Cycling tips in The Gambia

Things I have learned while cycling in The Gambia;

• Just because someone is getting in a van (minibus) or a shared taxi that appears to have pulled up on the side of the road don't assume the driver won't suddenly pull out in front of you. The entering person and / or apprentice will simply run alongside the van until they can jump in, while the driver merrily swings out onto the road in front of your bicycle. 
• It's best to try and cycle with very straight arms, not with a slight bend in your elbows. This is because the cars come so close to you, you risk being bumped if your elbows are even slightly sticking out.  
• A bumpster will still try and shake your hand while you are cycling. 
• A child will still ask for a sweet or a pen when you are cycling past. Even if you are cycling quite fast. 
• Instead of shouting out 'hey boss lady I like the way you walk' men will now shout 'hey boss lady, good driving'. 
• At least once a week someone will ask you to give them your bicycle... while you are riding it. 
• At least once every two weeks a taxi driver will ask you if you want a lift... while you are cycling. 
• If your tyres are getting a bit flat people will shout 'sorry eh... your tyre your tyre your tyre...' as you cycle past them and won't stop until you feel shamed into going and getting it pumped up (5 dalasi / 7 pence at the bike repair shop). 
• Cars will drive straight towards you on the wrong side of the road and still look surprised to see you in front of them. 
• You must always be prepared to be 'run off the road'. This is especially fun where the sandy 'pavement' is a foot drop down from the edge of the road. 
• Dogs, goats, pigs, cats, donkeys, small children and grown adults may walk out in front of your bike at any moment. 
• Cycling here requires 100% concentration, even on the shortest and quietest of journeys!