Opting for a less-touristy destination can not only benefit the locals but also enhance your holiday experience. The adverse effects of overtourism, such as crammed streets in Venice and skyrocketing property prices in Barcelona and Lisbon, have become increasingly evident.

Following protests against the influx of tourists, local governments have increased tourist taxes, stricter dress codes, bans on short-term lets, and fees for day-trippers. The Canary Islands are no exception - like Barcelona, many of the busiest Canary Island resorts have experienced complaints of overcrowding, protests, and regulations introduced to tackle rowdy behaviour from tourists. If you want a tax-free, quiet holiday away from the crowds - consider Cape Verde, often referred to as 'the new Canaries'.

This archipelago of 10 volcanic islands off the coast of Senegal has been independent from Portugal since 1975.

It's warmer than the Canaries but enjoys a refreshing Atlantic breeze and is not currently overrun with tourists. The average minimum temperature in Cape Verde in May is 21C, but in Grand Canaria it is 19C.

Since 2025, direct flights have been available from London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

Cape Verde, located in the central Atlantic Ocean west of Africa, boasts consistent temperatures of 30C in the summer months. The region was uninhabited until the 15th century, and one of the 10 islands remains unpopulated to this day.

Nowadays, this island nation attracts fewer tourists and is famous for its pristine, soft sandy beaches and clear blue waters.

According to travel experts at TUI, the best time to visit Cape Verde is between November and June, during the region's dry season, which offers warm and sunny weather.

Cape Verde, a picturesque archipelago, comprises ten idyllic islands such as São Vicente, São Nicolau, Santo Antão, Santa Luzia, Maio, Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava.

Social media users like @raretares have labelled the destination as "literal paradise" while @kaynamerica raves about its "heavenly" appeal on TikTok.

The islands of Cape Verde remained largely uninhabited until European colonisation brought populations, with Portuguese and Genoese sailors putting down roots in the region. The name 'Cape Verde' originates from Cap-Vert, which refers to the extended peninsula off Senegal's coast, known for being Africa's westernmost extremity.

Among its many attractions, Cape Verde boasts some of the world's most stunning beaches. Santa Maria on the island of Sal and Santa Monica on Boa Vista rank among the best beaches.

But it's not just the golden sands that draw tourists; Cape Verde is also renowned for being a sanctuary for wildlife, notably various turtle species, which visit the shores between July and October to nest and lay eggs. The beaches also serve as prime locations for wildlife enthusiasts eager to catch glimpses of diverse marine life, including dolphins and whales.