Travel: Cultural Fusion in Cape Verde

Mindelo [Cape Verde]

[Image credits: www.capeverdeexperience]

A small chain of islands of the coast of West Africa make up Cape Verde, considered to be one of Africa’s best-kept secrets and are still relatively untouched, combining a rich mix of African, Portuguese and Brazilian cultures. The diversity of the islands offer some stunning scenery from powdery white beaches and clear waters to lush mountainous vistas. Although it would be tempting to chill out and relax by the beach it is to Mindelo, the capital of the island of São Vicente we focus our attention.

Recognised as the cultural capital of Cape Verde, Mindelo is home to leading Cape Verdean writers, artists, thinkers and musicians like the renowned Cesaria Evora. Let Mindelo transport you back in time with quaint candy-coloured buildings and cobbled streets immersing you into its history and culture. By day partake in the thriving café culture and lazily watching yachts bobbing in the harbour all invoking feelings of the French Riviera. However, all that energy being stored up is soon put to good use when the steamy days give way to sultry nights and this city truly comes alive. The main plaza becomes a blend of West African and Latin rhythms where you can party all night long. An after-dinner stroll around the Pracinha is cited as a must-do to capture the magic of Mindelo. Or join in a game of evening beach soccer.

[Image credits: tripadvisor]

If you time your visit right catch one of the many street and music festivals that occur throughout the Cape Verde Islands, in the case of Mindelo the not to be missed São Vicente Carnival held in February is comparable to those of Rio and New Orleans and the São Vicente Baia das Gatas Festival a beach music and culture festival held during the full moon in August which attracts musicians and visitors from all over the archipelago.