Feeling special as I’ve been nominated again for the Liebster Award, but this time for this blog. Thank you again to Shanthini of the delicious Free Spirit Food for the nomination, I feel very honoured and so hope that you do get to have your dream vacation in Portugal.
I must admit I wasn’t sure how to handle the nomination for this blog as the post you need to write on acceptance doesn’t quite fit the style, and most of the wonderful Portuguese blogs I follow, unsurprisingly, have far more than 200 followers. So what I thought I would do instead – once I had visited all of the other brilliant nominees – if anyone knows Rhys and Danielle do tell me the outcome! – is share five Portuguese posts and one article which have inspired us to explore the Algarve, and also link (via the photos) to some old favourite posts of mine.
There is something about Portuguese architecture that demands you take photographs. I had for a while got carried away with photos of doors, chimneys and tiles and then the wonderful Willeke and Marlou inspired me with their journey through Portugal to take a second look at windows, and even paintings of windows.
We have as you will have seen by clicking on this photo of Mértola just begun to explore Alentejo, the beautiful region north of the Algarve. It is though Beyond Lisbon that has created the urge to properly explore more of Portugal. Our list for our next Portuguese expedition is growing!
Can’t remember when I first learnt that the Portuguese are the experts in making marzipan sweets, but it was this lovely Salt of Portugal post which inspired me to search out some delicious ones one day! The photo above by the way is essential if you want to find one of the best places to buy them.
You may have noticed that I mention Restless Jo quite a bit, that’s because I just love her blog. The post though that really inspired us was one of her Monday Walks, and this one was of Loule. We had been saying to ourselves for ages that we needed to visit, and then up popped her post and we were there later that day!
Our first visit to the Algarve was a couple of years ago now, and at that time my research was mostly via google rather than blogs. I soon learnt that blogs were the best way to find the hidden delights, but just occasionally you do come across a gem in a newspaper and magazine. Click on the photo to return to one of my very first posts to find it!
Hoped you liked my Liebster Award variation which has the added bonus of no expectation on anyone mentioned or linked to do the same!
If you are wondering though what my answers are to Shanthini brilliant questions check out my comments below, and for my other Liebster Award click here.