Praia

TLDR; I wouldn't recommend for long-term stays.

First time in Cabo Verde (Sal), and I can't say I would recommend it for anything other than tourism or short-term stays. Don't get me wrong, it's lovely and exotic, and people are warm and welcoming, but it can get pretty boring after 30 days.

Cost of living is NOT cheap. Groceries are much more expensive than in any other places we've travelled to in the last two years. Restaurants are all the same price (around 30€ for 2 people) and pretty much serve the same thing. Food variety is not great.

If you come here for surfing, the waves are inconsistent at best and, at worst, non-existent.

On paper, it seems like a nice idea. In reality, it feels like locals and the government hired good marketers to sell the destination to digital nomads.

On the bright side, we had stable internet and it was sunny EVERY day. It's always windy in Santa Maria, so you don't need AC. Most people speak perfect English or understand at least.

First time in Sal and its been such an easy experience. From the airport to getting settled in. Everyone is so helpful and warm hearted. Cost of living is very reasonable - 5€ to eat at a restaurant (fish, sides, wine and dessert). I highly recommend making contact with a local taxi driver. Its easy to set up a daily agreement for your time on the island. Spending 5€ a day to be taken into town and back to airbnb. I am sure you could get it much much cheaper but I was happy to pay a bit more to contribute.

Recommend getting a local sim too so you can hot spot where the cafes do not have WiFi. In Santa Maria it's very common to find WiFi.

Recommend bringing a filtering water bottle the water is desalinated and you can reduce waste. Water restrictions apply on the island too due to all inclusive hotels requiring most the water. So shorter showers are better.

Some of the supermarkets are foreign owned but the locals will tell you which ones. Island has multiple computer shops which is helpful for your office needs if something breaks or you need new equipment.

Generally speaking if you like haggling things can be quite cheap here. Key thing is to be conscious on where your money is going. Is it locally or to an overseas person/company.

Island hopping is near impossible without a local connection. If you book independently the prices are extortionate. So when you arrive, find a local driver, meet some local people, get involved with some local sports, etc. Then it's much easier to get what you need done. People and life here is all about connection. Get involved with the community.

Highly recommend coming here and checking out Carbo Verde