Bikinis, Boats, Booze, Bogus

We have been asked to mention a small trend that has begun on our local beaches. A couple of guys are asking girls if they would like to go out on a boat and be photographed for promotional purposes. We are not sure if these dudes are legit. So be careful, they are probably harmless and just want to party with girls on a boat. But be safe never go anywhere alone with strangers.

So let us know your thoughts or experiences on this subject.

Eating in Lagos for 5 Euros or less

So, you asked the question "Lagos is getting expensive, where can I get a good meal for €5 or less"?
In response we have stared this section, where we will add the examples we know of and add the ones you suggest to us. I think you will be pleased to see there are quite a few choices out there on the cobbled streets of Lagos.


We have to start with CASA ROSA as they have always had the philosophy that you can make a good quality, fresh meal for under the fiver. They put a lot of hard work into creating a full and varied menu where every meal is just €4.50. Take a look at the menu here and remember, in addition to this they have a list of daily specials based on freshly caught local fish and seasonal foods.

So what is it like at Casa Rosa? If we were to only choose one word "fun" would be it. The place is friendly, lively and always a popular place to meet friends established and new. The tables are long, comfortable benches, making dining a sociable experience.

Is it just for travelers? It is a huge favorite for travelers, but the clientele is varied. Popular with families due to the quality and good prices. But also because there are a selection of table games like Jenga and Connect 4 for a little family fun.

If you need to find out more visit the Casa Rosa website here.

 

International Café - This place is slick and comfortable with the decor of a place you might think looked expensive. But it is great value. 

What's good there? Start your day off well with one of their breakfasts. All quality imported ingredients choose from the full English, the big breakfast baguette or any of the other combos. They have daily specials for €5 or less. Huge burgers and massive nacho platters.

What's it like? Air conditioned, free WiFi, sun terrace, big couches, big screen TVs.


Café Odeon - This little gem is another Lagos legend. Located between the Golden Church and the Lagos hospital, this small, homely café is well worth seeking out.

What's good there? It's all good. They are famous for their excellent value breakfasts that start at just €3. But they have so much more. They have special days like there popular Schnitzel Fridays. They are also famous for there large selection of burgers and wraps.

What's it like? It is cosy and relaxed. don't go there if you are in a hurry, go there to chill out and enjoy some good food.

Visit the Café Odeon website here for more information.

A Merendeira - This place is new to Lagos and is located between the two main squares in an easy to find location. The decor is modern rustic and yes, it offers good food for your blue.

What kind of food are you talking? - Portuguese is the simple answer. They offer menu deals that are great value. An example would be Portuguese soup, fresh from the oven filled bread, a snack and a drink all for €5.

What to look for? - This place is Portuguese and to date, there are no translated menus. But don't let this make you shy. This is a great place to get a taste of what this beautiful country can offer.
Café Fresco - This modern, friendly, relaxed café produces an impressive menu. Everything from a sandwich to a three course roast dinner.

What's the deal - The deal that seals them into this category is their "Early Bird Special" for just €4.50.

What do I get - This will get you a large bowl of there fantastic gourmet soup of the day. This comes with a roll and butter. Then finish off with a generous slice of one of their delicious, homemade cakes.

When can I get it - From Monday to Friday between 10am and 1pm.


So, let's here from you guys. tell us about your meals for five euros or less. Either by leaving a comment on this post or by email to fivebucks@lagos.me.uk

Beans Means Laser

Missing your Heinz baked beans? Well you have a couple of choices. One - Go find them in the larger supermarkets, they have Heinz but they'll set you back about €1.40 a tin or for a better option try Laser Beans (not Laser Beams, that's a different thing). They're good with a nice thick sauce and they only cost about 60 cents a tin. If you have found any good substitutes for items that you miss, let us know in the comments below or email us at tips@lagos.me.uk and we'll add your advice to our site and credit you.

Motoring in Portugal - The pros and cons

There is good news and bad news when it comes to driving in the Algarve. The process of getting started can be a tough one. This article will hopefully answer a few of your questions.

Bringing a car from the UK to Portugal - If it's just for a holiday, no problem. Just be sure to observe the differences in the law, the road system and try to remember to drive on the right.

If however you wish to bring your car to live with you, that is a different can of worms. You must matriculate the vehicle (re-register the car to Portugal) which is very expensive. This is a subject many people are watching closely. Technically Portugal is breaking EU law by imposing this condition, after all the whole idea of the EU is being able to buy anything in Europe and use it anywhere in Europe. The EU have told Portugal that they should stop this, but have lately chosen to ignore that it is going on. So with that in mind, you would be better off selling your car in the UK and buying another here. That way you bypass the expense and may kilometers of red tape and you'll have a car with the steering wheel on the correct side.

Buying a car in Portugal - this is a fairly simple process similar to what you are used to. Cars here , due to the difficulty of importing, are quite expensive. Once you have found your chariot of choice you must register it to your name. This will cost you about €70. Now for the good news. Cars are cheap to run once you own one. The tax is a fraction of the price of UK road tax and the insurance is cheap and includes full relay breakdown cover, wow. Not only that, there's more, this insurance covers the car, so anyone can drive it with your permission. There is a annual test similar to the MOT called inspection.

Driving in Portugal - There are a few things you need to know, good and bad, about driving here. The Portuguese are a wonderful, friendly people who love to share their food and culture with you. But they are chilled out race of drivers, they favor an aggressive posture with little patience. One habit that will shock you is their love of driving bumper to bumper with you at high speeds while trying to pass you on either side while talking on the phone and smoking. If you remember to drive is if everyone else is trying to kill you, you'll stay safe. The good news is, the roads are not crowded and you will hardly ever be in a traffic jam. There are no UK style "cash cow" speed cameras lurking around ripping you off with a fine every time you go over the speed limit by a couple of ticks. The scenery is beautiful and the weather is good for driving.

Alternatives - Car hire is very reasonably priced with most companies allowing you to collect a car from the airport and leave it at you choice of location in the Algarve and vice versa. Public transport is good. Bus, coach and train trips are very cheap. Taxis are located in central ranks in most towns.