Ten hidden islands yet to be discovered - Cape Verde

As the person writing the first post for our blog, why not write about where I came from?! The Cape Verde Islands…

If you don’t know Cape Verde yet, you probably don’t know what I’m talking about, but for those who have already been there, you know what I mean when I say that those “dez grãozinhos na mar” (‘ten little grains in the sea’ translated to Creolo – the native language) are paradise in earth! It’s almost a ‘have to visit at least once in a lifetime’ place if you love travelling…    

Composed by ten islands and 8 islets, Cape Verde is located 280 miles to the West coast of Senegal, still making it part of the African continent. The country’s Capital is Praia, located in Santiago, which is also the biggest island. While the seven islands located more to the West side have predominantly mountain characteristics, the other three – Sal, Boavista and Maio – are recognized for their long and white sandy beaches.

Due to the country’s location, just below the Tropic of Cancer, its climate is tropical and quite dry. In fact, Cape Verde doesn’t have 4 seasons as in many other countries. The country has a 9 month dry season (from November to July) and a 3 month rain season (from August to October), which is at the season Cape Verde is now. At this time of the year, the country’s landscape actually does justice to its name – Cape Verde, meaning green place. You see green everywhere and a lot of cascades are formed due to the rain. People just love it! 

In general, the temperatures are constant, approximately at 25º F, prevailing summer days almost the entire year. That’s why people come from all over the world, not actually caring whether its summer or winter time, and even name Cape Verde one of the most sought touristic places to visit in the world.

Because the country is formed by islands and these are surrounded by water, Cape Verde has gorgeous beaches in practically all islands. Some of the most popular ones are Tarrafal in Santiago (picture below), Santa Maria in Sal, Santa Monica in Boavista, Laginha in São Vicente and Ponta Preta in Maio. Each of them is unique in a way but all have that ‘Capeverdian look’ which attracts tourists: crystal water, beautiful reefs and a relaxing environment.

The mixture of the Portuguese and the African slaves whom were brought to the country on their way to South America created what the islands' people are today, Capeverdians – a mestizo race.The residents are very friendly, kind, open minded and willing to share with others what their country has of most beautiful, its islands. The hospitality is also amazing; it’s as if you were at home!

 In terms of gastronomy, Cape Verde has a huge diversity of food to offer its visitants. However, many of the country’s typical dishes are based on the high quality fish and seafood due to the fishing activity. Capeverdians heavily rely on the country’s maritime fauna as a way to survive and earn money. Additionally, although most of the typical dishes are delicious, Cape Verde’s traditional and most popular dish is “catchupa” (picture below), which is made using a variety of national ingredients: corn, beans, different types of meat, sausage and vegetables; it actually depends on the person’s taste to include all or just some of these ingredients.

 Looking for relax time or just entertainment? Then you are at the right place! The Capeverdian Islands have wonderful resorts, packed with excellent services and several activities to fill out your day. The open space and extensive beaches are also suitable for water sports, which many tourists appreciate.

 Mountain and tour walks are part of the country’s tourist attractions as well. For example, the volcano in Fogo is a place many people want to visit because of its history and also because it’s the highest point of the country (picture below).

      

  

Another special attraction in Cape Verde is ‘Cidade Velha’ (the Old City in Creolo). It was the country’s first city and where slaves were brought to rest, to spend a couple of days and board again to faraway lands; others just ended up staying. Thus, this place, where the ‘pelourinho’ (picture below) is located, has an historic value for the Capeverdian people. They identify this place with where their roots began and have a huge appreciation for it.

The Capeverdian nightlife is very agitated and full of stuff to do. Whether you are a calm or party person, you will certainly find something to do that you will love. There are several cozy restaurants, bars and pubs, with excellent environments, perfect to extend your nights. If you are travelling to Praia, in Santiago, you should definitely visit ‘5tal da Música’, ‘O Cometa’ and ‘Kappa’. Good places to hear music and meet friends. On the other hand, if you would also like to have a more party/funky night, checkout the clubs. ‘Cockpit’ is one of the best places if you want to dance all night long! The people, the music and the atmosphere are great.

Depending on the time of the year you are visiting, you can also find special events being organized. For example, each island has its own festival, which is done on a specific date/month, different from the others. Given the fact that Cape Verde is a country where music is extremely valued, these events are also hosted as a way of promoting these artists. Cesária Évora, “the diva without shoes” as people called her (picture below), was one of the best female singers in Cape Verde and was known worldwide for her talent, voice and hard work. If the Cape Verde Islands are today well known, she was definitely one of the people responsible for promoting this country and everything of precious it owns. 

This was also our objective when we decided to write about Cape Verde; to make you know a little bit more about what these 10 islands have hidden, and however are prompt to share with everyone. We hope you liked it!

 For more info, check this link http://www.caboverde.com/