Cape Verde is made up of 10 islands, the most popular one is probably Sal. Sal is the Portuguese name for Salt. It is called the salt island because it is dry and composed of many salt mines. I had the honor of visiting this island during the new year and I had a wonderful time. I stayed mostly in the Santa Maria Area. This area is very populated with hotels, resorts, shops, and restaurants. It is located about 30 minutes from the airport. I would suggest that you arrange transport ahead of time, it will make the transition to your hotel much easier. There are many independent operators that provide this service and they will be at the airport waiting for you after you clear customs. This is a wonderful island for exploring beautiful beaches, water sports, jeep tracking, dining on delicious cuisine, and socializing with friendly locals. Kite surfing is especially popular due to the high wind areas, thus you won’t really see too many people swimming in the ocean here. The water is crystal diamond blue and the sand is sparkling white. The official language is Portuguese and about 40,000 people live here. The local currency is escudo but most tourist spots widely accept Euros and credit cards. I got around the island via scooter rental and was able to access everything very easily at my own pace. Tours are also available for the island and if you do one, I suggest that you take a private one so that you can explore the parts of the island that interest you most and take your time in area that you find the most interesting. Car rental is also available but parking can be scarce in the downtown Santa Maria area during busier times. I traveled here solo for the majority of this trip and I always felt safe, even when out alone at night.
Crystal Diamond Blue Waters and mystical white sand. Waters are a bit rough for swimming but perfect for sailing, surfing, and kite surfing.
Street artwork praising the Grammy award winning Cape Verdean singer Cesaria Evora. She sings morna which is a type of music native to Cape Verde. She is know for performing barefoot "barefoot diva" as well as drinking and smoking onstage during intermissions.
I arrived during New Years so the Christmas Tree was still up in the town center.
Golden Hour at one of the numerous beaches
A man standing outside one of the local stores. The culture here is very warm and welcoming.
Beautiful Street art can be found all over the town of Santa Maria
The beautiful flowered apartments and homes of the island
Beach Boys on their way to surf
A peek inside of one of the local designers. You can have items handmade here and you even get to pick from an array of beautiful fabrics some of which can only be found here.
So many unique and exotic fabrics to choose from here. There is no shortage of color on this island.
A cute little bar I visited one night. There are so many restaurants to choose from here but don't forget to try the local cuisine as well.
Definitely on my list of top 5 hot sauces
Watersport parking lot
Handmade dolls
Fresh Caught Extra large Pink Lobster anyone?
Afternoon Mood
Me on my trusty pink scooter
Gelato! Oh my!
Golden hour on the beach, best time of day to stop and get cocktails and watch the sunset