Praia, Santiago
I love islands and traveling to weird destinations that take you out of your comfort zone, so naturally Cabo Verde, West Africa popped up. I wanted to live like a local and experience the culture, and that is exactly what I got. Welcome to Praia, Santiago, the capital of Cabo Verde. The culture hits you right when you get on the plane, everyone is so friendly and knows one another. We took the red eye, but that did not stop the party on board. There was free wine and a pretty solid meal. If you're lucky, the nice guy sitting next to you will poke you to let you know when the food has arrived.
We stayed at the Pestana Trópico, arriving just in time for a delicious, all inclusive breakfast.
Fresh cheese, bread, and lots of fruit.
I could barely wait to start exploring--our first stop, the Plateau. It’s as high up as it sounds. We hiked up a very long, steep set of stairs onto a street filled with locals and markets galore. We were in for quite an experience. Bright colors lined the street and everyone seemed to be out and about, relaxed on island time.
The market at the plateau had fruit, vegetables and fish. Navigating through the small aisles was both challenging and exciting. The colors were vibrant, the air was filled with aromas of fish and produce, and everyone was eager to help you. We did not speak portuguese, so communicating was mostly nonverbal.
The view from the Plateau was quite spectacular. It looked like differently shaped, colorful legos, that went on for miles.
My favorite place on the Plateau was Art Kafe. I was drawn in by the art, people and music. Local artists sold their work and live bands played weekly. I came here three times during my stay and soaked up the good vibes.
Day 2: We attempted to rent a car and drive around the island--that mission failed very quickly. We got to the center of Praia and could not figure out where we were. We had a compass, a map, and we were at a loss. I know they say not all who wander are lost, but we certainly were. There were no signs, too many rotaries, and no house numbers, at all. We were in the suburbs and had NO IDEA which way to go. I was afraid we may run out of gas, so we stopped being stubborn and found our way back to return the car. This time, better safe than sorry.
After a long day and only filling up on breakfast from the hotel, we stopped at the Restaurant O Poeta to grab some cheese and bread, lots of bread. Wine and beer is also very cheap in Cabo Verde--about three escudos a glass. I ordered two!
Restaurant & Bar O Poeta
SAL
A mini vacation, from our vacation. We took a domestic flight to Santa Maria, Sal, for the weekend to celebrate our Two Year Anniversary. When we got there, our reserved "hotel" was under construction.
We got SO lucky and found the Melia, an all inclusive resort, for only $180 a night. I have never stayed anywhere so fancy. I almost felt guilty it was so nice. There was a swim up bar, wine on tap, and an endless supply of food.
The room, or should I say Villa, was completely opposite from Praia. It was a two bedroom, two bath villa with a balcony! It was a nice balance to have both on our vacation. I have never stayed in an all inclusive resort before and never thought I could afford it, but $180 a night for all meals included is an absolute steal.
The Master Bedroom
Master Bath
The villa was a short walk to the gorgeous beach. Black volcanic and hard rock sand filled the shoreline. It was unlike any beach I've ever been to.
Oh and there are sharks at Shark Bay. I was convinced I spotted one, but it turned out to be a scuba diver! Bummer.
Takeaways
If you want an inclusive resort, go to SAL. If you want culture, go to SANTIAGO. If you want both--travel to both islands.
SANTIAGO
Santiago was packed with CULTURE and pushed me out of my comfort zone (in a good way)
The plateau is lined with local shops and restaurants--there are no US chains
Fish and produce markets are a must see
You will enjoy fresh fish, cheese and inexpensive wine (much like the Azores)
Renting a car is very hard--there are no signs, the houses are not numbered, it is near impossible unless you know where you're going
It is not too safe to walk around at night
Locals exercise before sunrise/after sunset to avoid the heat
There are many stray dogs--they may chase you, you may have to run
SAL
We took a propellor plane--only 25 min flight
All inclusive resort-Mostly a European travel destination
No cultural at all--you do not leave the resort
The beaches are beautiful--lined with black volcanic sand
Wine is on tap, everywhere you look. I did not stop drinking or eating. Good thing we were only there for the weekend