The Olhão market was packed today, which was no surprise given the temperatures and the sunshine. I truly can’t imagine what it must be like in the months from June till September with the increase in tourist traffic. In any case, we enjoyed ourselves immensely and as usual, ended up meeting up with a few friends to share in coffees, conversations, and laughter.
These two critters were very demanding of love and affection but both seemed well fed. They were “nesting” in a bundle of old clothes on the front steps of the local police station, water bowls filled and kibble nearby. Of course I spent a bit of time giving them a scratch or two!
And speaking of the police. You know you’re old when you see them and you think they look twelve years old! LOL I saw about six of them at the market today, smiling and greeting folks. Very non-threatening.
The common theme throughout the vendors today was flowers. It seemed so many of them were selling them and it was obvious that folks were buying them up as so many were walking around carrying them as they wandered off with their purchases.
The atmosphere here each week is crackling with energy. The scents, sounds, and of course all the delightful people watching. I found myself smiling constantly today by simply seeing the pleasure on the faces of so many of the shoppers. I stood beside the sea for about 10 minutes with my eyes closed simply listening.
Frequently during our visits here we are entertained by local groups playing, singing, and dancing. Today was no exception. Wait till the end of this blog and take a few moments to watch the video Marc did today, it is bound to make you happy.
And of course, our coffee ritual. I didn’t get everybody as folks were wandering off to shopping or to explore but I did capture a few faces.
Marc and I had already determined we would head home after marketing, prepare lunch there, and sit by the pool in the sunshine, dining and then relaxing. It’s exactly what we ended up doing and it was a perfect choice. I might even be forced to admit the sunshine and lunch helped lull me off for a half hour snooze on a strategically placed chaise!
And as promised…….enjoy!
You got some great shots. The weather was absolutely perfect for a good wander and yes, a good people watch. We also spent some time looking out over the water …… bliss 💕
I’m really happy you finally got to experience this market, it’s always such a great time and a bit more authentic than some. although it’s getting more touristy as years go by.
What a gorgeous day! I love the photos of the market, the water’s edge, friends, people smiling! Is it possible those two cats are pregnant? Especially the dark grey one, her belly seems low to me! Enjoy!
They could be pregnant but my understanding is that most of the feral cats in Olhao are spayed. It’s some kind of program the city has in place. Whatever, they were certainly friendly and craving love, which I provided!
Looks like a lovely Market day again. I don’t know if I’d be a good person to have there if there were cats and dogs out around on their own, I’d probably take them all home with me. So I am glad to hear that they are being looked after to some degree. I’m hoping that gray one is actually just spayed or neutered and that is the result of that hanging belly. I’d hate to think of another litter on the way. Loved the video again. You know I love to see that’s a lot of the entertainment there at the markets and such are actually some from the younger generation. They seem like they are enjoying themselves as well. Love and hugs to you both.
I think that more and more people are taking care of the cats with spaying programs and certainly we see “cat houses” and food almost everywhere. All the small town have something. The dogs are a different story, but it’s not the Portuguese, it’s the temporary tourist who stay for a few months, get a dog, or start feeding one, then abandon it. Mind you, we are seeing less and less of that also.
I sure miss the Olhão market on Saturdays! It is so vibrant in every way! I can so easily transport myself there by closing my eyes while reading your blog, enjoying your photos and delving into Marc’s video. All whilst a huge smile covers my face!
A marvellous start to my day! ❤️
It’s pretty amazing indeed although sometimes it’s almost a tiny bit overwhelming when there are so many of us. I think that’s why we all tend to take time away from the group and wander, to really allow time to soak it up.