At the westernmost point of the African continent, Dakar stands as a multicultural, diverse city full of vibrant arts and traditions. Residents from various ethnic groups present assorted crafts, foods, jewelry, fabrics and wood and metal goods at bustling markets such as Marche Sandaga or Marche HLM. The city is home to museums and mosques, cliff walks and beaches, and makes a convenient jumping point for excursions to any of Senegal's national parks and nature reserves.

The beach town of Kololi is one of Gambia’s most popular vacation spots. Spend a day lolling on the golden sands, then explore “the Strip,” Kololi’s main throughfare, lined with restaurants, hotels and nightclubs. Brave the bush on a guided safari, chatter with the monkeys of Bijilo Forest Park and bargain for handmade treasures at the Senegambia Craft Market.

At the mouth of the Gambia River, Banjul is an oft overlooked seaport hub of economic and cultural activity. Welcoming visitors into town is Arch 22, a historical monument that also houses a modest textile museum. The city itself is home also to the African Heritage Museum as well as numerous bustling markets. The surrounding area boasts sunny beach resorts as well as nature reserves and national parks where monkeys, birds, hippos and hyenas go about their daily routines in the wild.

Salou, on the Costa Dorada, nestles between quaint Cambrils and calm La Pineda. Just seven miles south of elegant Tarragona, the compact resort town is a family favourite, due in no small part to the existence of Port Aventura and Aquopolis theme parks. Gentle beaches and a slew of exciting fiestas in August add to Salou's appeal for families.