November 12, 2024

Day 2 in the Cape Verde Islands - Sao Vicente Island - Port of Mindelo

I strolled into port with Karen and Cyndi to check out the city of Mindelo. It was an easy walk along the Marina into the market area. We first saw all the local fisherman bringing in their catches and the vendors carving up the fillets and setting out all their fruits and vegetables. Then we started looking and bargaining for a dress for me and souvenir magnets for the 3 of us. I got the dress price down from 25 Euros/piece, to 2 for 20 Euros. I kept one and another friend of the ship, took the other, 10 euro was a good deal! It was very hot and windy and we planned to go to the local beach after seeing a couple more sights. Other residents were leaving the beach already because it was so windy, and the sand blowing was brutal. So, we negotiated for a cab to take us to a few sights, then back to port.

Unlike Santiago island, the houses and business are completely finished on all façades and they are painted beautiful colors. I borrowed these images below from fellow resident Basia's blog, as her photos captured the beauty way better than mine. Love it!!

By Pat Patrick August 10, 2026
Other residents had a great experience at Singapore's Food Playground on prior visits, so we wanted to try it out! Our first day in Port, twelve of us signed up for a fun afternoon, where we got to enjoy our creations as a yummy lunch. Front row (L to R) is Ellie, Rick, their visiting friend, Sue, Christy and Angela. Back Row - Me, Bosco, Delia, John, Terri & Lori.
By Pat Patrick July 26, 2026
We just relaxed on the Island of Koh Chang, Thailand. It's one of the largest Thai Islands in the Gulf of Thailand and it has a dense, steep jungle & National Park covering the interior of the Island, which extends off shore, to coral reefs. The coast line is dotted with beaches and villages. This was a tender port, so we decided to stay on the Island for 3 nights, to be able to experience the nightlife. Turns out, it is low season, so nightlife was pretty sleepy. However, we did find a new favorite night time activity! Any Guesses?!?
By Pat Patrick July 25, 2026
Love Sea Days ! I got a much needed haircut and color. Think I'll be going shorter, but giving this a whirl! Can you see the back in the mirror? The bangs and side volume, is what drives me nuts in the heat and humidity!