Algarve

Algarve is likely the largest tourist destination in Portugal, besides the capital of Lisboa. The Algarve is the southern region of Portugal, and has alot of wonderful beaches. I went with some friends to Lagos, Faro, Olhao, Espiche, and Portimao. It was rainy most of the time (just our luck!), but the sun came out for these shots.

Olhao at night (fishing town, note the moorish architectural influences)

Myself and the Algarve crew. Yes, that is a double chin...the food is that good here.

 

Lagos

  Some Easter ceremony decorations were being displayed that week.

 Mercado dos Escravos...The Slave Market. Sadly, this part of Portugals history began here, the slave trade back in the 1400's, bringing Africans here to be sold and shipped to other locations. It has now been converted to a museum, displaying objects and commentary related to this period of history.

Lagos

Espiche. You can see the clouds ready to attack in the distance.

One of several rainbows I saw on this trip. The rain was unfortunate, but I have never seen so many rainbows in my life!

Campsite in Espiche. We all brought camping gear, but forgot tarps, thinking the weather wouldn't be so dreary. We stayed in this bungalow instead. It was a fun trip.

Chocolate? Yes please!

Obidos, Portugal. Not just a castle. It is also host of an annual Chocolate Festival. Yes, I capitilized the C in Chocolate, because to me, it has earned the right to be placed amongst the Gods. I had Chocolate sangria, but I drank it before I thought to take an image! Enjoy the images.

Venezuelan Cacao:)

  Honestly, I am not very surprised to see the Portuguese have made a chocolate rendition of one of the stations of the cross. Not surprised at all!

I should have taken a video of these guys, they were having a blast dancing away.

Chocolate Chef Masterminds, thinking up the next cool chocolate sculpture.

"We're gluttons" I agree:) I bought a six pack.

Chocolate covered mimes...they weren't out there for too long. :P

 

And the best for last, Chocolate Pasteis de Nata!!! OMG

Busaco National Forest & Luso

First settled by Benedictine Monks (apparently they were specifically barefooted monks) in the 16th Century, Busaco National Forest has over 250 acres of land that has hundreds of different of types of trees and plant life. Celebrating its centenial this year, the famous Battle of Busaco occured in 1810, when thousands of French troops attacked both British and Portuguese soldiers here, an unsuccessful attempt of Napoleons to control the Iberian Peninsula. After monasteries were abolished in the mid 1800's, the royal family commissioned a Italian opera scene/architect to design the Busaco Palace, as seen below. It has since been made into a hotel.

Part of the Monastary and the chapel, below. It was lined with cork to keep warm in the winter.

Nearby is the town of Luso. It is famous for its mineral waters, and spas.

  Proof that I am eating well:)