There are some lights here and there and some decorations too, but none of them give you that grand sensation of festive spirit - the atmosphere is missing.
Yes, there are a few organised Christmas markets nowadays and some hotels offer seasonal parties - but overall the Portuguese seem to be unaffected by the eccentric Christmas fever – that is the norm in London, New York, Paris or Berlin.
Walking through quiet streets and watching the Portuguese people - they seemed to be perfectly happy without all the Christmas commercialism. Visiting Meia Praia in Lagos, I paused for coffee at one of the open beach restaurants and I watched the tourists, looked to the sea and drank in the view. I began to feel very satisfied and fortunate: a sensation of being grateful and lucky to enjoy beautiful weather, clean beaches and friendly people. I returned home and sat on my terrace to further enjoy the fabulous views. So what was it? Something more than just Christmas spirit – it was happiness and satisfaction. I’m so happy and content to have made the decision to buy a property in the Algarve and have no regrets.
By Susanna Gross, Sales & Marketing Manager, Togofor-Homes Real Estate.

For more information Tel. Lagos: (+351) 282 476 568, Vilamoura: (+351) 289 322 134, Tavira: (+351) 281 027 570 or visit:
www.togofor-homes.com