Palais for a coffee and French pastries or a light lunch. Aux Fins Palais, 97 Avenue André Peytavin - Immeuble Kebe, Dakar. Tel: (221) 842 7192. Email: auxfinspalais@arc.sn.

Just 4 U, a restaurant with an inner courtyard and live music, opposite the university. 2, 5 Avenue Cheikh Anta Diop. Tel : (221) 824 3250. Email: just4u@orange.sn

Thiosanne, Youssou N’Dour’s nightclub. 6, Sicap Rue 10, Dakar. Email: youmanagement2@orange.sn. Tel: (+221) 824 3858.

Updated May 2007.