Get yourself to the Algarve, Portugal!
I’m just back from Albufeira and fuck does that place have stuff to do.
The very south of Portugal is where I was for a holiday with my girlfriend for 8 nights which was relatively cheap and affordable for top class accommodation and facilities.
First of all is the coast and the scenery which can be explored. I love climbing shit and exploring and myself and herself went into caves and non-tourist like routes. Although it was slimy, wet and sore on my feet seeing crabs crawling around the rocks was different to being lazy on the beach. Seeing the sunset from deep in the coastline rocks made me enjoy Albufeira, on the first day!
Going to the water park on the third day after a day in the sun by the pool really sent me back to being an excited child running around going on slides over and over again. With my GoPro in my hand on some of the slides looking back it was probably the best day of my travel. “Slide and Splash” water park is one you must check out if in the area.
Walking down to the old town on most nights for top quality food and cocktails, we ventured off to smoke some flavoured tobacco. It was always an aim for me to try it out and see what it’s like. If you smoke you’ll probably enjoy it, if you don’t smoke ah well you’ll enjoy the experienced.
With lots of tourist attractions myself and my girlfriend had some ideas. After many inspections parasailing and dolphins and caves experiences came into mind. For the dolphins and caves we went straight into the Atlantic and saw dolphins in their natural habitat. This was a different experience, regardless of how many TV documentaries and films you see with dolphins or any animal, in real life is the only experience. The caves wasn’t as equally amazing however provided the beauty of the untouched effects of the sea.
With parasailing on the second last day we didn’t know what to expect. Flying a hundred meters in the sky one the sea by a harness? Not your usual Monday? However when up in the air it was the most peaceful experience in the world. You don’t have to worry about e-mail, your phone, how much is in your bank account. For me it wasn’t adrenaline for what I was expecting but a feeling of stillness and awe of the scenery which can’t be seen from any other view.
Quality food, drinks and things to do in Albufeira are for anyone so get your ass down there for anyone who needs a break or an adventure for something different.
Jamie McGrath 