When many people hear that I offer retreats in the Algarve they look puzzled and ask me what that’s all about. For many, a retreat is part of a religious experience that involves going off to some ashram, convent, monastery or other isolated place for a time of spiritual reflection and time away. If people [...]
Art in public spaces is not something I’ve encountered a whole lot of as I’ve traveled around the Algarve. However, on my January trip I did come across an impressive sculpture in a tiny little hamlet called Vila Nova de Cacela. I had parked my car at the edge of the hamlet and wandered down [...]
I recently spent two more glorious weeks in the Algarve. Only this time, I moved east, staying in the delightful town of Tavira. My days were spent exploring the town, the back country, the waterfront and, of course, the many fine dining opportunities that abound in the Algarve. Off-the-beaten track Algarve continues to be what [...]
Not only does Nature renew, refresh and enliven herself each Spring, but it is a great opportunity for women who want more out of life to do the same. Join me for two great renewal opportunities this Spring. These women’s retreats are not to be missed. Choose from A Taste of Life – March 29 [...]
Tavira is a delightful city in Eastern Algarve. I love to spend the day there, exploring its many churches, alleyways, restaurants and shops. Make sure you take the time to discover this charming place. This free slideshow design made with Smilebox
Call me ornery, call me a snob … and sometimes call me just plain stupid! I drove through the hill village of Alte (pronounced alt, located north of Loulé) many times and because I’d seen it in tour books described as ‘the prettiest town in the Algarve’ I decided to ignore it. I mean, how [...]
Easter Sunday in Sao Bras de Alportel is a glorious, joyous occasion. The streets are lined with flowers and greenery, all lovingly done by the hands of local volunteers. I can only imagine how many hours it takes to lay down several kilometres of flowers in intricate designs. Men and boys carrying astounding floral arrangements [...]
I’m not a religious person and I choose to live a pretty untraditional lifestyle. But I remain fascinated by religion, faith and the many ways in which people retain long-held traditions in our world. One thing that I love about the Algarve is that its people seem to excel at maintaining a fairly traditional lifestyle [...]
Especially when I’m traveling I’m not the sort of person who lives a very structured life. Routine and I don’t make the best of friends. But there are notable excep tions …and Saturday morning in Loulé is one of those exceptions. Every time I’m in the Algarve you can find me in Loulé on Saturday [...]
We all need to remember to pack our smarts when we leave on a trip. I always think I do, and sometimes I’m surprised to discover that I only brought my brains – my smarts got left behind. And nowhere is this more true than being aware of the high costs of data roaming charges [...]
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