São Tomé, Sao Tome and Principe

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São Tomé, Sao Tome and Principe

Region: São Tomé Island

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Geographic Coordinates: 0.336100, 6.730600

Climate: Tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year.

Population: 56166

Language: Portuguese

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São Tomé is the capital city of São Tomé and Principe, A small island nation located off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea. The city is home to approximately 70, 000 people and serves as the country’s economic and cultural center. São Tomé was founded by Portuguese explorers in 1485 and has a rich history that reflects its colonial past. One of the most notable features of São Tomé is its architecture, Which showcases a blend of Portuguese colonial style with African influences.

The city’s historic center is filled with colorful buildings adorned with intricate balconies and ornate facades. Many of these structures have been restored in recent years, Adding to the charm and appeal of this vibrant city. Visitors to São Tomé can explore several interesting landmarks, Including Forte de São Sebastião, A 16th-century fortress built by Portuguese colonizers. This impressive structure offers stunning views over the bay and houses an interesting museum that chronicles the history of Sao Tome and Principe.

Another must-visit attraction in Sao Tome is Pico Cão Grande, An imposing volcanic peak that rises over 300 meters above sea level. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views over Sao Tome Island from its summit. For those looking for adventure activities, There are plenty on offer in Sao Tome as well. Visitors can try their hand at hiking through lush rainforests or exploring hidden waterfalls tucked away in secluded valleys.

Foodies will also find plenty to love about this island nation’s cuisine – seafood plays a prominent role here thanks to its location on the Atlantic Ocean – while coffee lovers should make time for a visit to one (or more) coffee plantations dotted around surrounding hillsides where they can sample some truly exceptional brews. Overall, São Tomé offers visitors an unforgettable experience that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating cultural attractions steeped in colonial history. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches or explore the island’s lush interior, There is something here for everyone.

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1. Pico Cão Grande is a remarkable rock formation that resembles a giant tooth.
2. São Tomé National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse flora and fauna.
3. Roça Agostinho Neto is an old plantation estate transformed into a cultural center and museum.
4. Praia das Conchas is an exquisite beach with clear waters and white sand.
5. Forte de São Sebastião, a 16th-century fort, now houses the National Museum of São Tomé and Príncipe.
6. Roca Belo Monte Plantation, one of the oldest coffee plantations in the country, offers tours and tastings.
7. Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) is a natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation ideal for swimming or relaxing.
8. Ilhéu das Rolas, located on the equator line, offers beautiful views and unique experiences like snorkeling with sea turtles.
9. Praia Piscina Natural (Natural Pool Beach) is another stunning beach with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming or sunbathing in peace.
10. Cascata de Santo António (Saint Anthony Waterfall) near the capital city of Sao Tome holds the distinction of being the highest waterfall in Sao Tome & Principe.

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1. São Tomé and Principe is a small island nation with a limited economy.
2. The country’s major industries and businesses include:
• Agriculture
• Fishing
• Tourism
• Oil exploration
• The services sector
• Handicrafts
3. Agriculture is the primary source of income for São Tomé. Cocoa production accounts for about 90% of the country’s export earnings.
4. Fishing is also an important industry in São Tomé due to its abundant fish resources.
5. Tourism is an emerging industry in São Tomé that attracts visitors from around the world with its beautiful beaches, tropical forests, and historic landmarks.
6. Oil exploration has been ongoing since 2001 but no significant commercial discoveries have been made yet.
7. The services sector including banking, insurance, telecommunications and transportation also contribute to the economy of São Tomé.
8. Local artisans produce handicrafts such as woodcarvings, pottery and textiles for sale to tourists or exportation to other countries.
9. Overall, agriculture remains the backbone of Sao Tome’s economy while tourism presents opportunities for growth in future years.

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1. Portuguese colonization: São Tomé and Principe were colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, becoming major centers for sugar production using enslaved Africans.
2. Slave trade: The islands were a major hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with an estimated 200,000 enslaved Africans passing through between the 16th and 19th centuries.
3. Independence movement: The country gained independence from Portugal in 1975 after a long struggle led by nationalist movements such as the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe (MLSTP).
4. Manuel Pinto da Costa: The first president of independent São Tomé and Principe, serving from 1975 to 1991.
5. Miguel Trovoada: A former prime minister who became president in 1991 after democratic elections following years of one-party rule under the MLSTP.
6. Oil discovery: In the early 2000s, significant oil reserves were discovered off the coast of São Tomé and Principe, leading to hopes that it could become a major oil producer.
7. Evaristo Carvalho: The current president of Sao Tome and Principe who has been serving since September 2016.
8. UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Agostinho Neto Plantation House on Sao Tome Island was declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site in July’2021 which is now part of cultural heritage sites list along with Cidade Velha on Santiago Island (Cape Verde).

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1. National Museum of São Tomé and Príncipe showcases the history and culture of the country, including exhibits on slavery, colonialism, and independence.
2. Fort São Sebastião is a historic fort built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It now houses a museum with exhibits on São Tomé’s history.
3. Roça Monte Café is a former coffee plantation turned cultural center with a museum showcasing the history of coffee production in São Tomé.
4. Cathedral of São Tomé is a beautiful cathedral built in the 16th century by the Portuguese featuring stunning architecture and artwork.
5. Pico Cão Grande is one of São Tomé’s most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views over the island as it towers above it as a volcanic peak.
6. Praia das Conchas is known for its clear waters and white sand that make it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
7. Obo National Park covers over half of São Tomé’s land area, providing visitors with an opportunity to see rare wildlife such as giant turtles, monkeys, and birds within its protected area.
8. Ilhéu das Rolas located just south of Sao Tome Island offers beautiful beaches alongside a lighthouse that marks the equator line for visitors to explore.
9. Casa da Cultura de Santo António housed in an old colonial mansion offers exhibitions on local art & crafts along with live music performances at this cultural center.
10. Praia Jale Ecolodge & Beach Club situated near Porto Alegre village provides guests access to water sports activities like kayaking or snorkeling along its pristine coastline or hiking through lush rainforest trails nearby while blending luxury with nature through eco-friendly accommodation options.

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1. São Tomé and Principe is a small African island nation where sports do not play a significant role in the country’s culture or economy.
2. Nonetheless, there are some sports teams in São Tomé that have a devoted following.
3. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in São Tomé, and the national team has been active since 1976.
4. While they have never qualified for major international tournaments like the World Cup or African Cup of Nations, they have achieved some impressive victories against other African nations.
5. There are also several local football clubs in São Tomé such as Sporting Clube do Príncipe and Grupo Desportivo Operário.
6. These teams participate in local leagues and occasionally compete against other nearby countries like Angola or Gabon.
7. Basketball is another sport played on the island, but it is not as popular as football.
8. There are several local basketball clubs such as Club Desportivo Os Operários and Associação Regional de Basquetebol de São Tomé e Príncipe.
9. Volleyball is also played on the island with various regional tournaments featuring several local clubs.
10. The national volleyball team has had some success at the African Volleyball Championship, finishing fifth place back in 1995.
11. Overall, sports do not play a significant role in Sao Tome and Principe due to its small size and limited resources for athletic development.

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1. São Tomé Carnival is a lively parade and street party that takes place in February or March. It features colorful costumes, music, and dancing.
2. The Feast of St. Sebastian is a religious festival held in January to honor the patron saint of São Tomé.
3. Independence Day is celebrated on July 12th to mark the country’s independence from Portugal in 1975.
4. The International Music Festival of São Tomé and Príncipe is an annual event held in August that showcases local and international musicians performing a variety of genres, including traditional African music, jazz, reggae, and more.
5. The National Arts Festival is held annually in September to promote local arts and crafts such as pottery making, weaving, wood carving etc.
6. The Cocoa Festival celebrates one of Sao Tome’s most important exports – cocoa; this festival is held annually around November/December
7. Festa de Santo Amaro is an annual religious festival celebrated on 15th January with processions through the streets.
8. São João dos Angolares is a cultural festival celebrating the history & traditions of the Angolar people; it includes music performances & traditional dances

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• Calulu – a traditional dish made with fish or meat, vegetables, and palm oil.
• Mionga – a dish made with cassava leaves, fish or meat, and spices.
• Banana-pão – a type of bread made with mashed bananas.
• Roça Monte Café Restaurant – located in the Monte Café plantation, this restaurant serves traditional dishes using fresh ingredients from the plantation.
• Restaurante Avenida – known for its seafood dishes such as grilled lobster and octopus salad.
• Casa de Chá Gorreana – offers tea tastings of locally grown tea along with light snacks like sandwiches and cakes.
• Dona Tétéia Restaurant – serves typical São Toméan dishes such as calulu de peixe (fish stew) and moqueca (seafood stew).

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Parks and Recreation

1. Parque Nacional Obo is a beautiful national park that boasts of a diverse range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and turtles.
2. Praia das Conchas is a popular beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe.
3. Pico Cão Grande is an impressive volcanic peak that offers hiking opportunities and breathtaking views of the island.
4. Jardim Botânico do Bom Sucesso is an enchanting botanical garden that showcases various plant species from around the world.
5. Forte de São Sebastião is a historic fort that provides tours and exhibits on the island’s colonial past.
6. Praia de Micondo is another famous beach with crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing in the sun.
7. Ilhéu das Rolas – This small island located at the southernmost point of Sao Tome Island has stunning beaches and great diving spots with clear blue waters full of marine life to explore.
8. Lagoa Azul – A picturesque blue lagoon surrounded by lush greenery ideal for swimming or kayaking.
9. Roça Monte Café – A former coffee plantation converted into an eco-tourism destination where visitors can learn about coffee production while enjoying nature walks through dense forests filled with endemic flora & fauna.
10. Museu Nacional de São Tomé e Príncipe – A museum showcasing Sao Tome & Principe’s history & culture, including art collections from local artists as well as historical artifacts from colonial times.

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Find Yourself Again.

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