Cape Verde News

Cape Verde Awarded World Heritage Status

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cidade Velha, Cape Verde’s first capital city, has been awarded world heritage status by UNESCO, announced earlier this week at the organisation’s 33rd annual summit in Seville, Spain. The news is set to boost the archipelago’s tourism industry even further.

The historical site is situated to the south of the modern capital of Praia on the island of Santiago and is awarded this status due to its importance in the history of slavery and European colonies in Africa. The town was formerly known as Ribeira Grande and dates back to the late 15th century but was renamed Cidade Velha in the late 18th century. Parts of the former capital’s original street layout are still apparent and there are some interesting remains including a royal fortress, two churches and Pillory Square with a 16th century marble pillar

Verde Vibes

George Rush - Conde Nast Traveler (US) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

How did a necklace of tiny islands far off the coast of Senegal seduce the world with its music? Inspired by Cesária Évora's sensuous, elegiac voice, George Rush makes a pilgrimage to Cape Verde and falls hard for a forgotten land of endless beaches, stark landscapes, and mesmerizing rhythms.

"You will like Cape Verde," Cesária Évora had assured me, shortly before I was to leave for the country where she rules as musical empress. So why did I have this feeling of dread?

For years, I'd wanted to see the "forgotten islands," stranded 385 miles off the coast of Senegal. Ever since I'd first heard Cesária's smoky, cognac-ripened voice, the place names in her songs had become mythic for me: the beach at Salamansa, where "we three played in the sand"; the isle of Maio, "my secret world / to the left of my breast."

Cesária's music had opened my ears to other Cape Verdean artists: Bana, Rufino Almeida (a.k.a. Bau), Tito Paris, Paulino Vieira. I discovered that this overlooked archipelago—this smattering of ten islands and eight tiny islets—had produced enough elegant, elegiac music to rival its neglectful mother, Portugal, and its boisterous brother, Brazil.

"If you write to me / I will write to you," Cesária promised in another song. Accepting her challenge, I wrote. Or, rather, I e-mailed her publicist. Upon hearing that Cesária was coming to New York, I asked if the two of us might meet, which we did over lunch on the day she was to play Carnegie Hall.

Though her difficult life has been compared with that of Edith Piaf, this sparrow has more meat on her bones. Sixty-seven at the time, the Grammy winner wore a leopard-print scarf around her head, a dozen gold chains around her neck, and a ring on every burgundy- lacquered finger. Most remarkable, she wore shoes. "I feel more comfortable without them," admitted the Barefoot Diva, who, true to her name, showed up pieds nus onstage that night.

She grew impatient when I began poking into her love life. "At this point, I trust no man," said the never-married mother of two. But she was happy to talk about her beloved city of Mindelo, on the island of São Vicente. "The old Café Royal is closed, but there are other places where you can hear good music," she said, lighting up another Winston. She gave me the names of some bars. She even invited me to her house. "Call me when you get there," she said.

Cesária Évora—the woman who blew off Madonna's invitation to perform at her wedding—had invited me to her home! How could I not go, particularly since my August trip was to coincide with two music festivals?

The Cape Verde embassy steered me to a travel agency in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the city where Cape Verdeans have been settling since they began hopping on American whaling ships in the nineteenth century. Feeling a bit like Melville's Ishmael, I booked passage aboard a Cabo Verde Airlines Boeing 757 from Boston. Only half of the eighteen islands are inhabited; I aimed at sampling the six most visited islands in two weeks. But no sooner had I booked my internal flights than the airline changed its departure times. My precisely stitched itinerary seemed ready to unravel. I was also nagged by a statistic: More than half of Cape Verde's 429,000 citizens live outside the country. Why was I going if they'd all left? Why were they so besotted by sad songs, their mornas? I started wondering how much Zoloft to pack.

Yet watching the Cape Verdeans board the midnight plane from Beantown, I'd never seen such happy passengers. People who had come to the United States a decade before were giddy with anticipation that, in seven hours, they'd be home. It dawned on me that these people hadn't left Cape Verde because they'd wanted to but because they'd had to. During the twentieth century, it is estimated that droughts caused the death of some 200,000 islanders. No wonder so many mornas are about rain. Famine and unemployment have driven so many Cape Verdeans overseas that expats have their own representatives in the National Assembly.

These emigrants, who stoke the economy with remittances, have made Cape Verde a country without borders. Wherever they go, however successful they become, they feel sodade—variously translated as longing, nostalgia, or regret. Indeed, "Sodade," the title of Cesária's most famous song, has become a kind of national anthem.

Lately, the cause of so much heartache has brought some relief: Cape Verdean droughts have been known to last eighteen years—which sounds heavenly to sun-worshipping vacationers. The driest islands have become the most popular. I had been told that they offer never-ending beaches, world-class windsurfing, and diving among several centuries' worth of shipwrecks. Each island was said to have a distinct flavor. There was the promise of surfing, fishing, bird-watching, horseback riding, dune-bashing on ATVs, and trekking through misty forests. I'd heard you could climb a volcano and slide down the other side. I'd also heard that there was fast, sensuous music which, far from inducing tears, ignited dancers' loins.

This woeful little country seemed to be hiding a lot of fun.

I left home with a sheaf of ten paper tickets, arriving in the capital, Praia, on the big island of Santiago, early the next morning for my connecting flight to São Vicente. Hanging out in the airport's lone café, I could tell from all the dreadlocks and nose rings that I wasn't the only passenger headed for the Baía das Gatas music festival. I was killing time with the talent. When the announcement came that the flight would be delayed, they broke out their instruments.

At the center of the spontaneous lounge act was a caramel-skinned beauty with a blond Afro the radius of a mushroom cloud. "I'm Fantcha," she said, after I'd worked up the nerve to introduce myself. "Just Fantcha. I'm singing at the festival." She was born on São Vicente but now lives in Brooklyn.

"Cesária is like my second mother," she said. "When I was a girl, growing up in Mindelo, I sang with a Carnival troupe. Ti Goi, one of Cape Verde's great composers, introduced me to her. He said to Cesária, She reminds me of you when you were young.' And Cesária said, What do you mean when I was young? Can she sing?' So I sang one of Cesária's own songs for her. She liked it."

To read the remainder of this feature, please click to view the online version.

New All-Inclusive Hotel on Boa Vista

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new all-inclusive resort is due to open in November 2009 on one of the best beaches in Cape Verde, on the island of Boa Vista. The new Iberostar Club Boa Vista is now on sale through specialist tour operator, The Cape Verde Experience, and is expected to become a favourite with holidaymakers to the archipelago.

Iberostar is known internationally for its good quality cuisine and the resort has two restaurants to choose from as well as a variety of bars and a theatre providing entertainment five nights a week. Guests will also be spoilt for choice with a range of complimentary activities which include tennis, swimming and a children’s club. Spa/beauty treatments and watersports are also available for a charge. Prices start from £849 per person based on two sharing on all-inclusive basis including flights and transfers.

New Flights to Cape Verde

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Whilst the economic downturn has meant cut backs for many travel companies, and countries reliant on tourism are also suffering, Cape Verde is continuing to attract interest and a new flight has been announced.

The new weekly service between Paris and Sal will be operated by XL Airways and is due to commence on Friday 23rd October 2009, continuing throughout winter. As well as bringing more French tourists to the archipelago, this also offers an alternative indirect flight route for Britons but more importantly offers a boost to those interested in property investment on the islands.

New All-Inclusive Hotel added to Sal portfolio

Press Office - The Cape Verde Experience — Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Cape Verde Experience has added a new All-Inclusive Hotel to its accommodation portfolio on the island of Sal.
The 4* Crioula Hotel has recently been refurbished and now offers good facilities and a relaxed atmosphere right on the beach, with the town of Santa Maria just a 15-minute stroll away along the seafront.
The hotel has 242 rooms in total - much smaller than many of the other all-inclusive resorts in Cape Verde - with three bars, a swimming pool, buffet restaurant, fish restaurant and sports facilities, including tennis, volleyball and table-tennis. There is also a spa, theatre, disco, as well as an international entertainment programme.
The Cape Verde Experience is offering 7-night holidays from £649 per person in May.
This special offer price is based on two sharing a room on an all-inclusive basis and includes return flights from Gatwick to Sal, transfers and all taxes (including visas and fuel surcharge).
Call The Cape Verde Experience on 0845 330 2046 or visit www.capeverdeexperience.co.uk

Increased Demand for Cape Verde Holidays

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Cape Verde Experience has recently seen an increase in interest to the destination for holidays this summer. Some travel agents are reporting that customers are switching from Mexico in light of the current health restrictions. Select World Travel in Poole has booked a holiday to Cape Verde this week for clients who have had to cancel their trip to Mexico. The travel agent reported a client called their agency asking for alternative destinations to consider, after considering the Moroccan city of Agadir and Egypt the client opted for Cape Verde. Although they booked only a few days before travelling, The Cape Verde Experience managed to arrange visas at no extra cost which should normally be applied for at least seven days before departure.

Cape Verde Attracting More Visitors

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The number of tourists visiting Cape Verde increased in 2008 despite the global economic downturn. Visitor numbers to hotels were up by 6.5% in 2008 on the previous year according to statistics compiled by the National Statistics Institute (INE). Approximately 330,000 guests stayed in hotels on the archipelago last year, up 6.5% on the previous year, whilst other properties such as self-catering lets and bed & breakfasts saw an increase of 27.5%. (Source: http://www.homesgofast.com/view_news/1434/)

The Cape Verde Experience has some great deals for travel in May with holidays starting from £499 per person and flight only from as little as £199.

A Place in The Sun, Home or Away

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cape Verde featured on last week’s Channel 4 programme A Place in The Sun, Home or Away and the island of Santiago managed to win over the couple looking for a retirement home. The programme showcases two destinations, one in the UK and one overseas, being considered as a location to purchase a home. Last week the two featured destinations were Santiago in Cape Verde and Snowdonia, Wales and Santiago came out on top.

The Channel 4 website has more information on purchasing properties in Cape Verde as well as a guide to the country. http://www.channel4.com/4homes/on-tv/a-place-in-the-sun-home-or-away/episode-information/snowdonia-cape-verde-09-04-10_p_1.html

New All-Inclusive Hotel

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An all-inclusive hotel on the island of Sal, Cape Verde is now available to British holidaymakers through specialist tour operator The Cape Verde Experience. The Crioula Hotel has recently been refurbished and now offers good facilities and a relaxed atmosphere right on the beach near the town of Santa Maria.

The hotel has 242 rooms in total, much smaller than many of the other all-inclusive resorts in Cape Verde, with three bars, a swimming pool, buffet restaurant, fish restaurant and sports facilities including tennis, volleyball and table-tennis. There is also a spa, theatre, disco and entertainment programme.

Prices currently start from £799 per person on an all-inclusive basis including flights from Gatwick.

New Flights to Fogo and Maio

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Due to the increased popularity in the islands of Cape Verde, Halcionair Cabo Verde Airways is adding two weekly flights to the islands of Fogo and Maio.

The flights will operate using an ATR-42-320 aircraft which has a capacity of 48. The new services add to existing flights serving the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, Sao Vicente and Santiago.

The islands of Cape Verde all of their own unique character and twin centre holidays and island hopping itineraries offer the best opportunity for exploring the diversity of the archipelago. These new flights will increase the possibilities for British holidaymakers to make the most out of a trip to Cape Verde.

Valentine’s In Cape Verde

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The vast sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere of Cape Verde make it a popular destination for a romantic break at any time of year but particularly over Valentine’s Day. The Hotel Morabeza on the island of Sal has just announced its Valentine’s events aimed at honeymooners and couples staying at the hotel on 14th February. The evening will include a “Do you know your partner?” quiz, live music from Ovi Creol and a disco. The prizes for the quiz are a meal for two, a boat excursion and a massage for two – perfect additions to any special holiday!

New Guide to Cape Verde

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bradt has produced a revised edition of its travel guide to Cape Verde which covers all the islands in detail for both holidaymakers and those looking to invest in property. The company’s website says: “Cape Verde is a destination on the up: construction is rocketing, international flight numbers are soaring and visitor arrivals are rising year on year.”

It claims to provide: “updated information on Cape Verde’s rapidly expanding tourist facilities, a revised natural history section, and helps visitors delve deep into the heart of the country’s spectacular landscape, colourful music and unusual people.”

The new 336 page edition by Aisling Irwin and Colum Wilson includes 16 pages of photographs and 29 maps. To order a copy or for more details visit www.bradt-travelguides.com/details.asp?prodid=45

Source: Bradt Travel Guides

New Iberostar All-Inclusive Hotel to Open on Boa Vista

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new 4* all-inclusive hotel is due to open on Boa Vista this summer to meet the demand from an increasing number of tourists to the Cape Verdean island. The Iberostar Club Boa Vista is built directly on the beach of Areja de Chaves just 3 kilometres from the airport. It will offer a good standard of accommodation and extensive facilities for holidaymakers looking for all-inclusive holidays in Cape Verde.

The hotel will be open all year round catering to the needs of tourists of all ages. There are 263 rooms in total as well as a garden with outdoor pool and children’s pool, tennis courts and water sports. There is a spa and beauty salon for the adults and mini-club and playground for the children. The beach is stunning and many holidaymakers will undoubtedly choose to spend their time relaxing in the sun but there are a wide range of activities included in the price of the holiday including beach volleyball, dance lessons, archery, pilates and rifle shooting.

The hotel will also have a choice of bars and restaurants including an English pub, pool bar, beach bar and main buffet restaurant.

New Manchester to Boa Vista Flight

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new flight service has just been announced operating between Manchester and Boa Vista in the Cape Verde Islands. The flight will operate on Mondays starting in May and will make the increasingly popular island of Boa Vista much more accessible to holidaymakers from the North West.

Boa Vista has an amazing 55 kilometres of beach and is known for its stunning sand dunes. It is also a great place for wildlife: thought to be one of the world’s most important loggerhead turtle nesting sites, and the islet of Sal Rei is a feeding ground for humpback whales.

Flight times are very convenient with a departure time of 9am, arriving on Boa Vista at 12.55; the return flight departs at 13.55, arriving back into Manchester at 21.45. The flight will be operated by Thomson Airways and is on sale now through The Cape Verde Experience.

Great Value Winter Sun Destinations

David Whitley - AOL.co.uk — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cape Verde

A slightly more exotic option, the Cape Verde Islands off the coast of Africa have a unique vibe that is somewhere between African, European and Brazilian. They also have some gorgeous spots in which to chill out, and get bucketloads of sunshine. Independent specialist The Cape Verde Experience offers 7-night holidays in Cape Verde from £699 per person.

AITO adopts new green travel ratings

Oliver Smith - Telegraph.co.uk — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

UK organisation has revised its Responsible Tourism ratings in an effort to encourage eco-friendly travel.

The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) has revised its Responsible Tourism Star classification system.

AITO, which encourages a commitment to green travel among its members, has altered the number of points awarded to certain areas such as destination activities and carbon reduction.

Previously, its ratings system ranged from one to three stars. The revamped questionnaire will rate eco-friendly travel operators from one to five stars.

"We hope that through the increased emphasis on destination activities, members will be encouraged to work more closely with local communities," said Roger Diski, founder of Rainbow Tours and the Chairman of AITO's Responsible Tourism committee.

An AITO spokesman said that the new classifications would push a number of tours operators down from the top rating, which he hoped would encourage them to continue improving their green credentials.

A spokeswoman for charity Tourism Concern, which campaigns against irresponsible tourism, said that the changes were "much-needed" and encouraging, but called for greater transparency.

"We would like to see the results," she added. "Corporate checklists are rarely sufficient – they need to be robustly policed by third parties."

"Unless the actual impact is verified, customers really have no idea what they are buying into."

Travel companies must now re-apply for AITO membership to receive their new rating.

So far seven operators have been awarded the new five star rating: Corsican Places, Explore, Himalayan Kingdoms, Journey Latin America, KE Adventure Travel, Serenity Holidays and Tribes Travel.

Companies must achieve a minimum of one star to gain AITO membership.

XL Leisure Group

Press Office - The Cape Verde Experience — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 01:00:00 GMT

The Cape Verde Experience would like to extend its sympathies to holidaymakers who were booked to travel with XL Leisure Group, which announced that it would cease trading as of today (12 September). XL going into administration does not affect clients travelling with The Cape Verde Experience, nor any of its sister companies, which are all part of Serenity Holidays Limited.

Serenity Holidays Limited has been in business for 21 years and The Cape Verde Experience, launched in 2006, has already established itself as the island-hopping specialist, building on the West African expertise demonstrated by leading tour operator to The Gambia, The Gambia Experience (also owned by Serenity Holidays Ltd).

The Cape Verde Experience, through Serenity Holidays Ltd, is ATOL protected (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence Number, 1866) - an accreditation administered by the Civil Aviation Authority, which gives clients security and reassurance when booking a package holiday.

Chris Ayling, Serenity Holidays director said:

“Serenity Holidays is an experienced tour operator that is fully bonded to ensure peace of mind when booking a package holiday. My message to the public would be that if you do choose to book your flights, accommodation and transfers separately, then check now to ascertain if you are covered financially.”

Serenity Holidays Ltd is also a member of AITO, The Association of Independent Tour Operators and ABTA, The Association of British Travel Agents. Both maintain strict guidelines for membership.

As well as The Cape Verde Experience, Serenity Holidays Ltd also owns The Gambia Experience, The Senegal Experience, Turkish Places, Corsican Places, Sardinian Places and Great Escapes.
For more information, please call The Cape Verde Experience Reservations Dept on 0845 330 2071 or visit www.capeverdeexperience.co.uk

For AITO’s Quality Charter, please visit:
http://www.aito.co.uk/corporate_QualityCharter.asp

For more on ABTA’s Code of Conduct, please visit:
http://www.abta.com/about/industry_standards

AITO Comment on XL Leisure

Association of Independent Tour Operators - — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ANOTHER FINE MESS YOU’VE GOT US INTO, HMG...
Government-created two-tier travel industry causes chaos for consumer in the wake of XL’s collapse

XL Holidays, Britain’s third-largest tour operator, last night went into administration, grounding 21 planes and causing chaos for 85,000 people who are currently on holiday in addition to the 200,000 who were due to travel on its flights or via its collection of disparately-named holiday companies (Kosmar, Freedom Holidays, The Really Great Holiday Company, etc., etc.).

Says Derek Moore, Chairman of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO): “We have long warned of the likely implications of the Government allowing a two-tier industry to exist, and here we have a prime example of what happens when things go wrong. Consumers who booked holidays through ATOL-protected tour operators, e.g. with AITO members, will be helped by their tour operator to find new flights – not easy when 21 planes each carrying 170 people on several flights a day have been removed from the flight market overnight. Additionally, the tour operator will cover all extra costs involved, which can be considerable.

“Consumers who booked holidays independently, e.g. direct with the airline and direct with their accommodation provider, will have to sort themselves out. If they can’t find new flights, or if the flights they can find are too expensive for them, they will still be obliged to pay for their accommodation - even if they can’t reach it. Unprotected consumers lose out both in terms of potentially losing their holiday and in terms of it costing them a lot more than they had budgeted.

“It’s a ghastly mess all-round, and needn’t have been so had the Government followed the travel industry’s recommendations - including those of its own select committee on transport - to insist that airlines were also brought within the remit of the ATOL regulations. That would have meant fair play all round, for consumers and for holiday companies.”

How can consumers ensure they don’t fall into the crack if an airline collapses?
1. Book with a fully-bonded tour operator, e.g. AITO member (www.aito.co.uk). This is the safest and least-hassle route, as it’s the tour operator’s responsibility to ensure you get your holiday and to absorb any and all costs incurred in rebooking flights, amending accommodation arrangements if necessary, etc.
2. Pay by credit card and the credit card company will refund the money lost – but it won’t cover any higher costs incurred re-booking flights late in the day. NB debit cards do not offer this cover or get you home if you are stranded abroad.
3. Buy airline failure insurance – but, again, be aware that - unless stated to the contrary in the policy - it won’t cover any higher costs incurred due to last-minute re-booking of flights. When airlines get into difficulty, airline failure insurance is sometimes withdrawn by the insurers.
To summarise, Derek Moore of AITO says: “In the current troubled financial climate, play it safe and book your trip away, whether short break or longer holiday, via a fully-bonded tour operator. You won’t lose flexibility – but you will lose the worry that your holiday might disappear or end up paying a lot more for it.”

Moore confirms that AITO will again be lobbying Government to bring the airlines within the ATOL remit to avoid repetition of this problem. “Two airlines – Zoom and XL – going bust in the space of two weeks ought, we think, be enough to make the Government reconsider the situation. Airlines can’t continue to claim that they are impervious to potential collapse with fuel prices being so high and with exchange rates so volatile.”

Ends
12th September, 2008

Note for Editors:
1. ATOL is the CAA’s Air Travel Organisers’ Licence. All tour operators selling flight-inclusive holidays are required to gain an ATOL licence, which means that the CAA monitors their finances closely and that the CAA will repatriate and refund their customers if a company fails.
2. Airlines are currently outside the ATOL system, although they sell holidays in exactly the same way that tour operators do (e.g. via XL.com in the XL situation).
3. This two-tier system means that some people on XL’s flights and holidays are protected while some are not – and it’s doubtful that the consumers concerned were aware of this differential when they booked their holiday or flight.
4. All 140 members of AITO (www.aito.co.uk) are fully bonded for the financial protection of their customers.
5. Many AITO members are currently working hard to re-protect their clients’ flights and holidays as a result of the collapse of XL the airline. All additional costs incurred will be absorbed by the tour operator and not passed on to customers.
6. If consumers booked a “dynamically packaged” holiday via a travel agent, they will need to check with their agent to find out if they are financially protected or not.

Press: For further information, or to interview an AITO spokesperson, please call Ian Bradley on 020 8891 4440 (i.bradley@travelpr.co.uk) or Sue Ockwell on 07831 126 356

"Livity" joins in for Boa Vista celebrations

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:49:22 GMT

The Cape Verdean Island is bubbling with excitement this week with the festivities for Santa Isabel now underway.

Santa Isabel is the Patron Saint of Boa Vista and the annual event sees visitors from other parts of the archipelago and from abroad flock to the island at this time of the year to attend concerts of local vocal talents, sports tournaments, Miss Bubista beauty pageant and various cultural and artistic exhibitions.

This year, the Holland-based Cape Verdean pop group Livity will also take part in the festivities with performances planned this weekend, A Semana has reported.

Most of the events are taking place in the town of Sal Rei, situated in the north-western part of Boa Vista, meaning "beautiful view" in Portuguese.

Boa Vista is also one of the largest turtle breeding grounds in the world around this time of the year for loggerhead, hawksbill, leatherback and green turtles.

The island is accessible directly from London Gatwick and Manchester with Cape Verdean airline TACV and is only a three-hour boat ride from Sal Island.

Investment opportunities arise in Santo Antao

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:45:03 GMT

Cape Verde's northernmost island is expected to attract overseas investors as tourism company Sotur unveils a major infrastructure development project for the island this year.

The Sociedade de Desenvolvimento Turistico e Urbano do Porto Novo have indeed announced a 400-million escudos plan to develop the urban area of Curraletes, in the western part of the city of Porto Novo, news agency Inforpress has claimed.

The works, which include the building of social facilities, telephone utilities and roads, but also better sanitation, water and electricity services, is due to start next Saturday on July, 5th.

The coastal area to benefit from the new infrastructure project will extend over 100 hectares of land.

Santo Antao is one of Cape Verde's nine inhabited islands, located just north of Sao Vicente and accessible by plane and ferry.

Visitors to the island often come to go trekking in the forests of eucalyptus, cypress and pine trees or on the slopes of Topo da Coroa, a 1,979-metre high dormant volcano.

Music and religion go hand in hand in Cape Verde

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:23:07 GMT

The Western African Island, homeland of the likes of Cesaria Evora or Mayra Andrade, owes its fame to the musical talent of its inhabitants, and a visit to the islands during the St. Peter Festivities will only confirm this.

The religious commemoration is the time for the Cape Verdeans to share moments together, singing, playing and dancing on traditional cola drumming.

All religious and cultural activities will take place in Ribeira Brava on the island of Sao Nivolau until July 6th, A Semana has reported.

As part of the traditional festivities, the beautifully decorated Saint Peter boat will depart from Chanzinha next Sunday at 2pm and make its way to Passagem.

An agricultural and farm fair has also been organised for the event in the Maiamona sports complex, a unique chance for visitors to discover some traditional Cape Verdean delicacies and to taste blue marlin, Cape Verde being on of the best places in the Atlantic to catch the fish species.

Sao Nicolau is one of Cape Verde's nine inhabited islands, accessible by ferry from Mindelo or Praia, or by plane from Sal, Praia or Mindelo.

Cape Verde: New member of the WTO

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:09:13 GMT

Cape Verde is to become an official member of the World Trade Organisation next month on July, 23rd.

The WTO has accepted the archipelago's membership agreement to become the 153rd member of the trade organisation last Monday.

Cape Verde's membership to the WTO is expected to provide stability in terms of growth and development and therefore promote the country's economy and global trade.

The former Portuguese island, which is home to around 400,000 inhabitants, became independent in 1975. It specialises in the production and exportation of salt, bananas and fish.

The country first expressed its wish to enter the international organisation in 1999 and has had to apply the WTO's regulations to its trading practices and open its markets to imported goods and services to become a member.

The WTO, which was set up in 1995, is responsible for establishing long-lasting and sustainable trade agreements between its members so as to promote global economic development and stability.

Cruel Destino soon in Cape Verde

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:59:44 GMT

After 15 years away from the studios, Cape Verdean singer Titina Rodrigues is back with her new CD Cruel Destino which will soon be released in Cape Verde.

Currently based in Portugal, the singer told A Semana that it would "make [her] almost inexplicably happy to take [her] work back home to [her] people".

Cruel Destino is Abertina "Titina" Rodrigues Almeida's second album, a 10-track collection of classic morna material, which was recorded in Lisbon, Portugal.

Like famous Cesaria Evora and Mayra Andrade, Titina's heart is turned towards the Cape Verdean islands as she expresses her need to come back to her homeland through mournful songs of love called mornas.

Titina's debut album Titina Canta B.Leza was first released in 1993 and is another vibrant example of the islands' soulful folk music.

The Cape Verdean diva also explained that she would like people to "listen to [Cruel Destino] as if it were [her] last album, even if it turns out not to be".

Mindelo Marina offers investment opportunities

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:15:52 GMT

The opening ceremony of Cape Verde's first Marina will take place today on the island of Sao Vicente, marking a key moment in the islands' tourism infrastructure development.

Mindelo Marina is the first Cape Verdean Marina worthy of the name, with a capacity of no less than 120 boats measuring up to 30m in length and 4.5m draft.

Investors looking for interesting opportunities overseas can now buy Marina berths for around €40,000.

Cape Verde is a favourite among island hoppers and water sports fans, and Sao Vicente is a good base for exploring the other nine islands of the archipelago, all boasting treasures and landscapes of their own.

Mindelo Marina will provide gas, diesel, water and electricity and offer a good range of services, from boat repairs, to marine engineering, rigging, brokerage, sail making and chandlery.

Chez Luz restaurant will also welcome adventurers after a long day out exploring the Western African islands.

Gil Semedo's new album is out this month

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:14:45 GMT

Cabopop is Cape Verdean pop singer Gil Semedo's last album, an 11-track album mixing traditional Cape Verdean Coladeira, Funana and Batuco with other music styles like zouk, pop and RnB.

The CD is currently available in stores and will be presented to the public for the first time in Paris tonight, at the Elysee Montmartre.

The 33-year-old singer will also soon start his Worldwide Cabopop tour, with concerts planned in Portugal and the US for July, in Marseilles, France in September, as well as many others in Cape Verde and Holland.

Cabopop, which is also the name of the foundation Gil and his friends launched for the promotion of the Cape Verdean Music culture in Holland, was recorded in Cape Verde, Paris and Rotterdam.

Gil has development his own musical style over the years, mixing Cape Verdean sounds to pop and RnB, which he calls Caboswing.

Gil first started his career in 1991 with the release of Gil and the Perfect 2, and has sold over 500,000 albums since, making him the most successful young artist in Portuguese speaking countries.

US support for Cape Verde's maritime safety

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:54:01 GMT

Cape Verde Coast Guard personnel have attended a 12-day training period this month, which was conducted by the US Naval Forces onboard the Dallas, a 378-foot cutter.

The project was part of the US Naval Forces Europe’s Africa Partnership Station (APS) initiative to ensure maritime safety along the coasts of West and Central Africa.

Captain Robert Wagner, Coast Guard commander on the Dallas cutter, told the African Press Organisation: "For the first time, we were able to build upon training provided during previous US visits, allowing the Cape Verdean Coast Guard to practice their skills on the water while enforcing their domestic laws."

The Cape Verdean coast guards had the opportunity to practise a series of activities such as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) procedures, as well as handcuffing and personnel searching techniques.

Lt. Jose Mario Lopez Tavares, Cape Verde Coast Guard Naval Squadron communications officer, told the APO: "This is vital training for our organization and it will serve to prepare us to better our naval squadron."

Luxury travellers looking for "authentic experiences"

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:35:07 GMT

Contrary to general belief, luxury travellers are not seeking beach holidays but are generally in search for real experiences in the country visited.

Alyson Cook, editor of Luxury Travel Magazine, has explained that luxury travellers want "something tangible to show from their holiday" for their "dinner party fodder".

By "rescuing turtles" or "helping build huts in Africa", "they can boast to their friends that they have had an experience that no one else has had".

Today's global luxury travel industry represents 25 per cent of international tourism spend, research by the International Luxury Travel Market has revealed.

Travellers interested in getting involved in a conservation project should consider the islands of Cape Verde which are extremely abundant in marine life and home to six turtle species.

Located on the western coast of Africa, Cape Verde is also a major surfing and cultural destination, at the crossroads between Senegal and Brazil.

Frontier organises regular conservation projects in the archipelago to save the endangered turtles from poachers from June to October.
Volunteers always play an active role within the team, taking part in the identification of species, rescue of injured hatchlings, and beach patrols.

Cape Verde, surfers' territory

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:23:25 GMT

Cape Verde's reputation as one of the top surfing destinations in the world is well established and the islands are a one-in-a-lifetime experience for all surfers worthy of the name.

Every year in March takes place the Surf World Cup on the island of Sal, offering spectators a unique show of thousands of surfers hitting the waves over a two-week period.

Legendary breaks such as Punta Preta on Sal all figure on Spam 2.0 DVD, a real delight to surfers who want to explore top world sites including Maui, Cape Town, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Klitmoller, Cape Verde, and many more.

Jason Polakow, Kauli Seadi, Alex Mussolini and many others will show you some impressive waves, jumps and crashes, all in tune to the music.

With water temperatures hitting the 27°C around September-October, and recording a minimum of 22°C in the first few months of the year, Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, truly deserves its reputation of World’s top class surfing destination.

Cape Verde is also a good place to learn surfing, away from the huge waves; Surf Zone is one of the largest surf schools on Sal Island, located both in the Bay of Santa Maria and near the world famous wave spot Punta Preta.

Cape Verdean ports to be expanded

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:08:14 GMT

The ports of Praia, Porto Novo, Palmeira, Vale dos Cavaleiros and Sal-Rei will undergo major refurbishment works in the next few months to increase the islands' capacity to receive bigger vessels and modernise Cape Verde's ports infrastructures.

The government is currently preparing a tender to choose a contractor for the various projects across the archipelago.

The country has seven ports in total; including the port of Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente, which is currently Cape Verde’s major shipping port.

The new project, which according to Macauhub will cost 10 billion Cape Verdean escudos (around £73 million), will have a considerable impact on the country's already thriving economy, as well as its overall popularity among tourists and property buyers worldwide.

The project will be financed by the Cape Verdean government through an international bank loan. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Transport and Sea have also applied for an Investment Loan to the European Investment Bank.

Sporting spectators do not need special insurance

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 16:28:33 GMT

Visitors to Cape Verde for the 2010 African Nations/World Cup qualifiers or other sports events do need travel insurance but do not require a special cover.

After a lost match 2:0 against Cameroon, Cape Verde is now back onto the line with a 1:0 against Tanzania in Praia, at the Estadio da Varzea last Saturday.

The next match happening in the archipelago's capital Praia this month will take place on June, 22nd, Cape Verde facing Mauritius.

Sally Leeman, media relations manager with Norwich Union, has explained that "violent incidents at international sports tournaments are infrequent, generally isolated to one area of the ground or venue and quickly contained" and that therefore a standard holiday insurance policy is sufficient for sporting spectators.

Research by Sainsbury’s Travel Insurance has estimated that an alarming 4.2 million people went on holiday without travel insurance last Easter, representing around 10.68 per cent of UK overseas holidaymakers.

Cape Verde's Capoeira Festival

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 16:24:38 GMT

July is the ideal time to visit the archipelago for martial arts fans and those who admire the African culture as a whole as the Capoeira International Festival is about to start.

Capoeira performers and amateurs will gather on the islands of Santiago, Sal, San Vicente and Santo Antao in July to celebrate the African-Brazilian artistic expression.

Capoeira is a mixture of various arts, including African dance, music, acrobatics, as well as various fighting forms, and was developed around the 16th century, at the same time as slavery.

Slaves imported from Africa to Brazil and other parts of the continent used to pass in transit through Cape Verde, through prosperous Cidade Velha, and once across the Atlantic Ocean, they were forbidden from practicing any kind of martial arts so as to avoid rebellions among slaves.

However, the ban only strengthened the ties between Africans who soon disguised their martial art into Capoeira, a fusion between folk dance and martial arts focusing on energy release and body control.

Capoeira is therefore more than just a sport; it is an expression of life and resistance. It can be practiced in group or alone and is particularly popular among surfers for strength building.

AIPP Awards for property buyers

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:37:07 GMT

Buying a property abroad is not an easy task and buyers are always seen tracking the most reliable agents and developers to obtain good service.

The Association of International Property Professionals (AIPP) is trying to set out best practice criteria for the property profession by organising its Awards ceremony later this year.

The highly contested 11 awards constitute a significant challenge for all AIPP members, namely worldwide agents and developers, all trying to meet customers' needs and expectations.

The Awards ceremony will take place in London on October, 3rd, on board The Silver Sturgeon, London's premier dinner cruise boat.

The 11 awards include Best Agent (according to the size of the company), Best Developer (in various geographic areas), Best New Developer, Most Outstanding Example of Customer Service, Most Transparent Marketing Campaign, and Best Staff Training.

Members only have ten days left to register with the AIPP before the list of entrants to the Awards ceremony closes.

By focusing exclusively on customer service, regardless of the company's success in property developments, the AIPP is providing both companies and customers with a trusty feedback, as indeed every entrant will receive a full report from a judging panel of industry experts.

Cape Verde's main concern is transparency

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:31:42 GMT

Number three in Africa and in the 49th position out of 180 countries, Cape Verde has proved its level of transparency, offering little room to corruption.

Such a record puts the archipelago in a good position, attracting trusty investors who have made Cape Verde one of the most popular property investment destinations in recent years.

According to the International Transparency Report, Cape Verde is closely followed by Eastern European countries Slovakia, Latvia and Lithuania, all totalling just under five per cent in the CPI score, which analyses the degree of corruption.

At the top of the list figure Denmark, Finland and New Zealand, with a 9.4 per cent, compared to a 1.4 per cent for Somalia and Myanmar in the last positions.

Com Foy, spokesperson for the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development, has told Macauhub that the Portuguese-speaking country also has a "good programme of public investment, development of the private sector, growth of domestic investment, a very balanced political system and focus on training", and that he expected a 6.6 per cent annual growth for this year, similar to last year's results.

Cape Verde and today's slaves' descendants

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:35:20 GMT

Beach holiday paradise Cape Verde is also an important destination for "grief tourism" due to its former key position in the slave trade from the fifteenth century.

People from all over the world and especially from the Caribbean, North American or European parts, come to Cape Verde to visit its original settlement, Cidade Velha, located on the island of Santiago, where millions of slaves had transited in the past before being sent to their new homes.

Chelsea Orth, general manager of KWE group, has explained that for many grief tourists, "it can be therapeutic" and "a source of great relief" and "connection with relatives' or friends' past and present, one’s religion, one’s identity".

Due to its geographical position, midway between Europe, Africa and America and facing the Slave Coast, the Portuguese archipelago soon became essential in the triangular trade.

There are numerous places worldwide which are intensely charged with history and tend to appeal to grief tourists such as the Auschwitz Nazi camp, which received a record number of one million visitors in 2005, the highest number since 1972.

"Being able to empathise and learn about other peoples’ cultures is something that one can’t experience without going to the source", added Chelsea Orth.

International Labour Conference is open

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:10:42 GMT

Cape Verdean minister of Labour, Family and Solidarity, Sidonio Monteiro, is present at this year's 97th session of the International Labour Conference, which is held every year in Geneva, Switzerland.

Among the various matters related to Cape Verde which are to be discussed at the conference, the minister will present the archipelago's recent Labour Code.

The new Code, which was introduced last April, set up some important legislation dealing with workers' health and security, workers' personality rights, handicapped workers, as well as gender equality in the workplace.

The International Labour Conference will be an important platform for debate, aiming at tackling issues such as productivity, employment, development and poverty in rural areas worldwide, as well as crafting international labour standards.

The International Labour Organisation works to ensure the protection of its four fundamental rights, namely: the freedom of association, the abolition of forced labour, child labour, and discrimination in the workplace.

Founded at the end of the First World War in 1919, the Organisation also became the first specialized agency of the UN in 1946.

Cape Verde at the Water Festival

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:09:33 GMT

In exactly 11 days will start the biggest Water Festival on the planet, hosting some 107 countries over a three-month period in Zaragoza, Spain.

Cape Verde is one of the countries taking part in the event, which aims at stimulating debate regarding water resources and sustainable development.

In a world where according to the country's motto "every drop counts", the archipelago is determined to show its support during the Expo Zaragoza 2008 and work in close partnership with other countries across the globe, including 22 countries from the African continent.

The event is also set to become a major cultural festival where every nation will be able to showcase its own cultures and traditions.

Among Cape Verdean artists performing throughout the three-month period we count: Ferro Gaita on June, 28th, putting on stage the islands' traditional funana music; Raiz di Polon, Tcheka and Nancy Vieira on July, 4th; followed by famous Cesaria Evora on August, 14th.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Victor Borges has told A Semana that Cape Verde's participation in Expo Zaragoza 2008, which is based on an 80-million escudo budget, is an opportunity to "revisit practices related to water" and "seek out quality foreign investment".

Cape Verdean market more "appealing"

Fri, 30 May 2008 16:41:11 GMT

While in the phase of the global credit crunch, worldwide property markets have been affected by a downturn in their economy, resulting in a decrease in the number of investments, some emerging property markets such as Cape Verde have proved less prone to the squeeze.

Emma Holifield, PR and marketing executive at Property Frontiers, said that opportunities in emerging markets are "significantly more appealing than those in established markets, [which are] more prone to the squeeze because of rising lending costs and a lack of new mortgage options".

Moreover, as emerging market economies "are not totally dependent on Foreign Direct Investment and are quite capable of creating their own wealth either from manufacturing or natural recourses", their property markets are not expected to be too affected by the credit crunch, Property Frontiers has explained.

According to the Association of International Property Professionals' 2007 report, 30 to 35 per cent of the money spent on overseas property markets were in emerging markets, which tend to offer cheaper properties than established markets.

Fogo highway on its way

Wed, 28 May 2008 16:53:07 GMT

The final plan for Fogo's new highway ring will be ready next month, Manuel Inocencio Sousa, minister of Infrastructures, Transportation and the Sea, has announced.

As reported by A Semana, the €20 million project is already on its way and the engineering office in charge of the highway, which is to link Fogo Island's three municipalities, has already been working on the final plan for two months.

The minister has also explained that he expects work to start before the end of 2008.

The 80-kilometre highway will be built in two steps, first linking Cova Figueira, Patim, Sao Filipe, Santo Antonio, Ponta Verde, Campanas and Volta Volta, before covering the entire circumference of the island in a second phase.

Cape Verde has recently signed an accord with the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the OPEC Fund and the Saudi Fund who will fund 80 per cent of the project.

The volcano island, which is one of the most popular islands among holidaymakers and property investors, will soon boast one of the archipelago's best main roads.

Spokesperson for Cape Verdean traditions

Fri, 23 May 2008 16:09:05 GMT

Cape Verdean Diego Neves has won three titles at the International "Moinho d’Oiro" Children’s and Youth Song Festival this year, outpacing his own expectations, as he explained to A Semana.

The sixth edition of the International Festival was held on May, 10th in Seixal, Portugal, reuniting children from around the world to compete for the best performance.

The 14-year-old, who was representing the island of Sao Vicente, has received trophies for the Best Youth Song, the Audience Award and the First Youth Prize, confirming Cape Verde's musical reputation in the entire world.

Diego had chosen Roberto Teixeira’s "Terra Longe" for the public this year and has explained that he wants to "dedicate his career as a musician, singer and music teacher to traditional Cape Verdean musical genres".

This year's festival was Diego's second international contest as he had already participated in last year's "Chamine de Ouro" International Children’s and Youth Song Festival in Portimao, Portugal, where he won the Best Foreign Song award.

The young Cape Verdean comes from a family where everyone "sings or plays", from grandfather Antonio Sanches to aunt Lutchinha Leite.

Diego has been invited to take part in Madeira Island's festival in August next year.

A new light on Praia's heritage

Fri, 23 May 2008 16:08:17 GMT

After ten years of repairs and refurbishment works, Our Lady of Fatima Church has recently re-opened to the public and resumed its religious services.

Locals and visitors have looked in awe at the new ceiling paintings, choral balconies and frescoes which have cast a new light on Santa Catarina's most important Catholic church.

Most of the new frescoes which now adorn this 20th century church were designed by Cape Verdean visual artists Jose Maria Barreto and Tutu.

The re-opening of the church on May, 13th, coincided with the traditional celebrations of the city of Assomada and Our Lady of Fatima, and Father Constantina has told A Semana: "We wanted to give the city a present on this special occasion."

Built in1949 with a capacity of 1,200 worshippers, the church had never undergone such extensive remodelling works before.

The project, which cost was estimated at 25 million escudos or under £180,000, was sponsored by the Bishop of Praia, the government, the pontificate, local and foreign businesses, groups of expatriate settlers living in Europe, as well as the public.

Cape Verdean Magui Spencer in the US

Thu, 22 May 2008 11:55:07 GMT

Only a few weeks after the release of her third solo album, Cape Verdean singer Magui Spencer says she is heading for the States where she is to perform this month.

The singer told A Semana that she had already held concerts on Sal Island and in Lisbon in Portugal, and that she is planning to promote her new album throughout the archipelago whenever she "get days off from work".

Although singing is not Magui Spencer's main job, she is currently considered the most emblematic female voice on the island of Sal and should appear regularly on stage.

Brought up in a family of musicians, Magui grew up with brothers Nhelas Spencer and Alcides Spencer Brito, who have composed part of her new 11-title album, Ca bo fatiga.

Magui's first album, Lembrancas de Cabo Verde, was released 14 years ago, followed by Abraco a ilha do Sal in 1997.

Her new album blends mornas and coladeiras with traditional funana, batuko and samba.

The singer also represents a spokesperson for all female Cape Verdean artists as she says: "It’s time to get past the idea that Cape Verdean women are simply those who take care of the family and the household."

Association to support African students in Brazil

Mon, 19 May 2008 16:53:41 GMT

Language difficulties, administrative applications, financial issues, studying in a foreign country is never easy, especially when home is thousands of kilometres away, and that is why African students living in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil have just started their own association.

The Association of African Students in Minas Gerais (AEA-MG) has been set up recently by older students who have been through all the difficulties usually encountered by foreign students and have decided to help future entrants, reported A Semana.

The AEA-MG aims at helping African students, some of whom are Cape Verdean, to solve administrative issues such as obtaining the Foreigner Identity Card and opening a bank account to enable the students to devote more time to their studies and therefore work for the development of the African continent.

The students' association's motto is: "Study to develop", and Pedro Matos, one of the founders of the association, told A Semana: "We are committed to the development of the entire African continent. We believe that it is our responsibility to stimulate growth in key areas of society, mainly in education."

Maio airport re-opens

Tue, 13 May 2008 17:00:47 GMT

After a nine-month improvement work period, Maio airport is to re-open to the public on Friday.

The Airport and Air Security company (ASA) and the civil Aviation Agency will hold a test flight today on a Cape Verde Express aircraft departing from Sal Island.

As reported by A Semana, important works have isolated the island for part of the year while the company Monte Adriano was improving the runway's foundation and water drainage system. The airport now also has an automatic meteorological station and a better flight information service.

The 200-meter long and 30-meter wide runway will welcome the first air passengers to Maio, which is located just south of Boa Vista, on the 16th.

The number of tourists visiting the island is expected to rise this summer as visitors will have the choice between transport by sea and air, making access to some of Cape Verde's best sandy beaches easier.

According to A Semana, the total cost for the project, which is entirely financed by ASA, reaches 220 million escudos or just over £1.5 million.

Annual travel insurance for last minute deals

Mon, 12 May 2008 16:30:37 GMT

Travellers who either intend to go more than twice on holiday abroad during the year or tend to book trips to top destinations such as Cape Verde "in the spur of the moment", should take an annual travel insurance, has advised the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).

"The insurance market is the most competitive it’s ever been so travel insurance is probably the cheapest it’s ever been as well", said ABTA press officer Sean Tipton, who has urged holiday makers to ensure they are always covered before setting off.

Research from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has revealed that 17 per cent of 18 to 35-year-olds took a jet-skiing holiday on the spur of the moment, while another 14 per cent chose to go on a last minute rock climbing adventure, sometimes without travel insurance.

With an average cost of £24,000 to treat a broken leg in America or £4,000 to £5,000 for a week’s hospital stay in Greece, it is really not worth trying to "save £30 or £40" and "run the risk of having to sell your house to pay the bill", has explained Mr Tipton.

Conference on Biodiversity: Cape Verde united with West Africa

Fri, 09 May 2008 16:45:05 GMT

Cape Verde's drive to protect the environment goes beyond the land itself. The government also wishes to protect the biological diversity of its water.

The country has made many progresses in this domain and is now part of the Regional Programme of marine and coastal conservation of West Africa which includes Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Conakry, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and Sierra Leone.

The seven West African countries will be united to attend the 9th Convention on Biological Diversity from May the 19th to 30th in Bonn in Germany.

They have adopted a common strategy to protect the diversity of their waters. Their efforts have been recognized in the creation of protected areas and the development of innovative financial solutions, according to Senegal's newspaper "Le Soleil".

However, despite these efforts, more work needs to be done in training and sensitize skilled workers on bio-diversity issues and also measuring the effects of climate change.

Cape Verde's press is "one of the freest in Africa"

Fri, 09 May 2008 16:42:57 GMT

Freedom House, a US organisation fighting for the freedom of the world press, praised Cape Verde for its good attitude towards journalists.

The island's press is said by the organisation to be completely free. In a statement, Freedom House said that Cape Verde protects freedom of the press both through its Constitution and its laws.

"In recent years, the government has been able to respect and protect the law, making Cape Verde one of the freest countries in Africa regarding freedom of press," according to the release.

Freedom House has not registered any cases of intimidation or violence against journalists in 2007.

However, the organisation deplores the self-censorship among journalists, considering that it is one of the biggest challenges faced by Cape Verde for a greater freedom of the press.

ASA announces the reopening of Maio airport on May 16

Fri, 09 May 2008 16:40:34 GMT

ASA, Cape Verde's company of Airports and Air Safety has announced last Friday that the airport on the island of Maio will be reopened to traffic on May 16th.

It had been closed for renovation to improve its infrastructure.

Improvements include the strengthening of the pavement with concrete tarmac. Corrections have also been made to the system of rain water drainage and to the Flight Information Service (AFIS).

ASA also announced that an automatic weather station (AWOS) has been installed.

After reopening on May 16th, works will start in the passenger terminal, including replacement of furniture, to bring greater comfort to passengers.

The total cost, including works in the terminal and the weather system, will be around 220.000 euros.

The new terminal will include, amongst many other features, a VIP room and a bar with a terrace.

Four more wind farms in Cape Verde

Fri, 09 May 2008 16:38:16 GMT

Cape Verde is becoming more and more eco-friendly with the government recent announcement to build four wind farms on the islands of Santiago, Sao Vicente, Sal and Boavista.

"The farms will have a production capacity of 28 megawatts", the director general for Energy Mr Lopes said in a press conference in Sal last April.

"The investments are extremely high. The project already has estimated investment of 140 million euros and a multinational company owned by five European countries will co-fund the project in a public-private partnership," he continued.

The project is aiming to develop alternative sources of energy for Cape Verde and reduce its dependency on oil products.

It is also part of the government policy to preserve the environment, which also includes the development of eco-tourism resorts.

The construction of the wind farms is expected to start in the second half of the year.

Property investment encouraged Cape Verde

Fri, 09 May 2008 16:36:34 GMT

While the world economy is going through tough times with the credit crunch, it appears that property investment in Cape Verde is still flourishing.

Big buyers are still coming and the latest example is Welsh Rugby star Colin Charvis who has recently picked up a property on the archipelago, according to Wales on Sunday.

"I believe one of the main reasons people are attracted to Cape Verde is the fantastic white sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise sea" managing director of Cape Verde Property, Adrian Lillywhite, told the paper.

According to Nick Fullerton, managing director of FC Exchange, destinations such as Portugal and Cape Verde remain attractive due to "recent fluctuations in the value of the euro" making these destinations cheaper than more traditional property investments such as France.

Cape Verde was recently recommended to investors by FirstRungNow.com. Helen Adams, managing director, believes that "Cape Verde could be a good option for people who are struggling to get on the UK housing ladder."

Internet booking: "savvy and convenient"

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:50:00 GMT

The internet has made booking a holiday easier than ever before, however traditional travel agents will not be shutting their doors just yet, it has been claimed.

According to consumer group Which? Holiday, one fifth of holiday makers still resort to the services of travel agencies, while many are now opting to buy elements of their holiday, such as flights, online.

Researcher for the firm, Kate Shipp, explained that people like the internet because it allows them to tailor their holiday to suit their needs.

However she added that some people, especially consumers without the internet, still prefer face-to-face contact with a travel agent.

According to Travelmole, a Travel Technology Initiative Special Report from September 2007 predicted that the number of travel agents would decline to 2,000 in the UK by 2012.

There were around 5,000 branches last year, compared to 6,100 in 2005.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show 61 per cent of households had access to the internet in 2007, up seven per cent compared to 2006.

Cape Verdean wine industry on the up

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:42:30 GMT

Cape Verde is expecting a profitable grape harvest this year due to last year's abundant rains on Fogo Island, David Gomes Monteiro, president of the Association of Farmers of Cha das Caldeiras, has explained.

The association, which is the owner of the Cha brand of wine and spirits, is expecting around 100,000 litres of wine this year, compared to 41,250 litres made after the last harvest, A Semana reports.

A 2,500,000 escudos fruit processing plant for the production of jam, marmalade and other products is also due to be set up later this year in the village which is situated inside the main crater of the volcano on the island of Fogo.

The project is to be carried out in partnership with the Italian Cooperation Agency and the Cape Verdean ministry of agriculture and the environment.

The installation of an industrial oven for the drying of fruits and the building of a second storehouse is also planned for the future.

According to the US Department of State's statistics on Cape Verde, agriculture and fishing contribute to about nine per cent of the archipelago's total GDP.

Holidays and property investment 'inextricably linked'

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:39:37 GMT

Interest in emerging property markets such as Cape Verde comes hand in hand with an increase in tourism and long-haul holidays, it has been claimed.

Emma Holifield, PR and marketing executive at Property Frontiers explained that consumer interest in destinations off the beaten track will lead to growth in emerging property markets.

"As people see more of the world...the traditional markets can look rather tame," she explained.

"Investing in emerging markets is appealing to investors as they typically have lower entry costs than established markets as well as the potential for significantly higher returns," she added.

According to the International Property Market Report from the Association of International Property Professionals some 30 to 35 per cent of investment in overseas property in 2007 was in emerging markets.

Long-haul holidays are expected to represent 24 per cent of the tourist industry by 2020.

Whether in Cape Verde, Turkey or Bulgaria, emerging property markets also tend to attract first time buyers who are often unable to get on the property ladder in their own country.

Cape Verdean airline turns private

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:28:09 GMT

TACV is to become privatised from mid-2009, Manuel Inocencio Sousa, minister for infrastructure and transport has revealed.

The Cape Verdean air carrier is currently under the US company Sterling Merchant management, but initial plans for its privatisation date back to late 2007.

Mr Sousa has announced the decision during a visit by US undersecretary of transportation Thomas Barrett.

Barrett stressed that it was "very good" that the Cape Verdean government was preparing TACV's privatisation "very carefully", A Semana reports.

Cape Verde's multiple privatisation initiatives since 2004 intend to reach the International Monetary Fund economic reform programmes, and mainly target the sectors of energy, water, telecommunications, transportation, fisheries and shipping.

TACV Cabo Verde Airlines was founded in 1958 and currently operates scheduled flights to 20 domestic and international destinations including Europe, North America, South America and the West African mainland.

TACV operates from Sal and Praia Airports.

Brits flock to Cape Verde

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 16:06:18 GMT

Cape Verde is becoming more and more favoured as one of Britons' emerging holiday hotspots.

In 2006, visits by Brits only represented 0.6 per cent of the total number of nights spent on the archipelago.

However, one year later almost two in ten people visiting the islands were visitors from the UK - proving how popular the archipelago has become.

Popular with both holiday makers and property investors, tourism in Cape Verde has experienced a strong increase of 11.5 per cent, with 312,880 people staying in the country's hotel establishments last year, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE).

The Cape Verde Islands have also seen the number of hotels grow by six per cent compared to 2006, boasting no less than150 establishments.

Holidaymakers' favourite island is Sal, which represents some 61.4 per cent of all hotel entries. This is followed by Santiago with 19.4 per cent, and Sao Vicente with seven per cent.

Italian and British tourists are by far the most numerous visitors to the islands, counting for 21 per cent and 20 per cent respectively, followed by the Portuguese with 16 per cent and the Germans at 11 per cent.

Better health, better salary

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:06:51 GMT

British expatriate settlers earn more and enjoy better health abroad than in their home country, a survey carried out by NatWest International Personal Banking has shown.

The Expat Wealth Ranking Survey has proved that expats not only take advantage of a sunnier and warmer climate, but are also generally financially better off.

Almost half of the respondents (43 per cent) said they would see an increase in their salary if they relocated abroad. While in the UK, the average wage is around £47,000, expats earn on average £67,000.

David Isley, head of NatWest International Personal Banking, said: "The expat wealth rankings shows that people who are willing to move abroad not only benefit from bigger earnings, but also have the advantage of a lower cost of living."

Finally, the survey has also revealed that almost seven in ten expats say they feel better and healthier because they live abroad.

Cape Verde is home to a small population of expatriate settlers who have chosen the archipelago for its beauty, laid-back atmosphere, year-round sunshine and proximity to Europe with five-hour direct flights to London.

Advance screening of A Ilha dos Escravos

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:34:21 GMT

Portuguese film A Ilha dos Escravos, meaning Island of the Slaves, will be presented to the public in an advance screening next Saturday in Cape Verde's capital Praia, A Semana reports.

Island of the Slaves is based on 1856 novel O Escravo by Portuguese author Evaristo de Almeida. The story takes place in the 19th century during a dispute over the Portuguese throne, and depicting the love story of the daughter of a plantation owner, a slave and a rebel official.

Portuguese filmmaker Francisco Manso, who is currently working on the shooting of two other movies, Assalto ao Santa Maria and Ultimo Condenado a Morte, O, will see his new film premier in cinemas in May.

The film was shot in Brazil, Portugal and Cape Verde with the likes of Portugal's Diogo Infante and Vitor Norte, Brazil's Vanessa Giacommo and Zeze Mota, and Cape Verdean actors Josina Fortes and Luis Evora.

The €2 million production will be distributed both in Brazil and Cape Verde, and be broadcast on RTP, Portuguese television network, after its commercial release.

Cape Verde: Debt cancellation

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:04:02 GMT

A US bill towards the cancellation of debts from several developing countries in Africa and Asia is to help countries achieve sustainable development and meet with the 2015 UN Millennium Development Goals.

The Jubilee Act was passed in the House of Representatives in Washington last week with a strong majority of 285 votes against 132. The bill is yet to be approved by the Senate before taking effect.

"This bill is an essential step. Too many impoverished nations are trapped in a vicious cycle where their scarce resources are sucked up in enormous debt payments," Neil Watkins, national coordinator of Jubilee USA Network, told the African Press Organisation.

The African countries concerned by the new bill include Cape Verde, Angola, Kenya, Lesotho and Nigeria.

The bill was first introduced in June last year and was encouraged by many organisations so that the money owed by developing countries would be invested in better local infrastructure, education and health care.

Sailing in Cape Verde

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:03:18 GMT

Cape Verde is by far one of the best destinations in the world for water sports, and is also recognised as a top sailing hub because of the constant wind which blows on the archipelago.

With nearly seven in ten (69 per cent) adults aged 16 or over in England participating in at least one type of active sport every year, according to the Office of National Statistics, sport in on the increase and the number of people looking for challenging activities for their holidays are constantly more numerous.

Derek Moore, chairman of AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators), has explained: "People are much more aware of health issues and the fact that our sedentary daily lives leave us open to potential heart attack and stroke problems in later life."

Trafalgar Sailing is one of the clubs organising courses for all levels to the Cape Verde Islands. The courses also constitute a unique opportunity to visit many islands, both inhabited and uninhabited ones, in a limited amount of time.

For those who already have their International Certificate of Competence then yacht rental is another option. Aventura offers yachts with all commodities for up to ten people throughout the year.

Machado de Assis in Cape Verde

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:42:31 GMT

Cape Verdean capital Praia is to host a series of events today and tomorrow to commemorate the death of acclaimed author Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis.

The Portuguese writer, who is considered to be one of the most important names in Brazilian and in Portuguese-language literature, died 100 years ago in Brazil.

Machado de Assis left a legacy of numerous novels, short stories and essays, such as his masterpiece Dom Casmurro (1899), a novel devoted to the study of jealousy.

The commemorative event will include a conference on the works of Machado de Assis by Lauro Moreira who is Brazil's ambassador to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries, and a screening of Posthumous Memoires of Bras Cubas, a film based on the novel of the same name.

Machado de Assis also played an important role in founding the Brazilian Academy of Letters in 1896 and became its first president.

Cape Verde: online tax payments

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:41:46 GMT

Cape Verdean tax payers are now able to make payments online.

The new service aims to ensure a secure, quick and simple process for residents to request tax forms and proceed to payments of various taxes such as value added tax, income tax and stamp tax, A Semana reports.

To use the new service, taxpayers need to register with the Casa do Cidadao (House of the Citizen), the tax department or any of the Registry offices, and provide a simple identification document.

The House of the Citizen was first created in November last year and includes various services such as one-day business registrations and on-line birth certificates.

The standard period of time necessary to register a business used to be 58 days prior to the reform.

Cristina Fontes, minister of State Reform and National Defence, told Cape Verde Development that the launch was "a historic day for Cape Verdean public administration".

Award for Mayra Andrade

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:53:39 GMT

Cape Verdean singer Mayra Andrade was among the winners at BBC Radio 3 Awards ceremony last Thursday in Camden, London.

After her debut album in 2005, Navega, meaning 'upon the waves', Andrade won the prestigious German Records Critics' Award last year in May, and now figures on the BBC Radio 3's list of nominees under the Newcomer category.

World famous singer Cesaria Evora was the first to make the small archipelago known worldwide, but Andrade belongs to the new generation of Cape Verdean artists with the likes of Tcheka and Lura, who mingle modern sounds with traditional Cape Verdean rhythms, Morna, Coladera and Batuque.

Like other artists from the Western African archipelago, Andrade has chosen to settle far from home to make a name for herself. Born in Cuba, the singer grew up between Cape Verde, Senegal, Angola, and Germany, before leaving for France in 2003 where she began her career.

The BBC Radio 3 Awards are an internationally recognised - and last year’s programme was broadcasted live to over 25 countries.

Island hopping in Cape Verde

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 13:52:15 GMT

Cape Verde islands are ideal for holiday makers who want to explore a lot in a limited period of time.

The islands are quite close to each other and the archipelago's transport system is highly efficient.

Perhaps the best way to explore Cape Verde is by flying with the local airline TACV.

Flights generally take between 20 to 50 minutes depending on the destination. The only islands not accessible by plane are Santo Antao, Brava and Santa Luzia.

By using a TACV air pass, which can be ordered when booking an international flight to Cape Verde with TACV or the Portuguese airline TAP, travellers can also purchase internal plane tickets to Sao Vicente, Santiago, Boa Vista, Maio, Fogo and Sao Nicolau at much lower prices.

For a cheaper option, visitors can either take ferries which travel to most of Cape Verde islands or one of Moura Company's hydrofoils which travel between Sao Vicente, Santo Antao and Sao Nicolau, and between Praia and Fogo, Brava, Maio, Sal and Boa Vista.

Each of the archipelago's islands has something different to offer, from sand dunes on Boa Vista to volcanic mountain ranges on Santo Antao and deserted beaches on Sal, making island hopping every visitor's favourite pastime.

Enacol petrol station on Santo Antao

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 13:51:38 GMT

A totally revamped Enacol petrol station has recently re-opened in Porto Novo on Santo Antao.

Customers will now have at their disposal two fuel pumps, a home gas canister sales point, but also oil and car-washing services, A Semana reports.

The cafeteria and convenience store, which exterior decoration was carried out by Cape Verdean visual artist Manu Cabral, will also open in a few days.

"This is yet another of Enacol's contributions to the valorisation of Cape Verdean artists," the company said.

The petrol station's restructuring plan also includes a residual water treatment unit which uses filters to keep the streets clear of hydrocarbons.

Santo Antao is Cape Verde's northernmost and second biggest island, measuring 43 kilometres in length by 24 kilometres. Most visitors come here to admire the island's multiple peaks such as Tope Da Coroa which stands at an altitude of 1,979m.

Cape Verde for first time buyers

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:12:20 GMT

With less and less 100 per cent mortgages available in the UK, first time buyers find it difficult to get on the property ladder and prefer investing in profitable foreign markets.

According to FirstRungNow.com, first time buyers prefer riskier markets such as Cape Verde or Turkey because their markets are extremely profitable, whereas traditional foreign property markets such as France and Spain tend to offer less capital growth.

FirstRungNow.com managing director, Helen Adams, has explained that first time buyers investing in places such as Cape Verde are hoping to make important profits to gather a deposit for their first property in the UK.

"There are countries out there where property [prices] are growing quite considerably. This means you can increase a small deposit to a larger one a lot more easily," she said.

According to the FirstRungNow, a two-bed apartment in the Cape Verde islands could cost as little as £50,000 compared to an average of around £174,000 in the UK

Research from Fair Investment Company has found that almost half the respondents (44 per cent) said they would consider buying their first property abroad.

Cape Verde's culinary culture

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:10:58 GMT

To all Cape Verdeans across the world, there is nothing better than a real cachupada. More than a simple meal, cachupada is by tradition an occasion for friends and relatives to meet and share moments together over a large and tasty meal.

The dish prepared for the occasion, which is called cachupa, is at the centre of the festive gathering and can easily take four hours to prepare.

The cachupa is a kind of stew made with staple ingredients such as hominy corn, beans, vegetables, spices and marinated pork or tuna, all boiled slowly together for many hours.

The national dish also has a variant called cachupa rica, which is served for more important events such as weddings or funerals. The recipe is essentially the same but families often add sausages and more marinated meat.

By tradition, what families can afford to buy for their cachupa rica always reflects their wealth, and that is why cachupas are generally so tasty.

Although the meal is mostly part of a family reunion, it is also commonly served in restaurants for visitors to the archipelago to take part in this important part of the Cape Verdean culture.

The Sahara in Cape Verde

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:09:58 GMT

Boa Vista is one of those special islands which make a visit to Cape Verde a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cape Verde's most central island is only 31 by 29 kilometres in total and is home to only 4,000 people who mainly live in the capital Sal Rei.

The island has totally preserved its natural environment and visitors come here to contemplate Boa Vista's impressive sand dunes and coastline which stretch as far as the eye can see.

Like a floating Sahara desert, the island also boasts some of the most amazing wrecks in the archipelago which have all become artificial reefs where scuba divers can enjoy an encounter with some of the most diverse underwater species.

Boa Vista is also the best place to spot the archipelago's famous turtles as the area is their favourite breeding ground.

Every year from late May to late October, loggerhead, hawksbill, leatherback and green turtles lay their eggs on Boa Vista's beaches, and from late August to late December millions of baby turtles head for the ocean.

Direct flights from London to the sunshine island are available all year round, making this part of the archipelago a particularly attractive property investment location.

New cards "safer than travellers' cheques"

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:03:08 GMT

A new generation of travellers' cheques is likely to become the most popular form of currency for holidays to Cape Verde in the future.

The new prepaid debit cards, currently offered by the Post Office, Lloyds TSB and Barclay's, enable travellers to load money from any currency onto their card and use it worldwide to pay retailers and withdraw cash at ATMs.

Users are free to top-up at any time, just like they would do for their mobile phones.

Steve Willey, head of cards at comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said: "Once people have got comfortable with the concept and realise that there are savings to be made, then I think this will become just the way to do things."

By using prepaid currency cards, travellers to Cape Verde can save on transaction fees and travel in complete safety as in the event of fraud any financial loss will be compensated by the providers.

Prepaid cards are also an excellent alternative for people who cannot apply for a credit card, ensuring carefree travels for everyone.

"Once you've loaded your money in the currency you chose, you don't pay any fees on the transactions, so there are no exchange fees thereafter," added Mr Willey.

Cape Verde to implement new labour code

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 11:35:37 GMT

Several discussions are to take place throughout the month to finalise a new labour code which was approved by legislative decree in 2007 and will go into effect on April 16th in Cape Verde.

The new labour code, which is part of a series of reforms to be carried out in public administration, will cover various topics such as workers' health and security and workers' personality rights, A Semana reports.

The code will also agree on what services ought to be provided for handicapped workers, and will pay special attention to gender equality.

Night, part-time, and home work will also figure on the agenda, as well as maritime labour which plays an important part in the country's economy and foreign workers.

When plans for a new code were first introduced in 2006, the government's ministerial spokeswoman, Cristina Fontes, told the Inforpress agency that the government also intended to stimulate vocational training and introduce "fundamental improvements to ensure growth, the fight against poverty and a better employment situation".

Hotel room investments

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:02:01 GMT

With the number of tourists flocking to the archipelago constantly on the increase, the multitude of daily direct flights from Europe now available, and the government's plans to develop the country's infrastructure and energy resources to cater for everyone's needs, Cape Verde has certainly become the new investment hotspot.

While most investors are looking for a property in one of the new trendy resorts of Sal Island or any of the other nine islands, others prefer to invest in hotel rooms, as they often guarantee a higher return on investment and also give you a pied-a-terre for a few weeks every year for your own holiday.

Often confused with timeshare, hotel room investments give you ownership of the room, so you do not only own time, you also make a profit.

According to Johnny Sandelson, chief executive of UK-based GuestInvest, there are several advantages to investing in a hotel room over the traditional buy-to-let property, as for instance there are no running or maintenance hassles and no risk of "lengthy gaps in tenancies".

He also added that some people "see their room merely as an investment option and choose not to stay there too often so as to increase the number of let able nights".

Tito Paris begins his tour

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 14:11:51 GMT

Cape Verdean singer and musician Tito Paris will be performing in the Dutch city of Uttrecht tonight, as part of his new tour around the Netherlands and Belgium.

Cape Verdean traditional mornas, coladeiras and funanas blended with international pop and modern sounds of Portugal which became the artist's home at the age of 19, make his songs unique in the world of music.

Paris was born and brought up on the island of Mindelo in a family of musical fishermen, and was once a member of La Voz de Cabo Verde, before turning soloist.

Performing with many renowned artists such as Cesaria Evora and Mariza, Paris has released seven albums in total, the latest being Actustico in 2007.

Many Cape Verdean artists like Tito Paris or Sarah Tavares have left their home country over the years in search for more professional opportunities, forming ever growing Cape Verdean communities across Europe, who are always eager to put their culture and music on stage for us.

Cape Verde in London's website has a wealth of information about all the events happening in Europe.

Cruising Cape Verde

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:05:45 GMT

Visitors opting for cruise holidays can enjoy the freedom of being able to hop from island to island, instead of spending their entire holiday at the same place.

Cape Verde counts among the favourite cruising destinations, as passengers want to explore several of its islands and enjoy both busy Santiago which offers countless opportunities for cultural and sport activities, but also quieter places such as Sao Antao for their unique natural beauty.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the number of passengers onboard all the major lines is expected to rise by at least two per cent this year, transporting some 12.8 million passengers in total.

Compared to the mid-1990s when only around five million people were cruising every year, the industry has almost tripled.

Choosing Cruising is one of the numerous websites offering cruises around the archipelago. It offers an 18-night cruise, stopping at the Cape Verdean capital Praia, Fogo, Sao Antao, Sao Vicente, and then in the Canary Islands, on its route to Portugal.

Cape Verde's partnership with Japan

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:59:05 GMT

In order to face the increase in demand for electricity supply on the island of Santiago in Cape Verde, the archipelago's minister of economy, growth and competitiveness Jose Brito has recently signed an accord with Japan.

The Japanese government will help finance a large-scale energy project on the island, involving the construction of a 60-Kilovolt energy transportation cable, A Semana reports.

The project will also provide an increase of 20 megawatts in the Palmarejo power plant's production, which is currently the main energy supplier for the entire island.

The project, carried on in partnership with the African Development Bank, will ensure new property developments can have access to the best service in terms of energy production and distribution on Santiago.

Santiago is currently one of the most popular destinations for property buyers worldwide.

Home to the country's capital Praia, it is the largest of Cape Verde Islands, with a total surface area of 991 sq km.

Cape Verde's main international airport is also situated on Santiago and offers frequent direct flights to and from several destinations across Europe.

Cape Verde considers the Euro

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:17:23 GMT

Former Portuguese colony Cape Verde could be on the brink of allowing the Euro to be used on the archipelago.

Prime minister Jose Maria Neves is apparently considering the move as part of a special status relationship with the European bloc, the Portugal News reports.

Mr Neves revealed the news last week during a series of ceremonies to mark the tenth anniversary of the island's currency exchange accord with Portugal.

"We are studying, with technical and political caution, the possibility of the Euro circulating in Cape Verde," Mr Neve was reported as saying.

Last December, Cape Verde was given a special status relationship with the EU, following Lisbon's six-month long presidency of the EU.

The Euro is already informally used on the archipelago as well as the escudo, Cape Verde's national currency.

The escudo, formerly used in Portugal until the introduction of the Euro, became the currency of Cape Verde in 1914 replacing the Cape Verdean real.

Investors offered Cape Verde tips

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 08:16:40 GMT

Investors looking to buy into the Cape Verde property market should ensure they make an initial inspection trip before they make any final decisions, experts advise.

The country, which lies off the western coast of Africa, is comprised of a string of islands with various landscapes, so prospective investors should be aware of the various opportunities before making a final commitment, one property firm has said.

According to Cape V, a UK-based company which specialises in property on the islands, spending some time in a location where an investor is thinking of buying a property will allow for a more comprehensive picture of what the area is like.

Darren Mitchell, director of Cape V, said: "By going with an experienced person to the other islands, buyers truly feel and understand where they are buying.

"By staying longer than just one a day they benefit from appreciating the night life, which can be low key or vibrant – but always different. They have a chance to get a better feel for the place."

Cape Verde: Threshold of Africa

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:11:31 GMT

Cape Verde continuously benefits from many alliances with businesses around the world who view the country as an important strategic gateway to the rest of Africa.

The head of Cape Verde's chamber of commerce, Adriano Cruz, has announced that small and micro Cape Verdean firms will soon be entitled to multi-training sessions with Sebrae, the Brazilian Service for Support to Micro and Small Businesses.

The official terms of the training will be agreed upon in May, but it will involve transfer of management technology tools and marketing techniques, Macauhub reports.

"Our expectations are very high because we have much to gain and learn with the work developed for years by Sebrae, a true model for the world," said Mr Cruz.

Earlier this year, another Brazilian firm, the Bahia-Cape Verde Business Chamber in Salvador expressed interest in the archipelago.

Cape Verdean ambassador to Brazil, Daniel Pereira, told Macauhub: "The idea is to use Cape Verde as a doorway into Africa and benefit the states of Bahia, Ceara, Pernambuco and Alagoas, initially, by generating business with the African continent, namely Cape Verde."

Cape Verde's fleet reinforced

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:06:15 GMT

A new high-speed vessel will soon be patrolling around Palmeira sea port on Sal Island, after the US ambassador to Cape Verde, Roger Pierce, presented the archipelago with a Sea Ray vessel yesterday.

Minister of defence, Cristina Fontes Lima, as well as the commanders of the Coast Guard and the Navy Squadron, were present for the ceremony which took place in Sao Vicente sea port, according to A Semana.

The Tennessee-based ship building company is the world's largest manufacturer of superior quality pleasure boats, offering great variety from sport boats, sport cruisers and yachts.

In accordance with the two countries' defence and security cooperation program, the US will also donate navigational and communication equipment to improve the vessel's performance.

Sea Ray first started its operations in 1959, when it was one of the first boat builders to use high-tech composite materials such as fibreglass in the construction of pleasure boats.

The boat manufacturer was the first to be certified for meeting the high standards of ISO 9002 Quality Assurance in 2000 and was also awarded the Five Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences.

Nhonho Hopffer's second edition

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:56:43 GMT

Cape Verdean singer and architect Nhonho Hopffer is to release a second edition of his first album Nhara Santiago after great success.

Nhonho Hopffer, also known as Frederico Hopffer Almada, sold 3,000 copies of his debut album last year and will release another 5,000 copies to be available throughout Europe and the US after an increasing demand, reported A Semana.

In his first album, named after his eldest daughter, Nhonho Hopffer revisited many traditional compositions of the likes of Zeze di Nha Reinalda, Nhelas Spencer, Kaka Barbosa and Antero Simas as he expressed that good compositions deserve to be brought back into the present.

The singer is already thinking of recording a second album bearing the name of his younger daughter Frederica Santa Maria this time, and will also perform at the National Auditorium later this month.

He told A Semana: "In music, my muse is Cape Verdean music itself. Indeed, Cape Verde as a whole is a great source of inspiration. Cape Verdean music will take this country even farther than it has so far."

Daily direct flights to Praia

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:55:40 GMT

From this summer, direct flights between Europe and the Cape Verdean capital Praia will be available on a daily basis, TAP Air Portugal's company administrator Luiz Mor has announced.

The Portuguese airline currently flies four times a week to Praia but has recorded an increase of 24 per cent in the number of passengers to Africa last year, together with an increase of 14 per cent in the company's revenues.

"In January of this year, we grew 26 per cent in the Cape Verdean market in comparison to January of last year, and to Praia alone we transported 4,000 people," the company's general director for Africa, Dionisio Barum, told A Semana:

The company's promotional fares for Cape Verde this summer will be around €250 for a round-trip, and the airline may maintain its daily flights to the archipelago after September if there is a positive market response.

The airline is expected to double its number of flights to Guinea Bissau during the summer months, and offer five instead of four weekly flights to Maputo in Mozambique and Johannesburg in South Africa.

Flights to the Angolan capital Luanda, Senegalese capital Dakar and Sao Tome will remain unchanged.

Cidade Velha: World Heritage Site

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:51:02 GMT

The World Heritage technical presentation for Ribeira Grande has been approved by Unesco.

According to A Semana, the historic site, also known as Cidade Velha when the Portuguese city became disused in the XVIIIth century, is likely to obtain its World Heritage Site status.

Cape Verdean minister of culture Manuel Veiga will receive a commission from Unesco next October to finalise the attribution of the title.

Ribeira Grande was founded in 1462 by Portuguese colonists and was the first European settlement in the tropics.

Known as Cidade Velha nowadays, meaning the Old Town, the ruins of Ribeira Grande are the reminders of Cape Verde's past as a major slave trade centre.

In its glorious days, the city was home to many rich lords and had its own town hall, court and prison, as well as a cathedral, many churches and a hospital, standing like a European microcosm in the middle of the tropics.

Cape Verde first submitted its application for Ribeira Grande to become a World Heritage Site in 2004, along with other applications for the salt plains of Pedra Lume and Tarrafal concentration camp.

Cape Verde: International Windsurfing Championship

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:45:46 GMT

Cape Verdean windsurfer Josh Angulo has qualified for the International Windsurfing Championship finals against current title holders Kauli Seadi, Jason Polakow and Robby Swift on the archipelago.

The tournament took place last weekend in Ponta Preta, on Sal Island, where 32 competitors from 13 different countries worldwide hit the waves of the world renowned surfing spot.

The championship remains Cape Verde's main sporting event and is, according to Gloria Ribeiro, organiser of the championship at Cabo Verde Investimentos, "an excellent way to promote tourism abroad," Topa reports.

Victor Fernandez, number two windsurfer in the world told A Semana that Ponta Preta was the best location in the world for the sport, surpassing traditional spots such as Hawaii.

American-born windsurfer Josh Angulo played an important part in introducing the championship in the archipelago.

Cape Verde is a major destination for surfers, who come to enjoy the archipelago's natural wonders, as well as its year-round sunshine only five hours away from London.

The return of La Amistad

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 13:59:40 GMT

Everyone remembers Steven Spielberg's movie Amistad, where slaves captured on the title ship bound for Cuba started a revolt and win their freedom.

La Amistad is back and is touring the world to celebrate the 200 years of the abolition of slavery in England and the US in 1807.

The 129-foot-long and 136-ton replica docked in Cape Verde last Saturday, where the crew was received by the Cape Verdean culture minister Manuel Veiga and prime minister Jose Maria Neves.

As part of its 18-month "Atlantic Freedom Tour", the ship has visited 22 ports since it began in New Heaven, US, last year.

The ship's next stop is Cidade Velha, after which the tour will end in the Canary Islands.

One of the members of the crew is a direct descendant of Sengbe Pieh, the slave who started the revolt onboard the ship in 1739 and who was interpreted by 44-year-old Oscar-nominated star Djimon Hounsou, native of Benin.

Manuel Veiga told Afrique en ligne: "Today we are singing and dancing to celebrate freedom."

A Taste of Paradise

Bridget McGrouther - The Sunday Post — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cape Verdean champion stands for the Olympics

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:00:20 GMT

Boxer Demetrius Andrade is to participate in the Olympic Games in Beijing in August this year.

Twenty-year-old world amateur boxing champion in the 69-kilo division, Demetrius, also known as Boo Boo, will represent the US, reports Visaonews.

Born in Rhode Island, Demetrius was trained from the age of six by his Cape Verdean father and coach, Paul Andrade.

Cape Verde's champion began boxing very young and became US national champion in 2005.

In 2006 he won the golden gloves competition in Chicago, making him world amateur boxing champion against Georgia's Kakahaber Jvania.

A year later, he won a bronze medal for the Pan-American Games in Rio de Janeiro and very recently won against Russia in Magnitogorsk, along with two other members of the US Olympic boxing team.

Andrade told Providence Journal: "Boxing means everything to me. It's sweat, blood and tears. It shows the person you are.

"When you get into the ring, it shows the type of man you are. I think boxing has given me a respectful personality."

Batuku band "Po di Terra" in Praia

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:45:58 GMT

Po di Terra is performing in the Cape Verdean capital tonight to promote its new CD entitled Indjustica.

Po di Terra's traditional Batuku music is like a celebration of Gambian roots and culture as this type of music is indeed always played during ceremonial events such as weddings and baptisms.

The concert will take place in Jorge Barbosa National Auditorium, and the group is also planning to perform on the islands of Sal and Sao Vicente in the coming months, A Semana reports.

The group was first founded in 2000 and released its first album Tristi Sta na Rua in 2005.

Batuku music is essentially performed by women, combining drums and singing, and often finishing by a solo with didactic lyrics taken from Gambian proverbs.

Grupo Boa esperanca and Nacia Gomi are other famous bands playing traditional Batuku music, whereas other artists such as Nha Minininha and Tcheka have created a new type of music by blending traditional beats with modern instruments.

Cape Verde strengthens ties with Angola

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:52:21 GMT

Ambassador of Cape Verde and prime minister of Angola, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, have spoken of their desire to create a stronger partnership between the two Portuguese-speaking countries over the next few months.

The news come only a few days after the ambassador of Cape Verde, Domingos Dias Mascarenhas, publicly congratulated the Angolan government for its major achievements since April 2002, when the country returned to a climate of peace, Angola Press Agency reports.

Mr Dias Mascarenhas said: "There are very interesting ideas in the spheres of agriculture, fisheries, economic and business cooperation, staff training and police force."

Both countries belong to the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP) which was created in 1996 not only to promote the diffusion of the Portuguese language, but also as a partnership between the seven member countries to develop their mutual political, economic and social cooperation.

Both Cape Verde and Angola used to be Portuguese colonies and became independent in 1975.

Perola do Oceano

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:13 GMT

Film director Julio Silvao is currently working on a new documentary retracing Cape Verde's past, focusing on the assault on the ship Perola do Oceano in 1970.

The shooting of Unidos Pela Mesma Causa (United by the Same Cause), which is a Silvao-Producoes Filmes production, started earlier this month, reports A Semana.

Silvao's new documentary is to recount the events of 1970, when Cape Verdean political militants assaulted the ship to flee to Dakar in Senegal to join the African Party and fight for the independence of Guinea and Cape Verde from the Portuguese colonial rule.

Tarrafal prison camp in the north of Santiago Island is where the rebels were sent to. The prison had been established in 1933 by Portuguese dictator Antonio de Oliveira Salazar.

Today the former prison is badly damaged and features on the World Monuments Watch 100 most endangered sites for 2006.

The Association of Former Political Prisoners of Cape Verde is currently seeking to restore the Tarrafal complex as a museum.

Julio Silvao's previous work include Batuque, people's soul which was released in 2005 and retraced the history of the Batuque, a type of music which incarnated Cape Verde's culture and soul when it was forbidden under the colonial rule.

Cape Verde enjoys a low inflation rate

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:47:30 GMT

The National Statistics Institute for Cape Verde has announced a considerable slowdown in the archipelago's inflation rate.

Over the past 12 months, the average monthly rate stayed at 4.5 per cent, whereas the variation between last December and January was only 0.6 per cent, reported A Semana.

The figure was elaborated with the new Consumer Price Index (CPI) methodology presented last Friday in the capital Praia.

The CPI is a new instrument to evaluate the prices of goods and services, and it revealed that categories such as accessories, domestic equipment and housing maintenance, as well as leisure, recreation and culture even enjoyed a negative inflation of -3.6 per cent.

The system was elaborated to match international standards and meet the World Labour Organization's recommendations.

Based on figures in 2007, the CPI takes into account a larger population than the previous system, which was based on a Survey of Family Expenditure and Income, carried out twenty years ago on the two main islands.

The former system was obsolete and unreliable as it no longer reflected the consumption habits of Cape Verdeans.

Better cement supplies

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:11:03 GMT

Portuguese cement company Cimpor has announced its plan to invest €16 million in the construction of new ships for the transport of cement to Cape Verde.

The cement market in Cape Verde has been increasing over the last few years due to the increase in tourist developments on the islands, Cape Verde being one of the prime spots for property investment around the world, Macauhub reports.

Cesar Abreu explained that the new ships would be shorter and wider as Cape Verde's docks tend to be short.

Since 2005, the Portuguese company has been responsible for most of Cape Verde's cement supplies.

It operates via Cimentos de Cabo Verde which received the first class medal of merit from the president of the former Portuguese colony in July last year to reward their efforts to promote the development of the country.

The company is the largest Portuguese cement group and produces around 30 million tonnes of cement every year for various countries across Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.

Road links improvement on Santiago

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:00:29 GMT

Major road works will take place throughout the year in the Cape Verdean capital Praia to ensure the preservation of the city's road network long into the future.

Cape Verde's Ministry for Infrastructure and Transport signed a contract with the Portuguese construction company MSF last week, Macauhub reports.

MSF, Moniz da Maia, Serra e Fortunato, will be responsible for the rebuilding of the national highways including Cidade Velha, the Prainha road, the Rua da Fazenda, as well as the pavements in "Plateau".

The project is due for January next year, with the total cost estimated to be €11.3 million.

MSF's previous works in the archipelago include the reconstruction of several roads, but also airports and industrial facilities.

The company has been offering its services on the islands for the past ten years, and opened a subsidiary for Cape Verde in 2002 in Portugal.

It is also involved in several projects across Africa and Europe, such as the rebuilding of Walvis Bay Airport in Namibia.

Cape Verde puts an end to power shortages

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 13:49:49 GMT

Four wind farms are to be set up on the Cape Verde archipelago this year to increase energy supplies and tackle the problem of power shortages.

The new wind farms will be installed on the islands of Praia, Mindelo, Sal and Boa Vista, and are expected to produce between 22.5 and 25 megawatts of power.

Cape Verde is currently heavily relying on imported fuel and is thus hoping to increase its wind power production from three per cent to 18 per cent in total.

The $35 million project will be carried out in a partnership between the government of Cape Verde, the power company Electra and Britain's InfraCo.

As well as securing better energy supplies to the country, the project will considerably reduce the cost of power production and importation, as well as minimise the detrimental effects on the environment.

The government welcomed the decision as Cape Verde has become a major destination for tourists and property buyers and enjoys a constant growth of population of six to seven per cent every year.

Foreign property markets 'appeal to young buyers'

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 09:52:21 GMT

The UK National Savings & Investments has revealed that 84 per cent of 18 to 30-year-olds believe buying property abroad is a more viable option than buying in Britain.

Indeed, BuyAssociation property editor Paul Collins has confirmed by saying that buying overseas was an increasing trend among first-time buyers, "purely because prices are lower" and because "it's a lot easier to actually get on the housing ladder".

He also explained that first-time buyers looking to invest abroad would favour emerging markets such as Bulgaria, Turkey, Cape Verde and Dubai.

By taking advantage of these profitable markets, young buyers are hoping to make a big profit quickly, enabling them to invest in the UK later on.

Mr Collins also reported that the trend was a generational thing as young people travel more, and are consequently more comfortable with investing abroad.

However, Mr Collins has warned that investing abroad requires a lot more research to get to "know what the market is like, and how to get your money out again".

Cheaper internet for Cape Verde

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:48:45 GMT

Prices for internet and telephone connections are expected to become more competitive on the archipelago with the arrival of a new telecommunications company

Telecommunication services in Cape Verde are still among the most expensive in Africa, but now that Cabo Verde Multimedia has lost its monopoly as an internet provider, prices should go down, A Semana reports.

The group had already lost its monopoly on mobile telecommunications when the cellular phone operator T+ began its operations.

New telecommunications company Cabocom, which has its headquarters on Sal Island, will contribute to a diminution of rates which will certainly have an impact on the number of people using the internet.

In 2000, the Internet World Stats counted only 8,000 internet users in Cape Verde, but this figure went up by 262.5 per cent in 2007 to 29,000.

Internet users on the islands represent a total of 6.8 per cent of the total population, Cape Verde being the ninth highest rate for mainland Africa after Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, Tunisia and Zimbabwe.

Inteco to save Cape Verde's beaches

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 13:55:31 GMT

Cape Verde's beaches will remain the most beautiful stretches of sand in Western Africa, as a new factory has found a way of fighting illegal extraction of sand on the islands.

The new construction material factory Inteco based on Sal Island in the Palmeira Industrial Zone possesses equipment allowing the production of artificial sand from basaltic rock.

This will thus resolve the problem of sand extraction for the making of cement.

Inteco's delegate administrator, Antonio Ciriaco Cabral, told A Semana that the new technology was environmentally friendly as "in the future, the use of natural sand will no longer be necessary".

The new factory opened last Friday during the ribbon-cutting ceremony presided by Prime Minister Jose Maria Neves.

Belonging to Grupo Stefanina, the new site represents an investment of some ten million euros.

New emblem for Cape Verde

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:45:15 GMT

Tourists could soon refer to Cape Verde as the country of sea turtles.

A plan to use the animal as Cape Verde's emblem was discussed in a meeting for the country's National Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles, A Semana reports.

The archipelago is prime territory for the marine species, and every year, hundreds of sea turtles come to the shores of the West African islands to lay their eggs, offering visitors a truly unique experience.

Cape Verde is the second most important spot for egg-laying in the North Atlantic and among the seven species visiting the islands include the loggerhead turtle and the green turtle.

Other initiatives to promote the preservation of turtles include introducing the subject in the country's school curriculum, as well as a better enforcement of existing laws on the prohibition of turtle hunting.

Sonia Araujo, from the Department of the Environment, told A Semana that the National Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles would be put into effect before the end of this year and would be publicised on the islands over the course of the coming months.

Cape Verde is the place to invest

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 13:53:09 GMT

Now is the right time to invest in Cape Verde properties, it has been claimed.

Paul Akwei, the managing director of Noscasa, an estate agent in Cape Verde has explained that tourism in Cape Verde is "about to explode", and that proprietors could benefit from this situation.

"The field is now wide open" for those offering "the facilities that holidaymakers demand" he continued.

The government has put incentives including tax breaks and no limits on the amount of foreign currency that investors can transfer out of the country, he added.

The Daily Telegraph recently reported that prices are still low with apartments starting off at as little as £30,000 and six-bedroom villa with a pool costing less than £350,000.

According to the website www.propertyincapeverde.eu, Cape Verde government wants to restrict construction in order to avoid overdevelopment.

With a limited amount of properties for sale and a huge demand for them, Cape Verde does appear to be a profitable investment.

Cape Verde's windsurfing world cup event

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 13:39:38 GMT

Cape Verde is to host a major windsurfing contest on the island of Sal from March 7th to 16th.

The event, part of the windsurfing world cup, has been recently created thanks to the island's improved flight connections and the support of Josh Angulo, one of the best windsurfers and a resident of Cape Verde.

With its white sandy beaches, Sal is known as one of the best spots for surfers and windsurfers in Europe.

There are numerous kitesurfing, surfing and windsurfing clubs along the beaches filled with novices and professionals from around the world.

Last year's event was a big success, thanks to the big waves of Ponta Preta and the area's strong winds.

"The conditions in Cape Verde provide a near perfect wave riding environment to challenge the finest sailors on the plane," Professional Windsurfer Association's tour manager Rich Page wrote on his website:

He continued: "We hope that the ground breaking agreement with Cape Verde Investment to host the event, will set the stage for Cape Verde to take its rightful place on the PWA World Tour for years to come".

Another way of travelling to Cape Verde

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 13:59:37 GMT

Eco-tourism - a fair, responsible and environmentally-friendly way of travelling - is already available in Cape Verde.

The objective is to plough profits from tourism back into development projects benefiting local people and preserving the environment.

In many countries, eco-tourism is an important source of revenue, such as Kenya, Ecuador, Nepal, Costa Rica and Madagascar.

Many eco-resorts have sprung up on the archipelago, with the Cape Verde government determined to diversify its tourist offering.

A project called Naturalia has just been created in a partnership with the European Union to promote the development of eco-tourism.

Tour guides and guards will be trained on environmental issues and local people will be involved in order to improve their quality of life.

According to BuyAssociation, eco-tourism is one of the areas that have boosted interest in the islands.

It is estimated that one million tourists will visit Cape Verde each year by 2015.

Cape Verde lights up for carnival

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 14:10:50 GMT

This week marks an important event in Cape Verde's cultural calendar, with the annual carnival taking place on the island of Sao Vicente.

The event is an old tradition that started three centuries ago, based on the model of Portugal's Entrudo festivities.

Sao Vicente has organised the biggest parade of the event for many years, attracting party-goers from the surrounding islands.

Nowadays, it is internationally renowned, with journalists coming from all continents to report on the event.

Over the course of six days, musicians will perform everywhere, competing to win the award for best musical group.

The carnival opened last Friday with a parade by the pupils in the Amilcar Cabral Kindergarten.

On Monday 4th, the party heats up with the groups Praça Nova, Anisio do Rosario e Academica, Ludgero Lima High School, the Pedagogical Institute and Jose Augusto Pinto High School.

On Tuesday, two groups in competition will parade: Flores do Mindelo and Cruzeiros do Norte. The carnival ends on Ash Wednesday.

Carmen Souza's new album

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 13:44:12 GMT

Carmen's second album Verdade, a mixture of Cape Verdean rhythms with Cuban and Brazilian genres is due for release in February this year.

The 26-year-old was born in Portugal and grew up surrounded by the tradition, music and costumes of her parents' birth country Cape Verde.

She told A Semana: "I sing about my real life, what I believe in, my vision of the world and what I am as a person and an artist."

Thomas Bandulet of Belgian label Connecting Cultures told A Semana: "When I heard her voice for the first time, I immediately recognized that it was something special, like a rough diamond.

"With the album Verdade, we feel that she has grown even more, with an undoubtedly feminine but, at the same time, deep and mysterious voice."

Carmen will be performing in the UK later this year, starting with a charity concert in support of Nyodema on March 15th.

The concert will take place at The Waverley in Bognor Regis, West Sussex.

Nyodema was founded last year, aiming to give people the opportunity to discover world music and culture while raising funds to support health and education in West Africa.

Cape Verde shows considerable economic growth

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:40:58 GMT

2008 could be one of the best years to invest in Cape Verde's property market according to a new report of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Cape Verde is to benefit from another year of major economic boom. According to the IMF forecast a "robust growth of seven to eight per cent should continue this year".

Cape Verde's unprecedented 11 per cent GDP growth in 2006 was mostly due to tourism, telecommunications, and construction.

Cape Verde's thriving market is a real mecca for property buyers worldwide looking for affordable investments in a sunny country.

The IMF also pointed out that unemployment and poverty rates were falling and that inflation pressures were contained.

Government priorities for this year are the consolidation of the archipelago's economic stability, the improvement of its public sector financial management and the acceleration of its energy sector reform.

According to property firm Cape V, property values are likely to rise by as much as 70 per cent during the next two years.

Director of Cape V Darren Mitchell told Real Estate: "People who want to capitalise on this high rate of growth need to invest quickly in order to take advantage of the exceptional value for money it currently offers."