Costa Deliziosa: CPT - BCN - CPT17A0E

     Mindelo is one of the most important towns on the island of São Vicente in the Cape Verde Islands. Rectangular in shape, the island covers an overall area of approximately 141 square miles.
     Despite its volcanic origins, it is almost completely flat with Monte Verde its highest peak reaching just over 2500 feet. Although much erosion has taken place, the traces of volcanic activity are still very plain to see in the form of several craters, in particular the one that forms the lovely Bay of Mindelo.
     According to the history of the island, São Vicente was discovered on January 22, 1462, Saint Vincent's Day, from which it takes its name. Various attempts at colonisation failed and the island remained practically uninhabited until midway through the nineteenth century when the construction of the Porto Grande, built for the main purpose of exporting the island's extremely rich coal resources, opened the way for the establishment its first settlement in 1838.
     Mindelo, which was named in honour of the landing of liberal forces on the small beach of the same name in northern Portugal, grew rapidly in the shadow of the harbour activity. Its low rainfall meant that its economic development was based exclusively on natural resources and trade. More recently tourism has become one of this little island's leading industries. Many music schools have been founded here carving out a respectable niche for themselves in the sphere of world music, thanks also to Cesaria Evora, the native Cape Verde singer/songwriter recently discovered by the international record industry.
     The town is known for its Carnival, the liveliest in all of the Cape Verde Islands. Although its origins stem from traditional Portuguese Mardi Gras festivities, it has developed its own unique style by incorporating several of the features of the Brazilian Carnival and images of the island's numerous allegorical figures. Its processions are completely spontaneous and improvised making the Mindelo Carnival a magical explosion of raw energy, in absolute harmony with the town and its inhabitants. Like the Rio Carnival, its purpose is to make dreams come true and forget the reality of everyday life, even just for a few moments. Another important event is the Baia das Gatas festival held on the beach of the same name during a weekend in August when there is a full moon. Founded by a group of friends, its reputation has grown gradually until it is now an international music festival featuring numerous national and international bands, horseracing, water sports, rhythmic dancing and other entertainment.
     The Mindelact, an international meeting of amateur theatre groups that is held each year in September, is another major event. São Vicente has revived the art of handicrafts, through the National Handicraft Centre that sponsors various workshops, especially in the field of textiles, the production of fabrics, pottery, batik, items made from coconut shells, and necklaces made from shells and stones. These handmade items are a major attraction for international shoppers. The island's cuisine is a gastronomical adventure. São Vicente offers numerous local specialties, featuring mainly seafood and fish dishes such as gooseneck barnacle stew and "Zé do Lino"-style barbecued lobster.
     The town of Mindelo, with its well laid out network of streets, is an excellent place for exploring on foot. Its architecture influenced by the British presence, Colonial monuments and a beautiful seafront avenue are all within reach. While the enormous, natural pool of Baia De Gatas and its beautiful and unusual landscape is less than ten minutes away from the town centre.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the largest city in the Canary Islands, is located on the northeastern coast of the island of Gran Canaria. This vibrant city combines a rich history, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and a relaxed Mediterranean-Atlantic lifestyle. The historic heart of the city, Vegueta, is the perfect place to explore colonial architecture and cultural heritage. Its cobbled streets are home to important museums, churches, and buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries, including the House of Christopher Columbus. In contrast, the modern parts of the city offer a wide range of shops, restaurants, galleries, and the dynamic rhythm of urban life.

One of the city’s main attractions is Las Canteras Beach, over three kilometres long and located right in the city centre. Thanks to a natural reef that softens the waves, it's ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and seaside walks. The city hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the well-known carnival, famous for its costumes, parades, and music. The cultural scene is enriched with theatres, concert halls, and museums.

The local cuisine features traditional Canarian flavours – fresh fish dishes, local vegetables, papas arrugadas with mojo sauce – along with influences from Latin America and Africa, reflecting the city’s historical ties to trade and the sea.

Thanks to its mild year-round climate and excellent transport connections, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is an ideal destination for those looking to combine culture, the sea, nature, and urban life all in one place.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city with a rich and diverse history that dates back to the Roman era. Over the centuries, it was under Roman, Arab, Byzantine, and Christian rule, all of which have left a lasting mark on its architecture and cultural identity. During the Middle Ages, Barcelona became an important commercial and cultural center of Catalonia, and in the 19th century, it experienced significant industrial and urban development.

One of the most notable architects associated with Barcelona was Antoni Gaudí, whose works such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà have become iconic symbols of the city. His unique style, which blends elements of Gothic, Modernism, and natural forms, has made Barcelona a uniquely vibrant urban space. Among the city’s most famous attractions are La Rambla, a lively promenade stretching from Plaça de Catalunya to the sea, and the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), the old part of the city filled with medieval alleys, buildings, and churches, including the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia. The artistic spirit of the city can also be felt in the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation, which house works by two of Catalonia’s greatest artists.

Barcelona is also renowned for its famous football club, FC Barcelona, whose stadium Camp Nou attracts thousands of visitors eager to experience the passion and pride that Catalans have for their team.

The city also offers a rich culinary scene – from its famous tapas to traditional dishes such as paella, fideuà, zarzuela, and the dessert crema catalana. A highlight is the Boqueria Market, where visitors can taste local products and delicacies. Today, Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, offering a perfect blend of history, art, architecture, sport, gastronomy, and Mediterranean spirit.