Praia - Post Report Question and Answers
What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
How long it would take to receive our shipments: it varies depending on size and point of origin, but it can take over six months. I would have packed our UAB differently had I known. Santiago doesn’t have a lot fun activities compare to other islands in Cabo Verde, including or especially watersports: no sailing, no kite/wind surfing, kayaking, rowing etc… and only one dive shop (in Tarrafal, two hour drive away from Praia). Take your gear with you. The lack of water activities or almost any kind of sports (beside soccer and fitness) or art/craft studio in Praia and Santiago in general has been a disappointment. The beaches are not so clean, we don't go as often as I thought we would. - Dec 2024
How hot it is here and how much of a pest problem there is. - Feb 2024
There are mountains for hiking in addition to the beaches for swimming. - Aug 2023
There really is no grass or quality beef. - Jan 2023
Not really. We love the outdoors and expected to enjoy the beaches and hiking here. That's come true. If you're a homebody or really need museums, theater, ballet, chances to wear formal clothes, then this isn't a good place. Some people really do struggle with mental health issues here because it's a very small post in an isolated place. But this is an awesome place for the right people. - Dec 2017
How small Praia actually is and the lack of diversity that is here. After awhile, it can feel constricting and isolating seeing the same people, going to the same places, and eating the same food. It puts the onus on the person to seek out new adventures whether in or out of the country, meet new people, and make an effort to keep in contact with loved ones back home. Many people thrive here while others ... do not. - Oct 2016
How much more prevalent Kriolu is than Portuguese. I wouldn't have spent all that time on Rosetta Stone learning Portuguese. I would have found a Cape Verdean to teach me the language. It is a very easy language to learn. - May 2014
