The article highlights the region's growing potential among North American travellers, highlighting its excellent beaches, high-quality cuisine, winemaking tradition and quality hotel offering.

According to the publication, the Algarve brings together elements that Americans associate with California: a mild climate, stunning landscapes, gastronomic experiences and a strong cultural identity.

The journalist who wrote the article spent ten days exploring the region and highlights that, despite being less media-focused than Lisbon or Porto, the Algarve offers a balance between authenticity and modernity that captivates those who visit it.

The beaches are, of course, one of the highlights. The Algarve coast is home to more than 150 beaches, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag.

The golden cliffs of Lagos, the hidden coves of the Lagoa area and the waves of Aljezur, sought after by surfers, stand out.

Travel + Leisure also says that the Algarve is the Portuguese region with the most Michelin-starred restaurants.

Another point praised by the American publication is the architectural diversity. In Olhão, the white houses are reminiscent of the Moroccan city of Tetouan, while Vila Real de Santo António reflects the Enlightenment style of the Pombaline reconstruction.

The comparison with California doesn't end with the landscapes. Travel + Leisure also highlights the growth of Algarve wine production, comparing it with regions such as Napa and Sonoma.

Traditional grape varieties, such as Negra Mole, Crato or Castelão, are being revived on farms such as Morgado do Quintão, which are committed to low-intervention viticulture and already supply wines to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Although the Algarve is increasingly present on international itineraries, it continues to be seen as a well-kept secret.

The magazine concludes that the region offers a rich and diverse experience, capable of rivalling the most prestigious destinations in the Mediterranean, but with the advantage of maintaining an authenticity that has been lost in other tourist spots.