NEWS of SCORCH: ISLAND of MUSIC

Of volcanic origin, The Cape Verdes are a mix of African and European population with strong ties to Portugal. The language is no longer true Portuguese, it is a blend of Creole but the Cape Verdeans speaks a dialect known as Crioulo, which has its origins in Africa.
The lack of water is one of the main factors for poverty. The property investors are hard at work to attract investors but we are told to become a millionaire in the Cape Verdes you have to start a multi-millionaire. We have no objection to foreign ownership if the local population benefit through infrastructure and work but we fear that the development will generally, particularly hotels, bring a world of luxury behind large guarded fences. Only few locals will benefit and resentment will set in. Property prices are rising fast making it even more difficult for the population.
Mindelo on Soa Vincente is the second largest town in the archipelago. We moored in the New marina, started 7 years ago but which has never been allowed to open. The Rally Committee fought hard to negotiate in the deadlock between the Town hall, the Port authority and the German owner to open it for the Rally. We had fun and games mooring in 20 knots of wind in a tight spot but with a little help from our friends we managed very well.

New Marina

Catamarans' Alley

The town is described as the most beautiful in the Cape Verdes; in who’s opinion? But after comparing it with other places we had to agree.
Colourful and busy

Lively Music

Cesaria Evora has brought its music to world fame. Bars play live music at any opportunity. The rhythm and beat is catching: a cross between Brazilian, African coupled with Portuguese melodious tones. The musical and vocal talents among the young and old are amazing. One feels compelled to join in and dance.
Mindelo is still a busy Port

Some of the town colourful buildings are a reminder of its colonial past when the port was built as a coaling station by the British to refuel ships on passage to South America and Cape Town. The coal came from Newcastle and Cardiff.
We shared the usual Aluguer with a group of friends and toured the Island. Apart from the traditional fishing village nothing really held our attention.

All hands on deck!