So Much More Than The “Florida Of Europe”
The beaches along the coast of Portugal’s Algarve are among the best in the world. True they don’t come with water as warm as the Med… but the Atlantic waves that wash up here are clear, refreshing, and gaining a reputation among globe-trotting surfers.
But let’s not forget there’s so much more to this region than its beaches.
In a recent article in Forbes, contributor Ann Abel writes:
“The southern edge of Portugal, called the Algarve, has long been known as the Florida of Europe: the continent’s warmest weather and mildest winters, an embarrassment of golf courses, beachfront condo high rises and all-inclusive resorts designed for EasyJetters’ weekend breaks. Even with the delectable oranges—nearly the size of my head and dripping with sweet juice—it wasn’t enough to sell me on the region when I visited several years ago. I mean, if New Yorkers want that kind of vacation, the Florida of North America (i.e., Florida) is much more accessible.
“But a recent visit made me reconsider. Outside certain areas, those beaches are truly beautiful. The ocean is warm enough for swimming and punctuated with surf breaks. The restaurants are much better. And since my first visit, the hotels and the culture have gotten classier—now there are many weekend festivals attended by locals. And the pure-pleasure seafood would be worth a visit on its own.”
I’m not sure who slapped this “Florida of Europe” tagline on the Algarve, but I’m guessing they never ventured beyond the heavily-touristed beaches of high season (and failed to recognize that The New York Times awarded the same title to Málaga, Spain, back in 2006).
If you take the time to get to know the Algarve—and tap into the knowledge of the locals—you’ll find your way to some sandy stretches far from the crowds… places to get lost in a book or do a spot a fishing (bream, mackerel, and bass are abundant in the waters just offshore)…
As for off-beach attractions, Abel’s roundup recommends hiking with a goatherd… sampling wine (or olive oil) at a local estate… and a visit to the picture-postcard fishing village of Tavira… certainly things I would love to try if I can extend my stay this coming July.
The real problem with the Algarve is that there’s so much competing for your attention—from world-class golf courses to stunning natural trails along the coastline and inland… from fairy-tale villages to open-air markets teeming with organic fruit and vegetables, freshly-caught fish, and the beloved pasteis de nata (custard tarts)…
If you’d love to explore the best of the Algarve but haven’t yet reserved your seat, it’s not too late to join us for our 2017 Live and Invest in Portugal Conference.
And, with our Early Bird Discount still on the table, you’ll get to keep more in your pocket to enjoy all the local delights…
This is your chance to come and see the Algarve for yourself and have the Live and Invest Overseas team of experts and expats share their insight and advice—and answer all your questions… face-to-face.
Over two and a half days together, you can count on our team to deliver the straight goods. They’ll be there ready to answer questions you’ve already thought of… and to reveal and highlight more “ups, downs, and get-arounds” that will make your decision-making much easier.
This Early Bird Discount is good until Friday, June 9, only. After that, we must charge rack rate. This is your last chance this summer to experience Old World Europe, with our experts and expats by your side, at the best price…
Save US$250 when you reserve your seat here (and use Coupon Code PORTCONFIDENTIAL to save an extra US$50).
Valentine Fouché
Editor, Live and Invest Overseas Confidential
