Santa Maria, Cape Verde 🇨🇻
#2098
16.598692, -22.905031
Nomad Score:
61%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Santa Maria is a vibrant coastal town located on the island of Sal, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 22,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds around 5-20 Mbps depending on the provider. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Cape Verdean Escudo (1 CVE ≈ 0.009 USD). Local banks include Banco Comercial do Atlântico and Caixa Económica. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type C/F sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include CVMovel and Unitel, with prepaid options available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International credit cards accepted at most establishments; local banks support wire transfers. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals via Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, but cash is still commonly used; ATMs are available. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local listings offer options for short stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Aquamarina and Residencial Nelson are budget-friendly options. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Café del Mar offers a relaxed atmosphere with good Wi-Fi. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Luca's offers ample seating and reliable internet. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Regular meet-ups at local cafes and bars, check local Facebook groups for updates. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Expats in Santa Maria Facebook group hosts various gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no major ride-share apps operate. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Rentals available at local shops such as Sal Scooters. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Praia de Santa Maria, known for its white sand and clear waters, is just steps away. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | TACV Cabo Verde Airlines. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | TAP Air Portugal and various European carriers operate flights to Sal. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Main roads connect Santa Maria to the airport and other towns on the island. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Santa Maria has no train service; local buses and taxis connect you to other areas. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport passes; local bus fares are generally low. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Travel by bus or taxi to nearby towns like Espargos. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Hospital do Sal is the primary healthcare facility in the area. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Sal offers classes for various levels. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Center Duo Fit is popular among locals. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services available at local laundromats near the main street. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local options available via Uber Eats or restaurants directly. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Catchupa, a traditional Cape Verdean stew. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian-friendly restaurants like Saida da Terra. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Pastelaria 4 Amigas for local pastries and sweets. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Santa Maria offer fresh produce and goods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited options; most shopping done locally. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery stores do not typically offer delivery, but stores like Pingo Doce are accessible. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Live music and bars are found at the beachfront near Santa Maria Square. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Praia beer is popular and can be found in most bars. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine bars are relatively scarce; local wines are available in restaurants. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors sell grilled fish and traditional snacks along the beach. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Several Italian and seafood restaurants along the waterfront. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The pier and Santa Maria beach are iconic for photos. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Cultural Center of Santa Maria showcases local art. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the old salt mines and learn about the salt production history. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows is a notable place to visit. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Festa de São Pedro celebrated in late June attracts many locals and tourists. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The Old Town area is rich in local shops and restaurants. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local performances can be found at bars and cultural venues. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The weekly street market on Saturdays near the town center is a must-visit. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local live music often plays at bars near the beach. |
| 🎨 Street Art | A growing scene, especially murals in the town center. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes available offering traditional Cape Verdean cuisine at local schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local artists display work at small galleries around town. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Various colonial buildings around town showcasing historical architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Cultural festivals highlighting traditional music and dance throughout the year. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the natural parks around Sal, including Pedra de Lume. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | APIM is a nature reserve with hiking opportunities. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Paved paths along the beach for cycling and walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Dune viewpoints offer stunning views over the coastline. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Multiple spots along the coast for observing migratory birds. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas are available for evening gatherings. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local postal services available. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Several computer shops in the town offer repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local sports clubs have table tennis tables available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools offer Cape Verdean Creole courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | A few public libraries available for reading and study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The cultural center acts as a hub for community activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Some local cafes have gaming consoles for community use. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Casinos are limited; most gaming occurs at local bars and cafes. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €60,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €48,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €108,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €90,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €160,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €144,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 25%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system applies; residents are taxed on worldwide income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 15%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, CFC rules exist for foreign income. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax based on assessed value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 5% standard rate applies during property purchases. |