While exploring The Gambia in 2023, I had the pleasure of staying at The Mica Apartments—a beautiful, modern boutique apartment hotel that truly felt like a home away from home. But what made the experience even more special was connecting with the owner, Prince Damola, whose story is as inspiring as the space he’s created.

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Prince Damola’s background is richly woven across continents. Born to a Yoruba father from Nigeria and a Sierra Leonean mother, Damola brings a unique blend of West African heritage to everything he does. After spending 20 years in the UK, he and his wife decided it was time to return to the continent. But instead of going back to either of their home countries, they chose The Gambia—a country they felt was laid-back, peaceful, and full of potential.

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In October 2022, The Mica Apartments officially opened their doors. Since then, it’s become a gem in The Gambia’s hospitality scene, offering stylish and comfortable living spaces for travelers who want a mix of modern luxury and warm, local hospitality. The property also features an on-site restaurant serving up delicious fare, with a mini lounge area perfect for vibing to the latest Afrobeats. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or just want to enjoy the ambiance, the energy at The Mica is effortlessly cool and undeniably West

African.

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When I told Prince I wanted to interview him, he was gracious and open, sharing his passion for not just running a business, but contributing to the growth of tourism and lifestyle experiences in The Gambia. The Mica isn’t just a place to stay—it’s part of a larger vision for African excellence. So if you’re headed to The Gambia and looking for an elegant, comfortable place to land, I highly recommend checking out The Mica Apartments. And if you get a chance to meet Prince Damola himself, you’ll walk away just as inspired as I did.