São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, which consists of the two main islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, as well as a number of smaller islands. The island state is part of Africa and is located off the west coast of the continent. It has an area of 1,001 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in the world. The population of São Tomé and Príncipe is about 197,000 inhabitants. The capital of the country is São Tomé. Most of the inhabitants are of Portuguese, African and Asian descent. The official language is Portuguese. Most of the inhabitants are Roman Catholics.
Discovery
The archipelago was discovered between 1470 and 1471 by the Portuguese navigators João de Santarém, Pêro Escobar and João de Paiva. Although it is not an absolute certainty, it is said that São Tomé and Príncipe was uninhabited until then, just a small paradise in the middle of the Gulf of Guinea. Thanks to its strategic location, this archipelago became an important port for the Portuguese.
Independence
In 1960, the Committee for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe initiated the country’s independence process. In 1972, the Democratic Party changed its name to the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe/Social Democratic Party (MLSTP). After the Carnation Revolution, on April 25, 1975, the Portuguese government began negotiations in Portugal for the independence of all its colonies, and on June 12, 1975, São Tomé and Príncipe managed to obtain its longed-for freedom under the leadership of MLSTP, the government as the only party. The first cross-party elections did not take place until 1990.
Holidays in São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe is an African island paradise located in the Gulf of Guinea. Most recently, it was often mentioned in the German media because Boris Becker spent his vacation there at the turn of the year. It is a beautiful tropical country that offers both culture and unique natural landscapes. There are many different ways to visit São Tomé and Príncipe and there is plenty to see and do.
A holiday in São Tomé and Príncipe is a wonderful way to experience and enjoy nature. The beaches are beautiful and there are also many other interesting places to explore. If you want to relax, a holiday in São Tomé and Príncipe is the perfect choice. There are many hotels and resorts that offer a pleasant stay.
There are also many cultural activities that you can do during your vacation. For example, visit the historical sights in São Tomé and Príncipe, which are home to some of Africa’s oldest cultural monuments. You can also discover the local cuisine and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
For those who want to be active, there are also many different activities that you can do during your vacation. From hiking or snorkeling to biking or horseback riding, there are a variety of ways to keep yourself occupied. There are also some excellent dive sites where you can explore some of the most beautiful underwater worlds.
General information about São Tomé and Príncipe
Location
São Tomé and Príncipe (or the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe) is an archipelago consisting of 2 large islands (Príncipe and São Tomé) and several small islands (Rolas Island, Santana Island, Sete Pedras Island, among others). It is located in the Gulf of Guinea, 240 km from Guinea and Gabon , on the African continent.
Language
The official language of São Tomé and Príncipe is Portuguese and the majority of the population can speak it. However, there are other dialects as well.
Climate
São Tomé and Princípe has a tropical equatorial climate, hot and humid with temperatures between 22 °C and 31 °C. The dry season is from June to September and is characterized by dry weather, less heat, and less humidity. October to May is the rainy season with more heat and rain.
Currency
The official currency of São Tomé and Príncipe is the Dobra (check the exchange rate). You can exchange your money for Dobras at the local bank (and you should do it there, because that’s where you’ll find the better exchange rate) or at one of the many money exchange merchants that can be found in the streets in the center of town. All you have to do is ask on the street where you can change your money, and you’ll quickly find someone who can help you.
São Tomé and Príncipe by car
The best way to travel in São Tomé is by car. You can request the services of a guide who will drive you around the island for about €80 per day, or, if you are a person who likes to go on adventures and discover things without restrictions, you can rent a car to travel more comfortably and with much more freedom.
Result
São Tomé and Príncipe is a medium-sized island nation in the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. It is a very beautiful and unique country that attracts many visitors with its stunning nature and tropical climate. It is a preferred holiday destination for tourists who want to experience the unique feeling of tropical life. The islands are full of interesting sights to explore, and there are plenty of opportunities to connect with the local people. It’s also a nature lover’s paradise, with some of the best diving in the world. São Tomé and Príncipe is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the tropical nature of West Africa.