Mindelo, Cape Verde

A lively port city on Cape Verde’s São Vicente, Mindelo is characterized by its colorful colonial architecture and soulful Morna music, a bluesy blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences. Situated off West Africa’s coast, the volcanic archipelago of Cape Verde was once a Portuguese colony. As such, the Portuguese Brazilian tradition of Carnival is embraced through the annual festival and a year-round jubilant nightlife scene. From the picturesque Matiota beach, set against a backdrop of impressive volcanic peaks, to the Belem Tower, a replica of the original in Lisbon and home to a Sea Museum, there’s plenty to explore in Mindelo. At nearly 2,500 feet, Mount Verde is the highest point on São Vicente and makes for an easy daytrip for a majestic hike with sweeping panoramic views.