Kathleen Becker 
Sao Tome 

Marooned off the coast of Gabon, the volcanic islands of Sao Tome & Principe are a largely undiscovered, uniquely rewarding and safe destination with an exciting blend of African, Portuguese and Caribbean cultures. Explore secluded beaches and colonial plantation houses; spot endemic rainforest birds and learn about medicinal plants; scale the Pico and dive in toasty waters; taste the world’s best chocolate; watch turtles hatching and get into the laid-back, ‘leve-leve’ Santomean groove. This remains the only dedicated guide to this island paradise.