I went to Lagos shortly before end of the tourist season (middle September).
GETTING THERE:
I got there by taking the coach (4.20 euros) from FARO. I definately would recommend you to take the train instead (except at siesta time), it only costs about 1 euro more. The reason I do not recommend the coach is because delays can occur quite easily (my 2 hour journey turned into a 4.5 hour nightmare with no toilet break).
STAYING IN LAGOS:
Once I arrived there, I headed to the pre-booked youth hostel. This hostel is very popular, so pre-booking is essential, no matter when you travel. It's located in the town centre, is quite modern, staff is very friendly, nice mix of travellers and a very relaxed atmosphere. Price: 10 euros per night.
There are lots of portugese people trying to earn extra euros by subletting rooms for tourists. Lists can be found at the tourist office, but they will most likely already have approached you on the street!
For hotels and appartments, check a travelguide. According to what I heard, accomodation must be reserved beforehand when going there July/August.
THE BEACHES:
You have the choice between Lagos' very own Meia Preia, a 4km long sandbeach and smaller sand beaches, tucked away between Lagos' characteristic rocks, that provide a stunning view and invite for exploring of the hidden-away grottos. The beaches are clean and rather nice.
HIGHLIGHTS:
I strongly recommend booking a boat trip to the grottos. Take a camera with you and enjoy the breathtaking sights that will be brought to you. Only downside: Not all guides speak good English.
If you are reasonably fit and up for it, book a Kajak tour at the Lagos Surf Centre (Price: 25 Euros). The tour lasts 3-4 hours, and you will paddle along the rocks, through small tunnels and inside hidden grottos with your kayak. You will paddle from the peaceful Mediterranean to where it meets the wilder Atlantic (the water will be a lot wilder there). The sights and the fun factor of this trip tops the boat trip a zillion times, but then, kajaking is not for everybody.
FOOD:
Lots of traditional fish dishes, but there is also a number of 'world cuisine' restaurants. Chances are, you will find what you fancy. I had no bad experiences regarding food.
NIGHTLIFE:
There's a lot of bars to choose from and nightlife is good fun in Lagos. If you have a look around, you will find lots of special offers. One night I only spent about 5 Euros and a had about 4 drinks and 2 shots. There's more young people in Lagos than in Albufeira (which is very pretty too, but offers a very different sort of nightlife, aimed mainly at tourist couples aged 50+).
THE TOWN:
Lagos offers a nice harbour, a quite romantic sea promenade, and the town structure has quite an old feel to it (of course most houses have been overwamped to adjust to the influx of tourists). The streets are mostly uneven and cobblestoned, which of course adds to Lagos' charm.
LANGUAGE:
Everybody seems to speak English, so don't expect any language problems.
OTHER:
- I went there on my own as a female and found it very suited for lone travellers (as well as for anyone else really).
- I guess mid-summer, Lagos must be packed with tourists. If you don't like that, wait until September.
- Temperatures in September were really nice and warm, but not unbearably hot.
I can't wait to go back there.
by (13%):
02.08.2005 13:10
Very good review, I had 3 days in Carvoeiro in May. Going back next week,Lagos will definitely be on the agenda. I can't wait.
17.07.2005 15:27
good review - i have been there and we had a lovely time. lyn
01.02.2005 13:40
good review. Looking forward to going there myself in a few weeks