Mindelo Cruise Port
Porto Grande Cruise Terminal
Mindelo, Sao Vicente Island Cape Verde Port
UN/LOCODE CVMIN Port of call Homeport
Mindelo Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Sao Vicente Island Cape Verde |
| UN/LOCODE | CVMIN |
| Contact | |
| Address | Porto Grande, CP 82, Mindelo, Sao Vicente, Cape Verde |
| Port phone | +238 232 44 14 |
| Website | www.enapor.cv |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 16.88500, -24.98500 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Porto Grande cruise terminal in Mindelo sits 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the city center, a 20-minute walk along an exposed, sun-drenched coastal road or a 5-minute taxi ride costing roughly 300 CVE (~$3.00 USD). Located on Sao Vicente Island in the northern Barlavento group of Cape Verde, this destination is the cultural heartbeat of the archipelago. Feedback indicates that while the city is compact, the equatorial sun makes distances feel twice as long. You are roughly 1,000 km (620 miles) south of the Canary Islands and a 1-hour flight from the capital, Praia. As an ocean cruise port, Mindelo rewards those who appreciate 19th-century colonial architecture and the melancholy beauty of Morna music. It punishes those who expect lush tropical landscapes; Sao Vicente is a volcanic, arid island where the beauty is found in the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the pastel hues of the town. You can realistically explore the historic core and the municipal market in 4 hours, but an 8-hour call is required to reach the 750-meter summit of Monte Verde for views of the neighboring islands. According to the Mindelo Tourism Office, the city's unique British influence stems from its history as a coaling station, creating a cultural blend you won't find on other islands.
Mindelo — Port Overview
History
Mindelo’s history is inextricably linked to the steamship era and the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1795, the city remained a sleepy outpost until 1838 when the British East India Company established a coaling station here to refuel ships bound for South America and Africa. This transformed the natural harbor of Porto Grande into one of the busiest ports in the Atlantic. The British influence is still visible in the architecture, particularly the replica of Lisbon's Belém Tower and the cast-iron structures of the municipal market. During the late 19th century, Mindelo was a cosmopolitan hub where telegraph cables connected Europe to Brazil. The economic decline of coal in the 1920s brought hardship, but it solidified Mindelo's status as the nation's intellectual and musical center. This is the birthplace of the legendary barefoot diva, Cesária Évora, who brought the 'Morna'—Cape Verde’s soulful, blues-like music—to the world stage. Today, you can see this heritage in the Palácio do Povo, the former Government House built in 1900, which stands as a monument to the city's colonial height. When you walk the Rua de Lisboa today, the cobblestones you step on were laid during this era of maritime dominance, serving as a direct link to the city's golden age of trade.
The Verdict
Mindelo is a port of call that rewards the curious traveler who looks beyond the industrial pier. Travelers who benefit most from this island are the ones who arrive with a plan to explore the Baixa's historic streets and the flexibility to pause for a Morna performance. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Mindelo
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercado Municipal | Historical Site | Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde | Monday–Saturday, 08:00–17:00 | Not available | Free | |
| Laginha Beach | Tourist Attraction | Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Palácio do Povo | Landmark | Rua Libertadores de África, Mindelo, Cape Verde | +238 232 10 00 | Monday–Friday, 09:00–16:00 | Not available | USD 200 CVE |
| Torre de Belém | Museum | Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde | Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00–17:00 | Not available | USD 250 CVE | |
| Cesária Évora Museum (Núcleo Museológico) | Cultural Site | Rua de Lisboa (inside the former Government House building), Mindelo | Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00 | Not available | USD 300 CVE |
Mercado Municipal · Historical Site
FreeThe Mercado Municipal is more than a place to buy vegetables; it is a monument to the city's maritime survival. Built with iron imported from Europe during the peak of the coaling era, its architecture is a blend of Victorian functionality and tropical adaptation. Visitors should start here to experience the local pace. You'll see women in traditional wraps selling 'papaya' and 'mancherva' alongside men trading salt from the neighboring islands. It is well established that this is the best place to buy authentic Cape Verdean coffee beans—look for the Fogo Island label. Most visitors walk past the architecture to look at the fruit, but if you look up, the iron lattice work tells the story of 19th-century trade routes. You will come away with a sensory immersion into Mindelo's daily life that no museum can match.
Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·Monday–Saturday, 08:00–17:00 ·Not available
Laginha Beach · Tourist Attraction
FreeLaginha Beach is the city's living room. It is where locals come to swim, exercise, and socialize. The water is famously turquoise and surprisingly clear given its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean harbor. The walk from the terminal takes about 15 minutes; it is the easiest 'escape' for those who want to see the water without a long taxi ride. The sand is white and soft, imported to enhance the natural volcanic shoreline. You will find several high-quality beach bars like Kalimba where you can enjoy a cold drink with your toes in the sand. This is not a secluded paradise, but it offers a fascinating look at Mindelo’s social fabric. It delivers a relaxing, accessible break from the historic city core.
Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Palácio do Povo · Landmark
USD 200 CVEFormerly the Government House, this candy-pink building is the most striking example of Portuguese colonial architecture in Cape Verde. Built in 1900, it served as the residence for the colonial governors and later as a center for the independence movement. Today, it houses cultural exhibitions and art galleries. When you stand in the grand foyer, the scale of the architecture reminds you that Mindelo was once intended to be the capital of the entire Portuguese Atlantic. You will find that most people only photograph the exterior, but paying the small entry fee allows you to see the high ceilings and cooling architectural features designed for the equatorial climate. It delivers a dignified, quiet perspective on the island's political past.
Rua Libertadores de África, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·+238 232 10 00 ·Monday–Friday, 09:00–16:00 ·Not available
Torre de Belém · Museum
USD 250 CVEA striking replica of the 16th-century tower in Lisbon, Mindelo's Torre de Belém was built in 1921 to symbolize the link between Cape Verde and the 'mother country.' It sits right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking the harbor. Inside, the Maritime Museum offers a modest but fascinating collection of ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts from the coaling era. Travelers often report that the view from the top is the best in the city for seeing the ship docked in the harbor. Even if you don't go inside, it is a landmark that defines the Mindelo skyline. This stop gives you a powerful sense of the island's isolation and its historical importance as a maritime bridge.
Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00–17:00 ·Not available
Cesária Évora Museum (Núcleo Museológico) · Cultural Site
USD 300 CVEMindelo’s most famous daughter, the Grammy-winning 'Barefoot Diva' Cesária Évora, is honored in this intimate space. The museum contains her personal belongings, her stage dresses, and a deep history of the Morna music genre. You will learn how she used her fame to bring attention to the poverty of her people while refusing to wear shoes as a sign of solidarity. Keep in mind that for the full experience, you should listen to her song 'Sodade' while walking through the exhibits. Most visitors walk past the nondescript entrance, but inside is the soul of the city. It delivers a deeply emotional connection to the melancholy and resilience that defines the Cape Verdean spirit.
Rua de Lisboa (inside the former Government House building), Mindelo ·Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00 ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Mindelo
Cape Verdean cuisine is a resilient blend of Portuguese tradition and West African ingredients. The definitive dish is Cachupa, a slow-cooked stew of hominy, beans, and whatever protein is available (fish, pork, or chicken). What makes Mindelo’s version different is the focus on fresh Atlantic Ocean seafood; look for 'Cachupa de Peixe' on local menus. For something lighter, the local goat cheese (Queijo de Terra) served with papaya jam is a mandatory snack. You should drink 'Grogue,' the potent sugar cane spirit produced in the mountain valleys of nearby Santo Antão. It is earthy and strong. If that’s too much, 'Strela' is the excellent local lager. You’ll find the most authentic versions of these at the small kiosks in Praça Estrela. One honest note: while tourists expect tropical fruit platters everywhere, the island’s arid climate means most fruit except for bananas and papayas is imported; focus on the seafood, which is the true local staple.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nautic Restaurant | Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde (near the Marina) | +238 232 81 20 | Daily 09:00–23:00 | 1,500–3,000 CVE (~$14.50–$28.50 USD) |
| Restaurante Archote | Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde | +238 232 63 33 | Monday–Saturday, 12:00–15:00 and 19:00–22:00 | 1,200–2,800 CVE (~$11.50–$26.50 USD) |
| Simpático Sports Bar | Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde | +238 985 44 22 | Daily 10:00–00:00; Happy Hour 17:00–19:00 | 300–600 CVE (~$3.00–$6.00 USD) |
Nautic Restaurant
1,500–3,000 CVE (~$14.50–$28.50 USD)Located at the Mindelo Marina, this venue offers the best harbor views in the city. Order the Bife de Atum; the tuna here is never frozen and has a buttery texture you simply cannot find in the US. The atmosphere is breezy and sophisticated, yet casual enough for cruise attire. Be aware that the service follows 'island time,' so do not come here if you have a tour departing in 45 minutes.
Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde (near the Marina) ·+238 232 81 20 ·Daily 09:00–23:00
Restaurante Archote
1,200–2,800 CVE (~$11.50–$26.50 USD)Archote is a Mindelo institution. The decor is traditional, with local stone and wood. This is the place to try Cachupa Rica, the national dish. It’s a hearty stew of corn, beans, and meat that takes hours to prepare. Consider that this for travelers who want to taste the 'real' Cape Verde. One caveat: it is located on a busy street, so expect some ambient city noise if sitting near the door.
Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·+238 232 63 33 ·Monday–Saturday, 12:00–15:00 and 19:00–22:00
Simpático Sports Bar
300–600 CVE (~$3.00–$6.00 USD)Don't let the 'sports bar' name fool you; this is the social heart of Rua de Lisboa. It’s the best place to try Grogue (local rum) or its sweeter cousin, Pontche. The view of the municipal market and the passing crowds is unparalleled. It’s where the city’s pulse is most visible. Locals come here to debate politics and football over a cold Strela beer.
Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde ·+238 985 44 22 ·Daily 10:00–00:00; Happy Hour 17:00–19:00
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the terminal and reach the Baixa district, walking is the primary and best way to experience Mindelo. The historic center is a compact grid of roughly 10 by 10 blocks. For exploring further afield, such as Monte Verde or the fishing village of Baia das Gatas, you must hire a taxi or join an organized tour. A taxi for a half-day island tour should cost roughly 4,000–5,000 CVE (~$38.00–$47.50 USD) for up to four people; negotiate this before departing. There is no Uber or rideshare app in Cape Verde. Local 'aluguer' (shared minibuses) operate from the Praça Estrela area to various points on the island for about 150 CVE (~$1.50 USD), but they have no fixed schedule and only depart when full. It is recommended to avoid using aluguers if you are on a tight cruise schedule. Bike rentals are available near Laginha Beach, but the city’s cobblestones and steep hills inland make it a challenging choice for most. One navigation tip: most street signs are high up on the corners of buildings, not on poles, so look up if you get lost.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Mindelo
Mercado Municipal
09:00 AM (45 min)
Built in 1874, this cast-iron and stone market is the heartbeat of the city. You'll find local fruits, vegetables, and the famous 'grogue' (local rum). The architecture is quintessentially colonial.
- Taxi from Porto Grande terminal (300 CVE (~$3.00 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Go to the second floor for a bird's-eye view of the stalls. It's the best spot for photography without disturbing the vendors.
Torre de Belém
10:00 AM (30 min)
A 1920s replica of the famous tower in Lisbon. It now houses a small maritime museum. The top provides a clear view of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
- 5-minute walk along Rua de Lisboa (Free)
- Entry: 250 CVE (~$2.50 USD)
- Skip the museum inside if the queue is long; the real value is the exterior architecture and the view from the base.
Praça Nova
10:45 AM (60 min)
The social center of Mindelo. Relax at the Quiosque Praça Nova with a coffee and watch the city move. This is where you feel the 'Morabeza' (hospitality) of the locals.
- 10-minute walk through the historic core (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the small statue of Cesária Évora nearby; locals often leave flowers at its base.
Lunch Recommendation
Casa da Morna
Owned by a famous local musician, it offers the most authentic Morna soundtrack and traditional recipes away from the main tourist hotels.
Order: Cachupa Rica (Traditional slow-cooked corn and bean stew), Grilled Octopus with local sweet potato
Rua de Lisboa, Mindelo, Cape Verde
Cost: 1,500–2,500 CVE (~$14.50–$24.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Mindelo
Monte Verde Summit
09:00 AM (60 min)
At 750 meters, this is the island's highest point. On clear days, you can see the islands of Santo Antão, Santa Luzia, and even São Nicolau across the Atlantic Ocean.
- Private taxi or tour van from pier (2,000 CVE (~$19.00 USD) round trip)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The road is cobblestone and very bumpy; passengers prone to motion sickness should sit in the front seat.
Baia das Gatas
10:30 AM (90 min)
A large natural lagoon protected by volcanic rock, making it safe for swimming. The water is crystalline and calm compared to the open ocean.
- 15-minute drive from Monte Verde (Included in tour)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Don't bother with the restaurants here for a full meal; they are overpriced compared to Mindelo. Just enjoy the water.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee your return to the Porto Grande terminal with a 30-minute buffer, you should leave the city center (Rua de Lisboa) no later than 60 minutes before the 'all aboard' time. While the distance is only 1.5 km, taxi availability can tighten significantly in the final hour when hundreds of passengers try to return at once. A taxi will cost 300–400 CVE (~$3.00–$4.00 USD) and take 5 minutes. Walking back is possible but discouraged in the afternoon heat. If you are running late, contact the port agent (number provided on your daily ship program). Mindelo is a strict port; the ship will rarely hold for independent passengers due to the high costs of harbor pilotage in the Atlantic Ocean. Passengers who miss the ship must fly to the next port, which usually involves a complex multi-day journey through Praia or Lisbon.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Mindelo
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: October to May
22°C–26°C (72°F–79°F), extremely dry, low humidity, constant breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.
What to wear: Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing is essential. The sun is deceptively strong due to the breeze; a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are required for the cobblestones. A light windbreaker is useful for the Monte Verde summit or if you are on the ship's deck during sail-away, as the wind can be brisk.
Weather risks: Harmattan winds in winter can bring Saharan dust, occasionally causing flight or tender delays (though rarely affecting docking).
December and January are the windiest months, while September is the only month with a high chance of rain.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windy Season (January–March) | Strong trade winds (Harmattan) blowing from the Sahara, often bringing fine dust and haze. | Dust can reduce visibility and irritate eyes or respiratory systems. Gusts on the coastal Avenida Marginal can be strong enough to make walking difficult for those with balance issues. | Avenida Marginal, Monte Verde summit, and the Porto Grande pier area. | Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect from dust. Avoid the Monte Verde summit if haze is reported, as the views will be obscured. Choose closed-toe shoes. |
| Summer/Dry Season (June–August) | Intense equatorial sun with temperatures averaging 28°C–32°C (82°F–90°F) and very high UV levels. | The 1.5 km walk from the terminal to the city has no shade, creating a high risk of heat exhaustion. Cobblestones in the center can radiate heat. | Pier walking route, Rua de Lisboa, and the open squares of Baixa. | Take a taxi from the pier for 300 CVE (~$3.00 USD) rather than walking. Carry 1.5 liters of water per person. Wear a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap due to the breeze. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in Mindelo greet each other with a polite 'Bom Dia' (Good Morning) or 'Boa Tarde' (Good Afternoon). A nod and a smile are the standard for strangers, while friends often engage in a brief, soft handshake. Cape Verdean culture is rooted in 'Morabeza,' a unique concept of hospitality and relaxed social grace. Dining is unhurried; do not expect a quick check, and never signal a waiter by waving aggressively—a simple raised hand or eye contact is sufficient. Photography of people, especially in the markets, should always be preceded by asking 'Posso?' (May I?). Do not photograph government buildings or the harbor's security installations. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at a restaurant is a significant gesture of goodwill. One common misunderstanding: cruise passengers often think the slow pace of service is a sign of neglect. It is actually a cultural priority on presence and conversation over speed. Relax and embrace the rhythm; the ship isn't leaving for several hours.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Walking from the pier to the city at midday. |
Waiting until the end of the day to buy local coffee or grogue. |
Assuming all 'African' souvenirs at the pier are local. |
Attempting to take the ferry to Santo Antão on a 6-hour port call. |
Practical tips
The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), which is officially pegged to the Euro at 110:1, though most vendors use a 100:1 ratio for simplicity. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and larger restaurants (like Nautic), but the Municipal Market, taxis, and small cafes are strictly cash-only. Visitors should carry 5,000 CVE (~$47.50 USD) for a day's incidentals. Five words to earn goodwill: 'Bom dia' (Good morning), 'Obrigado' (Thank you—men), 'Obrigada' (Thank you—women), 'Morabeza' (Hospitality), and 'Tudo dretu?' (Everything okay?). Pickpockets are rare but do operate in the crowded Mercado Municipal; keep bags in front of you. Dress for religious sites is casual but respectful; cover shoulders when entering the Pró-Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Luz. The best time to visit the Mercado Municipal is exactly at 09:00 AM to beat both the heat and the ship's organized tour buses.
Cruise Lines Visiting Mindelo
Port of Call
Embarkation / Disembarkation
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FAQ — Mindelo
Can I use US Dollars in Mindelo?
While Euros are widely accepted at a 100:1 ratio, US Dollars are rarely accepted by local vendors or taxis. Using USD can result in a 20% loss in value due to poor unofficial exchange rates. It is highly recommended to withdraw Cape Verdean Escudos from the ATM at the Porto Grande terminal or carry small Euro notes. Most taxis will accept a €5 note for a trip that costs 400 CVE, but they will not give change in Euros. For a seamless day, it is a good idea to use the local currency for all small purchases to ensure you receive the correct price.
Is the water safe to drink in Mindelo?
No, you should not drink the tap water in Mindelo or anywhere in Cape Verde. The island’s water is primarily produced through desalination, which is safe for bathing but can cause stomach upset for visitors. Visitors should buy 1.5-liter bottles of 'Trindade' or 'Aguas de Cabo Verde' at the small grocery stores on Rua de Lisboa for approximately 100 CVE (~$0.95 USD). Avoid ice in drinks at smaller street-side cafes, though major hotels like the Oasis Porto Grande use purified water for ice. Staying hydrated is critical in this dry Atlantic Ocean climate.
What is the best way to see live Morna music during a day visit?
Most live music in Mindelo happens in the evenings, but during cruise calls, several venues host 'lunchtime Morna.' Casa da Morna on Rua de Lisboa often has a guitarist and singer from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. Alternatively, the Quiosque on Praça Nova occasionally has local musicians performing for tips. These performances are most consistent on days when large ships are in port. For a guaranteed experience, book a music-focused shore excursion, which can arrange private performances with local artists even during morning hours.
Is Mindelo safe for solo walkers?
Mindelo is one of the safest port cities in West Africa. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. However, petty theft like pocket-picking can occur in the crowded Praça Estrela market area. The consistent feedback from visitors is that overwhelmingly positive regarding safety. You should exercise standard caution: do not wear expensive jewelry and keep your camera bag zipped. Be aware that the most common 'annoyance' is persistent street vendors near the pier; a firm 'No, obrigado' (No, thank you) and continuing to walk is the most effective response.
Are there any public beaches within walking distance of the ship?
Yes, Laginha Beach is a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) north of the Porto Grande cruise terminal. It is a well-maintained urban beach with turquoise water and white sand. You will find that it is safe for swimming and popular with both locals and tourists. There are several beach bars that offer sun loungers and umbrellas for a small fee, typically around 500 CVE (~$4.75 USD) for the day. It is the most accessible way to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean during a short port call without the need for a taxi.
What should I buy at the Municipal Market?
The best items to buy are Fogo Island coffee, local goat cheese (only if your ship allows you to bring it back on board), and 'Pontche'—a traditional liqueur. A bag of high-quality coffee costs roughly 800 CVE (~$7.50 USD). Be sure to check your home country's customs regulations regarding agricultural products before purchasing cheese or honey. The 'Terra de Sol' brand is a favorite for its consistent quality and authentic packaging.
Is English widely spoken in Mindelo?
Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole are the primary languages. English is spoken by staff in the cruise terminal, high-end hotels, and by younger people in the tourism industry. However, taxi drivers and market vendors may only speak limited English. Learning five basic phrases in Portuguese can significantly improve your experience. Most restaurant menus in the center are printed in both Portuguese and English. If you require an English-speaking guide for the entire day, you should pre-book.
How much does a taxi to the top of Monte Verde cost?
A round-trip taxi from the city center to the summit of Monte Verde typically costs 2,000–2,500 CVE (~$19.00–$24.00 USD). This price should include at least 20 minutes of waiting time at the top for you to take photos. You must negotiate this price before you get into the car. The journey takes about 20 minutes each way on a steep, winding cobblestone road. It is the highest point on the island and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, provided the summit is not shrouded in clouds.
Can I see the island of Santo Antão from Mindelo?
Yes, on a clear day, the towering volcanic peaks of Santo Antão are clearly visible across the 15 km channel known as the Canal de São Vicente. It is one of the most iconic views from the Mindelo seafront. However, do not be tempted to take the ferry there during a standard port call. The ferry crossing takes 60 minutes, and the most beautiful parts of Santo Antão require at least a 2-hour drive once you arrive on the island. You risk missing your ship's departure if there is even a minor ferry delay.
What is the best souvenir that is truly local to Sao Vicente?
The most authentic souvenir is a 'pano d'obra,' a traditional hand-woven textile. These are traditionally used as waist wraps but are now sold as beautiful table runners or wall hangings. You can find them at the Centro Nacional de Artesanato e Design (CNAD) on Praça Nova. A high-quality piece will cost between 4,000 and 7,000 CVE (~$38.00–$66.00 USD). Unlike the mass-produced wooden statues found at the pier, these textiles are a genuine part of the island’s heritage and are still made using traditional looms.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 8, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.