Cape Verde Holidays

Cape Verde, three hundred and fifty miles off the coast of Senegal in West Africa, is a country that spans an archipelago of ten volcanic islands. Uninhabited until colonised by the Portuguese in the fifteenth century, it gained its independence in 1975. With no natural resources, the economy relies heavily on tourism and the service industries and millions have been spent in developing superb resorts and building international airports. The advantages of holidaying here is that the islands can be reached within six hours and they lie in the same time zone. Cape Verde is a year round holiday destination with average highs lying between twenty-six and thirty-one degrees. Rainfall is sparse with the majority of it falling in September. Although each island has its own distinctive character,  they all have one important thing in common, namely fabulous white or golden sandy beaches. With plenty of activities, your holiday can be as active or as relaxed as you wish. With superb accommodation and good food, Cape Verde promises to be the holiday of a life time.

If you are looking for a beach paradise, the islands of Sal and Boa Vista would make an excellent choice. They are Africa's answer to the Caribbean islands and with miles of soft sandy beaches and warm clear seas, their popularity is easy to understand. The islands are divided into two groups, the windward and the leeward. The largest island is Santiago and this is where you'll find the capital, Praia.  While the majority of the islands are mountainous with vegetation, Sal, Boa Vista and Maio are flat and dry with little vegetation. It is to Sal and Boa Vista, with kilometre after kilometres of soft sand and azure seas, that beach lovers flock. The beaches here are a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Activities include wind and kite surfing, fishing, snorkelling and diving, water skiing and jet skiing. Scuba divers can see not only shoals of colourful fish on the coral reef, but they can also explore caves and ship wrecks. To travel further afield, take a boat trip to neighbouring islands, or island hop by air. On land, you can hire quad bikes to explore the interior. If you enjoy hill walking, Take a trip to Sau Nicolau and trek up Monte Gordo.

Cape Verde's entry into the tourist market is comparatively recent and holidays here reflect the simplicity of island life. Nevertheless you'll find standards of accommodation are high and you'll receive a warm and friendly service. Depending on the island, and on your chosen resort, the selection of menu can be all-embracing with many international dishes, or rather restrictive with a high proportion of local cuisine.

Cape Verde holidays are the perfect antidote  for those whose lives are lived in the fast lane. The pace of island life is slow, ideal for those seeking relaxation and a peaceful retreat where batteries can be recharged.