Where to invest in property in Cape Verde

When it comes to emerging markets, various appeals can be made to buyers, be they looking for second homes or rental accommodation for tourists. Some places offer ski resorts, such as in Eastern Europe. Many offer dramatic scenery and beaches while others have interesting cities and culture.

Cape Verde, of course, cannot offer skiing, but the scenery, beaches and culture are certainly plentiful. For those thinking of investing in property, the bulk of tourist-related development has been on the island of Sal thus far, but that may spread as other parts of the archipelago are discovered and as the provision of airports, holiday facilities and other infrastructure expands.

This may help provide a wider range of elements in the Cape Verde tourism infrastructure. For example, while many may enjoy beaches and surfing, the interiors offer mountain scenery, from the two ranges on Santiago to the volcanic Mount Fogo, the highest point in the islands. The emphasis on culture may also be boosted, both by the development of marketing strategies and specialist companies on the one hand and by the possible elevation of the country's first capital - Cidade Velha - to world heritage status, a decision due any time now at Unesco's annual meeting.

Investors in property may be interested in tailoring their purchases towards the best features of each island to make the most of the tourist rental property potential. For that reason, good research may be needed to establish first which island is best for what.

Speaking to travel portal TTG Live, resort rep for tour operator Cape Verde Experience Edgar Pires commented the best island for beaches was undoubtedly Boavista. He said: "Most of the resorts are located at Praia de Chave but a visit to the deserted beaches of Curral Velho and Santa Monica is also a must." Describing the latter location, he remarked: "This 12-mile stretch of white sand beach speaks for itself."

Mr Pires was also enthusiastic about the cultural offerings of Sao Vicente, noting that "Its capital Mindelo is the most cosmopolitan city of the islands", while Santiago "is also of cultureal interest", both because of its "colourful" markets and Cidade Velha.

As for scenery, he recommended Fogo because of its smouldering mountain and noted that "Santa Antao is considered a trekking paradise, with its towering mountains and cliffs and the stunning Rio do Paul Valley".

Such variety, therefore, may go a long way towards informing the decisions made by buyers. For instance, those looking at Boavista may wish to be purchasing near Santa Monica, while those on Santiago may consider proximity to Cidade Velha to be an advantage.

Despite the credit crunch, air access continues to flow in. This week, Macauhub noted, Air Portugal revealed it is to add three more weekly direct flights from Lisbon to the Cape Verdean capital Praia. Such a move may be part of a wider expression of confidence in the future of the archipelago and its economy, something that may promise bright things for tourism and holiday rental property in the years ahead.