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Investors eye Cape's 'culture capital'

Things are looking good for one of Cape Verde's largest and most diverse islands.

According to Adrian Lillywhite, MD of Cape Verde Property Ltd, a ‘great deal of investment' is planned for San Vicente, with several large, exclusive 5 star resorts and golf courses due to launch soon.

San Vicente, discovered on St Vincent's Day in 1462, has the second largest population in Cape Verde. The majority of inhabitants live in Mindelo, known as one of the most pleasing towns in West Africa and the annual Carnival in February is an important cultural event.

A new international airport, the fourth in the archipelago, is expected to open in 2008. The port of Mindelo affords a deep harbour and was a regular stopping point for trading ships crossing the Atlantic; today it is a port of call for many luxury cruise ships.

In addition to being the centre of Cape Verdean culture, San Vicente enjoys a great sporting tradition. The beach of Sao Pedro is considered one of the best for windsurfing and colonial influences live on with an 18 hole golf course and a passion for cricket.

Mr Lillywhite commented: "Buying in popular locations now could see great capital appreciation in the future as the new international airport opens and tourism increases.

"For example, on Baia dos Gatos - a small holiday town 10 minutes drive from Mindelo - prices for 3 bed townhouses range from 120,000 euros to 160,000 euros and 3 bed villas with spectacular sea views on Monte Verde start at 150,000 euros".