Spirit of Exploration - Discovering a Rich History in the Algarve

Searching for surer pastures my family, like many left Portugal in 1974, during its political turmoil, and I learnt early on the world is filled with interesting and different places. Growing up surrounded by photographs and artifacts from my fathers travels to Africa and Asia, only made the world seem, even bigger, with endless corners to discover. And somewhere in there, it happened. I got bitten, by that thing, that bug, the one that makes you hungry to see, do, try, learn, explore, experience and discover. I’ve joked with my father about some of the strange things I’ve inherited from him, like a drippy nose when I drink coffee, and toes in constant wiggle mode, but my quest to explore is one thing, I should really thank him for - so thanks dad!

Having now lived, worked and traveled in a number of countries, I’m fortunate not only to have learnt much about other people and cultures, but about myself. It’s a funny thing how exploration can turn inward when you’re looking outward, and makes you more self aware, tolerant, compassionate and ever more curious to go deeper. Having the opportunity to cross the paths of many people and places, tasted strange and wonderful things and having my eyes and ears peaked with the beautiful, unexpected and incredible. It’s the return to my roots in the Algarve that’s been the most interesting exploration so far; maybe because it hits the core like no other place can. This experience sometimes reminds me of the Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. If you’re not familiar with the story - it’s about a boy who travels far and wide following his dreams and looking for treasures, only to discover the greatest treasure has always been right there, where he started.

Traveling 2.0

We were recently at a Social Media conference in Geneva, “Going-Solo”, that brought home the point of how social the web has become, how truly connected we all are, and how that can be a really good thing, most of the time. You’re probably wondering how this relates to traveling? Well, like all areas of the net, social media has also been a big factor in traveling…like AlgarveBuzz for example, it helps you see what a place is all about, before you book your ticket and spend your money. Just like, there are dozens of other sites you visit before deciding where to go, stay, what to do and so on.

But until now, there were few places dedicated to the hard core traveler, that were social and provided first hand experiences in a consolidated format, well, it seems that’s about to change. We were recently tipped about a brand new social site for ‘travel sharing’ call Placely.com. If you like to have first hand info, tips and experiences from other globe trotters this might be a good place to check. The site is new and believe still in beta, so patient may be required.

Algarve to Cork

On Thursday, we will be trading our sun glasses for an umbrella as we head up north to Cork Ireland for a few days.

As some of our readers will know, at this time of the year there are no direct flights from Faro to Cork, to make due, we’ll be flying Faro to Dublin via Ryan Air and then taking a connecting flight from Dublin to Cork

Cork Ireland

Photo Credit: Moser Maroon

During the summer months when there are direct flights from Faro - Cork it’s a great getaway, not for the rain, but for great restaurants! Over the years we’ve discovered how much Corkonians love to eat out - as a result, we’ve learned if there’s a hot place to eat in Cork, you have to make sure to book reservations well in advance, or you’ll miss out.

Here’s a sample of the restaurants on our list during our 4 day visit:

Wagamama
It’s not a traditional Irish restaurant or pub, it’s a different food experience all together, and one of our favorite gems in Cork.

Wagamama
4-5 South Main st
Cork Center
Tel: +353 (0) 214 278 874

Star Anise
This is a warm cozy little spot, and one of our absolute favorites. One of the owners is usually there, and as chaotic as it may be to run a very popular restaurant, they make it seem effortless and the service is always wonderful. The menu is small and changes regularly, and always has a list of options that makes it difficult to choose. Just thinking about Star Anise and the fact we got reservations confirmed gets my taste buds in a frenzy. Can’t wait!

Star Anise
4 Bridge Street
Cork Center
Tel: +353 (0) 214551635

Fishy Fishy Café
Fishy Fishy Café tucked nicely in Kinsale, Cork is not your ordinary restaurant … it is one of the most popular restaurants in all of Cork County. These folks know fish & shell fish and the dishes they bring out of the kitchen are wonderful every time. There are no reservations, no credit cards and no guarantee you’ll be able to get a seat … asthere’s always a waiting list, and a line. Sunday afternoons are chaotic with at least an hours wait … and of course there’s a line up waiting. Line ups drive us mad, but at Fishy Fishy, Moses and I will be wearing our comfy shoes and waiting - it’s that good!

Fishy Fishy Café
Kinsale, Cork
Tel: +353 (0)21 4700415

Will be sure to take some photo’s during our mini-trip.

Visit Algarve - More Ways to Get Here

Want more ways to visit Algarve? Well looks like this is about to happen. Yesterday there was a big announcement that EasyJet bought out ~~British Airways~~ [update] GB Airways.

How does this deal benefit traveling to the Algarve you may be asking? Well, news is that, flights will soon be available from both Gatwick and Heathrow direct to Faro Airport. I’ve also recently read talks are ongoing to bring 10+ low cost airlines directly into Faro airport for next year. The deals haven’t closed yet but there is definitely an initiate to open up more routes from across Europe directly into Faro, Algarve. EasyJet hasn’t provided exact details on dates and fares yet, but they look to be aiming at the first quarter of 2008.

Visit Algarve

We’d love to have more guests visiting Algarve, but hope the influx of more tourists, doesn’t mean less chestnuts to go around : )

World Travel Awards - Portugal Wins Best Boutique Hotel

The votes are in and Portugal is now well listed amongst the prestigious “Travel Oscars”, taking top honours for Best European Boutique Hotel, and top nominations in other categories such as golf and diving. With new projects breaking ground for a number of 5 star hotels & golf resorts in the Algarve and across the country, looks like this award could be just the beginning!