Learn Portuguese in Faro: Location
The Algarve is known for its beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, golf courses and spectacular coastline. Faro, on the southern tip of Portugal with a population of 68,000 inhabitants, is the provincial capital of the Algarve.
It is a place of contrasts; a modern, lively city with attractive shopping precincts living in harmony with traditional craft markets, winding narrow mediaeval streets and antique shops of the old city. There are plenty of local bars, street cafes and fish restaurants and a lively night life to explore. Those who decide to study in Faro will find a town full of charm and colour, with an interesting history and the feel of a true Portuguese fishing port.
In 1755 Faro was destroyed by an earthquake and for this reason only a small part of the Old Town has remained intact. There are some great sightseeing opportunities, mostly centred in the Old Town or Cidade Velha, which is entered through an 18 th century gate and enclosed by the remnants of mediaeval walls. The historic walled city leads through narrow streets to a square in front of the cathedral (with an impressive, elaborate interior traditionally associated with Catholic religious architecture). From the pier, ferries cross the Ria Formosa lagoon to the beaches of Faro island.
The climate in Faro is mild with little rainfall and plenty of sun throughout the year, with the hottest months being July and August and temperatures reaching well into the 30’s Celsius.
Language students love the relaxed pace of life, the opportunity to enjoy the local water sports (swimming, diving, snorkeling, and wind surfing) and/or golf clubs in the area and it is particularly popular for courses in the warmer months of the year.
Local Specialities
The Portuguese have some fantastic dishes that you must sample whilst in Faro. The most popular soup in Portugal is the “caldo verde”- emerald green like the province of Minho where it was first conceived it contains green cabbage cooked in a light stock of potatoes and olive oil and spiced with a few slices of Portuguese pork sausage (chourico). The most popular cheese in Portugal is the “Queijo da Serra” is a sheep cheese, made in the Serra da Estrela region, where the highest peak of Portugal is located. Its smooth consistency and delicate flavour are very much comparable to the best Bries. Portuguese people are sweet toothed! Their specialities include at least two hundred types of pastries, and they have a wealth of dishes for you to try.
