In Sal, the most sensible approach to water is usually the simplest one: drink bottled water, use a bit of judgement with ice, and do not trust buffets or places that do not inspire much confidence. There is no need to dramatise it, but avoiding silly risks can save you a few uncomfortable days of your trip.

Sal is often associated with kitesurf and water sports, but that does not mean the island only works for sporty travellers. If you enjoy good beaches, long walks, simple excursions and a slower travel rhythm, Sal can still make a lot of sense without ever stepping on a board.

One of the things many tourists misunderstand most in Sal has nothing to do with the beach, but with the rhythm of life. More flexible timetables, less hurried service and a different relationship with time can create frustration if they are judged through an overly European lens. Understanding that context better usually makes the island much easier to enjoy.