Can't blame DCFC for wanting a bit of guaranteed sunshine to make up for the fact they'll spend half the season shivering their nether regions off in sub-zero temperatures, driving rain, snow, sleet and wild winds. Doubt Portuguese players have to wear gloves very often. Mind you, for them 16C is probably chilly.
Also, the Rams' pre-season trip can't be anything to do with golf, can it? The Algarve is renowned for its golf. I wonder if DCFC are staying at one of the Algarve's many luxury golf resorts, per chance? Couldn't blame them for that either. Their new boss Nigel Pearson probably likes a round or two.
The fact is, nearly every year a Premier League or Championship side chooses to have a pre-season tour in Portugal. Sunderland FC love it there. Some of their stars were videod dancing the night away in an Albufeira nightclub a couple of years ago. Many Derbyshire people will have been to the very same club. The Algarve is a huge favourite with the Brits and flights jet off from EMA to Portugal practically every day. No doubt some Rams fans will be wrangling a trip out there right now to make the Benfica game.
Anyway, if any Rams players are newbies to Portugal here are some things they need to know. Firstly, don't eat this!
1. UNUSUAL BEACH FINDS
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This, my friends, is a sea cucumber as opposed to a real cucumber. Go find one on the beach then leave it in peace and eat something sensible.
2. TRY SOMETHING PORTUGUESE
Sardines, cataplana (fish stew) and salted cod dishes are Portuguese classics but my favourite is Francesinha (little Frenchie). This little gem was born in Porto and is, basically, one hell of a hot sandwich. It's got bread, it's got, steak, it's got cheese, it sits in a kind of tomato soup-style sauce and it's topped off with an egg. After a night out clubbing in Albufeira, this heavyweight will soak up any excess beer with ease. But don't tell the club health guru. They might make you eat salad for a week afterwards. My other tip is order HALF a francesinha, unless you have the appetite of a full-size dinosaur. They are delicious, though. Trust me.
If that doesn't light your fire, try duck rice. It's delicious. Honest.
3. HAVE A NIGHT OUT
Night life.... well, if you want to boogie on down you'll need to head to the Strip in Albufeira. Plenty of pubs, clubs and Irish bars. It will certainly remind you of home, apart from being much hotter, of course. Try Matt's Bar. If that's not your bag there are plenty of other options. How about ...
Rams fans, send your #albufeira nightlife recommendations to #DCFC players...
4. I'LL DRINK TO THAT!
Quenching your thirst will be essential in 35C heat so here are two options, the good and the naughty but very nice, especially in a chilled glass. Try a Super Bock. Great to cool down and it won't break the bank, even post-Brexit.
However, your health guru may prefer it if you buy an orange squeezer and grab one of these bargains, often sold on the roadside.... To be honest, both drinks are gorgeous.
5. LIFE'S A BEACH, AN ALGARVE BEACH...
Whatever you do in the Algarve it's vital you don't miss out on seeing the beautiful natural wonder that draws most sensible people there; the jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches. The sand will be red hot under foot during the day but please don't miss out on this, lads. You'll be able to snap pictures worthy of a holiday brochure on your smart phones in seconds. Happy holiday! Oops sorry. Happy pre-season tour you super RAMS!
ReplyDeleteSuch a great Post!!
Thanks for Sharing!!Lisbon activities
Portugal holidays