Algarve Letters

Medieval Fair at Silves

I was going to write a warning not to pay any attention to the local newspaper announcing that the Portuguese economy was rebounding and house prices are picking up. Anyone who believes that obviously needs help. So let's move on to more interesting subjects.



Now is the time for all good folks to attend the party. Usually I avoid Portugal during the end of July and the beginning of August, which means I miss the Silves medieval fair. This year I am in Portugal briefly between visits and could attend this splendid carnival. It's worth the trip.



I must admit I was a bit struck by some of the prices. €4 for a pork roll (without apple sauce or crackling) is a bit steep, especially if you are used to prices in Rotherham. In fact €2.50 for a small bag of nuts also rocked me. I guess I have gotten used to prices in other parts of the world. But apart from that, I had a jolly good time.



Medieval jousting (if you missed that, do have a look at my YouTube page where I have tried to capture the essential experience), moorish singing and dancing groups performing in the streets, hog roasts, wonderful sticky cakes at very reasonable prices, and a happy throng enjoying themselves in the warm summer evenings.



If you missed it, you made a big mistake. I'd go so far as to say that it is the highlight of the Algarvean year in terms of entertainment. And of course, it's better still if you arrive by boat up the Arade river.



Now, drop in on my movie of the jousting jamboree:
http://youtu.be/b81TByBwGnA

john