Laguna Verde

Advantages: Sun, sea, and friendly atmosphere
Disadvantages: Expensive

...The Cape Verde Islands are a group of islands off the west coast of Africa, in line with The Gambia. Sal is the largest of the islands. The Cape Verde Islands are an up and coming tourist destination, due to the fantastic weather and coastal amenities. Sal has recently accuired an International Airport, which has opened up the island more. Connection flights can be made to the other islands, with flight times varying from 10-90 minutes. There are several restaurants in Sal, providing a variety of local cuisine, such as seafood and meats. However, as a vegetarian, i found little to eat. I survived on Tomato Sauce and spagetti all week! The food is reasonably priced and the drinks are fairly cheap. A disadvantage of taking a holiday to the Cape Verde islands is that a Visa is required. Visa's cost around ₤50 per person, which can... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Sun, short flight, no jet lag, unspoilt for the best part.
Disadvantages: Windy, heavy seas, little culture.

...We wanted something unspoilt with plenty of sun and Cape Verde was a destination suggested to us by a friend. With one eleven year old child there also had to be something to do and we thought that the promise of watersports would fit the bill. Well the first thing that struck us on the inward flight was that the island of Sal is a barren wilderness. Still we pretty much new this before we booked but it still came us a bit of a shock. The next thing to grab our attention was the strength of the wind - pretty well relenless for the duration of our 2 weeks stint. We stayed at one of the RIU group hotels (Garopa) and cannot speak highly enough of the cleanliness and overall standard of accomodation which was all inclusive and to be honest you would want it to be, there isn't a lot of choice outside of the the resort. Next, the beach... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: The unforgettable scenery and untouched beauty
Disadvantages: Lack of hygine, cold and uncomfortable

...on the previous day had meant a slight change in our route as originally the plan was to head further south to Laguna Verde. So it was that just three of us decided to get up early to make a southerly trip to the thermal pools and geysers of Sol de Manana and the nearby hot springs. Having taken in the famous thermal pools in Rotorua in New Zealand I was not expecting too much, but where they are commercialised and inhabited, these were untouched and isolated. The bubbling mud pools and sulphury steam that drifted across the martian landscape made a fantastic sight. Impressive though this was it was easily surpassed by the hot springs, at around bath temperature; and stunningly crystal clear water, it was a moment to savour. Sitting in a dreamlike landscape will definitely remain one of the highlights of my year travelling, relaxed and warm... Read review

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