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Portugal is a dream destination for aerialists, movement artists, and adventure lovers. From its breathtaking cliffs and golden beaches to its laid-back culture and incredible food, this country is the perfect backdrop for both creativity and exploration.
If you’re traveling to Portugal for our Escape Artist Aerial Trip (or just planning your next adventure), this guide has everything you need to navigate the country like a pro—so you can focus on flying high and soaking in the magic.
1️⃣ Before You Go: Travel Planning Essentials
Best Time to Visit Portugal
Portugal’s weather is mild year-round, but the best months for an aerialist retreat are:
- Spring (April – June) – Warm, but not too hot. Fewer tourists.
- Late Summer/Early Fall (August – October) – Sun-drenched days with warm ocean temperatures.
🔹 Retreat guests: Escape Artist in late summer means perfect beach weather + golden hour lighting for aerial shoots.
Flights & Entry Requirements for Americans
- Flights: Direct flights from NYC, Boston, and Miami make Lisbon a great starting point. Plus, in May there will be direct flights from Newark to Faro. Faro is the only international airport in the Algarve so if you can land there- it’s such a treat. Not only for the convenience to the southern coast, but also the view as you come in!
- Visa: No visa needed for stays under 90 days. Just bring a valid passport.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended, especially if you’re training or doing aerial work.
🔹 Pro Tip: Book your flight to Lisbon (LIS), then take a train or short flight to the Algarve for the retreat. If timed right, you could even take a small plane with 7Air (it feels like a private plane- that’s how small it is!) from Cascais (just outside of Lisbon) to Alvor (in the Algarve) and from there rideshare to anywhere.
2️⃣ Getting Around: Transportation Tips
Should You Rent a Car?
🚗 Yes, if you want to explore hidden beaches, remote cliffs, or small villages. Although in the summer months it can be a major challenge to find parking so I’d stick with Bolt and local city transport if available.
🚆 No, if you’re staying in major cities like Lisbon or Porto (public transport is great).
Public Transport Basics
✔ Trains – Easy for long-distance travel (Lisbon to Algarve = ~3 hours).
✔ Buses – More affordable but slower than trains.
✔ Rideshares – Uber & Bolt are the best options (cheaper than taxis- and Bolt is typically the go to option here in Portugal because of price).
🔹 Retreat guests: If you’re only coming for Escape Artist, no car is needed—we’ll take care of local transport for the activities or point you to local transport if needed!
3️⃣ What to Eat & Drink in Portugal
Must-Try Foods
🍮 Pastel de Nata – The most famous custard tart. Get at least two.
🐟 Bacalhau – Salted cod, cooked in dozens of ways.
🔥 Piri Piri Chicken – Portugal’s spicy, smoky specialty.
🥖 Bifana – A simple but legendary pork sandwich.
For Plant-Based Travelers
🌱 Portugal is getting better with vegetarian & vegan options! Look for:
✔ “Prato do dia” – A daily special, often with veggie-friendly choices.
✔ Açaí bowls & smoothie bars – Common in beach towns.
✔ Fresh seafood & grilled veggies – A go-to for pescatarians.
🔹 Pro Tip: In smaller towns, ask for “sem carne” (without meat) or “sem peixe” (without fish).
4️⃣ Algarve-Specific Tips for Retreat Guests
What to Pack for the Algarve
✔ Light, breathable clothing – It gets hot, even in September.
✔ Swimwear – The beaches are unreal. You’ll want to dive in.
✔ Layers for evenings – The ocean breeze can be chilly at night.
✔ Comfortable sandals or sneakers – For exploring cliffs & cobblestone streets.
Beach Etiquette & Safety
🏖 Tides change FAST – Always check before setting up near the water.
🌊 Respect the cliffs – They’re stunning but unstable in some areas.
👙 Topless sunbathing is common – No one cares. Do your thing!
5️⃣ Money, Safety & Local Culture
Cash or Card?
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some euros for small shops & cafes. Keep your eyes peeled because if they don’t take card, it’s likely clearly posted.
Tipping in Portugal
Tipping isn’t required but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. I always leave a little extra for great service.
Common Tourist Scams & How to Avoid Them
- Avoid random people “helping” at ATMs. Offering drugs on the street is also not uncommon in the tourist hot spots. They’re mostly harmless, just annoying.
- Don’t leave bags unattended in cafes—pickpocketing can happen.
- Ignore “friendship bracelet” scams—someone tying a bracelet on your wrist will try to charge you after.
Basic Portuguese Phrases to Know
🇵🇹 “Obrigado” / “Obrigada” – Thank you (male/female)
🇵🇹 “A conta, por favor.” – The check, please.
🇵🇹 “Onde fica a praia?” – Where is the beach?
🇵🇹 “Mais um vinho, por favor.” – One more wine, please.
🔹 Pro Tip: English is widely spoken, but a little Portuguese effort goes a long way.
6️⃣ Final Tips for a Smooth Trip
Beating Jet Lag Quickly
✔ Arrive a couple of days early if possible.
✔ Get outside in the sun ASAP after landing.
✔ Stay hydrated & avoid excessive caffeine/alcohol on the flight.
Staying Connected
📶 Free Wi-Fi is common, but if you need data, grab a local SIM card (Vodafone & MEO are best).
Why It’s a Good Idea to Arrive a Few Days Early
📍 Gives you time to adjust, explore, and settle in before the retreat.
📍 Allows you to see Lisbon or another part of Portugal before heading to the Algarve.
📍 Lets you be fully present once the retreat begins—no travel stress!
Escape Artist: Your Dream Aerial Retreat in Portugal
Planning a trip to Portugal? Why not make it a transformational experience and enhance your portfolio while you’re here?
✔ Daily aerial training with Lexis Potter in breathtaking locations
✔ Professional photography & video to capture your artistry
✔ Luxury accommodation at the House of Honey + immersive cultural experiences
✔ A supportive, creative community of movement artists
📍 Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
📅 August 30 – September 6, 2025
🌟 Limited spots available—secure yours now!
