'Optimism' over Cape Verde tourism target

The target set by Cape Verde's government for 500,000 tourists to visit the region in 2009 has been met with optimism by one travel expert.

Ron Hughes of Cape Verde Travel explained that although the travel market to the islands is currently "mixed" he believes the target can be met, noting that two extra flights to the islands have been added recently.

And he went on to say that the region is currently developing, having won recognition from the World Bank, which has provided funding for infrastructure improvements across many of the island ports.

"Tarmac has arrived in Cape Verde, but three years ago it wasn't there," he remarked, adding: "You can see that the islands are developing, they are moving forward."

Mr Hughes' comments follow the suggestion from a Lonely Planet author that the region has become the "hidden Caribbean" over recent years.

David Else also noted that the islands are becoming increasingly popular with Britons and tourists from other nations.

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