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!
And who
said that good sushi can only be found in Japan?! Well… I might not have eaten
sushi made in Japan but I’ve certainly eaten good sushi in the U.S. Sakura in Winchester, MA is a Sushi Bar where, if you to decide to visit, you can order
from the menu or go for the buffet which is a good idea as well is you’re a
sushi lover!! You also have the option of ordering for pick up or delivery. Due
to the restaurant’s convenient location, it can deliver to a broad area.
