Luanda is not only the capital but also the largest city in Angola. It is Angola’s administrative center, major seaport, and capital of the province. It is also one of the oldest colonial cities of Africa as it was founded in January 1576 by the Portuguese explorer, Paulo Dias de Novais. The city has a charming old town but a nasty slave history as it was the center of the slave trade to Brazil until slavery was abolished in 1836. Angola gained its independence from Portugal in 1975 but immediately fell into a Civil War from 1975 to 2002. Today, a high economic growth rate is fueled by increasing oil and diamond production. Luanda has become one of the most expensive cities in the world.
We arrived in Luanda, Angola Tuesday morning, March 21st.Luanda is said to have a charming old town and it does look attractive from the dock.Shuttle buses were ready to take us to the port gate.It wasn’t much of a drive to the Port Entrance but foot traffic was not allowed in the port.Across from the port gate, we found a Craft Market had been set up just for the cruise passengers.So many nice things to buy!!!Directly behind the market we entered the Hotel Presidente in search of our afternoon libation!!!This is a nice modern hotel…..…..with interesting artwork evident everywhere………..along with a comfortable rooftop lounge!!!The view is wonderful.But it was a little too warm outside. We headed indoors for a local brew!!!And the view remained quite nice.
The guys ordered the local brew, a pale lager: Cuca, manufactured by Companhia União de Cervejas de Angola (“United Beer Company of Angola.”) They all agreed it was a good choice.
The ladies went with Fino Cuca (a lighter version of the Angolan beer)
As we departed the hotel it crossed our minds to walk along the seaside promenade.It’s called “The Marginal” and is green and tree-lined…..…..but no, in the tropical heat, that thought was fleeting!!!We went back to the ship; said “good bye” to Luanda; and prepared for the sail-away.
RovingRaconteurs.com 