The Beach
Having just returned from Cape Verde I have to say what fantastic weather we had, much better than the Canaries where we normally spend our December break. The hotel is just a 30 minute transfer from the hotel and “Cape Verde- No Stress” motto if the Islands is apparent from the moment you land. Dubbed as the African Caribbean it was just as relaxing and laden with charm.
The Rui Garopa was great and the sister hotel the Rui Fanana was joined together giving you full use of both hotels facilites and a shared entertainment area. Both had two swimming pools so you have the choice of four. The pool area was lovely but the water was freezing, the all inclusive bar around the pool did not open until 10.30am which was a bit disappointing but bearable. Sunbeds were always available and they provide beach towels and umbrellas. The rooms were fab! They were large and clean and air conditioned which was bliss given the glorious weather. The hotels provide a large number of activities and and the entertainment is organised and fun.
Look how clear the water is!!!
The Riu Garopa is a Platinum property available with Thomsons and the little extras make you feel like a VIP. We got prirority check in, extra luggage and were the first drop off on the transfer list. The hotel is 24 hour all inclusive so we didn’t feel we had to stuff ourselves at meal times or over do the drink. The hotel is relaxed and so laid back it was exactly what we were after. We didn’t travel with children but there seemed to be tonnes of things for the little ones to do and the food variety was such that we didn’t hear anyone complain that they didn’t like anything.
The hotels are slap bang on the sea front and the gorgeous sand is so clean and soft it was stunning. At times it was easy to forget we were only 6 hours away from the UK. The sand does get very hot so make sure you pack your flip flops!!!
Cape Verde is very non commercialised but give it 5 years and more bars and restaurants will be developed. It is a mix of old and new with charasmatic cobbled streets and beautiful little cafes. We spent a day off the shore diving in the waters and this is a must! The waters are crystal clear and this is such a fun experience I highly recommend it! There isn’t a vast amount to do on the islands although there are a few excursions that take you into the mainland to explore the culture and the locals are so friendly alot of people recommended this to us. For us though, it was the miles and miles of feather soft beaches that stole our hearts. They are unlike any I have ever seen before. One thing to be wary off if the visa fee which costs 25 euros on arrival but is free if you do it online before you go. Also make sure you take Euros as Thomson Holidays charge a 5% card charge on excursion whether you pay with a debit or credit card. A real chill out destination but if you like late nights and night clubs its not for you!