A positive update from Cape Verde

Tracey, our representative in Cape Verde who has lived on the island for 15 years, reports on what life is like on Sal now.

Walking around Santa Maria there is a real buzz on the streets. The promenade is lined with tables and chairs, full of chattering people drinking coffees or eating ice creams in the heat of the sun. Smiley faces greeting you as you pass by, encouraging you to come to their restaurant or market. New restaurants opening almost weekly, showing how businesses have really started to improve again after such a disastrous two years, which saw many closing for good.

Santa Maria's pedestriansed main street

The Government is actively looking at getting back to pre-pandemic levels, which saw record numbers coming to Cape Verde for winter sun. They are trying to get Cape Verde to be an all-year destination and are in talks with low-cost airlines which would be a real boost for the local economy. There are a huge amount of all-inclusive hotels on Sal and Boa Vista but the islands need to attract tourists who will stay in the smaller independent hotels and apartments, and eat in local restaurants.

During the pandemic, lots of foreign people decided to stay and work from here, especially digital nomads. Now, there is a large group of young, professional people, actively helping the local people of Sal. From an Italian artist who with street art turned decrepit buildings into bright works of art, one depicting famous musician Cesaria Evora to a musician who started teaching local children musical instruments. Others teaching foreign languages to youngsters. An English lady collecting used wetsuits/clothes and old surf boards to give to young men to teach them surfing. A real sense of community was born between all nationals.

One thing is 100% certain in these uncertain times, and that is the Cape Verdean people are excited to be welcoming tourists once again.