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São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe (STP for short) consists of two main islands straddling the Equator off the Atlantic coast of Central Africa.

The Portuguese were the first settlers of these previously uninhabited islands in the late 15th century. Attracting settlers proved difficult, however, and most of the earliest inhabitants were "undesirables" sent from Portugal, mostly Jews. The Portuguese brought in slaves from Africa to cultivate sugar, coffee and cocoa. Nearly all of its current residents are descended from people from different countries taken to the islands by the Portuguese from 1470 onwards.

In 1990, STP was one of the first African nations to undertake democratic reforms, and it has maintained democratic government since then with only a one-week interruption. The country's culture, customs, and music fuse European and African influences.

Cities

 * (Saint Thomas) – the capital city and largest city in the country, home to a 15th-century cathedral, the national museum, and the Presidential Palace
 * (Saint Anthony) – the main city of Príncipe Island, it is known for its colonial architecture and for its churches

Other destinations
On Principe, find relaxation on Banana Beach or Burra Beach; or, climb Papagaio Peak in  for some majestic views of the island and ocean beyond.

Understand
The country is often mistakenly called "São Tomé", but São Tomé is the name of one of its two main islands.

Trees cover almost 90% of the islands. The main crop on São Tomé is cocoa, representing about 95% of agricultural exports. Other export crops include copra, palm kernels, and coffee. Other than agriculture, the main economic activities are fishing and a small industrial sector engaged in processing local agricultural products and producing a few basic consumer goods. The scenic islands have potential for tourism, and the government is attempting to improve its rudimentary tourist industry infrastructure.

São Toméan culture is a mixture of African and Portuguese influences. São Toméans are known for ússua and socopé rhythms, while Príncipe is home to the dêxa beat. Portuguese ballroom may have played an integral part in the development of these rhythms and their associated dances. Tchiloli is a musical dance performance that tells a dramatic story. The danço-Congo is similarly a combination of music, dance, and theatre.

Football is the most popular sport in São Tomé and Principe.

São Tomé and Príncipe is a nation of about 202,000 people (2018). The two main islands are about 259 km apart and straddle the Equator in the Gulf of Guinea, west of Gabon. The country sees few tourists: in 2016, there were an estimated 13,000 visitors to the country.

History
Discovered and claimed by Portugal in the late 15th century, the islands had a sugar-based economy that gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century – all grown with plantation slave labor, a form of which lingered into the 20th century. Although independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were not instituted until the late 1980s, and the first free elections were held in 1991.

This small poor island economy has become increasingly dependent on cocoa since independence in 1975. However, cocoa production has substantially declined because of drought and mismanagement. The resulting shortage of cocoa for export has created a persistent balance-of-payments problem. São Tomé has to import all fuels, most manufactured goods, consumer goods, and a substantial amount of food. Over the years, it has been unable to service its foreign debt and has had to depend on concessional aid and debt rescheduling. São Tomé's success in implementing structural reforms has been rewarded by international donors, which pledged increased assistance in 2001. Considerable potential exists for development of a tourist industry, and the government has taken steps to expand facilities. The government also has attempted to reduce price controls and subsidies. It is also optimistic that substantial petroleum discoveries are forthcoming in its territorial waters in the oil-rich waters of the Gulf of Guinea. Corruption scandals continue to weaken the economy.

Climate
At sea level, the climate is tropical—hot and humid with average yearly temperatures of about 27 °C (80.6 °F) and little daily variation. The temperature rarely rises beyond 32 °C (89.6 °F). At the interior's higher altitudes, the average yearly temperature is 20 °C (68 °F), and nights are generally cool. Annual rainfall varies from 5,000 mm (196.85 in) on the southwestern slopes to 1,000 mm (39.37 in) in the northern lowlands. The rainy season runs from October to May.

The equator lies immediately south of São Tomé Island, passing through an islet named Ilhéu das Rolas.

Tourist information

 * São Tomé and Príncipe tourist information

Entry requirements
Nationals of the following countries may enter São Tomé and Príncipe without a visa for visits of up to 15 days: Angola, Brazil, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Rwanda, East Timor, United States and all EU citizens. Chinese citizens (including Hong Kong and Macau) can get a visa on arrival. Holders of a valid Schengen or United States visa also do not require a visa. Nationals of other countries should obtain an eVisa before arrival: http://www.smf.st/virtualvisa/

Get around
On São Tomé Island, there are many taxis, including shared ones that depart to other cities when enough people are there. It is common for tourists to rent a car or scooter to better explore all that the island has to offer. Beware that although roads are paved, they are often not in good condition.

To get to Príncipe, the most common choice for tourists are commercial flights (STP Airways) connecting São Tomé International Airport to Príncipe Airport. Beware that the planes are very small. Locals instead typically hop on a cargo boat, but the 10 hour overnight journey is not considered particularly safe. There are faster charter boats that can do the trip in 3.5h.

On Príncipe, there are fewer roads, and many are not paved. It is common to hire a driver (car or motorbike) to explore the island, or to hire a boat.

Talk
The official language is Portuguese. It is spoken natively by over half of the population, but basically everyone (95%) can speak it. The other main language is Forro, which is a Portuguese-based creole language spoken natively by 43% of the population and as a second language by just as many (85% in total).

Other languages include Principense Creole and Angolar Creole, but these are only spoken by a small minority.

As a rule, Portuguese is the main language in the northern part of the São Tomé island, whereas Forro is more common in the south. On the Principe island the main language is Portuguese.

When speaking Portuguese, São Toméans generally use a dialect known as São Toméan Portuguese. It is similar to Brazilian Portuguese in terms of grammar and pronunciation, which is very different from European Portuguese. However, most people can switch to European Portuguese and thus neither Portuguese nor Brazilians should have trouble communicating.

English is virtually non-existent in this country, since it is not taught in schools and there are few English-speaking tourists; you will however have better luck with French, which is taught in schools and thus spoken by many.

It is essential to know Portuguese, Forro or French in order to get along.

See

São Tomé and Príncipe was uninhabited before colonization by the Portuguese in the 1490s. Since then, much of the landscape has remained unchanged or, where former plantations once stood, reclaimed by the rainforests. The islands are covered by lush rainforests and with a small population and very few tourists, and remain for visitors a veritable tropical paradise. The interior of São Tomé island contains Obo National Park. Find a local guide to take you bird-watching, climb the 2,024-meter Pico de Sao Tome, trek to a secluded waterfall, or try to spot as many of the island's 109 species of orchids as you can. Waves enter an underwater cave on the south side of São Tomé island and, with nowhere to go, shoot straight up through the Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell) blowhole in an impressive show for visitors. The isolated beaches on Príncipe are breathtakingly beautiful and romantic... don't blame yourself for feeling like you're on a deserted island in the South Pacific.

Just offshore are coral reefs with a large diversity of sea life—including a few endemics as the waters between other islands and the mainland reach 2,000 meters! Diving and snorkeling are the ideal ways to explore the underwater side of this paradise, during which you can come face-to-face with dolphins, large green turtles, and a wide array of colorful fish. Experienced and daring divers can explore underwater caves.

Among the few human-made sights on the islands is Fort São Sebastião. Built in 1575, the fort was refurbished in 2006 and is now the São Tomé National Museum. The fort is absolutely beautiful at night. Essential for every visitor is a tour of one of the islands' colonial-era plantations—roças—which lie in many different states, from centuries-old buildings slowly being overgrown by rainforest to lovingly refurbished ones operating as bed-and-breakfasts. One of the more easily accessible, Monte Café, has a new coffee museum set and, since it is in the mountains, is cool and inviting. The Sao Tome market is, like many in the region, a bustling, colorful experience while photographers will love the city's quaint colonial-style architecture.

Do
The waters around São Tomé are clear and rich with life. Consequently, diving, fishing and boat tours provide much to see. The forests of both islands lend themselves wonderfully to hiking. Walk around. Traffic is light, the sea breeze is cooling, and you can admire the architecture and people. The capital city of São Tomé is replete with public art. Painting and carvings by local artists, in addition to old Portuguese statues, can be found throughout the city. Oftentimes you will walk down the street and turn a corner to come up suddenly against a colorful and sprightly painting right in front of you.

 * Claudio Corallo Chocolate. Tours of his chocolate factory are give on request.  He or one of his sons will gleefully describes the  shocking inferior stuff that passes for chocolate around the world.  Claudio maintains complete control of the chocolate making process, from growing the pods on his own plantation on Principe through to packaging the chocolate in his own vacuum-sealed clean rooms.  He gives copious free samples during the demonstration, and sells all his products right there in the demonstration room.  Expensive but worth it.

 * Bird watching: There are over 135 species in 40 families on the islands. The widest variety is found in the southern part of São Time,, but Principe also hosts many species, including parrots roaming free in the jungle, Dohrn’s Flycatcher, Black-capped and Principe speirops, Giant Weaver, Sao Tome Sunbird, a paradiseflycatcher, scops-owl, prinia, swift, white-eye, seedeater, oriole, thrush, starling, and four pigeons. Three species endemic to the island—Bocage’s Longbill, Newton’s Fiscal, and Sao Tome Grosbeak—are much harder to find. Many West African mainland specialties inhabit the islands including Olive Ibis, Harlequin Quail, Gray Parrot, Whitebellied and Blue-breasted kingfishers, Velvet-mantled Drongo, Chestnut-winged and Splendid glossy-starlings, Chestnut-breasted Negrofinch, Golden-backed Bishop, and Blue-breasted Cordonbleu. Seabirds and wetland species may include White-tailed Tropicbird, Brown Booby, Bridled Tern, Brown Noddy, Long-tailed Cormorant, and Western Reef-Egret. There are tourist operators that organise birdwatching outings on both island and in the ocean.

Money
São Tomé and Príncipe uses the new dobra, denoted by the symbol "nDb" (ISO currency code: STN). In 2018, the old dobra (Db) was converted to the new dobra at a rate of 1000 Db to 1 nDB.

Coins of São Tomé and Príncipe come in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 centimos, 1 and 2 new dobras. Banknotes of São Tomé and Príncipe come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 new dobras.

It is a restricted currency: the import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited subject to declaration, and you may export only up to the amount you import. Travelers' checks are no longer accepted. Euros, and sometimes US dollars, are commonly accepted at larger restaurants and shops. The currency is pegged to the euro.

There are no ATMs that take overseas cards. You must bring sufficient cash in euros or US dollars. Cash withdrawal with a Visa card may be available from the main bank in São Tomé.

The Pestana hotels may offer a cash advance (if they have enough cash at hand themselves). Expect a 5% commission for their service and not too generous an exchange rate.

Shopping
Shopping is limited, but there are a few things worth purchasing, and possibly of export quality:

Coffee. São Tomé used to be famous for its coffee. The quality suffered a bit after independence n 1975 when the new government broke up the old rocas into sharecropper lots, but given the quality of the volcanic soil, the coffee was still great. There has been a surge in interest in São Tomé coffee, mostly due to Claudio Corrallo’s work, but you can walk into any shop in São Tomé and get great coffee cheap.

Rum. São Tomé has two rum factories within an easy trip: 'Gravana, which is sold out of a car repair shop next to the Central Market, and  Me-Zochi which is in Trindad behind the church. Prices of a one liter bottle of rum vary from USUS$3-7 depending on the price of sugar. Gravana rum is dark and sweet, and is best served over ice and savored like a scotch. Me-Zochi rum is also good, but the factory also sells different types of liqueurs made from local fruits. Most of their product is shipped to Europe.

Baskets. Baskets are part and parcel of everyday life in São Tomé. Therefore they are plentiful and cheap. They are not fancy but have their charm.

Miscellaneous tourist stuff. Ossobbo is across from the Fort São Sebastiao. The shop features local artisans and products of São Tomé, from coffee, chocolate, cinnamon and vanilla to carvings, t-shirts and thumb drives. Prices are reasonable, but the best part is the shop is run by the non-profit Sisters of Misericordia; all profits go to the craftsmen or charitable works.

Eat
Fish is a staple of the São Toméan diet, often served with breadfruit and mashed, cooked bananas. Tropical fruits, such as pineapple, avocado, and bananas, are significant components of the cuisine. The use of hot spices is prominent in São Tomése cuisine. The variety of fish is wide, including flying fish at certain times of year. Inland, many São Toméans get their protein from buzios, large land snails. Sea snails are also quite common along the coast. In spite of the abject poverty, São Toméans can always count on some sustenance from the wide array of tropical fruits. The hotels in the capital offer European-style fare at European prices.

Roça São João dos Angolares in the village of Angolares 42 km SE of São Tomé city on EN No. 2.  Make reservations as far in advance as possible (+239 9906900), but it is worth it. Gourmet meals served as a multiple course prix fixe are worth the extra workout you will need. Also offers rooms from €60 (Dec 2017).

Sum Secreto. Standard grill fare, but they can handle large groups without a reservation. Service is generally very good, and the meat and fish are excellent. Nothing fancy, but the place is popular because it has that secret something.

Drink
Beer is readily available everywhere, though São Toméans are not known as big drinkers. Local brands include Creolla and Rosema. Inland, palm wine is available very inexpensively from vendors along the road. In the capital, whiskey and other spirits are popular among the elites. Wine, especially Portuguese vinho verde, is popular with fish dishes.

Sleep
A small handful of hotels exist in the capital. Near the town of Santana lies an idyllic bed and breakfast with stunning views. Opulent resorts have been built at the very northern and southern extremes of the country, on the small island of Ilheu das Rolas, and at Ilha Bom Bom off the coast of Príncipe.

In Santo António, the main city of Príncipe, several small pousadas (B&Bs) can be found.

 * Bom Bom Island Resort In addition to an ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning and other modern amenities, each bungalow has its own veranda with views across the green palm fronds and the bay. Bom Bom’s restaurant, bar and marina are on a tiny islet, which can be reached by crossing the 230-metre wooden walkway.
 * Mucumbli An amazing lodge, situated a view minutes down the road from the city of Neves. It only has 5 bungalows so book well in advance! Owned by Titiano and Marie, an extremely nice and helpful Italian couple that arrived to the Island in the 1980s and built this place little by little. Private and remote (in São Tomé terms that is), sitting on the deck watching the sunset side of the island or going to the beach or hitting the trails, this place is a must. There is also a donkey pen, that were practically saved by the owners (after the government received them as a gift from Angola and didn't know what to do with them). Includes breakfast.

Stay safe
Safety is not an issue in São Tomé and Príncipe, though the roadway traffic is hazardous as in other parts of Africa. Violent crime in public is almost unheard of. However, with an increase in tourism there has been an increase in crime against tourists. Road blocks near Santana have been reported, as well as scams targeting tourists in the main city.

The only dangerous animal in the islands is the black cobra, which can be found in southern and eastern areas of São Tomé island. Young ones are completely black, adults have yellow-white scales on the front. They are afraid of humans and will normally slither away when you approach. Be alert when hiking and very careful of where you stick your hands. Anti-venom is available at local hospitals. If bitten you need to seek immediate help, preferably within 30-120 minutes. Deaths are rare, though.

Stay healthy
Malaria was once extremely common on the islands, but an eradication program initiated by the Taiwanese government in 2005 has effectively stamped out malaria in populated areas (deaths have dropped from over 1000/year to just a handful). However, visitors should still continue taking precautions against mosquito bites (which can transmit other severe illnesses) such as the use of insect repellants and bed netting. Furthermore, the rate of malaria infections in nearby, mainland countries is high and there is the potential for isolated outbreaks from infected people/animals arriving from those countries. If you are also visiting the mainland on your journey, keep in mind the length of time before/after visiting malarial regions that you need to take your anti-malaria medication (which can be several weeks).

The rate of HIV/AIDS in STP is between 1-2%, which is relatively low compared with nearby countries. There is a very strong stigma against those infected on the islands and few have ever come out with their diagnosis and in many cases health workers have to deliver medications to their homes in secret because patients are unwilling to be seen in public collecting these medications. Even with the low risk, you should always use protection, such as condoms.

Water must be boiled before drinking, or purchased and consumed from bottles.

title: São Tomé and Príncipe


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São Vicente

Sao Vicente is an island of Cape Verde.

Cities

 * is the cultural capital of Cape Verde.

By plane
Flights with Cabo Verde Airlines depart from São Pedro airport to Sal and Praia.

Go next
São Vicente

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: São Vicente


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São Vicente (Brazil)

São Vicente  is a city in the Baixada Santista metro area, in the São Paulo state, being conurbated with Santos. Founded in 1532, it considered to be the oldest city of Brazil. Most of the city's historical heritage has been lost with time, and São Vicente is now mainly visited for its scenery and beaches.

Understand
São Vicente was founded in 1532 by Portuguese settlers, being the first officially recognized village in colonial Brazil. Its early years of existence were characterized by violent fights between Portuguese, Spanish, Tupi native Brazilians (often put into slavery) and pirates. Economy of São Vicente was based on sugarcane plantations, but the economical success didn't last much. In the 17th century, São Vicente became a source of bandeirantes, explorers who travelled towards the countryside in order to make fame and fortune.

In the 19th century, with the boom of coffee farming, the neighboring city Santos would become the most important port city of the country. Slowly, São Vicente would assume the role of a "dormitory city" for the workers of Santos, a role that it maintains until the present day.

During the São Paulo state industrialization era (second half of the 20th century), immigration caused the population of São Vicente to grow too much for the available job supply. As result, São Vicente is the poorest city of the Baixada Santista metro area, containing a large number of favela's. Middle class neighborhoods are highly concentrated around the beach, in the southeast part of the city.

It was home to about 370,000 people in 2020.

Do

 * Gonzaguinha Beach
 * Itareré Beach

Stay healthy
As elsewhere in Brazil, some beaches in São Vicente are not suitable for bathing, and conditions can change from day to day. On the day of your visit, check the map of the latest weekly beach quality bulletin (in Portuguese, boletim de qualidade das praias) of the state's Environment Department (CETESB).

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Sälen

Sälen is a small town and ski resort in Dalarna.

Understand
Although overshadowed by its bigger and 'hipper' cousin in the north, Åre, this ski resort offers almost everything you need for a skiing vacation. It also has many activities that are family oriented.

Sälen is also noted for being the starting point of Vasaloppet, a major cross-country skiing event with more than 15,000 participants held on the first Sunday in March.

Get in
Combined travel by train and bus is possible, usually by changing in Borlänge or Mora. See SJ and Fjällexpressen. Fjällexpressen has express buses from Stockholm and Copenhagen with stops along the route.

An airport opened in 2019 with direct flights from Copenhagen, Århus and London during the winter season, as well as several domestic flights. The airport is useful for transit to Hedmark in Norway as well.

Get around
The SkiPassBus is free for all holders of the SkiPass and will easily take you from the hotel to the slope and back. Apart from that public bus #200 goes from the actual village of Sälen and along the main road up to the ski resorts.

Do
Sälen is most famous for alpine sport, though it is good for outdoor life in summer as well.

 * The start of Vasaloppet, a leg in the Swedish Classic Circuit.

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Sæby

Sæby is a small town in North Jutland around 13 km south of Frederikshavn and 50 km north of Aalborg.

By bus

 * X-bus 973X from Aalborg towards Frederikshavn.

By car

 * From Aalborg: Use the E45 northbound to Sæby.
 * From Aarhus: Use the E45 northbound to Sæby via Aalborg.
 * From Frederikshavn: Use the E45 southbound to Sæby.

Go next

 * Frederikshavn

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Sète

Sète (Seta in Occitan) is a city in Languedoc-Roussillon in southern France. Its inhabitants are called Sétois.

By rail
Arriving by rail is straightforward as plentiful regional TER trains connects with most cities in the Hérault department as well regional rail hubs. National operator SNCF also runs several daily high-speed TGV services from Paris via Valence, Nîmes and Montpellier. From the other direction, trains originate in Perpignan. Additionally, a handful of slower Intercités trains connects with Bordeaux and Marseille.

Direct high-speed TGV trains between Barcelona and Paris pass through Sète, but does not call here. Some do call in nearby Béziers, however it is usually better to change in Montpellier or Narbonne and then switch to a regional trains.

By ship
Sète is a major port along the Mediterranean. While many ships are geared towards freight, several of them do accept passengers. Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) runs at least two passenger ferries per week from Nador and Tangier, both in Morocco. Additionally, the port of Sète is quite popular with cruise ships.

There are also two marinas for private boats, St. Louis pier just south of the city centre and Le Bassin du Midi which is smack in the middle of the city.

Get around
Walking is the obvious choice within the city centre.

For slightly longer trips, Thau Agglo Transport offers public transport, with departures at least every 20 minutes during daytime on both weekdays and weekends. However, evening and night services are limited. A free circulator bus within the inner city, route 6, is available too.

See

Eat

Go next
The ferry to Morocco leaves a few times a week, and costs around €120.

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Ségou

Segou or Ségou is a city in the Segou region of Mali.

Understand
The first inhabitants of the city were the Bozos, a people living from fishing. Later there were also the Soninkes, the Malinkes and finally the Bambara people in the 16th century.

Segou is often considered to be the second city of Mali, and is certainly one of the most important ports in Mali.

In 2004 the region was inhabited by 1,887,100 people, of which nearly half younger than 15 years old.

Get in
The city is about 240km from Mali's capital, Bamako.

You can travel by river easily to Mopti, continuing on towards Gao, Wednesdays are your best bet.

Segou is on the main road therefore it is easy to get buses on the route between Bamako (CFA 2000) and Mopti (CFA 4500).

Get around
You can easily walk around the centre of the town, but to reach some of the outlying hotels you can easily get a taxi ~250-500cfa.

Talk
The Bambara people speak the Bambara language.

See
The most impressive architecture in Mali is to be found in the colonial buildings in the government district, however being government houses it's best not to take photos of them. The port is fairly small compared to Mopti but still worth a visit as part of a walk along the waterfront from the government district.

Do
Visit the Craft centre along the Mopti road, it's in a distinctive bright orange mud building set next to large mud quarries. For CFA 500 you will be given a guided tour and explanation of how bogolan clothes are made and even have the chance to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. They also have a shop with work that is generally of a higher quality than on market stands.

Take a walk along the waterfront from the government district to the port.

Festival sur le Niger, an annual music and dance festival in late January/early February.

Buy
Segou is famous for its bogolan cloth, or mud clothing (literally translated as "earth clothe" in the Bambara language), the craft centre is the best place to buy these from (note that the prices are fixed), but there are also plenty of street vendors selling them. Opposite the Hotel L'Auberge are several small shops and stands selling a variety of traditional Malian art and crafts including masks, bogolans, carvings, Tuareg boxes.

Eat
Hotel L'Auberge and Hotel Indépendance both have good restaurants.

Go next

 * Teriya Bugu "Centre du Tourisme Solidaire", on the way east between Segou and San is a great ecotourism "resort" that is off the beaten path and deserves a visit if you can make it!
 * Visit Gao, Mali's north-eastern region.

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Sóller

Sóller is a town on the island of Mallorca, one of the Balearic Islands off the Spanish east coast.

Understand
Sóller is a town on the northwest coast of Mallorca, set in a green valley surrounded by Mallorca's highest mountains. Much of the town is residential and agricultural: it is full of orange, lemon and olive groves. The resort area of Port de Sóller is 4 km away, and much more tourist-oriented.

The combined population of Sóller and Port de Sóller is 14,000 (2018). The town has a beautiful square, and many of its buildings are of architectural interest.

By car
Sóller is 20 km drive north of Palma de Mallorca on route MA-11. You can either drive through the tunnel (no longer tolled) or go over the top of the Coll de Soller. Once you arrive in Soller, park your car and continue on foot, as the town's narrow streets are not conducive to driving.

By train
The Ferrocarril de Sóller train service runs between Palma's Plaça d'Espanya and Sóller six times a day between 08:00 and 19:00. Tickets are €18 single and €25 return and can be purchased at the station half an hour before the train leaves. The train journey is slow, taking over an hour, but is scenic, with marvellous views of the mountains on both sides of the tunnel. Even in the lower seasons the train can be very crowded. The trains are very old-fashioned with outside viewing platforms at the front and rear of each coach. The line is narrow gauge.

See

 * There's a beautiful church in the centre of Soller that was built by one of Gaudí's students.
 * The town of Sóller is in a bowl surrounded by mountains which makes for very good walking.
 * You can take the train to Palma or take the tram to the Port de Sóller or simply wander around and look at the beautiful scenery, streets and houses.
 * There is a free museum of modern art located at the train station. This has some work by famous artists, notably Joan Miró.

Do
For bike lovers there are great tracks for both roadbiking and mountain biking. The terrain is rocky so you should be experienced and ride a full suspension bike. The old road to the Sóller Pass (since the tunnel opened there are only a few cars on the road) is a magnificent ride on a road bike. There are approximately 50 hairpin bends if you cross the pass to the other end of the tunnel.

Eat
You can buy pizza just off the square and there are a couple of places down the Calle dela Luna.

Sleep

Go next

 * Port de Sóller - the local seaside resort.
 * Palma de Mallorca - Mallorca's capital and largest city.
 * Easy walks to delightful villages of Biniaraix and Fornalutx.

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Söderhamn

Söderhamn is a town in Hälsingland, and the seat of Söderhamn Municipality.

Get in
Arriving by train is quite easy, Stockholm is about 2½ hours away with SJ high-speed trains that continue all the way north to Umeå via Sundsvall. Slower, regional trains connects with smaller nearby cities. Regional buses are run by X-trafik and there are routes from nearby regional centers as well as smaller towns.

Get around
X-trafik runs three bus routes within Söderhamn itself and there's often hourly departures to and from most larger towns within the municipality. The city centre is small enough for a walk, but for other destinations a car might be needed.

See

Buy
Flea markets and antique shops are very common, often in rural settings.

Eat
Söderhamn has a surprising variety of restaurants for its limited population, mainly thanks to a large influx of tourists during the summer season.

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Södermanland County

Södermanland County, Södermanlands län, is part of the Svealand region in Sweden, east of Södertörn island and Södertälje, which belong to Stockholm County.

The county is an accessible part of Sweden, with the Stockholm-Skavsta airport, as well as good road and rail connections in all directions. There are many picturesque towns, palaces, and waterfront sceneries at the Baltic Sea and inland lakes, one of the largest lakes Båven is famous for kayaking and fishing.

Municipalities

 * - the county's capital and home to the Skavsta Airport, Sweden's third largest by passenger traffic
 * - Sweden's "Steel City" of 100,000 inhabitants, with an industrial reputation and wealth often compared to Sheffield, but with a rich history reaching far into medieval times
 * - holds the world's northernmost vineyard, the age-old market of Malmköping and a particular allure to songwriters who seemingly cannot stop referencing it in (Swedish) songs
 * - a peaceful municipality of just 10,000, used as a refuge by inhabitants of larger cities who often own summer homes there; made famous by the film The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
 * - not much of a tourist destination, but rather an erstwhile industrial hub and today a sizeable commuter town
 * - one of Sweden's smallest municipalities and most recently (only in 1951) created cities, member of the douzelage, a unique twinning of small towns across the European Union
 * - the municipality of Strängnäs is best known for the former monastery of Mariefred and the Gripsholms castle which replaced it
 * - a small suburb of both Nyköping and Södertälje and another popular place for summer homes and boating trips
 * - a sleepy backwater of a municipality with a museum in the estate of an erstwhile local art collector

While Södertälje, Södertörn and the southern parts of Stockholm and the Stockholm archipelago belong to the traditional Södermanland province, they are within Stockholm County, and not described by this article.

Other destinations

 * Taxinge slott, Nykvarn

Understand
The Södermanland County was formed in 1634 and named after the traditional province of Södermanland, or Sörmland for short. Around that time, Stockholm has cemented its leading role and importance for Sweden, and thus it became a separate city, and the lands around it a separate county, Stockholm County, carved out of the traditional provinces of Södermanland and Uppland (the rest of latter became today's Uppsala County). This 17th-century administrative division proved so effective that it remained in place until today.

Södermanland has, through Lake Mälaren, the harbours to the Baltic Sea, the railways, and now the Skavsta Airport, been a gateway between inner Sweden and the outer world. The Industrial Revolution made cities such as Eskilstuna and Oxelösund flourish. Despite the cosmopolitan influences, most of Södermanland is still rural.

Talk
Södermalm is a good place to practice Swedish. The dialects spoken in Södermanland, especially in Nyköping, are said to be the base of the standard Swedish language, which developed in the 19th century.

Just like the rest of Sweden, most people speak English.

By plane

 * Stockholm Skavsta Airport near Nyköping. Local bus connection to Nyköping.
 * Stockholm Arlanda Airport is north of Stockholm.

By train
SJ provides long-distance trains that stop in Katrineholm (or you need a change in Norrköping), and regional trains that stop in Nyköping, Eskilstuna and Strängnäs.

By bus
Several intercity bus lines.

By train
The SJ can in part used to travel inside Södermanland but they go mainly to and from Stockholm.

By bus
Sörmlands Trafiken handle the local buses. They go between settlements, and there are city buses inside the larger cities.

By foot
Most city centres are walkable.

Talk
The dialects of Södermanland are said to be the base for standard Swedish. As in the rest of Sweden, English is widely spoken.

See

 * Taxinge-Näsby Castle

Do
Södermanland County is mainly quiet countryside with plenty of lakes, good for outdoor life.

Eat
Cheese from Flen.

Drink

 * Blaxsta is the world's northernmost vineyard.

Nightlife is found in Nyköping and Eskilstuna.

title: Södermanland County


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Sölvesborg

Sölvesborg is a city in Blekinge.

Get in
Getting to Sölvesborg is easy. The connections with major cities as Malmö and Kristianstad are well, as you can either go by train, bus or just drive.

Get around
Getting around is most easily done by walking. The city is fairly small.

Do
Sweden Rock Festival One of the biggest Rock open air summer festival, taking place in Norje, close to Sölvesborg each year in June.

Go to the nearby Hanö Island.

title: Sölvesborg


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Sønderborg

Sønderborg is a town in South Jutland, Denmark near the Danish-German border on the island of Als. The town of Sønderborg is home to Sønderborg Castle (Sønderborg Slot), the Royal Danish Army's Sergeant School (until 2013) and Sandbjerg Estate (Sandbjerg Gods).

Understand
Sønderborg is a centre for trade, tourism, industry, and education. The population is 28,000 in 2023. The towns in the region of Sønderborg are Nordborg (on northern part of the island), Augustenborg, Gråsten, Broager, and Guderup. The population of the region is 74,000 in 2023.

By car
If driving north on the E45 highway coming from Germany, route 8 is the fastest way to get to Sønderborg. If driving south on E45, route 41 is the fastest.

Get around
Sønderborg is not very far from the Danish-German border. Just south of the border is the German town of Flensburg, which is popular among Danes going to Germany on a one-day trip, often to shop and to buy alcohol and chocolate, which is cheaper in Germany than in Denmark.

By public transport
From the central bus station (rutebilstation) there are buses run to Dybbøl, Kær, Stenbjergparken, Kløvermarken, Skovparken, Sønderborg Sygehus (Hospital) twice at every hour. One way ticket is 17 kr and payable onboard, only cash. There is also 10 clip card for 120 kr, if you plan to travel more frequent. Because it is a small town, buses take off twice an hour (mostly).

By bike
Sønderborg is a very bike friendly city. Almost all roads have separated bike lanes. Hop up on your bike or buy a second hand one and do not suffer in the buses.

Go next

 * Flensburg is just across the German border.

title: Sønderborg


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Súðavík

Súðavík is a village with approximately 200 inhabitants on the Westfjords in West Iceland. The village is only a few minute drive from Isafjordur.

Get in
You can get to Súðavík by car or by bus. The nearest domestic airport is Ísafjörður Airport (15 minute drive).

By foot
Súðavík is a small village and is easily got around on foot with walking and hiking paths connecting the towns two distinct sections (old and new town)

By car
You can easily and quickly get around the village by car with the smaller residential and industrial roads connected by the main number 61 road, with them all being hard serviced.

There are a number of rough off-road jeep tracks which are accessed from the town and take you into the surrounding valleys and gorges.

By foot
Súðavíkurhreppur is the largest municipality in the Westfjords, and as such is connected and criss-crossed with numerable hiking paths both marked and un-marked which follow the historical routes the Vikings took whilst travelling the region and lead to and past many hidden wonders not just of the Westfjords but of Iceland as a whole.

By car
Súðavíkurhreppur is connected to its neighbouring regions (Ísafjörðurbæ and Strandir) by the main road number 61 which is maintained and serviced to a high standard year long. This road takes travelers through more fjords then any other area in Iceland, and truly puts the Fjords in your Westfjords travels! Connected into the number 61 road are a variety of smaller roads taking one further into fjords or valleys. These roads can often be of a slightly lower standard then the so re recommend using the www.road.is website to check out their condition.

By bus
Súðavíkurhreppur has 2 regular summer bus services and one regular service in the winter. During the summer it is possible to travel East or West to Pakreksfjörður or Hólmavík 3 times a week. All year round there is a weekday daily bus service between Súðavík village and Ísafjörður town, for more information on bus stops and times see www.sudavik.is

title: Súðavík


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Sühbaatar

Sühbaatar is the capital of Selenge province.

Understand
The city is located near the Russian border along the Trans-Mongolian Railway and has a population of around 21,000. The city was founded in 1940 and named after the founder of the People's Republic of Mongolia and hero of the Mongolian Revolution of 1921, D. Sükhbaatar. There is also a province in Eastern Mongolia and the central square in Ulaanbaatar named after him. The Orkhan and Selenge Rivers merge just west of the city.

Get in
With the first (or last) stop on the Trans-Mongolian Railway of the Trans-Siberian Railway in Mongolia, and on the main paved road between the capital, Ulaanbaatar, and the Russian border, Sühbaatar is very easy to reach.

By bus
There is one bus a day that leaves from the Dragon Center in UB everyday at 16:30 that stops in Sühbaatar on its way to the Russian border in Altanbulag, a few miles away. Another option is to take one of the buses that leave hourly from UB to Darkhan. From there, micro-buses and (shared) taxis leave throughout the day for Sühbaatar and further on to Altanbulag.

At Altanbulag, you can cross the border to Russia. People are not allowed to walk over the border and therefore have to find some sort of transportation. Usually drivers are offering this service and transport passengers for a small for a fee to the Russian border town of Kyakhta where you can find marshrutkys going to Ulan Ude.

By train
There are 2 trains a day from the capital to Sühbaatar, a day train that leaves at 10:30, with a stop at Darkhan at 08:52, and arrives at 20:00 and a night train that leaves at 21:10, with a stop at Darkhan at 03:25, and arrives at 05:30 the next day. The train returns to UB at 06:35 and arrives at 16:20, and at 21:05, arriving the next day in UB 06:10.

See

 * Khutagt Ekh Datsan Buddhist Temple
 * Orkhan and Selenge Rivers converge just outside of town

title: Sühbaatar


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Sürmene

Sürmene is a town of 15,000 people (2012) in the eastern portion of the Turkish Black Sea coast, near Trabzon.

Understand
Sürmene has an oceanic climate, with warm, showery summers, cool, wet winters, and low sunshine. Snow occasionally falls in winter, but melts quickly.

Get in
It is 40 km east of Trabzon, and 35 km from Rize. It is on the Black Sea coastal road.

It is possible to travel to Sürmene from most parts of Turkey by bus companies. If you get off at the Trabzon Intercity Terminal, you can reach Sürmene in approximately 30 minutes by taking the intercity road, which is 5 minutes away from the terminal, by taking the Sürmene minibuses or the Trabzon Municipality Private Buses. There are daily flights to Trabzon from the big city centers of Turkey.

See

 * Memish Agha Mansion
 * In the village of Sürmene Kastil, 5 km to the west of Sürmene, stands a ruined medieval castle and the impressive 18th-century Yakupoğlu Konağı mansion (Derebeyli Kale).

title: Sürmene


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Słubice

Slubice is a city in the voivodship of Lubuskie in Western Poland. It lies directly across the Oder River from the German town of Frankfurt an der Oder, and the two cities were actually a single municipality (Słubice was a suburb called Dammvorstadt) until 1945.

As of the 2019, the town had an estimated total population of 16,705 (agglomeration 25.000), and is the capital of Słubice County. The name Słubice is a modern Polish version of Zliwitz, a settlement east of the Oder River mentioned in Frankfurt's city charter in 1253.

Get in
Given its proximity to Germany, the town is an important transport hub of the A2 motorway to the German Bundesautobahn 12, part of the European route E30 from Warsaw to Berlin. Słubice is closely linked to its German sister city west of the Oder-Neisse line, and you can walk or drive across the bridge from Germany to Poland and back with minimal trouble. There are no controls of any kind at the border as Poland and Germany are both members of the Schengen agreement.

Get around
The town is small enough so you can easily travel by foot to all worthwhile destinations; walking from one side to the other does not take more than twenty minutes. All street signs are in Polish, and only a small number of people (possibly none) seem willing or able to speak either English or German.

See
There is a scenic park with its own fountain in the center of town.

Do
A five minute walk north of the main bridge brings one to a large Rezerwat przyrody (Nature Reserve), where you can enjoy a beautiful walk through the woods, collect mushrooms, or fish. You can also see the remnants of trenches, now covered with forest growth.

Buy
Germans often cross the border to buy cigarettes here at a somewhat reduced price. There are money changing stands and shops crowded all around the main bridge, so go there to change your money.

Eat
There are several kebab shops scattered throughout the town, as well as a number of finer restaurants. If you don't read Polish, be prepared to guess about what you are ordering.

This is a good place to try out pierogi for super cheap!

Connect
The Internet Cafe Kafejka internetowa is located at Daszyńskiego 1 near the center of town.

Go next
You can easily travel by car from Slubice to Zielona Góra (German: Grünberg), the capital city of Lubuskie.

title: Słubice


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Sūduva

Sūduva, Sudovia or Suvalkija is a region of south-western Lithuania.

Cities

 * — the second largest city in Lithuania, has also served as the country's capital
 * — the administrative center of Sūduva

title: Sūduva


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Scala

Scala is a town and commune in Salerno, Italy. A peaceful area with a small population, Scala offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.

By bus
You can reach Scala by taking the prevalent SITA buses that run throughout the Amalfi Coast between the cities of Salerno, Positano, Sorrento. You will disembark at the city of Amalfi and from there you can either take a different SITA bus up the hill or a taxi to Scala.

SITA buses are air-conditioned and are an excellent alternative to cars when traveling the Amalfi coast. The city-to-city SITA buses are inexpensive but can become very crowded during the high traffic summer seasons. Check the bus schedule for times.

By boat
The closest point for Scala with boat and ferry arrivals is Amalfi, which shuttle between the coastal towns of Positano, Salerno, Sorrento or Naples. In good weather, the views are spectacular from the water. Coop Sant Andrea [1] run the service between Amalfi, Salerno and Positano. For private and luxury charters, Amalfi Coast Yacht [2] are based in Amalfi, service the entire coast and specialise in transferring guests who are staying in Ravello's five-star retreats.

By car
Scala is accessible by car and it is easy to finding parking.

The main highways in this region that traverse the Amalfi Coast are SS145, SS163, and SS373. Continue on Via Castiglione to arrive at Scala.

Get around
The small town of Scala is easily explored on foot. SITA buses run frequently between Scala and Amalfi (which is the main bus terminal on the Amalfi Coast for connections) and taxis are available near the main square in Scala.

See
The Duomo San Lorenzo The Cathedral (Duomo), Piazza Municipio. 8AM-1PM, 4:30PM-7PM. The Duomoof San Lorenzo is Scala’s cathedral, which is located in the town’s main square. Founded in 12th century, preserves a beautiful majolica floor.

Do

 * Cruises up and down the Amalfi coast are available.
 * Parco Paradiso (picnic area)Via Senito, 4 09:00h-19.00h Tel +39 089858405 +39 3312244907 parcoparadiso@hotmail.it. Spend a day outdoors, an amazing way to relax and enjoy nature.
 * The Ravello Concert Society offers concerts in the evening in summertime. The concerts are hosted in the Auditorium Lorenzo Ferrigno. Tickets can be obtained in person or through arrangements with your hotel and cost around €25.
 * If you like to walk or hike, discover Scala's pathways, trails and serpentine stairs carved into the hillsides. You can wind your way down along the Via Roma to Pontone, taking in stunning views of the valley below. The incline is pretty steep, but you can take a bus back up to Scala. The towns of Amalfi, Atrani, Ravello, are just an hour or two's beautiful hike down.

Eat
Food in Scala is characterised by fresh, flavourful ingredients prepared by chefs who are passionate about their country's cuisine and determined to provide an authentic, welcoming eating experience. Be prepared for long, personal talks with your server, and for the owner to come out and greet you effusively.

Drink
The vineyards that cling to the hillsides below Ravello primarily produce white wines; see the Ravello guide for more information on local wineries. To sample the area wines, tour a local winery, either independently or through a tour company. Travelers looking for something a little stronger should visit bars in Ravello's luxury hotels and enjoy a cocktail in high style. Espresso and other coffee drinks can be found in cafes near the town center.

Hotel Bars

 * Blu Bar, Piazza San Giovanni, Pontone
 * Blu Bar, Piazza San Giovanni, Pontone
 * Blu Bar, Piazza San Giovanni, Pontone

Go next
Ravello Amalfi This is the heart of the magnificent Amalfi coast and a beautiful seaside setting. Home to the Duomo di Amalfi and a once strong maritime republic. Visit the Chiostro del Paradise, a famous graveyard dating back to the 1200s that also houses ornate statues and columns.

Positano A city marked by fragrant citrus groves and brilliant white buildings stacked in tiers on the cliffs of the Amalfi coast. Positano offers lovely beaches, historic architecture and spectacular views.

Sorrento Partake from a wealth of cafes, restaurants and shops. The town showcases striking architecture, and is a stop on the Circumvesuviana railway—a perfect diversion before visiting other locations such as Pompeii and Ercolano.

title: Scala


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Scalea

Scalea is a resort on the south-western coast of Italy facing the Tyrrhenian Sea in the Golfo del Pollino, on a stretch of coast called "Riviera dei Cedri".

By plane
Lamezia Terme is the nearest airport, 1½ hours' drive away. It is accessible from many other Italian airports and from London Stansted.

Naples Airport is 2½ hours' drive from Scalea.

title: Scalea


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Scalloway

Scalloway (Old Norse Skálavágr, "bay with the large house") is a fishing village in the Shetland Islands. It was the capital of these islands until 1708 when Lerwick supplanted it. The population in 2011 was 900.

Get in
Scalloway is six miles from Lerwick by a good road, so 10 min by car or 30 min by bike should do it.

Andrews Bus 4 runs from Lerwick to Scalloway hourly M-Sa, taking 25 min and continuing along the shore to Port Arthur. This connects four times a day with Bus 5 from Scalloway to Trondra, Hamnavoe and Papil on West Burra, and Houss on East Burra.

Get around
Inksters Taxis are based at Port Arthur, +44 7770 611646. Otherwise call one of the Lerwick taxi firms.

See

 * stands on Main Street.
 * , 2 km north on B9074, is a freshwater loch with bird life, including mute swans. The little promontory at its north end, "Law Ting Holm", was an islet and the site of Shetland's parliament (Thing) until the 16th century, but there's little to see there now. The Murder Stone is a 2-m granite slab by the roadside at the south end of the loch. There's various legends about the murder, but in the parliament of those days it might not even have got you rebuked.
 * are a chain of little islands linked to the mainland by road. Follow B9074 south, crossing first onto Trondra which is just farmland, then to West Burra which has the village of Hamnavoe (a common place name meaning "sheltered harbour"). There's a B&B here and a couple of self-catering cottages. The lane continues south for a mile then one fork crosses to East Burra to end at Houss, where The Outpost cafe is well-named. The other fork stays on West Burra to end at Papil. Both forks end in spits, with paths but no road to extensions of the peninsula: Houss Ness on East Burra beyond Houss, and Kettla Ness on West Burra beyond Papil.
 * Yet(i) more islands: the Scalloway archipelago includes a scattering of others, nowadays uninhabited. South Havra and Little Havra are the pair south of the Burras. Oxna, Papa, Hildasay, Langa and Linga are the group seen west of Trondra and Ness of Westshore. They've been likened to a yeti's footprint.
 * are a chain of little islands linked to the mainland by road. Follow B9074 south, crossing first onto Trondra which is just farmland, then to West Burra which has the village of Hamnavoe (a common place name meaning "sheltered harbour"). There's a B&B here and a couple of self-catering cottages. The lane continues south for a mile then one fork crosses to East Burra to end at Houss, where The Outpost cafe is well-named. The other fork stays on West Burra to end at Papil. Both forks end in spits, with paths but no road to extensions of the peninsula: Houss Ness on East Burra beyond Houss, and Kettla Ness on West Burra beyond Papil.
 * Yet(i) more islands: the Scalloway archipelago includes a scattering of others, nowadays uninhabited. South Havra and Little Havra are the pair south of the Burras. Oxna, Papa, Hildasay, Langa and Linga are the group seen west of Trondra and Ness of Westshore. They've been likened to a yeti's footprint.

Do

 * Ness of Westshore is the headland west of town, an easy hike via the coast road and track.
 * Golf: Shetland GC is three miles north on A970, see Lerwick.
 * Sailing: visitor boats should use the pontoon at Scalloway Boat Club, there are no visitor moorings within the marina. The pontoon is sheltered from all winds and has 4 m depth at all tides. The club has toilets showers and laundry and is open till late.
 * Sailing: visitor boats should use the pontoon at Scalloway Boat Club, there are no visitor moorings within the marina. The pontoon is sheltered from all winds and has 4 m depth at all tides. The club has toilets showers and laundry and is open till late.

Buy

 * The Checkout is the convenience store, open M-F 8AM-10PM, Sa 9AM-10PM, Su 10AM-10PM.
 * Villagers head to Tesco in Lerwick for their big shop.

Drink

 * The town pub is Kiln Bar on Main St, open daily 11AM-1AM.

Sleep

 * Other B&Bs only opened for self-catering in 2021, if at all. They include Shieling (below) and New Easterhoull..
 * Other B&Bs only opened for self-catering in 2021, if at all. They include Shieling (below) and New Easterhoull..

Connect
As of Nov 2021, Scalloway has 4G from EE but no signal from other carriers. There's patchy coverage along the road from Lerwick but nothing down the lane to the Scalloway Islands.

Go next
You don't have to go back to Lerwick to reach other parts of the Shetland Islands, but it's the obvious route.

title: Scalloway


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Scamander

Scamander is a small town in Northeast Tasmania 20 km south of St Helens.

By bus
Tassielink provides a bus service from Hobart once daily from Monday to Thursday.

By car
From Hobart, use the Midland Highway (National Highway 1) until the A4 exit. Once on the A4 exit, head east, and continue straight when the road changes its name from A4 to A3. Halt at the welcome to Scamander sign.

Alternatively, you could just use the A3 from Hobart the entire journey, although you really won't go more than 100 km/h at max.

Do

 * Surf

title: Scamander


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Scandicci

Scandicci (It pron: [skanˈdittʃi]) is a commune (municipality) of about 50,000 inhabitants in the Province of Florence in the Tuscany region of Italy.

Understand
Scandicci borders the following municipalities: Campi Bisenzio, Florence, Impruneta, Lastra a Signa, Montespertoli, San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Signa.

The settlement of Scandicci appeared in 1774 as Torri, and was later enlarged to incorporate several neighbouring communities.

Get in
It is located about 6 km southwest of Florence.

See
Among the most interesting monuments to see in Scandicci we point out here the Badia di San Salvatore a Settimo (Saint Salvatore in Settimo Abbey), the Chiesa di San Martino alla Palma (Saint Martin to the Palm Church), the Parrocchiale di Santa Maria (Saint Mary Parish), the Villa Paserini (Paserini Villa) and the Castello dell'Acciaiolo (Acciaiolo Castle).

title: Scandicci