Just some views on Cape Verde, as requested, although they will be fairly limited as my back is screwed and will probably need an operation I've been putting off when I get back! This has meant that I've not been able to walk out of the hotel or do any trips... Our hotel (Riu Palace Santa Maria), is really large with great pools and food/drink options. Totally happy with the buffet restaurant for all meals, as it suits the whole family. If there is anything you could think of wanting for breakfast then the chances are they have it. The location is good as it's close to the town of Santa Maria, which people have said is a colourful place with plenty of decent food options. Also, the beach usually has a yellow flag and the waves are high (which I prefer). Sal sounds a better bet for this than Boa Vista. This does mean that snorkelling is a bit tricky. We went out with full face masks on but had all three swept off our faces by waves. Fortunately, the lifeguards somehow managed to find them all! The place has a real Caribbean vibe to it, which I like. And all of the locals I have come across appear to be genuinely lovely, which has been one of the highlights, I think. We may do the full Island Tour on a jeep if my back troubles improve, so I'll put it on here if I do.
Tbf my back isn't where the pain is, it's the nerves in my left leg that gives me gip, though it does feel like the travelling has taken its toll.
