Destination Expert

Paula Saraiva

Hi I’m Paula. I’ve been lucky to live across South Africa, the U.S. and Portugal. With Portuguese heritage and family roots, I’ve always felt a strong connection to this country. My international experience has given me a deep love for different cultures and ways of life. The Algarve is now home, where I enjoy the balance of beautiful surroundings, great food, and sunshine throughout the year! I value authenticity, connection and making the most of every experience.

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Destination Expert

Paula Saraiva

Hi I’m Paula. I’ve been lucky to live across South Africa, the U.S. and Portugal. With Portuguese heritage and family roots, I’ve always felt a strong connection to this country. My international experience has given me a deep love for different cultures and ways of life. The Algarve is now home, where I enjoy the balance of beautiful surroundings, great food, and sunshine throughout the year! I value authenticity, connection and making the most of every experience.

Describe the perfect day in your destination?

The perfect day for me would be heading to Praia da Marinha, one of the most iconic beaches in Portugal. The cliffs here are dramatic, and in the morning it’s still quiet. Take a short walk along the clifftop trail for those postcard views.

Lunch at "Rei das Praias" for a delicious cataplana ou fresh grilled fish.

I would then head to Tavira and walk around the beautiful cobbled streets and enjoy an expresso and a pastel de nata, you can't go wrong with this traditional and delicious puff pastry.

What are your top travel tips for your destination? 

1. Timing your days makes all the difference, with beaches and viewpoints best enjoyed before 10:30am or after 5pm, when the heat is softer and the crowds have eased.

2. You’ll also find having a car is essential, as public transport is limited for coastal exploring, giving you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, visit inland spots like Silves, and avoid expensive taxis during peak season.

3. Finally, the sun is stronger than many expect, so it’s important to wear SPF, stay hydrated, and remember that even on breezy days, it’s easy to catch the sun.

What local cuisine would you recommend to people staying in your destination?  

Clams Algarve-style

Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato.Clams cooked with garlic, olive oil, white wine, coriander, and lemon. Simple, fragrant, and one of the best starters you’ll have.

Cataplana (the Algarve classic)

Cataplana. A seafood stew cooked in a traditional copper clam-shaped pot. Usually includes clams, prawns, fish, sometimes chorizo, with garlic, tomato, white wine, and herbs. It's rich but not heavy—perfect for sharing!

What experiences would you recommend to our customers in your destination?

Driving to Ponta da Piedade is a must, where the Algarve truly shows off with its golden rock formations, turquoise waters, and some of the best sunsets in southern Europe.

A visit to Silves Castle offers a completely different side of the region, with its terracotta walls, sweeping countryside views, and a slower, more traditional pace.

For a sea experience, taking a boat or kayak tour from Benagil Cave is essential, as seeing it from the water allows you to fully appreciate the light and atmosphere inside.