@@spiegel3269 Even if I gave it to you the postman can't find it! Weird thng about Portugal is that there are many homes, like mine, that have no street number
From someone who grew up in Algarve I have to mention that I 100% Agree with this list. Castro Marim is also worth visiting if you like medieval towns. They even hold a medieval festival every summer and it is like going back in time. Not very far from there you have got one of my favorite beaches in the whole Algarve called Praia Verde (Which translates to Green Beach). Also, not far from Faro you ve got a small town called Estoi which has a stunning palace wherever you can actually spend the night in!
I was born in Algarve. The golf courses are destroying our nature. It lacks rain in here, however the small amount of water is used to water the golf courses. Many pesticides are used in the grass. It is sad we cannot have more sustainable tourism and we allow out nature to be destroyed for a bunch of rich tourists come here to enjoy.
Ana , rich tourists contribute to the economy of Portugal and Algarve in particular. They pay taxes so You don't have to pay Higher IVA taxes which is insanely high in Portugal. Here in the States we have golf courses everywhere .Lots of pricey private golf courses but we also have municipal ones that cost a lot less.The municipal ones are high standard .And we don't waste the water , it gets recycled.
@@diogorodrigues747Eu sei, muito bem,Sempre ouve turismo,mas controlado,minha familia sempre viveu de turismo,mas hoje se querem dormir,teem que mudar, para uma aldeia no interior,e dar lugar aos turistas,bebados,mal educados,que acham que podem tudo.E infelizmente temos um governo que dá prioridade ao estrangeiro em relação ao português, e isto é muito errado.Igualdade sim,prioridades nunca.
@@mariaglorica9435 *Sempre ouve turismo,mas controlado* Agora fala a sério: não és algarvia, pois não? Tudo aquilo que dizes é interessante porque qualquer semelhança com a realidade no Algarve nas últimas décadas é pura coincidência. Seja como for, nenhum algarvio de mente sã odeia o turismo pois sabe que, sem o turismo, a região seria a autêntica pobreza franciscana (que era a realidade até há meio século, sejamos honestos).
@@diogorodrigues747 Não acha que tenho uma mente sã? É pena,porque quem me conhece, diz o contrário. E eu só disse que o turismo está descontrolado,não disse que odiava o turimo.Nao é a mesma coisa.Talvez ,a sua mente esteja,como o Algarve,um pouco.....
Having lived inthe Algarve for 18 months, I can say that, while the weather is much more sunny, warmer and drier than the rest of Portugal, property prices have become very, very expensive, even by U.S., UK and other western european countries. After a long search, I decided to move to the Silver Coast, near Peniche, where property prices are cheaper and apartment sizes tend to be bigger. Alhtough the weather is cooler and more humid, especially during the winter, there are less tourists and I can drive, catch a bus, train, or even fly to the Algarve on short notice whenever I feel like it.
In my opinion you should have another go visiting Lagos. Historically it’s one of the most important places in Algarve and Portugal, it has a Michelin start restaurant, full of local small eateries, great beaches that aren’t very crowded, coastal boardwalks, lovely beach restaurants and bars and it’s one of the most authentic coastal cities in the Algarve (bar Olhão).
We spent a week in Lagos a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. Our airbnb house was just a walk away from the beach and a few seafood cafes. We loved it! Major faux pas made by driving into the town square with our rental by mistake. Would def go back.
Nice video Dave! Was in Lagos a few years ago and absolutely loved it! We're going again in October and are splitting a week between Lagos and Tavira. Can't wait!
Lagos,terra onde me viu crescer.Nao pensem em dizer mal dela,senão levam nos ?.......hihihihiiiiiii Ai que lindo...O passarinho.Uma beijoca duma algarvia,tão longe do seu Algarve.
I will be moving from Florida to Portugal in November, Portimao to be precise. Praia da Rocha and a string of beaches are all beautiful. It also has a river which has the ocean downstream and Silves upstream. It is the second largest city in the Algarve behind Faro. That means you've got plenty of amenities including market, small and large grocery stores, movie theaters, arena, shopping, medical facilities, ...
Dave, Albufeira used to be a special place, where artists, writers, musicians, film makers from all over the world would get together. There were just a few hotels, and college kids often could not get logging, so they would bring a bottle of wine to the jail, play cards with the guards and spend the night. In the morning they were let out. There was no crime. We had a house in the village and we never locked the door, I don't think we had a key. It was the most special place ... people interacted with one another and exchanged ideas. Friendships were made for life... today you find a majority of Brits wanting to get drunk and layed, or entittled elderly who think Algarve is part of the United Kingdom. Back then, when I was a kid, it was called Vila branca e Mar azul, with its traditional arquitecture with a strong Moorish influence. After many moons away, I told my brother I was going there and he cautioned me that the Albufeira we knew was no longer... the sad part is that the destruction of the town catering to "turismo rasca' for the sake of quick money didn't benefit the locals. Majority are international investors...
Same with Dahab on the Sinai coast. It used to be a beduin settlement with a bunch of hippies coexisting beautifully, then a handful of laid back dive schools moved in. Now it's all people from mainland Egypt selling the same rubbish as in Cairo, one vompetitive dive school after another, and drunk tourists from Poland and Russia who have no consideration of the local customs and think money can buy them everything. It's heartbreaking.
Sorry but you start off by saying 'It used to be a special place for Artists,film makers, writers FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD So NOT Portuguese then...Why the surprise then that just like St Tropez it now attracts the dregs of society in the drunken Brits bussed in by night clubs in LONDON .Ditto Germans, Danes, Swedes etc This is what happens when you make a place popular with these VLOGS
@@jennybertenshaw7694 Portuguese artists were the hosts for artists from other countries.. In Albufeira alone there are two art galleries named after two local artist I had the privilege to know. Galeria Samora Barros has his bust in front of the building done by another local artist Raymundo de Aragao, a good friend of my family. Galeria Joao Bailote is located next to the municipal building. As a child I was fascinated by his canvas which he displayed in his Cafe Bailote. There is a school and a library named after my educator, Diamantina Negrao... Portugal has many wonderful artists, less know perhaps, but their talent is in creating art, not marketing... as a child I lived my life surrounded by artists and poets...
I couldn't agree more....my parents would go to monte gordo...which then was quite a humble place...only a few hotels and lots of local interaction....the lady who served me fruit in the market would practice my Portuguese with me year apon year.....having drinks with the locals which turned into parties...friends made for life...that was in the 80s....now its been over developed and the rustic character gone...most of the places to eat seem to be foreign owned....such a shame as I genuinely loved that place...
@@jennybertenshaw7694 Portugal IS part of the world. Portuguese artists were an attraction for artists from other countries... musicians, poets, painters, sculptors... today there are two municipal art galleries, a school and a library named after local artists from Albufeira. Joao Bailote, Samora Barros, Diamantina Barreto Negrao, Raymundo de Aragao, my mothers' friends.
Has a Portuguese living in the north, the Algarve was always my family get way during the summer, have alot of great memories there when I was kid, really a great place! A shame prices are going up lately. Btw a tua pronúncia dos nomes está muito boa continua um bom trabalho!
Love Algarve. I have stayed in Albufeira.Was very popular with German and British tourists when I visited more than twenty years ago.Have also visited Tavira as my sister has a summer place there. Beautiful town close to Spain. Will be visiting Portugal again in July .Can't wait long enough.
Hey, Dave! I really enjoy your videos. Could you please talk a bit about the healthcare system in Portugal and your experiences regarding that? Thanks in advance & keep up the awesome work!
I LOVED The Algarve! We had such an amazing time there. I wish we'd had more time to explore more of the area. We only got to see Albufeira, Lagos, Benigil, Portimao and Faro. I have to disagree with you a little on Albufeira. We stayed in Albufeira and used it as home base because of the location close to other places we wanted to see. We were very intentional about accommodations. We stayed in an AirBnB about three blocks from the towns square in the Old Town Albufeira and we avoided "The Strip" party scene. We loved it. We found a locally owned family-run restaurant one block off the town square called "Ozuka" and the food was amazing. We had most of our dinners there. I think the coast of The Algarve is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The only downside is that the water is too cold to swim (for me) and we were there in September. I'm going back next year to hopefully see places I missed on the first trip. There is a lot to be said for Sunshine and Sangria!
Totall agree with your post. There are many neighborhoods in Albufeira and the nearby village of Olhos de Água that are much more quiet than Old Town and the Strip. Regarding the ocean water temperature, it never gets warm enough to swim in for more than a few minutes except from late September to mid-October, although it is warmer on the beach of Monte Gordo/Vila Real do Santo Antonio, at the Spain/Portugal border. There, the cold Atlantic ocean water mixes with the warmer seawater coming from the Gulf of Cadiz
Wow!! Dave, the quality of your videos is becoming really impressive! The camera shots and quality, the cutaways, the background music and the narration all fit and looked/sounded so good together. These videos are really looking professional! Looking forward to more of your work--all the best!
Really nice video!! As a Tavirense (person from Tavira) have to say that what you saw of the city was just the tip of the iceberg. There are even more beautiful villages and places like in Tavira like, Santa Luzia the hometown of octopus and that has one of my fav beaches (Praia do Baril), or Pego do Inferno a hidden gem in the middle of the mouths of Tavira with a waterfall and a lake to take a nice swim. But I think the real secret from that small town is the people (not saying that because of being a Tavirense of course 😅). Feel welcome to come back again soon!🙂
@@briany7658of course there is! the two that comes to my mind right now is the ‘Clube de Ténis de Tavira’ in Tavira, next to the shopping center and then you also have ‘Pedras Tenis & Padel Academy’ in Pedras de El-Rei that is like 10/15 mins from Tavira by car. have no idea if u have to book in advance or if u can just go there and play because i dont play tennis but if you want to make sure just google the place that is best for you and give them a call. enjoy Tavira! :)
You stopped just a little bit shy of a major find - please visit the town of "Cacela Velha" it has a very beautiful beach/view. Also if you are into Algarve for the beaches from there to Monte-Gordo it's a non stop yellow sand beach, if you don't mind walking you are sure to find a spot several meters from other people and the water is the warmest in the Algarve. On a less positive note when the tides are "dead" there can be too many algae and jellyfish. Giving a promotion to our brothers in Spain take a boat ride to Ayamonte or a slide ride to Spain in Alcoutim (inland Algarve, feels more like Alentejo)
Yep, Tavira is fantastic: big and lively enough to be called a city but in no way urban. It's where I do my weekly shopping for bio food and produce. I consider it the heart of Sotavento which is mostly made up of small farms sprinkled across the hills inside the coastline. There also aren't so many overcrowded beaches because Ria Formosa requires you to paddle, waddle, or take a ferry to get over to the ocean, all along the stretch from Olhão to Cacela Velha. The beach at Monte Gordo is probably the most touristy spot on this side. The final city of VRSA is kind of a hidden gem, visited mostly by Spanish folks who can cross the bridge or take a ferry from their side in Ayamonte.
The great video edits and detailed information had me subscribe finally haha this is great information as I'm considering moving to Portugal and connect with my Portuguese family.
Thanks Dave! My family and two other families are heading to Portugal on a scouting trip in July. We are doing a week outside of Caldas da Rainha and then a week in the Algarve. I appreciate you sharing your experiences.
@@antoniodasilva1230 If all goes well I expect to come back at least once a year for the next 5 years in different seasons and locations. 5 years from now is when my son should be off in college and I am free to move.
@daily life on a vineyard , Portugal is good to visit or live when you don't depend on their salary. The number one reason why young Portuguese leave the country is very low salaries and lack of opportunity and career growth.If you work remote , are wealthy with a good investment portfolio or are retired Portugal is a good country.
Thanks Dave for this beautiful video that shows your wholesome character and genuine love for Portugal. While I am not American I too was planning to stay in Lagos but now I am reconsidering.
Dave is North American but he doesn't want Americans to visit Algarve or Portugal for that matter.Funny how that is .My town here in the Northeast USA has become super expensive with the average 3 bedroom house selling for about 1 million .I never complained and I don't resent newcomers who have moved in due to good paying jobs in healthcare , biotech , finances , academia and research.
Nice video! Your Portuguese is getting better and better. I believe this is Algarve Part I 😁 you still have a lot to discover and explore. Anyway, great job! 👌
Just returned from 2 week visit to Portugal. You pointed out many places we visited and a few we’d like to return to for an extended stay. Thanks for the information.
Many thanks for a very nice video! Very pleasant voice and exellent sound. We like Algarve and spend here some time every year, but mostly in Sotavento, VRSA.
i dont know if you already did but you have to show the interior of the algarve that touches alentejo too. im sure that i know almost all of portugal even more than most of us potuguese im old so its sure that i cansay to you things like small paradises and total diferent ways of being and speaking the thing is that this is one of the craziest countries because its small and differs so much from section to section. love your work and thANK YOU VERY MUCH . M. SERRA.
Awesome video Dave. We were lucky enough to visit Tavira in April and absolutely loved it. Headed to Olhao in November as we can't get enough of the place.
Great snapshot into the area 👍 I'm going to check out Carvoeiro and Silves next week thanks to this video....Although have no idea how you could possibly state that Lagos was your least favourite place to visit. if you're being objective and looking at it for travellers in search of a unique experience, Faro and Albufeira are the worst places to visit in Algarve. Basic-ass parties and Airports is literally all there is for those two destinations. Lagos at least has one of the top-3 views in all of Portugal at Ponta da Piedade, and the multiple-secluded beaches (which you didn't cover in this video) en route to that view are a great authentic travel experience. While I agree with your overall disdain for the Lagos experience (mainly for lacklustre town centre and crowds of UK tourists), it's clearly a tier above Faro and Albufeira.
Wifey and I will be in the Algarve in July and staying at the W Algarve. We hope to visit some on the towns you mention in this video. We're really looking forward to it. Thanks for the video.
Hi, I visited Portimão few weeks ago, it’s between Lagos and Carvoeiro. Well the atmosphere there is sort of like San Diego, California without the colleges. After watching your video, my next trip will be driving from east to west on the Algarve and I will make sure I stay a day or so in Carvoeiro. What’s that Arab influenced resort called?
Bro you have to explore more Loule i am a Portuguese and i live in Loule since i was born if you decide to visit Loule and if you need any help i am available
My first child was conceived on the beach in Carvoeiro, behind the rocks located on the left side when you come from the village. I can definitely recommend a visit and I will keep this place in memory forever.
Hello Dave, we are going to be in the Caldas Da Rainha for the next week. If you are available to have a beer or a coffee, let us know. Love to hear your input about different areas
Have you done a video about Alentejo? Of course since it is the largest region in Portugal (covers 1/3rd of the entire country) you would probably need one video each for its subdivisions: Alto Alentejo, Alentejo Central, Baixo Alentejo, Alentejo Litoral (the Alentejo coast aka Costa Vicentina).
The reason most Americans go to Lagos is because during the 70's and 80's it was always labeled as a great vacation spot for English speaking people due to the British making that area their destination spot for many centuries before ours =) EDITED:: Also great to see the sand city with works in it. When I was living down there is was just a very big pile of sand that had been trucked in. LOL
I have lived in Lagos for years and love it, even though we have noticed a real influx of foreigners coming here to live, which is good for the economy but not for waiting in shop lines and the traffic is getting heavier. Mention Albufeira to the locals here and we all go UGH! it is more like the Benidorm of Spain and is catering for English people and young yobs!
Vamos lá, mas em Português! ;) O litoral Algarvio Português é como mostras algo delicioso e atraente, mas não se esgota por aí! Para o interior, seja no barrocal ou serras algarvias, esconde-se absolutas maravilhas! Deixo exemplos: Aljezur, Monchique, Estói, Monchique, Alte, Salir, São Brás de Alportel, Alcoutim, etc!
Nice video, I have a friend who moved to TAVIRA and sent her a message to inquire how she likes it she hasn’t replied?! ( but, she posts videos all the time and looks like she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. ) from what I have seen so far Algarve doesn’t draw me in like the other areas north by the 🌊 sea…. So much more warmth of vibrant life it seems even far up north in Porto ( which looked awesome! ) Thanks for these videos
Please try Alcoutim during summer time, the Islands: with no doubt Desert Island is my favorite (walk to sea side) but also I enjoy a lot of Farol Island and Culatra Island... the best waters. Try the beaches of Altura and Monte Gordo (it´s close to Spain); you can also go to Monchique, very beautiful! Have you went toTavira Island? you should! You have to visit Madeira!! And Azores!!
Hey, I'm from Lagos and feel offended... Kidding. It's a nice city, but I run from it on July/August. For the rest, great video. Your portuguese accent is improuving 😉
I’m really liking your channel. I wish you had more travel guides because I feel like your information is honest and helpful instead of saying everything is great. Can you tell me what villa you stayed at in carvoeiro? I’m planning a trip for September and I can find it since there’s a lot of similar looking places in the area! Thanks keep up the good work
I just came from my 10 Day's Vacation i went to Lagos , Portimao, and Albufeira i was sad u missed to see Tavira. Albufeira has many Option of Beaches , but when i was ther the Waves was just Massive that it was Imposible to fo Swimming it was in the Place Sao Rafael . Love the long Sandy Beaches in Portimao i had so much fun Swimming there even with Waves its Posible to go Swimming because the ground Under the Water are flat compared to SAO RAFAEL Area it gets realy deep after a few Steps..
I moved from San Diego California to Portugal this week (literally 4 days ago) and have been staying in a VRBO in Albufeira. It has been very interesting getting to understand the way of life here, but I'm not sure I'm sold on wanting to live here full time...I want to reside near the water and I hope to continue surfing as that's very important to me.. With a decently tight budget would you recommend any cities on the West coast that have similarities to Algarve? Just trying to find a place to enjoy the best parts Portugal has to offer within a local price range. Thanks For the Video Dave!
You can't beat the surfing in Nazaré but the weather is cooler. It's cheaper than Algarve though. Then there's Costa da Caparica across the bridge from Lisboa. Good surfing, and warmer than Nazaré but costlier though still less so than some areas of coastal Algarve
In Algarve you can find plenty of affordable places. If you really want the west coast on the southern side, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Porto Covo, or Sines is as perfect as it gets for me. But give Algarve another try. Faro, Tavira, Loulé, Lagos, Portimão, Oura, Olhão, Fuseta... and maaaany more hidden spots/gems. You really have to go there with an open mind and heart and you will find happiness. Good luck!
There is much more to the Algarve besides the coastal towns. The further away you get from the coast, the more "pure" it becomes. Won't give any specific locations, just stick to what we call Barrocal and you'll find some very unique places
Thanks Dave! Your videos have been super helpful. We traveled through Porto, Nazaré and a few other places. We are currently in Sagres and loving it. We are headed to Tavira in a few days due to your suggestion. This is my honeymoon and it better be romantic. 🤣 Jk I’m sure it will be great! If you’re ever near Sonoma County CA, we would love to show you around the area.
Great video.... Looking at ten days on the west side and ten days on the east side before Barcelona and Sao Miguel and then home... Can't seem to find that Villa in Carvoeiro for accommodations. Appreciate a link. Thanks
This was interesting, a few places I'd not considered. But you don't mention any places in land at all (aside from Silves!) surely there are more gems awau from the coast?
Living there for 2 years now with my family from South Africa. Its a beautiful place to live
Great! I'll be there in 3 weeks and need a free place to stay. What's your address?😂
@@spiegel3269 Even if I gave it to you the postman can't find it! Weird thng about Portugal is that there are many homes, like mine, that have no street number
Welcome !!
(I lived in SA for a year ! It’s great to meet South Africans here in the Algarve ! ✅)
Great to hear, such amazing videos of natural beauty, hard to fake that...
Hi Gareth, greetings from Johannesburg. Hopefully I will visiting the Algarve next year.
From someone who grew up in Algarve I have to mention that I 100% Agree with this list. Castro Marim is also worth visiting if you like medieval towns. They even hold a medieval festival every summer and it is like going back in time. Not very far from there you have got one of my favorite beaches in the whole Algarve called Praia Verde (Which translates to Green Beach).
Also, not far from Faro you ve got a small town called Estoi which has a stunning palace wherever you can actually spend the night in!
I was born in Algarve. The golf courses are destroying our nature. It lacks rain in here, however the small amount of water is used to water the golf courses. Many pesticides are used in the grass. It is sad we cannot have more sustainable tourism and we allow out nature to be destroyed for a bunch of rich tourists come here to enjoy.
Do you know what was the Algarve before tourism? I bet you don't, because if you did you wouldn't say that.
Ana , rich tourists contribute to the economy of Portugal and Algarve in particular. They pay taxes so You don't have to pay Higher IVA taxes which is insanely high in Portugal. Here in the States we have golf courses everywhere .Lots of pricey private golf courses but we also have municipal ones that cost a lot less.The municipal ones are high standard .And we don't waste the water , it gets recycled.
@@diogorodrigues747Eu sei, muito bem,Sempre ouve turismo,mas controlado,minha familia sempre viveu de turismo,mas hoje se querem dormir,teem que mudar, para uma aldeia no interior,e dar lugar aos turistas,bebados,mal educados,que acham que podem tudo.E infelizmente temos um governo que dá prioridade ao estrangeiro em relação ao português, e isto é muito errado.Igualdade sim,prioridades nunca.
@@mariaglorica9435 *Sempre ouve turismo,mas controlado*
Agora fala a sério: não és algarvia, pois não?
Tudo aquilo que dizes é interessante porque qualquer semelhança com a realidade no Algarve nas últimas décadas é pura coincidência. Seja como for, nenhum algarvio de mente sã odeia o turismo pois sabe que, sem o turismo, a região seria a autêntica pobreza franciscana (que era a realidade até há meio século, sejamos honestos).
@@diogorodrigues747 Não acha que tenho uma mente sã? É pena,porque quem me conhece, diz o contrário. E eu só disse que o turismo está descontrolado,não disse que odiava o turimo.Nao é a mesma coisa.Talvez ,a sua mente esteja,como o Algarve,um pouco.....
Having lived inthe Algarve for 18 months, I can say that, while the weather is much more sunny, warmer and drier than the rest of Portugal, property prices have become very, very expensive, even by U.S., UK and other western european countries. After a long search, I decided to move to the Silver Coast, near Peniche, where property prices are cheaper and apartment sizes tend to be bigger. Alhtough the weather is cooler and more humid, especially during the winter, there are less tourists and I can drive, catch a bus, train, or even fly to the Algarve on short notice whenever I feel like it.
Bought 300 m2 building land for 3500 euro two months ago.
Lived in Praia da Luz for 6 weeks last year and it was small, quiet, peaceful, beautiful, and delightful. Would definitely consider living full time.
In my opinion you should have another go visiting Lagos. Historically it’s one of the most important places in Algarve and Portugal, it has a Michelin start restaurant, full of local small eateries, great beaches that aren’t very crowded, coastal boardwalks, lovely beach restaurants and bars and it’s one of the most authentic coastal cities in the Algarve (bar Olhão).
We spent a week in Lagos a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. Our airbnb house was just a walk away from the beach and a few seafood cafes. We loved it! Major faux pas made by driving into the town square with our rental by mistake. Would def go back.
Lagos is super nice and have many faces. Is the birth of the portuguese adventures over seas and the most beutifull beachs on earth.
Nice video Dave! Was in Lagos a few years ago and absolutely loved it! We're going again in October and are splitting a week between Lagos and Tavira. Can't wait!
Lagos,terra onde me viu crescer.Nao pensem em dizer mal dela,senão levam nos ?.......hihihihiiiiiii Ai que lindo...O passarinho.Uma beijoca duma algarvia,tão longe do seu Algarve.
I will be moving from Florida to Portugal in November, Portimao to be precise. Praia da Rocha and a string of beaches are all beautiful. It also has a river which has the ocean downstream and Silves upstream. It is the second largest city in the Algarve behind Faro. That means you've got plenty of amenities including market, small and large grocery stores, movie theaters, arena, shopping, medical facilities, ...
Also Alvor is 7min away
As someone born, raised and living in the Algarve for almost 40 years, Portimão would be one of the last places I'd wish to live
@@killer0178yeah I’m curious how he is doing now😂 portimao is the least favorite places among Portuguese
Dave, Albufeira used to be a special place, where artists, writers, musicians, film makers from all over the world would get together. There were just a few hotels, and college kids often could not get logging, so they would bring a bottle of wine to the jail, play cards with the guards and spend the night. In the morning they were let out. There was no crime. We had a house in the village and we never locked the door, I don't think we had a key. It was the most special place ... people interacted with one another and exchanged ideas. Friendships were made for life... today you find a majority of Brits wanting to get drunk and layed, or entittled elderly who think Algarve is part of the United Kingdom. Back then, when I was a kid, it was called Vila branca e Mar azul, with its traditional arquitecture with a strong Moorish influence. After many moons away, I told my brother I was going there and he cautioned me that the Albufeira we knew was no longer... the sad part is that the destruction of the town catering to "turismo rasca' for the sake of quick money didn't benefit the locals. Majority are international investors...
Same with Dahab on the Sinai coast. It used to be a beduin settlement with a bunch of hippies coexisting beautifully, then a handful of laid back dive schools moved in. Now it's all people from mainland Egypt selling the same rubbish as in Cairo, one vompetitive dive school after another, and drunk tourists from Poland and Russia who have no consideration of the local customs and think money can buy them everything. It's heartbreaking.
Sorry but you start off by saying 'It used to be a special place for Artists,film makers, writers FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD So NOT Portuguese then...Why the surprise then that just like St Tropez it now attracts the dregs of society in the drunken Brits bussed in by night clubs in LONDON .Ditto Germans, Danes, Swedes etc This is what happens when you make a place popular with these VLOGS
@@jennybertenshaw7694 Portuguese artists were the hosts for artists from other countries.. In Albufeira alone there are two art galleries named after two local artist I had the privilege to know. Galeria Samora Barros has his bust in front of the building done by another local artist Raymundo de Aragao, a good friend of my family. Galeria Joao Bailote is located next to the municipal building. As a child I was fascinated by his canvas which he displayed in his Cafe Bailote. There is a school and a library named after my educator, Diamantina Negrao... Portugal has many wonderful artists, less know perhaps, but their talent is in creating art, not marketing... as a child I lived my life surrounded by artists and poets...
I couldn't agree more....my parents would go to monte gordo...which then was quite a humble place...only a few hotels and lots of local interaction....the lady who served me fruit in the market would practice my Portuguese with me year apon year.....having drinks with the locals which turned into parties...friends made for life...that was in the 80s....now its been over developed and the rustic character gone...most of the places to eat seem to be foreign owned....such a shame as I genuinely loved that place...
@@jennybertenshaw7694 Portugal IS part of the world. Portuguese artists were an attraction for artists from other countries... musicians, poets, painters, sculptors... today there are two municipal art galleries, a school and a library named after local artists from Albufeira. Joao Bailote, Samora Barros, Diamantina Barreto Negrao, Raymundo de Aragao, my mothers' friends.
Has a Portuguese living in the north, the Algarve was always my family get way during the summer, have alot of great memories there when I was kid, really a great place! A shame prices are going up lately. Btw a tua pronúncia dos nomes está muito boa continua um bom trabalho!
Such high quality video and clear audio and speech. Props man!!!
Love Algarve. I have stayed in Albufeira.Was very popular with German and British tourists when I visited more than twenty years ago.Have also visited Tavira as my sister has a summer place there. Beautiful town close to Spain. Will be visiting Portugal again in July .Can't wait long enough.
Good video! My wife and I spent a few days in Tavira last year around the end of May, and had a lovely time there.
You should never miss Vila Nova de Cacela / Cacela Velha. The most beautiful beach, in my opinion, seen from the Church
hey man, portuguese from Olhão here, really glad you enjoyed the city. gets crowdedddd during summer though.
Hey, Dave! I really enjoy your videos. Could you please talk a bit about the healthcare system in Portugal and your experiences regarding that? Thanks in advance & keep up the awesome work!
You have to go to Monchique, its a diferent Algarve
Ir a Monchique e beber melosa 😊
I LOVED The Algarve! We had such an amazing time there. I wish we'd had more time to explore more of the area. We only got to see Albufeira, Lagos, Benigil, Portimao and Faro. I have to disagree with you a little on Albufeira. We stayed in Albufeira and used it as home base because of the location close to other places we wanted to see. We were very intentional about accommodations. We stayed in an AirBnB about three blocks from the towns square in the Old Town Albufeira and we avoided "The Strip" party scene. We loved it. We found a locally owned family-run restaurant one block off the town square called "Ozuka" and the food was amazing. We had most of our dinners there. I think the coast of The Algarve is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The only downside is that the water is too cold to swim (for me) and we were there in September. I'm going back next year to hopefully see places I missed on the first trip. There is a lot to be said for Sunshine and Sangria!
Totally agree. Albufeira also has some really great hidden gems for live music...
Totall agree with your post. There are many neighborhoods in Albufeira and the nearby village of Olhos de Água that are much more quiet than Old Town and the Strip. Regarding the ocean water temperature, it never gets warm enough to swim in for more than a few minutes except from late September to mid-October, although it is warmer on the beach of Monte Gordo/Vila Real do Santo Antonio, at the Spain/Portugal border. There, the cold Atlantic ocean water mixes with the warmer seawater coming from the Gulf of Cadiz
Wow!! Dave, the quality of your videos is becoming really impressive! The camera shots and quality, the cutaways, the background music and the narration all fit and looked/sounded so good together. These videos are really looking professional! Looking forward to more of your work--all the best!
I have to agree!! The video quality is becoming documentary like. 😀
Really nice video!! As a Tavirense (person from Tavira) have to say that what you saw of the city was just the tip of the iceberg. There are even more beautiful villages and places like in Tavira like, Santa Luzia the hometown of octopus and that has one of my fav beaches (Praia do Baril), or Pego do Inferno a hidden gem in the middle of the mouths of Tavira with a waterfall and a lake to take a nice swim. But I think the real secret from that small town is the people (not saying that because of being a Tavirense of course 😅). Feel welcome to come back again soon!🙂
Just curious if there are any tennis courts in Tavira or close by?
@@briany7658of course there is! the two that comes to my mind right now is the ‘Clube de Ténis de Tavira’ in Tavira, next to the shopping center and then you also have ‘Pedras Tenis & Padel Academy’ in Pedras de El-Rei that is like 10/15 mins from Tavira by car. have no idea if u have to book in advance or if u can just go there and play because i dont play tennis but if you want to make sure just google the place that is best for you and give them a call. enjoy Tavira! :)
You stopped just a little bit shy of a major find - please visit the town of "Cacela Velha" it has a very beautiful beach/view. Also if you are into Algarve for the beaches from there to Monte-Gordo it's a non stop yellow sand beach, if you don't mind walking you are sure to find a spot several meters from other people and the water is the warmest in the Algarve. On a less positive note when the tides are "dead" there can be too many algae and jellyfish. Giving a promotion to our brothers in Spain take a boat ride to Ayamonte or a slide ride to Spain in Alcoutim (inland Algarve, feels more like Alentejo)
Yep, Tavira is fantastic: big and lively enough to be called a city but in no way urban. It's where I do my weekly shopping for bio food and produce. I consider it the heart of Sotavento which is mostly made up of small farms sprinkled across the hills inside the coastline. There also aren't so many overcrowded beaches because Ria Formosa requires you to paddle, waddle, or take a ferry to get over to the ocean, all along the stretch from Olhão to Cacela Velha. The beach at Monte Gordo is probably the most touristy spot on this side. The final city of VRSA is kind of a hidden gem, visited mostly by Spanish folks who can cross the bridge or take a ferry from their side in Ayamonte.
The great video edits and detailed information had me subscribe finally haha this is great information as I'm considering moving to Portugal and connect with my Portuguese family.
Thanks Dave! My family and two other families are heading to Portugal on a scouting trip in July. We are doing a week outside of Caldas da Rainha and then a week in the Algarve. I appreciate you sharing your experiences.
@@antoniodasilva1230 If all goes well I expect to come back at least once a year for the next 5 years in different seasons and locations. 5 years from now is when my son should be off in college and I am free to move.
@daily life on a vineyard , Portugal is good to visit or live when you don't depend on their salary. The number one reason why young Portuguese leave the country is very low salaries and lack of opportunity and career growth.If you work remote , are wealthy with a good investment portfolio or are retired Portugal is a good country.
Thanks Dave for this beautiful video that shows your wholesome character and genuine love for Portugal. While I am not American I too was planning to stay in Lagos but now I am reconsidering.
Dave is North American but he doesn't want Americans to visit Algarve or Portugal for that matter.Funny how that is .My town here in the Northeast USA has become super expensive with the average 3 bedroom house selling for about 1 million .I never complained and I don't resent newcomers who have moved in due to good paying jobs in healthcare , biotech , finances , academia and research.
Lagos is lovely and laid back for a touristy town.
Your videos really stand out. To the point, highly informative, and great music choices!
Very proud to say that my family is from Tavira 🥰
Nice video! Your Portuguese is getting better and better. I believe this is Algarve Part I 😁 you still have a lot to discover and explore. Anyway, great job! 👌
You must go to Monchique, Ferragudo, Vila Real de Santo António and Castro Marim all in Algarve.
Just returned from 2 week visit to Portugal. You pointed out many places we visited and a few we’d like to return to for an extended stay. Thanks for the information.
Hi Dave! U should visit Castro Marim in Algarve;
Hey Dave, we followed your recommendations and had a great time, thanks! Tavira is especially lovely!
Great video! Hope I can improve your next video with some real gems that no one will forget.
Thanks Dave! Great stuff!
Dave, The animations add a fantastic touch to your vids! They really keep getting better and better, man. Nice work.
4:42 Your comments on Carviero are spot on .. A good summary
Many thanks for a very nice video! Very pleasant voice and exellent sound. We like Algarve and spend here some time every year, but mostly in Sotavento, VRSA.
I love your video! 🎥🔥 It’s so fun and full of adventure! 🌍✈ Keep up the amazing work! 💯👏
Wow Dave, what a great video and yes it does look great & time to explore there. Have you gone to the northern part of Portugal?
i dont know if you already did but you have to show the interior of the algarve that touches alentejo too. im sure that i know almost all of portugal even more than most of us potuguese im old so its sure that i cansay to you things like small paradises and total diferent ways of being and speaking the thing is that this is one of the craziest countries because its small and differs so much from section to section. love your work and thANK YOU VERY MUCH . M. SERRA.
Dave, you missed charming Monchique and Fóia, the highest mountain in the whole Algarve from where you can see the whole coast on a clear day! ❤
Awesome video Dave. We were lucky enough to visit Tavira in April and absolutely loved it. Headed to Olhao in November as we can't get enough of the place.
Another great video Dave. Love Tavira. But to live, I still prefer the silver coast. More authentic and culture.
Great snapshot into the area 👍 I'm going to check out Carvoeiro and Silves next week thanks to this video....Although have no idea how you could possibly state that Lagos was your least favourite place to visit. if you're being objective and looking at it for travellers in search of a unique experience, Faro and Albufeira are the worst places to visit in Algarve. Basic-ass parties and Airports is literally all there is for those two destinations. Lagos at least has one of the top-3 views in all of Portugal at Ponta da Piedade, and the multiple-secluded beaches (which you didn't cover in this video) en route to that view are a great authentic travel experience. While I agree with your overall disdain for the Lagos experience (mainly for lacklustre town centre and crowds of UK tourists), it's clearly a tier above Faro and Albufeira.
You should visit São Lourenço's church in Almancil, a true hidden gem. You should also visit Fonte Benémola nearby Loulé.
Wifey and I will be in the Algarve in July and staying at the W Algarve. We hope to visit some on the towns you mention in this video. We're really looking forward to it. Thanks for the video.
Local here. Visit also Cacela Velha and Fuseta 😉
@@cristinap.1914 thanks for the suggestion.
Just Great!! Thanks Dave!
Dude! You didn’t mention Vila Real de Santo António! You naughty little 🐻cub!
Come visit! Lots going on!
Burgau is a nice little resort, not too touristy, but accustomed enough to visitors. some very steep streets though, down to the beach.
Hi, I visited Portimão few weeks ago, it’s between Lagos and Carvoeiro. Well the atmosphere there is sort of like San Diego, California without the colleges. After watching your video, my next trip will be driving from east to west on the Algarve and I will make sure I stay a day or so in Carvoeiro. What’s that Arab influenced resort called?
Dave you should come to visit Setúbal, Palmela, Tróia and this amazing region
I’m SO EXCITED to visit! Can you do one just like this on the silver coast?
The interior of Algarve is very nice in the Spring time and Autum: Monchique, Alcoutim, etc...
For everyone searching the hotel, it’s called Apartemento Chaminés. 🎉
Bro you have to explore more Loule i am a Portuguese and i live in Loule since i was born if you decide to visit Loule and if you need any help i am available
My first child was conceived on the beach in Carvoeiro, behind the rocks located on the left side when you come from the village. I can definitely recommend a visit and I will keep this place in memory forever.
Wow, !!!
So sad that it happened there. Hope the kid doesn’t discover this.
Fabulous content, Dave! And ur the perfect host!
Hello Dave, we are going to be in the Caldas Da Rainha for the next week. If you are available to have a beer or a coffee, let us know. Love to hear your input about different areas
Are you awere that for a coffee Dave as to do more or less 750Km ?
Have you done a video about Alentejo? Of course since it is the largest region in Portugal (covers 1/3rd of the entire country) you would probably need one video each for its subdivisions: Alto Alentejo, Alentejo Central, Baixo Alentejo, Alentejo Litoral (the Alentejo coast aka Costa Vicentina).
The reason most Americans go to Lagos is because during the 70's and 80's it was always labeled as a great vacation spot for English speaking people due to the British making that area their destination spot for many centuries before ours =)
EDITED:: Also great to see the sand city with works in it. When I was living down there is was just a very big pile of sand that had been trucked in. LOL
I have lived in Lagos for years and love it, even though we have noticed a real influx of foreigners coming here to live, which is good for the economy but not for waiting in shop lines and the traffic is getting heavier. Mention Albufeira to the locals here and we all go UGH! it is more like the Benidorm of Spain and is catering for English people and young yobs!
Força Portugal 🇵🇹 ☮️💞👍🏼👌🏼 amicalement dom 😘
Vamos lá, mas em Português! ;)
O litoral Algarvio Português é como mostras algo delicioso e atraente, mas não se esgota por aí!
Para o interior, seja no barrocal ou serras algarvias, esconde-se absolutas maravilhas! Deixo exemplos: Aljezur, Monchique, Estói, Monchique, Alte, Salir, São Brás de Alportel, Alcoutim, etc!
I just came here 2 hear Dave say "The Algarve"😂😂😂😂 this ish is in My mind for hours now, so I had 2 come here
yeah, I giggle when i hear it as well ... striving to get it sooo right!!!
Nice video, I have a friend who moved to TAVIRA and sent her a message to inquire how she likes it she hasn’t replied?! ( but, she posts videos all the time and looks like she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. ) from what I have seen so far Algarve doesn’t draw me in like the other areas north by the 🌊 sea…. So much more warmth of vibrant life it seems even far up north in Porto ( which looked awesome! ) Thanks for these videos
Please try Alcoutim during summer time, the Islands: with no doubt Desert Island is my favorite (walk to sea side) but also I enjoy a lot of Farol Island and Culatra Island... the best waters. Try the beaches of Altura and Monte Gordo (it´s close to Spain); you can also go to Monchique, very beautiful! Have you went toTavira Island? you should!
You have to visit Madeira!! And Azores!!
We usually go there once a year and there are loads more to discover I’m from the north but August is usually Algarve
Wonderful! Planning a trip to the Algarve right now and appreciate a different take than most channels. What song played during the sand village??
Hey, I'm from Lagos and feel offended... Kidding. It's a nice city, but I run from it on July/August.
For the rest, great video. Your portuguese accent is improuving 😉
You forgot Faro the capital, has a beautiful downtown and many other stuff.
I’m really liking your channel. I wish you had more travel guides because I feel like your information is honest and helpful instead of saying everything is great. Can you tell me what villa you stayed at in carvoeiro? I’m planning a trip for September and I can find it since there’s a lot of similar looking places in the area! Thanks keep up the good work
Hi! Amazing video. Thank you for sharing ❤
I really enjoyed the video, thank you 😊
I just came from my 10 Day's Vacation i went to Lagos , Portimao, and Albufeira i was sad u missed to see Tavira. Albufeira has many Option of Beaches , but when i was ther the Waves was just Massive that it was Imposible to fo Swimming it was in the Place
Sao Rafael . Love the long Sandy Beaches in Portimao i had so much fun Swimming there even with Waves its Posible to go Swimming because the ground Under the Water are flat compared to SAO RAFAEL Area it gets realy deep after a few Steps..
David tens que conhecer os doces do Algarve ... 😋🤤😋
You missed HALF Algarve, just visited touristic places, and also the second biggest city in Algarve Portimão
We are excited to visit in April, hoping Albufeira isn't too big of a party at that time!
I moved from San Diego California to Portugal this week (literally 4 days ago) and have been staying in a VRBO in Albufeira. It has been very interesting getting to understand the way of life here, but I'm not sure I'm sold on wanting to live here full time...I want to reside near the water and I hope to continue surfing as that's very important to me.. With a decently tight budget would you recommend any cities on the West coast that have similarities to Algarve? Just trying to find a place to enjoy the best parts Portugal has to offer within a local price range.
Thanks For the Video Dave!
You can't beat the surfing in Nazaré but the weather is cooler. It's cheaper than Algarve though. Then there's Costa da Caparica across the bridge from Lisboa. Good surfing, and warmer than Nazaré but costlier though still less so than some areas of coastal Algarve
@Antônio , coming from SanDiego California he is used to high price of living, making expensive resort towns of Portugal appear cheap.
@@marco31Nazaré só para os maiores.para os outros ,no algarve, os melhores é na arrifana e praia do amado.E depois por ai a cima há muitas.
You must try meet Ericeira or Peniche...2 amazing places to live and surf...and also close to each other, Nazaré and capital.
In Algarve you can find plenty of affordable places. If you really want the west coast on the southern side, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Porto Covo, or Sines is as perfect as it gets for me.
But give Algarve another try. Faro, Tavira, Loulé, Lagos, Portimão, Oura, Olhão, Fuseta... and maaaany more hidden spots/gems. You really have to go there with an open mind and heart and you will find happiness.
Good luck!
Hey, thx for the gr8 video. qq - Where should i base my hotel stay ? I am travelling in Sept and have around 5 days to explore ALGARVE.
Thanks Dave!!
Hi Dave, thanks for sharing. I am planning to visit the Algarve region in December. Where is the best place to visit?
There is much more to the Algarve besides the coastal towns. The further away you get from the coast, the more "pure" it becomes. Won't give any specific locations, just stick to what we call Barrocal and you'll find some very unique places
Lagos used to be a more alternative place in Algarve with punk bars and such, sad to hear it's turned into a tourist trap
Like how you do your reviews
Would be nice to add to that list Portimao/Ferragudo and Quarteira, as well as VRSA. Maybe time for part 2?
I stayed on night in Portimao about five years ago. I HATED it!
@@julesgoulet3961 Any reason why?
You should have shown Faro, its a great town
Great video.
Thanks Dave! Your videos have been super helpful. We traveled through Porto, Nazaré and a few other places. We are currently in Sagres and loving it. We are headed to Tavira in a few days due to your suggestion. This is my honeymoon and it better be romantic. 🤣 Jk I’m sure it will be great! If you’re ever near Sonoma County CA, we would love to show you around the area.
What is the name of the hotel you stayed in Carvoeiro?
Great video.... Looking at ten days on the west side and ten days on the east side before Barcelona and Sao Miguel and then home...
Can't seem to find that Villa in Carvoeiro for accommodations.
Appreciate a link. Thanks
Dave, what was the name of your hotel in Carvoeiro?
Dave, what garnment/cloathing are you wearing in the thumbnail??
what time of year were you in Algarve? we are planning a February visit.
What is the name of the villa from min 3:57 please?
Go to Alte, Cacela Velha, Fuseta, Monchique...❤
Hello dave all you're video its cool and amazing
This was interesting, a few places I'd not considered. But you don't mention any places in land at all (aside from Silves!) surely there are more gems awau from the coast?
Portimão and Lagoa are a good place.
Best ❤