Sunday, April 23, 2023

We've Made It To The Algarve

Saturday we journeyed by taxi, plane, taxi, and train to Lagos, Portugal.  We were able to leave 2 suitcases at the hotel, in Barcelona, for pick up when we return, so we didn't have to schlep all of our cruise wear  to Lagos.  Thankfully, the journey was a smooth one.  We flew from Barcelona to Faro, Portugal on Vueling Airlines.  It's a low cost airline but the 2 hour flight was fine.  We did upgrade to the slightly roomier front of the cabin.  When we got to Faro, we had 2 encounters which seemed unusual from our other visits to Portugal.  The taxi driver from the airport to the train station was quite surly.  And when we stopped for lunch while we waited for the train, the host was less than friendly.  At least he warmed up as the meal went on.  The train station and restaurant were just a few blocks from the apartment we have booked for when we return to Faro next week so we were able to check out the neighborhood a bit before getting on the train.  Honestly, our first impression of Faro was not great, but we'll give it another chance when we return.

                                                    


Arriving in Lagos, I got a whole different vibe.  We walked about 10 minutes from the train station towards the apartment.  When we got close, our host, Cyrus, was waiting for us on the street to escort us.  The apartment is nice and big and the location is great - a block from the river and right by the old town.



 

After settling in and making a quick trip to the mini-market for some provisions, we went for our first Algarve dinner.  The restaurant, Cantinho Algarvio, was recommended by both Cyrus and Paulo (the barista on Oceania who lives in the Algarve).  The recommendations were spot on.


 


Today, Sunday, we explored Lagos.  We walked through the old town (with the obligatory stop for coffee and pastel de nata), walked up around the old city walls, and strolled along the water front.



















So far, Lagos feels very comfortable to me.  We've laid out some plans for what we want to do for the next 5 days, but taking it easy and enjoying the slow life will be part of it!

Peace, blessings, and the slow life,
Linda and Larry

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