Piglet in Portugal

When buying a permanent residence in the Algarve, it may be an idea to consider the following points and minor irritations of living in a popular tourist destination during the high season. Taking a vacation for a few weeks a

When you move away from your family and friends to retire or work in another country your relocation plans were probably accompanied by a sense of adventure, and a desire to experience a new way of life. However, if your

There are many different exercise classes here in the Algarve including yoga, zumba, and aerobics, so whatever possessed me to join a pilates class? I asked myself as I lay on the beach, covered in sand and frizzling in the

There are so many food fairs and festivals held throughout the year across Portugal, you are spoilt for choice. The Portuguese “celebrate” all types of foods from sardines, sausages and soup to perceves (goose neck barnacles) and sweet potatoes to

When you move to another country where English is not the first language or there are religious and cultural differences these may create barriers to full social integration. This does not apply to all expats, I hasten to add, however

As the Mayan calendar finishes one of its great cycles the end of the world, as we know it, is nigh. According to Wikipedia “A New Age interpretation of this transition is that the date marks the start of time

I’d never heard the term “Framily”, until recently when we encountered a problem and needed help. One morning our car without any pre warning refused to start. There was not even a gurgle or splutter from the starter motor, just

Market day in Portugal is always an interesting and colourful experience. Regardless of whether a gypsy or flea market I’m always keen to find a bargain as I meander from stall to stall inspecting the merchandise. This week we ventured

Since retiring, one of the time-luxuries I now enjoy is indulging in my passion to grow my own fruit and vegetables. I’ll never be self-sufficient due to the limited space in my urban garden, but the rewards and sheer enjoyment

The forthcoming Olympics in the UK made me wonder if there should be an event dedicated to the pursuit of mosquitoes. The physical dexterity required to hunt them down when they are after your blood rivals many of the traditional