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 June 21, 2026
After walking through the Luxury Mall of MBS we went through the tunnel, under the street to the Hotel Towers . The lobby is very much like a Vegas Casino. Tower 1 is where the observation deck & Le Noir Cocktail Bar is at the front of the Ship and the french restaurant Ce La Vi is located behind these closer to Tower 2. Then comes the infinite edged swimming pool and end the aft section of the Ship is the italian restaurant & bar Lavo . We went up to the 57th floor and requested a walk in reservation at Lavo around 6 pm and we got lucky and were seated out on the terrace by 6:30 pm. We were there for sunset and both light shows, with prime viewing spots. They didn't rush us out at all and we enjoyed a yummy meal! When we left around 8:30 there was a crazy long cue waiting for tables, we got so lucky!
By Pat Patrick June 21, 2026
The views below show the complex with the Marina in front, the 3 story Lotus, Apple and Louis Vitton Stores at the edge of the Marina, the MBS luxury Mall, Casino and Entertainment centers set back along the base of the Hotel and Ship above it.
By Pat Patrick June 21, 2026
This visit to Singapore we explored more of the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) complex , starting with the Lotus or the ArtScience Museum. MBS developed, owns and operates the Museum, which is unique for a gaming corporation. They developed the whole area around their iconic hotel and casino to control the look and amenities offered, to make this a special destination and major landmark within Singapore .