Spotlight: Cape Verde

West Africa is not usually your first choice honeymoon hotspot, but just off the coast of Senegal lies beautiful Cape Verde (Green Cape). A selection of tiny islands located on an archipelago off the Western coast of Africa. Cape Verde is an all round honeymoon spot with a difference. There are lots of things to interest the traveller, from spectacular mountain scenery to beautiful deserted beaches. Every Island has its own distinct character; from the lush and lively Santiago and the sandy and salty Sal, to the volcanic Sao Nicolau and diving paradise of Boa Vista.

Being in the tropical zone, it has a pleasant all year round climate with the average temperature ranging from 24 degree Celsius (75 degree Fahrenheit) in January and February to 29 degree Celsius (85 degree Fahrenheit) in September. The climate is also arid but, Cape Verde’s position in the Atlantic helps soften its aridity.

Visa Requirements
Every individual travelling to Cape Verde is required to carry a valid visa except nationals from Angola, South Africa and ECOWAS member countries. For those who are Nigerian nationals, a visa is not required.

Getting There
Cape Verde is serviced by Air Senegal [from Dakar] so to travel from Nigeria you will need to change in Dakar for a connecting flight to the main international airport at the Island of Sal which is 110 miles North East of the capital Praia. The average ticket price will depend on the time of year you decide to travel. It is best to speak to a tour operator to choose a suitable period.

Accommodation
There is varied accommodation style throughout the Islands. I would recommend the Morabeza Hotel which is a 4 star hotel situated in the Island of Sal with 140 very comfortable rooms with direct access to the Santa Maria white sandy beach. It boasts all the usual amenities plus a hairdresser and a boutique and even a nightclub! This hotel could be a great stop over after a tiring flight.

Another hotel favourite on the Island of Santiago is the, Pestana Tropico Hotel. A 4 star hotel located on a small cliff overlooking the Atlantic. Situated in the centre of Praia and only 10 minutes from the airport, it is an ideal base for exploring the town with its colourful market during the day and vibrant music scene in the evening. The rooms are well presented, decorated in a contemporary style and overlook the pool area.

Tourism to the Islands is developing and many aspects are still unsophisticated compared to the more established and well known resorts. Nevertheless, Cape Verde will appeal to those wishing to experience a vibrant way of life, to meet fascinating people, to see fabulous beaches, to have sunshine, to go island hopping and to experience an adventure. It is therefore an all round perfect Honeymoon!

By Cynthia Anduhtabe