Charm in Olhao

The apartment was bright, warm, spotless, and had loads of space. The host was excellent too. It’s only a short walk to the main area, with little lanes nearby that lead to some lovely hidden spots.

I’m giving one star only because I can’t give less. This man is a complete scammer. I searched for a pet-friendly apartment because I always travel with my two dogs. Even after we’d booked, he kept telling me I could bring only one. In that case, why advertise that pets are allowed? After an eight-hour drive, we were left waiting an hour and a half, despite agreeing to meet at 11 a.m. We unpacked, then went out to buy a few things. Before we’d even been there two hours, he texted to say the neighbors were complaining about my dog. I argued with him on WhatsApp, which was the last thing I wanted to be doing on the first day of my holiday. He was arrogant and, frankly, a snob. We packed up and left. He hadn’t taken our money when he opened the door, because he already knew he was going to scam us, and he also wanted us to pay in cash. A liar and a con artist! There were so many lies in just a few hours that I could go on forever. Disappointing. I definitely wouldn’t recommend booking with him.

The place we stayed was interesting and pleasant. I didn’t care much for the city itself, though. It’s very old and a bit run-down.

Around Olhão, some building facades have black-and-white paintings showing the fishing traditions of earlier times.