Showing category "holiday tips" (Show all posts)

Algarve welcomes campervans in 7 new parks

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, In : holiday tips

Campervans are very increasingly popular as a means to discover the Algarve and at the same time they contribute to the economy of the region. To better serve these tourists and to discourage illegal camping, the Algarve now announced several extra parks to accommodate motorhomes.

The one in São Bartolomeu de Messines is almost ready and the one in São Marcos da Serra is under construction and will be ready in approximately 4 months.

Furthermore there is one rea...

Daytrip to Lisbon

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Thursday, October 26, 2017, In : holiday tips

A daytrip to Lisbon is a popular city trip destination for tourists in Portugal. Discover the diverse districts of this beautiful city, take a trip around the sights and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere. Have a look at the Castelo de São Jorge, go surfing in Cascais or go shopping in the big shopping streets. Here you find some tips for a daytrip to Lisbon:

Castelo de São Jorge. The Castelo de São Jorge has eighteen towers, all of which overlooking the city. It ...

The best souvenirs to buy in the Algarve

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Wednesday, March 9, 2016, In : holiday tips

It is always nice to bring home something to remind you of a place you have visited. If you have spent some time in the Algarve, then I am sure you had enough opportunities to make some unforgettable memories. Here you will find a list of some of the best genuine souvenirs you can buy here.

1. An "Assador de Barro" - This is a typical clay dish, used to BBQ sausage like the famous Portuguese chouriço right at the table. You just pour some alcohol or a typical agua...
Continue reading ...

Hike, Bike or Ride The Wild South-West

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Thursday, September 17, 2015, In : holiday tips

Along the beautiful west coast of south Portugal, the Rota Vicentina, offers more than 400 kilometres of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. On their new website www.rotavicentina.com you find a planning tool for trips and interactive elements including videos.

There is the Historical Way, the Fishermen’s Trail and several Circular Routes to choose from. The route is fully marked in both directions, and can be traveled independently and in total security. The...

Why The Beach Makes You Happy !

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Tuesday, July 14, 2015, In : holiday tips

We always knew this, but now there is scientific proof that the beach really does makes us happy. The reasons why maybe go way back to the time when our ancestors left the water to live on land. But at least as far as the origin of our own life in our mother´s womb. Our brain is instinctively programmed to feel better at the coast.

But there are more health benefits to the sea shore:

Sea water is very good for your skin and hair. It degreases and cleans and is therefore ...

Experience Some Adventure In The Algarve

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Sunday, July 12, 2015, In : holiday tips

Of course it is nice to spend some time relaxing, sunbathing and sightseeing during your Algarve holidays, but did you know there are also some great adventures to be experienced here?

We all know about surfing and there are some really great locations to do this, especially on the west coast. But there are also some adventure sports that you maybe have not heard of before, such as coasteering and stand up paddle boarding (SUP for short).

SUP consists of standing and bala...

The Best Tips For Eating Out in Portugal

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Friday, February 20, 2015, In : holiday tips

Eating out is one of my favorite pastimes here in Portugal. It is not only a nice social event with tasty food, but eating out in Portugal is also very affordable. At least if you look a bit further than the busy tourist traps. There are many restaurants, even in the smallest villages, and the majority of Portuguese eateries will rarely disappoint you.

For those of you who are not so experienced with eating out in Portugal, here are some practical tips and advices.

1. On...

Holiday Between The Locals

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Wednesday, February 18, 2015, In : holiday tips

As a nice alternative to sunbathing, beach or sightseeing, I can certainly recommend a day around the locals. Spend a day - or longer - in one of the many traditional villages, which will give you the feeling of stepping back in time 50 years.

Visit the local pubs there and observe the peaceful lifestyle of the locals. Step into one of the local mini-mercados (small grocery stores) and buy some Tremoços (lupine beans), pickled olives, local cookies from the counter or ...

Portuguese For Tourists

Posted by Marianne Hoesen on Thursday, November 6, 2014, In : holiday tips

For a pleasant holiday in Portugal, it is not absolutely necessary to speak the language, but it is definitely very much appreciated if you can use just a few words of Portuguese. Here you will find a first-aid kit to Portuguese phrases that will impress the locals.

Greeting. It is always polite if you can say hi in Portuguese. In the morning, you say BOM DIA, if it is afternoon it´s BOA TARDE and after the sun went down, you say BOA NOITE. If you f...

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About Me

Marianne Hoesen

SãO Marcos Da Serra

Born in the deep south of The Netherlands, I moved to the central Algarve in 2007, together with my partner and 2 dogs. In the meantime we added some goats and chickens and are living a peaceful life in the rolling hills of the rural south of Portugal. I invite you to read a bit in my blog and to leave a comment afterwards. Also check out the holiday accommodations mentioned elsewhere in this website.