The Algarve enjoys year-round gorgeous weather, but you might want to think twice before donning your skimpiest bikini to wander round town. It can be easy to forget that Europe is so diverse in terms of its culture and customs, and many awkward faux pas can be avoided if you learn a little bit about the place you’re visiting before you go. We’ve compiled some useful information about Portuguese customs and etiquette to make sure you fit in and avoid offending anyone. Greeting People In terms of greeting people in Portugal, it is usual to shake hands with anyone you are not familiar with, including children, whereas friends and family tend to engage in an embrace and a back pat for men and a kiss on each cheek for women. Don’t assume that you know someone well enough for the embracing or kissing greeting too soon, as this may cause an awkward situation. While many shopkeepers and business owners in the Algarve speak English, not all will, so it is polite to ask whether or not they do by asking ‘Você fala Inglês?’ (‘Do you speak English?’) before launching into a conversation. Even if you can’t speak fluent Portuguese, the […]