Adding to this thread with my own experience from February:
The scene has definitely improved since my last visit in 2023.
Biggest change: Some of the old spots have closed.
Still a great destination. 8/10 from me.
Portugal comparison: tourist areas vs local spots
Started by HalifaxHarry · 25 Feb 2026 · 1866 views
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25 Feb 2026 at 15:56
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26 Feb 2026 at 01:32
How's the nightlife there compared to the Philippines?
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26 Feb 2026 at 10:29
I had a bad experience there last year. Maybe I went at the wrong time?
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26 Feb 2026 at 10:50
100% agree. The atmosphere there is hard to beat.
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26 Feb 2026 at 18:40
Thanks for the detailed write-up. Very helpful for planning my upcoming trip.
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27 Feb 2026 at 00:29
This matches my experience. Portugal is a solid destination.
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27 Feb 2026 at 11:55
Just booked my flights after reading this. Thanks for the motivation!
Detroit, MI | 12 countries visited
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27 Feb 2026 at 13:35
Nice report. I'm heading there next month and this is exactly the intel I needed.
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28 Feb 2026 at 00:30
Agreed on all points. One thing I'd add — make sure to get a local SIM.
Ozzie Travels — Sydney, Australia
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28 Feb 2026 at 12:29
How's the daytime scene there compared to Colombia?
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28 Feb 2026 at 23:13
How's the weather there compared to the Philippines?
San Diego, CA | Member since 2024
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28 Feb 2026 at 23:59
I was there in January and can add some detail:
Prices: Good value overall. I spent about $100/day on the hobby side.
Girls: Mix of local and working girls from other regions. Quality was above average.
My favorite spot was a small bar off the main strip.
One tip: Go early in the evening for first pick.
Prices: Good value overall. I spent about $100/day on the hobby side.
Girls: Mix of local and working girls from other regions. Quality was above average.
My favorite spot was a small bar off the main strip.
One tip: Go early in the evening for first pick.
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1 Mar 2026 at 01:28
Agreed on all points. One thing I'd add — make sure to download an offline map.
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1 Mar 2026 at 08:23
Nice report. I'm heading there next month and this is exactly the intel I needed.
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1 Mar 2026 at 16:18
Can confirm. Was there 2 weeks ago and everything you said checks out.
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2 Mar 2026 at 02:36
Great report, thanks for sharing. I had a similar experience when I was there last month.
Calgary Kevin — Calgary, Canada
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2 Mar 2026 at 12:10
How long did it take you to get the lay of the land?
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2 Mar 2026 at 17:02
Good info. I'd add that the afternoon is the best time to go.
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2 Mar 2026 at 20:06
100% agree. The atmosphere there is hard to beat.
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3 Mar 2026 at 05:22
How long did it take you to learn the routine?
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