Since my Dad was the only one in our threesome that could drive a stick shift, he had the privilege of doing all the driving from Porto to the southern region of Portugal (the Algarve). Yes, that is a 6-hour endeavor without any stops. Thanks, Dad!
We rushed through endless roundabouts in an effort to make it to Cape Saint Vincent, the most southwestern peninsula of Portugal, before sundown. We passed a giant Portuguese ceramics shop – my mom and I obviously noted the location! The area is known for its beautiful (and highly important) lighthouse and its spectacular sunsets. We had to see for ourselves… Mission. Accomplished.
Due to its lucrative location for trade and travel, many battles have been fought here. Not much has changed today – the lighthouse still serves a huge purpose. It is one of the most powerful lighthouses in the world, reaching as far as 60 km (37 mi) away!
How cute are my parents?
After the sun set for the day, my mom and I convinced my dad to take us to the ceramic shop. My dad had to talk the shop owner into letting us in with only 5 minutes left before closing (…this is especially impressive, considering she spoke zero English!). And there, I fell in love …with plates! Due to time constraints, I snapped a photo and left empty-handed.
Our time in the Algarve was short, but oh-so sweet! We checked into our resort and almost immediately departed for a dinner at a local dive. When so close to the coast, the restaurant served nothing but the freshest seafood. Mom, Dad and I were in heaven: delicious food and fabulous Portuguese wine!
We kicked off Friday bright and early with breakfast at our resort. The view wasn’t too shabby!
First order of business: go back for my plates!! I bought 12 salad plates and 12 dinner plates; for less than 2 Euros/plate, even Meadows couldn’t complain. Our next challenge was actually packing the plates. My mom convinced us (and even bet us) that she could fit a salad plate in each of her coat pockets!
From there, we visited one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Algarve. The combination of rocks shooting out of the water and a hidden beach below made for the most magical scenery. Did I mention the water carved out a small pool into the rocks?
My dad and I took a mini hike to get a closer look! Meanwhile, my mom tested her plate-in-pocket theory. Her pockets were too small, but I still like to imagine her sitting with plates in her pockets on the long-haul flight back to the US 🙂
Mom, Dad and I soaked up our final moments of paradise before furiously packing 24 plates into our already-full carry-on-sized luggage and heading off for Seville!
Some of the prettiest pictures that you have posted–might have to add Portugal to my bucket list. Rob spent several months in Lagos right after college graduation and it is on the coast—hope it was this beautiful.
Spent two weeks in Portugal for business in 2013 and 2014. Awesome countryside, food, and people – very underrated when it comes to European vacation spots. Great photos Ann, looks like a blast.
Your Granddad and I missed a goodie by not going to Portugal ! I,too, love china, I’m SO GLAD, you made the purchase. This morning I heard the elephant story,can’t wait for your next blog. Grandmother
Love reading about your journey! And yes, you do have the cutest parents. Glad to see your smiling face as you globe trot!!