The leve-leve lifestyle of São Tomé and Príncipe
Discover the meaning of the expression that describes this beautiful African country
The island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe is located in the Gulf of Guinea, on the western equatorial coast of Central Africa.
It is a nation that emerged from the despicable slavery and colonialist practices of the 16th century but peacefully gained its independence in 1975. Since then, it has remained one of the most stable and democratic countries in Africa.
Consisting of small islands on the equator, São Tomé and Príncipe’s economy is heavily dependent on fishing and tourism.
Perhaps influenced by geography, climate and local customs, the people of São Tomé and Príncipe show an enormous ease in their way of life. A lightness that may be the secret of their youthful appearance.
This lifestyle goes hand in hand with the country’s own expression: leve-leve. In Portuguese, leve means light. It is an expression used by the locals to represent their light and relaxed attitude to life. A mutual reminder to take things easy, without rushing or worrying about the future.
Used on many occasions, even as a greeting, leve-leve perfectly captures the spirit of the island. No matter where you go in São Tomé and Príncipe, you should go leve-leve.
The expression also serves as a method of reminding each other of the country’s way of life. It helps them not to lose the identity that has given them all their stability, cheerfulness and youth.
We can learn a lot from the people of São Tomé and Príncipe and their leve-leve lifestyle. In an increasingly fast-paced and overwhelming world, it is sometimes necessary to slow down, take a breath, and move forward more calmly.
So whatever you do, remember…
leve-leve 👋
I would like to thank my friend Guto, who told me a little about his experiences in São Tomé and Príncipe.
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