Media buzz over new vacation ‘paradise’: “88 degrees year-round and super affordable”
This is Sal Island, in Cape Verde — a relatively undiscovered tourist destination that offers a variety of leisure activities.
It’s currently Easter, but some people are already looking ahead to summer vacation. Booking early is often the best way to score great travel deals, whether you’re planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure. While recent scorching summers have driven many travelers to seek cooler destinations, the majority still want a place where they can take a refreshing dip.
And once you’ve explored all your nearby options, it’s natural to start looking a bit farther afield. In Belgium, several local media outlets are recommending a lesser-known island paradise far from the crowds of typical vacation hotspots: Sal Island, in Cape Verde. “Temperatures stay around 88°F (31°C) all year,” they point out about this hidden gem.
Flights from the U.S. to Cape Verde typically take between 7 and 10 hours, depending on your departure city and whether the flight is direct. There are limited direct flights, most notably from Boston to Sal Island or Praia, operated occasionally by Cabo Verde Airlines. These nonstop flights take about 7 to 8 hours.
However, most routes from the U.S. include one or two stopovers, commonly in Lisbon, Paris, or Amsterdam, especially when flying with carriers like TAP Air Portugal, Air France, or KLM. With layovers, total travel time can range from 12 to 20 hours.
What to do on Sal Island
Sal, of volcanic origin, gets its name from the salt industry that developed there between the 18th and 20th centuries. The island is just 18.6 miles long and 7.5 miles wide, making it one of the smallest in the country. Despite its size, it’s packed with stunning turquoise beaches and plenty of options for water sports and outdoor fun.
Home to about 40,000 residents, Sal enjoys sunny weather nearly year-round. Among the most popular tourist attractions are the Pedra de Lume salt flats, located in the ancient crater of a volcano and dating back to 1833.
Animal lovers can head to Shark Bay to swim among lemon sharks — yes, you can actually swim with them! According to National Geographic, the bay is full of small lemon sharks and offers a thrilling, safe experience. Or, if you’re there in the right season, you can witness loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nesting at night on the same beaches where they were born.
Travel advisory for Cape Verde
The U.S. Department of State currently has a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions travel advisory for Cape Verde, meaning it’s generally considered safe for travelers. However, visitors are advised to exercise increased caution in Praia, the capital city, due to some reported incidents of crime.
Basic safety tips include avoiding displays of wealth (like wearing expensive jewelry or watches), being alert in unfamiliar surroundings, and using caution when walking or driving at night. Travelers are also encouraged not to resist robbery attempts, to be vigilant when using ATMs, and to avoid answering hotel doors unless the visitor is known. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is also recommended, as it helps U.S. citizens receive safety updates and be located more easily in case of emergencies.
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