Well, we've gone and done it. We've got the villa, booked the flights, arranged the car hire and now we just have to sit and wait for seven months

So, what's it like at this time of the year (24/12 to 02/01)?

Can someone tell me the best place to celebrate the New Year? I know we are getting away from the commercial side of Christmas, but we would like to see the New Year in with a bit of atmos

Are there any bars, clubs or venues where a big do will be going on? If it's anything like at home then pre-booking is essential, so advice now would be appreciated.

Or, do any residents and fellow forumers fancy a bit of company for the 31st? I promise that me, Sharen and my (newly married) daughter and a smashing son-in-law will behave

Oh, yes. We arrive in the village at approx. 20:00 on Christmas Eve. Will there be any restaurants open on Christmas Day or will we have to smuggle a Bernard Mathew's Turkey Roast through the customes at Faro

We were out over New Year this year. We hadn't booked anything in advance and spent New Year's Eve at the Hotel Almansor which had put a Dinner/Dance on. They had big tables put up and as it was just me and other half, we were on a table with 5 other couples. We just had a BRILLIANT time. Excellent company and the wine and champagne flowed and the food was extremely good. They had entertainment on as well and we left before they started the 2am buffet going! You couldn't complain about not being fed!

The cost was pretty good too and we didn't realise that it included an overnight stay in the hotel. We were staying in a villa not too far away and taxi fares were really cheap too considering what day it was. Could thoroughly recommend.

There were quite a few restaurants open too and the weather was very pleasant. We did just wear t-shirts for a few days. Very sunny and was a good time to go.

Hope you all enjoy it.

We stayed at the Almansor for our (1st/4th) Wedding Anniversary. We too had a great time. This is certainly one for consideration . . . unless, of course something better comes along

Before you query 1st/4th - we married on Feb 29 1996. This way i only have to buy a present every four years

Hi Michael,

I have not yet been in Carvoeiro over Christmas, but I understand that Germans celebrate Christmas Eve, not Christmas day. As such I am reliably informed that a 'happening' place to be Christmas Eve is Wolf's Restaurant (German owned) in Monte Carvoeiro (lederhosen not compulsory!)

Graham

Damn. Will I never be able to wear my lederhosen

To Sharen & Michael,
We had a lovely time In Carvoeiro at Christmas & new year 2002 (were there for Euro celebs.),and sincerely wish you the same this coming festive season--didnt go to hotel but celebrated privately with resident friends--but can tell you this,apart from one /two days the weather was gorgeous --we did have a month,but after 2 weeks we had a lovely suntan--spent smashing Christmas day on the praia soaking up sun & atmosphere --even had little swim!
Enjoy yourselves --Im sure itll be wonderful ! Best wishes,Ellie.

P.S.
Congratulations to your daughter on her recent marriage.I wish her and husband every happiness.
Elle.

Blondelle wrote:P.S.
Congratulations to your daughter on her recent marriage.I wish her and husband every happiness.
Elle.

She's not married yet. She is getting married in July . . . in Kenya!!!

We had a fantastic New Year's eve at Julios last year. Great atmosphere, food & terrific value. I suggest you book early ! :D

Sorry Michael if i read it wrong.
Getting married in Kenya in July--sounds wonderful.
Hope all goes well and we send our very best to them both.
Have a great time all of you and your Algarve Christmas too.

jeremy wrote:We had a fantastic New Year's eve at Julios last year. Great atmosphere, food & terrific value. I suggest you book early !

What - where is Julio's?

Julios is a restaurant between Carvoeiro town and Rocha Brava.