February in the Algarve

February in the Algarve

Carnival algarve
Carnival

Cannot believe it is already February! Time flies…. February in the Algarve, meaning Carnival in the Algarve. The Portuguese (and Dutch) say Carnaval… plus the orange blossom will start, meaning lovely smells, plus the almond blossom is full on… so nice, nice, nice time of the year!!! Plus Valentine’s day! Take your love for a romantic dinner! Plenty of choice in the Algarve!

Things to do on New Year’s Eve in the Algarve 2017

Things to do on New Year’s Eve in the Algarve 2017

Almost the end of the year 2017, and almost a new year to start 2018. Are you in the Algarve? Algarve Housing will give you a few options to do if you like to celebrate this new year’s eve in the Algarve outdoors, watching the fireworks at mid night. Most large towns at the coast of the Algarve, have fireworks at mid night. Some have an all-night music program we mentoin a few, from Lagos till Monte Gordo. And can you buy fireworks in the Algarve?

November in the Algarve

November in the Algarve

I can’t believe it is already November! After a really hot October, we finally had a bit of rain, the clock has changed, so a bit of winter feeling coming up! Soon the wood burner can start doing his job! Yes November in the Algarve.

But writing this in my office, with doors open, the sun coming in, I realize how lucky we are living in the Algarve, and although November in the Algarve is low season, it is a great time to visit the Algarve! Why, well I just gave you 1 reason, the sun is still shining, and it is warm enough to spend your days outside. If you like walking, the temperatures are ideal for hiking, same for bicycling! Plus flights are cheap, as well as villa rental prices! So pretty nice November in the Algarve.

Algarve Housing like to share a few things to do in November in the Algarve:

October in the Algarve!

 

October in the Algarve

 

October in the Algarve, the weather can still be nice, but it is a bit of a risk, so bring some warmer clothes with you, as evenings get more chilly. If you lucky you still can sunbathing during the day! Beaches are less crowded, but bars and restaurants are still open, plus cheap deals for rentals! Ideal for your half term holidays!

Algarve Housing, villa rentals Algarve, found a variety of things to do in October in the Algarve, we mention a few, please read below. Have fun, and enjoy the October Algarve, and extend your summer with one of the nice villas we rent!

Feast of the Assumption of Mary

Assumption of Mary
Assumption of Mary

On 15 August, many parts of Europe celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, as well in the Algarve Portugal. It is a national Holiday, most shops and public places are closed on this holiday in Portugal.

The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is a very important day in the Catholic religion. It is the principal feast of the Blessed Virgin, the mother of Jesus Christ.

The Assumption Of Mary is a feast day that is celebrated on August 15th every year. This feast day commemorates Mary’s death and her assumption into heaven. Because it commemorates this sacred occasion – which is viewed by many as Mary’s divine birthday – it is not only a Holy Day of Obligation, but is one of the most important Marian feasts.

Spring in the Algarve

spring in the Algarve
Flowers Algarve

Spring in the Algarve

Your body and head continues to be asking to get a break, a respite from the pressures of work, the requirements of family obligations, as well as the status of living the busy city lifestyle, and little sunny days. Thinking of some warmth and sun, thinking of spring in the Algarve? You searched the internet, asked around, as well as lastly made up your head and that’s you are going to have your holiday in Algarve, in the appealing Iberian nation of Portugal. If you did your research well, you have more than probably get a rough outline of your Algarve itinerary. If you aren’t yet bursting with thoughts and plans, I am going to make some useful suggestions anyways on the top 5 best things to do during a spring in Algarve! Apart form things to do during spring in the Algarve, I must mentioin the nature is at its best, loads of flowers and sweet smell everywhere….

Algarve Housing get you some ideas, together with one of the unique villas we rent, this can all add up to a perfect holiday in the Algarve.

Walking as well as Sightseeing – As temperatures are not red hot during spring in the Algarve, walking and sightseeing is ideal!

Algarve is a multicultural with the right mix of country qualities mixed in, making a kind of a surreal surroundings perfect for somebody who’d like to get from all of it, even for only several days. Algarve is modern and rural in the same time, in addition, it has a rich tradition and history. You will definitely be a witness to this should you go throughout the backstreets and investigate the Algarve on foot. Visit the Museu Regional in Lagos as well as the Archaeological Museum in Faro to get a blast to the previous encounter.

golf in the Algarve
Golf courses Algarve

Golf in the Algarve

Golfing – Algarve has a number of the world best golf courses like superb Old Course in Vilamoura or the celebrated Royal Course in Vale de Lobo. A golfer may have the option from 9 holes to 18 hole courses of the more than 30 golf courses scattered around the Algarve terrain. During spring in the Algarve, paying golf is very popular, make sure you arrange your tee time upfront!

The southern area of Portugal has a perfect climate for golf, warm and dry climate, and the primary season is from late fall to late spring. The landscape can be exemplary, grasslands to coastlines, proving to be a little of the challenge, but still a very gratifying game.

 

Ikea in the Algarve
Ikea in the Algarve

Shopping – would you love shopping in another country? It is terrific way to enjoy and look into the culture and custom of Portugal and Algarve, particularly. You will surely find great deals in the shopping districts of Portimao, Loule, as well as Quarteira. You’ll locate everything from souvenirs, bags, shoes, garments, trinkets, components, and the list goes on. And new to the Algarve, the opening of IKEA near Loule, 30 March!!!!

Stand up paddling Algarve
Stand up paddling Algarve

Watersports

With a beautiful shoreline, the Algarve holiday destination has a lot of things to provide for water sport enthusiasts. You can try your hand, and legs, at windsurfing or stand up paddling or ultimately encounter the wonders of the under water world by diving into the thriving marine life as well as the legacy of Algarve sunken past. Also the dolphins like the spring in the Algarve, as with a short drive in a speedy dinghy you will find them.

This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the rental company for beter holidays in the Algarve, with a wide selection of unique villas in the Algarve Portugal.

Warm regards,

Michele

Algarve Housing

 

Carnival in the Algarve 25-28 February

Carnival in the Algarve
Carnival Algarve

A visit to the Algarve in February makes for a fantastic holiday, plus you can enjoy Carnival in the Algarve. This time of year is considered ‘out of season’. However there are many advantages visiting the Algarve in February during these quieter periods.

The weather is still warm and pleasant (around 18-20 degrees) which means you can still enjoy the areas stunning coastline, take walks on the beautiful beaches, go on a boat trip and hike around the area to admire the breath-taking landscapes, flora and fauna that are blossoming at this time of year.

For playing golf, it is one of the best times of the year, pick your choice of one of the many renowned golf courses of the Algarve, considered the best of Europe!

What to do on a rainy day in the Algarve?

rain in the Algarve
Average rain in the Algarve

Rain in the Algarve?

The Algarve is a very popular holiday destination in Europe. Why? The Algarve is renowned for best beaches of Europe, best Golf courses, nice people, good food, and very affordable plus very safe! But very/most important: an average of 300 days of sunshine per year!  This means an average of 65 days of rain per year! Rain in the Algarve…..

So IF you are in the Algarve and the sun is not shining, what can you do on a rainy day in the Algarve???? We like to share with you 10 things to do when it rain in the Algarve. (source : free magazine Tomorrow).

Things to do in December in the Algarve

December in the Algarve, Christmas
Christmas in the Algarve

The Algarve is the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal and the region makes for an enjoyable, alternative Christmas holiday destination. The winter months were typically the low tourist season for Algarve but over the last few years the Christmas holiday season has become more popular, as many of the North African winter sun destination have become unsafe due to political instability or terrorism.

The increase of visitors to the Algarve means that there are more hotels and restaurants open and there is a livelier atmosphere in the larger towns, like Albufeira, Vilamoura, Lagos….

Weather in December

December in the Algarve, weather
Weather in December

You can say unpredictable, but mild. It can be sunny during the day, and you can even sunbath, but it can also be rainy and windy!

What to do in August in the Algarve

August in the Algarve
Happy Beach Time

August in the Algarve, is the busiest month of the year. Apart from lots of foreigners all over the world visiting the beautiful Algarve, the Portuguese also have holiday. Meaning, busy beaches, bars and restaurants, but also lots of entertainment, like festivals. Below Algarve Housing will inform you with a few large festivals of the Algarve in August.

You do not like crowds? No problem! There are many beaches, and very large beaches, so if you do not like crowds, I recommend the West coast, or find one of the many large, white stretched sandy beaches of the Algarve, and just walk a bit to the left or right and you have more or less your private beach! Do not forget to bring your parasol, water or other drinks, and ofcourse sun cream!

Things to do in July in the Algarve Portugal

July in the Algarve
Beach Party Algarve

 

Almost July, cannot believe how fast the time files! Summer season started, beaches filling up, sea warming up, almost every night somewhere live music playing… the Algarve is boosting lots of things to do in July in the Algarve, like festivals and partys  For every ones tast there is something, if you want to party till dawn on the beach or enjoy and relax with jazz and classical outdoor music events. Combined with nice food and drinks.

Algarve Housing gives you a few option of things to do in July in the Algarve, of the many choices you have.

Things to do in June in the Algarve

June weather is georgeous if you like warm weather, it is not yet high season, so not so busy, plenty of space at the beaches, and villa rentals are cheaper than the next month when the high season starts. But what to do in June apart from enjoying the sunsine and the beaches? Algarve Housing likes to share with you a few things to undertake in June in the Algarve.

There is plenty to do like dolphin safaris, mountain bike trips, or play a round of golf at one of the renowned golf courses in the Algarve. Or have a lovely  treatment at one of the many Spa hotels, before or after shopping in one of the many large shopping malls.

Here a few events worth going to in June in the Algarve:

June in the algarve
Black and White night carvoeiro

18 June

Carvoeiro Black and White Night

The charismatic seaside town of Carvoeiro will be transformed into a fabulous party venue for the 2016 Black and White night. Expect music, dancing, street entertainment, food and drink, and more…. If you’re going, make sure you dress in Black and White!

June in the Algarve
Goldra Festival

19 June

Goldra Summer Festival- Sao Bras

Take part in this charity event or go along and support the cause! The second Goldra Summer Festival is in aid of the Goldra Dog Sanctuary and promises to be a fun and entertaining event for all the family. Email if you are a musician, band or performing artist and would like to perform on the day.

From 2 pm til 2 am.

June in the Algarve
Jazz Fest Lagoa

24,25, 26 June

Lagoa Jazz Festival- Fontes de Estombar

This international festival promises three days of quality Jazz music from Big Band sounds to solo artists. A internationally recognized event, Lagoa Jazz Concert is set in the unique and magical Sitio das Fontes. Open each day from 7pm with concerts at 10pm.

June in the Algarve
Auto Track Day

26 June

Auto Track Day –  Autodrome International do Algarve

This is a great chance to drive your car on one of the best modern-day tracks. Accelerate around a FIA version of the Algarve International Circuit. Participants will be divided into 3 groups: Up to 2000cc | Over 2000cc | Competition. PRICE: €150 – includes lunch, personal accident insurance, timing and photography. For full details and to register for the event, contact AIA.
Email: racingschool@autodromodoalgarve.com Tel: (+351) 927 244 694.

Enjoy the sun, sea and the beaches, and all the things to do in June in the Algarve.

This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, villa rental company for better holidays in the Algarve.

Warm regards,

Michele

Algarve Housing

 

Culture in Portugal

Portuguese Culture and Traditions

culture in portugal
Portugal football

Culture in Portugal. Portugal is a vibrant and diverse country which has many Portuguese customs and traditions which influence its Portuguese culture. They have a particularly strong interest in the arts including music, drama, dance and song and of course paintings and sculptures.

Algarve Housing, like to share this article with you and inform you a bit of the Portuguese Culture and traditions.

Traditional Folklore

culture in portugal
Traditional folklore

Examples of traditional folklore can be found throughout Portugal and many ancient and contemporary works are displayed in museums and galleries throughout the city. From the largest towns to the smallest villages traditional folklore is celebrated through various festivals and events, most of which include traditional dress dance and cuisine.

Café culture

Café culture is strong in Portugal and visitors can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere in busy squares or on cafe-lined streets where they can enjoy a delicious Portuguese coffee and tart while soaking up the sunshine.

Football, culture in Portugal

culture in portugal
Algarve Stadium

Football is by far the most popular sport in the country and their teams have avid supporters from all over the world There are many huge stadiums in major cities which support big football games which locals and visitors come from all over to see.

Food and Drinks

culture in portugal
Pasteis de nata

Portugal culture offers some wonderful cuisine. Some of its most famous dishes include pastéis de nata (custard tarts), regional cheeses, and salted cod, as well as a range of freshly cooked seafood. Portugal is also admired for its great variety of wines, producing many award winning wines which are enjoyed all over the world.

The Arts

Portugal culture enjoys a thriving arts and cultural scene. With a huge number of museums and galleries, theatres, event spaces and music venues there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. A varied and exciting nightlife for those who like to stay out late can also be enjoyed in the regions bigger cities, particularly in the capital. The architecture of Portugal is also widely revered with many medieval castles to be explored. Some of the country’s most famous buildings include Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Porto Cathedral, Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, Pena National Palace, and the Vasco da Gama Tower.

Festivals

Festivals take place throughout the year in Portugal, with many of them having a religious element at their core. Romarias (pilgrimages) are frequent and honor the patron saint of a particular region. These processions are often colorful, musical events which end with a huge street party style celebration so are certainly worth seeing if you are in the area.

The Family and society

culture in Portugal
Portuguese family

The family is at the heart of Portuguese culture along with the belief that they are the foundation upon which stability and wellbeing are formed. There are many traditions within families that must be adhered to and respect, loyalty and to care for one another is central to stable family life. 

Portuguese people tend to be traditional, respectful, not excessive and conservative, and so remain formal, polite, gracious and helpful until they have got to know you better. Once you have become friends you can expect the handshake to be replaced with a warm hug, and conversation to be free, relaxed and animated!

As you can tell Portugal is a fascinating, spirited country full of interesting culture, and it’s warm people, excellent cuisine, beautiful architecture, food and drink, and many arts and entertainments attractions are what makes thousands of people flock to this wonderful country year after year.

This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, for better holidays in the Algarve and unique villas. Please contact me for any further information.

Warm regards,

 

Michele

Algarve Housing

 

Things to do in the Algarve in May

May in the Algarve
Flowers in the Algarve

May in the Algarve

May is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve. The flowers are in full blossom, the climate is wonderful, and it’s just got warm enough to swim in the sea and lounge on the beautiful beaches that can be found all over the region. Algarve Housing like to share with you a few things to do in May in the Algarve.

There are plenty of things to do in the Algarve in May, so whether you are heading there as a family, or with a partner or a group of friends there really is something for everyone. Here is a selection of the best events taking place in the Algarve in May.

May in the Algarve
May in the Algarve

May Day, 1st of May

May Day takes place on the first of May and is a fantastic celebration where you’ll find lots going on all over the region. Here you can join in the fun by heading into the countryside along with the locals and enjoying a picnic lunch in the sunshine. Or, if you prefer to get into the hustle and bustle of it all, then head into the cities for a fiesta style atmosphere where you can enjoy street music, food and dancing.

The May Fair in Azinhal is an event not to miss and if you head to the picturesque village of Azinhal, you can soak up the atmosphere, stroll through the market stalls and sample local foods. In addition to this you’ll find beautiful examples of bobbin lace, basketwork, embroidery, tapestry and weaving of esparto grass – all perfect souvenirs to take home with you and remind you of your memorable trip.

May in the Algarve
Festa da Pinha Algarve

Festa da Pinha- Algarve

Festa da Pinha – this lovely festival celebrates the humble pine cone and takes place on the second of May to commemorate the coming of spring. Here witness men in traditional dress riding proudly through the streets on brightly decorated donkeys. Music is a core part of the festival and you’ll enjoy many bands playing as well as be able to watch the procession of burning torches and an excellent fireworks display.

May in the Algarve
Tavira seafood festival

Tavira sea food festival

“The Gastronomy of the Sea” -is a fun filled festival in Tavira held throughout the month of May where the local restaurants come together to bring you a wealth of culinary delights all inspired by the fresh seafood ingredients on their doorstep!

May in the Algarve
Sandsculpture festival Pera

Sand sculpture Festival- Pera

If you love arts and culture then the international sand sculpture festival at Pêra starts in May  and runs right through until  October. Here you can admire the beautiful sand sculptures created by talented artists. It is in fact known as the largest sand sculpture festival in the world and has been running since 2003!

Sounds of the Atlantic- Ferragudo

Sounds of the Atlantic – For those who love traditional and folk music the Sounds of the Atlantic is a celebration which they will not want to miss. Throughout the whole of May you can enjoy wonderful concerts that take place each night at the Centro de Congressos do Arade in Ferragudo. This is one for the party goers though as music doesn’t usually start until 10pm.

These fantastic events will leave you with lots to do on your holiday in the Algarve in May, so now all that’s left is to remember to bring the sun cream!

This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the Algarve villa rental company for better holidays in the Algarve.

Please contact me for any further information.

Warm regards,

Michele

Algarve Housing