Tavira, Portugal

A secret garden and a mysterious staircase leading nowhere...

Jack Ma’s advocacy for 996 wouldn’t get much grip here in Tavira.

Tavira seems oblivious about China’s debate over the concept of working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., 6 days a week. Oblivious too about the contradiction that the People’s party was founded on better living conditions for workers but now promotes sacrifices to build a powerful nation.

While Chinese incomes are rising and employees are offered more opportunities for leisure and relaxation, leading younger generations to steer clear of long working hours and overtime, Tavira emanates a relaxed and calming energy.Arriving on one of the charming squares, you can quickly climb to the ruins of a medieval castle, repurposed to a secret garden. From its lookout points, white houses with Chinese inspired roof tiles sprawl across the view, with Ria Formosa behind them and Tavira straddling Gilão river. As in many of these small southern Portuguese cities, ambling through the narrow cobbles streets is such a delight in itself, without the need for astounding attractions.

Nevertheless, you almost walk in the Romans’ footsteps: the Roman bridge, erected in 1667 on the foundations of a bridge on Roman road. It overlooks the mudflats which lead to Tavira’s famous beaches. Coming from the centre, if you look to your left when standing on the bridge, you'll see a strange-looking staircase which doesn't appear to lead anywhere... The small city also holds a number of churches of Portuguese heritage, with Moorish roots showing through.

Tavira offers modern cuisine with more traditional Portuguese restaurants and a strange hotspot of Indian restaurants. We lunched at A Ver Tavira, which I would most certainly recommend if you’re looking for an innovative take on Portuguese cuisine.

All in all, if you’re looking to visit a single city only on Ria Formasa, I would say Tavira is the one. Nearby are Olhão and Faro (check out my blog post on Faro!), as well as world class golf courses.