Hotel VIP Praia

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Description

Hotel VIP Praia is one of those places that quietly surprises you. Sitting right in the heart of Praia, Cape Verde’s capital, it’s a 4-star stay that feels a touch more personal than you might expect from a modern city hotel. The building itself is sleek and contemporary, but what makes it truly memorable is how it manages to mix comfort, convenience, and a little bit of indulgence without ever feeling pretentious. The rooms are bright, airy, and thoughtfully designed—some even open up to sweeping ocean views that make you want to linger just a bit longer before heading out to explore.

What I personally love most about Hotel VIP Praia is the rooftop pool. It’s not just a pool; it’s a little escape above the bustle of the city. You can float lazily with a cocktail in hand, watching the sunset paint the Atlantic in gold and pink hues. The rooftop area also happens to be one of the best spots to unwind after a day spent wandering through Praia’s markets or strolling along Quebra Canela Beach, which is just a short walk away. And if you’re like me and can’t resist a good meal after swimming, the hotel’s restaurant serves up flavorful local dishes that balance Cape Verdean tradition with a modern twist.

That said, the hotel isn’t without its quirks. Some guests find the service a bit slow at times, especially during peak hours, but honestly, that’s part of the island rhythm. Things move slower here—and once you settle into that pace, it becomes part of the charm. The staff are friendly, warm, and genuinely eager to help, even if they take their time doing it. It’s the kind of place where you feel taken care of, but not hovered over. A balance that’s hard to find in many city hotels.

Whether you’re traveling for business, a romantic getaway, or just a well-deserved break, Hotel VIP Praia offers a little slice of comfort that feels both cosmopolitan and coastal. It’s modern, but not sterile. Relaxed, but not careless. And that’s what makes it stand out among Praia’s hotel scene.

Key Features

• Rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views—perfect for sunset dips or lazy afternoons.
• Spacious rooms and suites, some featuring private balconies overlooking the sea.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, ideal for remote work or streaming your favorite shows.
• Free breakfast buffet offering both local and international options.
• On-site restaurant and bar serving Cape Verdean-inspired dishes and cocktails.
• Fully equipped fitness center for guests who like to stay active while traveling.
• Business center and meeting rooms for corporate travelers.
• Airport shuttle service available for convenient arrivals and departures.
• Kid-friendly amenities and family rooms for those traveling with children.
• Accessible facilities for guests with mobility needs.
• Free parking on-site—handy if you’re renting a car to explore the island.

Best Time to Visit

Cape Verde enjoys a mild climate year-round, but if you’re planning to make the most of Hotel VIP Praia’s rooftop pool and nearby beaches, the best time to visit is between November and June. During these months, the weather is warm, dry, and sunny—perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures. The sea is calm, and the evenings are comfortably cool, ideal for rooftop dining or a walk along the coast.

I once visited in late September, and while it was still beautiful, there were a few short bursts of rain that caught me off guard. Nothing dramatic, but enough to make me appreciate the dry season even more. If you’re someone who prefers fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, the shoulder months—October and July—can be a sweet spot. You’ll still get plenty of sunshine without the busier tourist rush.

How to Get There

Getting to Hotel VIP Praia is fairly straightforward. Most visitors arrive via Nelson Mandela International Airport, which is just a short drive from the hotel. You can grab a taxi right outside the terminal, and within about 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be checking in. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle service, which is worth booking ahead of time if you prefer a smoother arrival.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to explore beyond the city, renting a car is a great idea. Cape Verde’s roads are generally in good condition, and driving along the coast is a treat. You’ll pass by fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and stretches of untouched beach that make you want to pull over just to take it all in. The hotel has free parking, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot when you return.

Once you’re settled in, most of Praia’s main attractions are within walking distance or a quick cab ride away. Quebra Canela Beach is just a few minutes from the hotel, and the historic Plateau district—filled with colorful colonial buildings and lively markets—is close enough for an afternoon stroll.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the thing about staying at Hotel VIP Praia—it’s as much about the vibe as it is about the amenities. So, to make the most of your stay, here are a few tips I’ve picked up (some from experience, some from chatting with other travelers over breakfast).

• Book a room with an ocean view if you can. Waking up to that Atlantic horizon is totally worth the extra cost.
• Try the local dishes at the restaurant. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the chefs do a lovely job of blending local flavors with modern presentation.
• Head to the rooftop early for sunset. It can get busy, especially on weekends, and you’ll want a good spot by the pool or bar.
• Bring a light jacket—evenings can get breezy, especially if you’re dining outdoors.
• Use the gym in the morning. It’s quieter, and you’ll have more space to yourself before other guests wake up.
• Be patient with service. Things move at a relaxed pace here, but that’s part of the island’s charm. Take it as a reminder to slow down.
• Explore beyond the hotel. Praia has a lot to offer—from local music spots to hidden beaches—and the staff are usually happy to share their favorite recommendations.

One thing I learned from my last visit: don’t underestimate how much you’ll fall in love with the rhythm of Cape Verde. You might come for the hotel, but you’ll leave remembering the people, the food, and that feeling of being somewhere that still feels authentic. Hotel VIP Praia captures that spirit beautifully—it’s polished, yes, but it never loses its connection to the island’s easygoing heart.

So, if you’re looking for a place that balances style with soul, this hotel might just be your spot. It’s the kind of stay that makes you want to linger over breakfast, take one more swim before check-out, and promise yourself you’ll come back. And honestly, you probably will.

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