The Cape Verde government has recently introduced new legislation concerning the drinking of alcohol. This new law bans the drinking of alcohol in the street. This is a law that is not uncommon in Europe, but the difference is that in Cape Verde it includes the serving of alcohol by bars and restaurants to customers sitting at tables in the street. People visit Cape Verde because of the lovely weather. Being able to enjoy a beer or glass of wine outside a bar is a significant part of that enjoyment.

Banning the serving of alcohol to tables on the pavement is going to be harmful to businesses and in the end to tourism and the economy. For example, the main street in Santa Maria on the island of Sal, is full of bars and restaurants and they all have outside seating. If you love Cape Verde as much as we do, please share this and if you have any influence petition the government of Cape Verde. Maybe they will consider removing the ban from bars and restaurants.