This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
Praia, Cape Verde, is the busiest city in Cape Verde and is also its capital. The city’s Nelson Mandela Airport is the entry port into the country for many travelers. Praia, Cape Verde, is more than just an entry point to the pristine beaches Cape Verde is famous for though. In Praia -- and some other smaller towns on the island -- you can experience a more African vibe. While traveling around Africa can be quite tough for inexperienced travelers, Praia is absolutely fine for those who have not been to Africa before, offering some kind of "light" experience.
The centre of Praia, Cape Verde, is called Plato -- it may not come as a surprise that this area is located on a plateau, which is overlooking the bay. This is also the most interesting area with some museums and most shops. From Praia you can also take day trips to the countryside where you can visit the smaller -- and more traditional -- villages or go hiking in the mountains. It is possible to visit the other end of the island on a day trip from Praia, but waiting times for public transport may take more time than expected. Once you have seen enough of Praia and its surroundings, it is time to visit some of the quieter islands in Cape Verde. Ferries to several islands depart from Praia’s port. If you want to save time there are also small planes between the Cape Verdean islands that are a bit further afield.
Though the town is far from the most touristic destination in Cape Verde, there are quite a few Praia, Cape Verde hostels. Although minibuses are frequent in Praia, the most convenient location for your Praia, Cape Verde hostel is near Plato, regardless of the price. The price difference between a bed in a dorm room or a private room is marginal at some hostels in Praia, Cape Verde, for both a single or a double room.
Written by local expertz for Praia
Martin Straatman
