Para um Expat (Emigrante/Imigrante do Reino Unido), o Algarve é o melhor sítio para ter “aquele cheirinho” do Reino Unido.
O Carvoeiro sempre foi um dos meus sítios preferidos, em bem mais do que uma década, para passar tempo com a minha família.
Tanto para férias grandes como para passar fins de semana (escapadinhas), um excelente sítio para relaxar, apanhar sol e vitamina D, um sítio quentinho quando tudo parece frio.
A vila do Carvoeiro, ou Praia do Carvoeiro está situado na Costa Algarvia, no Sul de Portugal
Como Chegar Lá:
De avião: Faro é a capital distrital do Algarve com Aeroporto (verifique os Shuttles ou transportes para o seu hotel)
De comboio (desde Lisboa, ou de outros lados)
Carro
Cruzeiro
Onde ficar:
Existem vários Hotéis, Resorts ou Bnb’s (Bed and Breakfast). (Veja aqui)
Ficamos entusiasmados por ver que um antigo hotel onde costumávamos ficar nos anos passados, reabriu e esta a funcionar plenamente sob nova gerência.
(Shuttle desde o aeroporto disponível, preço a confirmar)
Este hotel familiar tem tudo o que precisa. Os apartamentos têm cozinha própria, podem ter 2 a 3 quartos, a receção esta aberta 24 horas e ainda a opção de pedir pequeno-almoço.
Dentro dos apartamentos têm de tudo, desde máquina da roupa a máquina da loiça, todos os utensílios, roupas de cama e toalhas de banho, uma bonita decoração e melhor de tudo: Paz e sossego!
No “relax” com o meu pequenino e o Peter!
Têm piscina para adultos e crianças, e parque de estacionamento.
Todos os apartamentos têm varandas (onde se pode jantar com uma bonita vista) e os apartamentos são limpos diariamente.
Normalmente vamos para o Carvoeiro em Junho (onde esta um excelente tempo de praia, sem muita gente), mas desta vez fomos pela altura do Fim de Ano, e o Placid Village até ofereceu um kit de fim de ano. Foi um bonito gesto da parte deles.
Ficamos contentes pela reabertura, desejamos-lhe o maior dos sucessos, porque iremos voltar!
Não consigo comer comida chinesa sem o meu respetivo chá de Jasmim.
Eu não poderia começar esta secção de onde comer, sem falar no que existe em primeiro lugar no Carvoeiro: Pubs! Ingleses, Irlandeses ou Galeses, pode encontrar de tudo aqui.
Mas mesmo assim, não nos podemos esquecer de comer nos restaurantes típicos portugueses com peixe grelhado e polvo fresco. Também existem os normais hamburgers ou sandes, cachorros quente e pizzas para uma refeição rápida, ou, porque não, os célebres gelados caseiros com sabores diferentes, as padarias com pães quentes e doçaria tradicional algarvia, ou ainda, variar um pouco na cozinha e ir para restaurantes asiáticos tais como o Indiano, Chinês ou Kebabs.
Our chinese restaurant for sure! Fresh food, excellent staff and watch out not to eat all the spring rolls (that are huge! But spring rolls in Portugal is just One huge).
As the name says: Indian Restaurant. I can honestly say we are their pride (long story short: We can eat their hottest chilies ever! Even the Chef came to watch us eat… I do think we deserved a medal and a round of applause! And no…we didn’t end with heartburn. We are tough! And I am south American remember…).
Super fresh meals, they add spicy if you ask, and the price is nice as well.
What to Do/Visit
(click pictures to see in HD)
Beach
What to do in the Algarve? Beach Please!
Any time or season is good to go to the beach. The extension of Algarve beach is huge and you can find from the tiniest little beach spot to the bigger extension of sand. Just a tip: for your safety, make sure you are NOT going to beaches that have rocky cliffs. Stay away from the cliffs. Other than that enjoy the water, sand, and sun (with moderation and a good 50 FPS cream).
The Benagil Caves are worldwide known and definitely a must see for those who come to Algarve. You can plan to go on the boat and watch nature’s art.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
As the name says, this beautiful boardwalk is a place to check. Beautiful views, perfect for pictures and for drone takes. Just make sure you have your drone license and ask for permission to fly there.
Definitely our town to unwind and have the best family memories.
Have you been there? Let us know in the comments below.
As many of you follow me on social media, I love to go to the south of Portugal, called the Algarve, most specifically in the town of Carvoeiro.
My family and I always go there for the holidays as it is a simple town, great for families and very calm, but with everything that you need, from supermarkets with British food (just like being at home) as well as great and cheap restaurants with excellent Portuguese food, beach and pools. Everything is near, and you can walk everywhere and safe.
Safety: Did you know?
Portugal is considered the 3rd country in the World with the highest level of safety? Safe, fun, and cheap? Brilliant!
If you want to rent a car (like me), consider booking it on the faro airport via your agency or online. It’s cheaper to rent it on the airport. Things get even better as you can plan to go to a beach every day or plan to visit caves or see the dolphins or even go and have a whole day in an aquatic park. You have many things to see in the Algarve, so make sure you plan in advance where and what do you want to do.
How to get there
Faro is the capital of the Algarve region, and most of the British airports have low-cost flights toward there. The other way is going to the country’s capital, Lisbon, and get the train for the Algarve… or just like me: go to Lisbon and then pick up a car and drive 2 hours towards the Algarve. Other than that, you can always check travel agencies’ websites and try their competition to win £500 to spend.
Tips:
Normally, to get cheaper bookings for fun parks or visits, check the pamphlets that are in the hotel or supermarkets. They usually have discounts.
Need cash? One traveling tip: don’t buy money outside the UK. Portugal has one of the lowest conversions for ATM machines! So make sure when you go to the ATM machine to select the amount you want and when they ask whom they should charge the conversion (your bank or the Portuguese conversion) select Portuguese conversion. And another thing: they never charge for cash withdrawals!
About Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro, or more commonly known, Praia do Carvoeiro, is a town and a former civil parish in the municipality (concelho) of Lagoa, Algarve, Portugal. (see here).
Where to stay
We normally stay in the Placid Village. A family resort with pool and 7 minutes walking to the centre of Carvoeiro town. This resort is calm and great for the kids and near everything. A/C included in all bedrooms (you WILL need it!), self-catering and cleaning included, be sure to book early because they are always fully booked (hence them being great). You have everything that you need, towels included, a washing machine and a dishwasher.
I always book our apartment to have 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, but could fit 6 people (the sofa is a sofa bed).
The view is amazing but, and of course, depends on the room. You have 2 and 3 bedroom flats for a maximum of 8 people inside. If you don’t have a car, you can call an Uber or ask in the reception for a free ring-and-ride to the town centre.
Here are the pics from the Placid Village:
Fully fitted open kitchen
One of the 2 bathrooms
Hall
Twin beds
Double bed
Washing machine on site
A table that opens for more people
Fireplace if you need
Our view from the inside
RJ playing in the Balcony (children safe)
Kiddie pool
Pool
What a view: Peace and quiet.
Where to Eat
I know the town very well, but sometimes new places show up, others close, others change direction.
Our favourite restaurant is one called A Paleta, you might need a car to go there, but is worth every penny. Homemade food and nice staff. Take a look at our plates.
Fresh catch of the day: Grilled Sea Bass
Squid Casserole
Drinks:
Cocktails are sooooo cheap! Make sure you have your Mojito and Caipirinhas near the beach while listening to the live bands playing, here we were in a cafe/bar called Smilers in the heart of the town. They also have food and snacks. Never forget that the town has several Pubs, and we get to a point we think we never left the UK.
And it wouldn’t be a proper holiday without having Ice creams or Frozen Yogurts. There is an Ice cream Parlor called Gelados & Companhia, near Smilers cafe, with very cool flavours, and they are homemade.
Phones and Internet
Since the 14th of June of 2017, there is NO ROAMING! So everything that you have in the UK is also available in Portugal/EU. Roaming doesn’t exist anymore, even after Brexit. Internet is also available everywhere in Portugal, so getting free Wifi will be easy and most places will happily give you their Wifi password.
Beach Life
Since RJ was very little, We have been coming over since he was a little tot, we go to the beach in the morning (till noon) then return to the beach or poll around 5 pm. Between those hours, I won’t recommend for you to go to the beach or pool unless you have protection for the children and for yourself. The sun and the sand are burning hot… But the water is excellent.
There are excellent beaches for families: Carvoeiro, Marinha, Alvor, Ferragudo. There are a bunch of beaches, so make sure you go to all of them and find your favourite.
Have you been there? let me know where you went and what do you recommend.
Sunset
If you are into Glamping, consider reading our other post about it:
Beaulieu is excited to have reopened its indoor spaces since Monday 17th May, welcoming back visitors to the National Motor Museum, Palace House, World of Top Gear, and Beaulieu Abbey exhibition in time for summer, following the easing of restrictions.
With Beaulieu’s beautiful grounds and gardens and action-packed Little Beaulieu adventure play area already open to visitors, the next step in line with the Government’s roadmap will see the doors being opened to the much-loved indoor features of the attraction. Following careful preparation and Covid-secure measures aimed at keeping both visitors and staff safe, there will once again be plenty for all the family to enjoy, together.
Your packed day out begins with the National Motor Museum, the place to discover fun-filled exhibition Motoring in Miniature – the Toys of Your Childhood. More than 800 toy cars and pedal cars, ranging from the 1920s to the 1990s, are parked up in the display, just feet away from full-size motoring marvels. Visitors of all ages will be delighted to see these much-loved playthings of the past, bringing small-scale motoring memories to life.
Little ones will discover big fun with Little Beaulieu, the enchanting new play area modeled on Lord Montagu’s ancestral home of Palace House. A huge hit with youngsters and families, its tree-top walkways, secret staircase, epic climbing wall, zip wire, and even more exciting features are all waiting for you to explore. Built for playtime, the design of this wooden wonder pays homage to Beaulieu’s remarkable heritage and ancient buildings.
You’ll be spoiled for choice with eating opportunities, with the Brabazon restaurant open for table service and serving a range of hot and cold food and drinks, while socially-distanced picnic tables dotted around the attraction are ideal for taking the weight off. For even more tasty snacks and refreshments, the Little Beaulieu kiosk will be open, where families can enjoy light refreshments in the covered seating area whilst their children play.
A visit to Beaulieu isn’t complete without taking a trip on the ‘skytrain’ Monorail, the perfect way to get a bird’s eye view of the stunning grounds and gardens. From the vibrant roses and beautiful wisteria tunnel of the Victorian Flower Garden, to the carefully cultivated fruit and vegetables growing in the Victorian Kitchen Garden, and the delightful Mill Pond Walk, simply relax and soak up the beauty of these green spaces.
Those with green fingers will also love the BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair taking place in the Beaulieu grounds for the first time from Friday 28th to Sunday 30th May. Crammed with stunning plant ideas, displays by selected nurseries and an incredible range of plants for sale, presenters Adam Frost and Arit Anderson will be sharing their expert advice on the What to Do Now Stage.
With foot-tapping entertainment and the BBC Good Food Market, the show will truly be a haven for plant-lovers. The Spring Fair’s headline partner Hillier will present the inspirational Hillier Experience, with a stunning four-part garden feature to take visitors on a garden journey from dawn to dusk, 1-to-1 advice, shop and a new plant introduction to be unveiled.
The 2021 calendar is also packed with Beaulieu’s other highly-anticipated events, starting off with brand new Simply Electric on 23rd May, a gathering of electric vehicles in the grounds of the National Motor Museum, followed on 6th June by the hugely popular Simply Porsche.
Before you head home, be sure to visit the Beaulieu gift shop where you can find the perfect toy car to take home from the wide selection on offer, including models from the Corgi range. Or if cars aren’t your thing, then look no further for a variety of homewares, clothing and accessories, plus a range of soft toys, games and pocket-money souvenirs.
Beaulieu is proud to hold Visit Britain’s ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard, with Covid-19 safety measures as part of our visitor safety promise meaning that all visitors can safely enjoy their day out. We request that all visitors pre-book their visit date and arrival time, to help us to manage capacity and maintain a safe environment for everyone.
With the entire attraction now open for visitors, there truly is something for everybody to enjoy at Beaulieu, together. Make sure to book your admission tickets now by heading to www.beaulieu.co.uk.
As most know, our world is filled with breathtaking places you can visit, both natural as well as human-made ones. Even though it is quite hard to visit all the places in one lifetime, there is no reason why you shouldn’t at least try.
For those who want to start knocking off places off their bucket list here are the 11 most breathtaking places you need to visit in your lifetime.
The Ring Road, Iceland
If you are someone who would like to experience what Europe has to offer one of the best places you can go is Iceland. It is the ultimate destination for road trips. The prime route is the Ring Road because it circles the entire country. To experience its full potential, you will need about 10 days so you don’t miss out on any adventures.
Las Vegas, Nevada Desert
Las Vegas, also known as “Sin-City,” is probably the most famous place you can go to when it comes to America. It is located in the Nevada Desert and no matter what you like to do you will most definitely find something to do. It is a city that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime.
Cape Town, South Africa
For those who would like to experience different cuisines while being able to enjoy stunning landscapes, Cape Town is the place to go. It is filled with eclectic neighbourhoods as well as a fast-growing foodie scene. There are so many different activities you can take on no matter how old you are or what you like.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is truly one of the most breathtaking places on Earth you can visit. It is a 312 BC ancient city located in Jordan and it is carved out of a sandstone rock face. That is also the reason why it is one of the 7 New Wonders of the World.
The Colosseum, Rome
As we all know, Rome is known for many attractions, but one of the most impressive ones, therefore, the most famous one is the Colosseum. The Colosseum is a stadium that is almost 2,000 years old. It was a place where chariot races took part as well as gladiators used to entertain citizens of the great Roman Empire.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Located in Indonesia’s West Papua province, Raja Ampat is a famous archipelago that is made out of over 1,500 islands. The province is known for its breathtaking turquoise waters, amazing coral reefs as well as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is a part of the “Coral Triangle” which is a centre of marine biodiversity as it has the richest marine life you can see while scuba diving.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef, is located just a smidge off the coast of Queensland. Even though it is still breathtaking, the reef is rapidly disappearing and dying because of pollution and climate change. While you are there you can visit the tropical paradise and learn the incredible story of the Hinchinbrook Way.
Athens, Greece
Athens, also known as the “birthplace of democracy” or “cradle of Western civilization”, so if you are interested in history, there is no better place to visit than Athens. Even if you are not a sucker for history you will enjoy the experience. Athens is the nation’s capital as well as the largest city and it is also the heart of Ancient Greece. It is also home to many different historical sites such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Erechtheion, Parthenon as well as the famous Acropolis.
Ireland, Europe
Ireland, also known as The Emerald Isle is filled with luscious landscapes, breathtaking waters and scenic rolling hills therefore it is a place that has a lot of magical spots that will take your breath away. No matter what you like to do you will be able to find something that will be up your alley as you can hike, dive or ever bar hop.
Paris, France
As we all know, Paris is the city of romance. But amongst that, it is a great place for foodies as well as those who like to sightsee. You can climb the famous Eiffel tower, visit the stunning Louvre or simply explore the streets of Montmartre.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is a forgotten temple that is located in the highlands of Peru and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Peru. No matter how you want to explore it, it will take your breath away with its remarkable views.
There are a lot of places that are truly incredible, but most people simply don’t have the time or the money to visit them all. No matter which ones you choose to go to you won’t regret it.
Article by Stella Ryne
Stella is a proud member of Alejandra’s Life Team Family
As you’re probably aware by now, New York is the place that never sleeps. Sounds cheesy? Yes, but it’s true. If there’s one place in the entire world that offers so much, then it’s definitely New York City.
However, last year, the whole world was hit with the Covid-19 pandemic which unfortunately forced a lot of small businesses to close, while people were instructed to self-isolate and follow the social distance guidelines. New York, of course, took a major blow, but since things are hopefully going back to normal, it’s time to go outside and do fun things again. Spring is here, so for that fabulous reason, here are some of the amazing things you could do in NYC this time of year.
Have an alfresco lunch
Since many restaurants are still closed, offering only takeaway deliveries, then the second-best option would be, of course, to have lunch out in the open. Therefore, if you feel like going outside, then feel free to pick up a tasty meal from your favorite restaurant and go to the nearest part to enjoy it while breathing some fresh air.
Explore the ultimate FRIENDS experience
If there’s one TV show that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of laid back 90s New York, it’s definitely Friends. So if you’re a fan of this iconic series, then treating yourself to The Friends Experience might be the perfect opportunity for you. The place opened in 2019, and in March, it came back in full force, offering all the legendary scenes and props from the show. So, if you’ve ever wanted to experience Monica’s kitchen, or to witness the scene of Ross’s and Rachel’s wedding, then feel free to visit the place, and enjoy a drink in a real Central Perk café.
Ride a bike to feel like a movie character
Some people claim that owning a car in Manhattan is practically an impossible task. Even though this city offers a great subway transportation system, biking is still the cleanest and most practical way to move around the city. If you’re a tourist, then you can look into bike rental in New York as chances are, you’ll feel more mobile knowing you don’t have to spend time in the subway surrounded by too many people. Renting a bike in New York is a practical decision because it allows you to explore surrounding neighbourhoods and to participate in various group activities.
Visit Washington Square Park
This public park is located in Greenwich Village, and it has a huge historical significance, mainly due to civil rights movements and celebrations. So, if you love to relax surrounded by greenery and enjoying music, then Washington Square Park is a must-see attraction. There are numerous buskers and other musicians performing live music for the visitors.
Eat a New York – style cheesecake
If there’s one type of dessert that simply screams New York, it’s definitely a New York cheesecake. Simply, eating a cheesecake is a very distinctive New York experience, and luckily, there are many cafés, bakeries, and other eateries that sell super delicious cheesecakes, with cream cheese and other fillings and toppings.
Get lost in street art
Street art speaks tales about the city, and New York is no different from that. After all, street art was born in New York, which is why it’s best to admire it on the street instead of a museum. The best place to experience true street art of New York is the Graffiti Wall on the corner of Bowery and Houston. Big names in the world of street art have showcased there in the past, including Banksy and Shepard Fairey.
Go to Brooklyn to read your favorite book
If you ever find yourself in New York, then visiting Brooklyn is a must. Aside from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, this eclectic neighbourhood also has a public library. The Brooklyn Public library is about to open alfresco reading rooms, and the service is completely free. Meaning, once you get tired from all the sightseeing, you can relax with your favorite book while soaking up the New York sun.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is the unique New York Symbol. Gifted by the French to commemorate the alliance between two countries, this copper statue is something any first-time New York visitor should check out. But, to arrive there, you must take The Staten Island ferry, and luckily, the ride is free of charge, meaning that even if you’re strapped for cash, you’d still have a chance to visit this iconic monument.
Conclusion
Visiting New York is often a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so it’s important to visit at least some special places that make this city so special. These suggestions are perfect for any new visitor, however, since New York has so much to offer, feel free to come up with something new. Chances are, you’ll fall in love with this city, and you’ll want to be back as soon as possible.
While all the bridges and flights are closed, each country defending themselves against what all of us were fighting off this year, there are still places you can travel with the proper precautions, and please be aware of you and whoever you travel with, have a bit of common sense not to take the virus with you and follow all the rules.
If we all follow the rules of wearing masks, washing hands, make a test if you feel any type of symptoms, people can return to their “new” normal life and business can reopen properly.
I miss travelling. We all miss it here at the HQ and we were really happy to hear the good news from Madeira promotion Bureau saying that Christmas and New Year’s Tradition will continue this year.
Did you know that Madeira island (Portugal) has an open bridge to the UK? Did you also know it’s the safest destination to travel this year?
View from Funchal town (the capital of Madeira)
Madeira is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, sunshine, and culture in Europe. However, during what has been a crazy year, many have not been able to experience and enjoy all that the archipelago has to offer. An Island with an excellent temperature (our own tropical island in Europe), full of colour, good people, excellent food, warm weather and unique views.
We’ve been to Madeira twice and miss it for a lot of reasons. Especially because whenever I go there I bring a lot of food, drinks and plants. if you are a green thumb like me, you need to bring seeds from there!
Waterfalls to meet during your walks (or as they are called “Levadas”)
With this in mind, the Madeira Promotion Bureau has launched a special campaign called: MADEIRA. IT’S TIME FOR A DIFFERENT CHRISTMAS with the aim of inviting everybody to the island to come and enjoy a unique Christmas and New Years’ experience like no other.
Make sure you appreciate and try the local markets full of flavour colours and smells.
Christmas in Madeira is one that combines the brilliance of all that it has to offer, making it a different, yet cosy, experience that can be enjoyed individually or with loved ones during one of the most special days of the year. The island will boast Christmas lights, end of year festivities, fireworks, and food and unique that is exclusive to the island itself.
Despite living in very unusual times due to the pandemic, it is still possible to visit Madeira and make the most of this time of year, in a safe and hygienic environment. What’s more? There is also the promise of good weather and activities which will see you exchange the open fire for the sea and nature for a holiday that will create memories like no other.
The campaign will be live until 30th December and for more information, please visit: https://christmas.madeiraallyear.com/ and check out the social media pages too.
Discover Madeira and let this video help give you that festive feeling of the island:
