The Algarve
To quote Lonely Planet – ‘Soaring cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands draw over four million visitors to the Algarve each year. Portugal’s southwestern border is surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic. It’s a paradise for surfers, especially along the refreshingly undeveloped west coast.’
Several years ago I spent a winter in Portugal, living in the tiny fishing village of Ferragudo.
There I rented an adorable village home from the wonderful Coehlo family. They took me in and made me one of their own. I celebrated the Christmas and New Year’s holidays with them as well a birthday and an anniversary. Mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, nieces, nephews, cousins and grandparents all made me feel like part of their family and not just a visitor in a strange country.
I have wanted to return for years and this trip gave me that opportunity.
Joyce and I caught the train from Porto to Lisbon where we made a very easy transfer to the train to Faro and then onto the local train to Tavira.
We were excited to spend time with Martha Carroll, a friend I knew from San Miguel who recently relocated to this beautiful seaside resort town. Also, Kim Lucas, a part-time Tavira resident from St. Croix, VI and a good friend of Barbara Pagano, Joyce and my mutual friend, welcomed us with open arms!
We split up with Joyce staying in downtown Tavira with Kim and me with Martha in her new townhome on the outskirts of town.
We had so much fun wandering the winding streets of this not-so-little village, taking the ferry from Olhao to the island of Culatra for a delicious lunch, eating some amazing meals at several outstanding restaurants, taking in a local production of an English murder mystery, plus thoroughly enjoying Kim’s gracious and over-the-top hostessing skills and the breathtaking views from her roll-away rooftop patio – plus watching Chuck putting up with all the ladies!
But my best moments were spent over a long, long lunch with just a few members of the large Coelho family. They drove for over 2 hours to see me and discuss my returning to Portugal – this time for a much longer stay. An idea has been planted, a lovely house has been offered, so I have a lot to think about!
The next morning, as we flew from Faro to Florence, I once again said goodbye to good friends knowing that I will return much sooner than the last time!
Until next time – in Italy!
My Home on the Roam 
Re-Ann Fabulous as always. I tried to post my comments but they could not find your page, so hope that you get this. Since you really have had enough of San Miguel, perhaps Portugal beckons now. Will be interested to hear how expensive Florence is. I received something from Kathleen Peddicord about Abruzzo on the Adriatic and am doing a heck of a lot of research on this area. Not been discovered so much less expensive. Mainly British foreigners Apparently there are 4 seasons but checking on You Tube and anything I can. At least could escape the nightmare politics of the US. gag! Must be very crowded in Florence now. how much are meals? I checked on trip advisor for “cheap” eats. also someone said that if you download trip advisor app you can make a reservation online. Some places have discounts. go to their sites and have a look. Pretty interesting. Robert’ has had his partial knee surgery on Monday. Very happy with the results. Physical therapist came to the house this morning and will come every morning for the next week. Wonder if you would qualify for a partial. SO MUCH LESS INVASIVE AND EASIER RECOVERY. cheers Pattie
On Sun, Jun 9, 2019 at 2:08 PM My Home on the Roam wrote:
> ReAnn Scott posted: ” The Algarve To quote Lonely Planet – ‘Soaring > cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands draw > over four million visitors to the Algarve each year. Portugal’s > southwestern border is surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic. It” >
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So enjoying your descriptions!
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Well. This all totally makes me jealous. Love hearing all about this part of your adventure. I’ll get to this part of the world soon! Travel well my friend.
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