Allow us to introduce ourselves. We are Chrissy and Ralf — a German couple who decided in 2017 that life was too short for the predictable route.

After several years working in Hong Kong, we built a 1997 Land Rover Defender expedition vehicle named Ntombi and drove her through eight countries across Southern and Eastern Africa. Dusty tracks through Namibia's desert, muddy roads through Uganda's jungle, sandy trails through the Kalahari — the dust was always part of it, and the best adventures were almost always at the end of the roughest roads.

The salty part came later.

In search of a place that combined untouched wilderness with just enough of the modern world to make remote working possible, we found Sal — a small volcanic island in the Atlantic off the coast of West Africa. We live here now, a short walk from the ocean, a five-minute stroll from places where there are no other humans in sight. Salty air, salty water, and the particular flavour that comes from a life lived a little outside the usual boundaries.

We started a blog because we wanted to share what we have found — about Sal and Cape Verde, about the parks and roads of Africa, about diving the world's best underwater destinations, about what it actually takes to build an expedition vehicle and live in it for two years. Not to tick boxes. Not to collect countries. But to be fully present in the places we reach and the moments we find there.

Follow us on Instagram at @livindustyandsalty for the pictures, the spontaneous updates, and everything the blog cannot always fit.

Now — about where we ended up, and why you might want to visit Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa. This country offers a unique blend of African, European, and Creole cultures. Its diverse landscapes range from volcanic peaks to lush valleys, making it a unique place for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the cobbled streets of historic cities like Praia and Mindelo, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local markets. The vibrant music scene, with genres like morna and coladeira, sets the rhythm of everyday life.

On our chosen island Sal, pristine beaches await you with their golden sands and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Water sports enthusiasts flock here for world-class kite and windsurfing conditions. The island's natural wonders include Buracona's Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural pool, and Salinas de Pedra de Lume, a salt crater lake where visitors can float effortlessly. For wildlife encounters, depending on the season you can witness the release of baby turtles into the ocean or go for a wale watching sailing trip. With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and abundance of activities, Sal Island offers an unforgettable tropical escape.

We reside in the same neighborhood as our rental properties, so we are just a short message away if you need any tips or assistance. We are excited to share our love for nature and adventure with you during your stay on Sal Island!

Sal is not a destination you tick off a list. It is a place you come back to, or stay longer than you planned, or — like us — end up calling home.