Trip to the Algarve and soccer tournament

It was nice to finally get down to the south coast of Portugal. We had an excuse, as the Embassy soccer team was playing in a tournament. It was organized by having different countries' teams play against each other in 30-minute games on Saturday and Sunday. John's team ended up doing really well, going all the way into the final match against Brazil. However, no surprise, Brazil won.

The picture above is the resort where we stayed. It wasn't on the beach, but had nice views of the countryside. Here are some more pics:


Outside of the Brazilian-style churrascaria restaurant we ate at, which serves all-you-can-eat meat. These types of restaurants are pretty popular in Portugal, given the Brazilian influence.


Orange grove on the way to the beach


We forgot to take pictures of the beach, but here we are on the promenade


John playing his best


There was a random performance by this group who were dressed in a very old style. Apparently they were from some tiny mountain town in Portugal, where they still celebrate their heritage by doing dances. We couldn't really figure out why they were performing at the soccer tournament.


During one of their "dances" they stopped, embraced each other, and started miming an act you wouldn't normally do in public! It was hilarious, and I was trying not to laugh too loudly as I took some photos.


Here is John and his team winning their second-place medals.

And here are the Brazilians. Can you tell they are very enthusiastic in their celebrating?