Do you ever get the urge to just run away somewhere calm, collected and relaxing? I do, quite frequently, and I’ve found just the place too.
A small Portuguese island going by the name of Porto Santo is the place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, and blow away all your cares.
I’ve found another plus to this destination too – just a 3 hour 15 minutes flight, and no time difference. Bonus!
If you’re wanting major nightlife, lots of activities and busy daily life, then Porto Santo isn’t for you, and I’d suggest looking at some of the larger Portuguese resorts, such as those on the Algarve. However, for chilling out, Porto Santo is perfect.
To really make the most of the relaxing aspect of this holiday, I’d suggest booking into an airport hotel the night before, a real treat and a great start to any break.
Porto Santo is a small island, so you’re never far away from a relaxing day spent with the waves lapping at your feet. Maybe try some snorkelling, visiting some of the underwater inhabitants of the island, with the possibility of some dolphin spotting, if you’re lucky!
Vila Baleira is the capital and a must visit, for this is the main shopping area on the island, and if there’s anything I love, it’s shopping! Whilst in the town, head to the Christopher Columbus Museum and the port, for a coffee whilst watching the maritime world go about its business.
I do find myself getting a little restless with too much relaxation, so head inland and explore the rock formations and forests around the centre of the island. This is a hotbed of nature, with birds in abundance. There are lots of walking opportunities too – I don’t think you’ll ever be bored.
Nightfall means more of a chilled-out vibe, with entertainment mainly based around hotels, or over in Vila Baleria, where weekends mean more of a party atmosphere – however don’t expect raucous parties, you won’t find them here!
In my opinion, one of the nice things about a destination such as this, is the chance to really throw yourself into the local way of life, and a good way to do this, is to try some local cuisine. Seafood is popular here, so give it a go! I always try to sample something, it makes me feel that I have at least tried some of the culture, and not just soaked up the sun!
For a laid-back, chilled-out, and hassle-free holiday this summer, look towards Porto Santo.
This was contributed by HolidayExtras.Co.Uk.
Robert Schrader is a travel writer and photographer who’s been roaming the world independently since 2005, writing for publications such as “CNNGo” and “Shanghaiist” along the way. His blog, Leave Your Daily Hell, provides a mix of travel advice, destination guides and personal essays covering the more esoteric aspects of life as a traveler.
