A brief recap: Since arriving at Ocean Villas Luz in August 2020, writer David Lugg has been experiencing all aspects of Luz Life. This is his review of November 2023:
Around eighteen months ago, I welcomed a new housemate into my apartment. Everything began well and we connected quickly, but over time, her behaviour became more erratic. Sleepless nights soon became the norm. There were frequent tantrums with food frequently being thrown onto the kitchen floor. Just this morning, she tossed a toilet roll into the bathtub whilst I was taking a shower. Yet, despite this, she is the greatest housemate of all and I wouldn’t change her for the world.
Yes, it has been almost a year and a half since the arrival of my beautiful baby daughter – the greatest housemate ever. It is fair to say that she is enjoying life here in this wonderful corner of Portugal. The warm weather gives her a sunny disposition, meaning she is never too far from a beaming smile. Until late November, we were able to visit the beach almost every day to jump the waves and build sandcastles. If truth be known, we were building more than just piles of sand – we built happy memories and the foundations of a friendship for life.
Unlike sandcastles, life with my perfect housemate doesn’t get washed away with the tide. Each day amazes me, yet each day is a challenge. I long for more sleep on a daily basis, or at least the occasional night without a 2am wake up call. My morning coffee now has an extra spoonful and late nights are considerably earlier than they used to be. But, as all parents will know, you gotta do what you gotta do – and you try to do your best. That said, I wouldn’t be able to function quite as well without three unlikely, yet much-loved saviours.
My first saviours are Michael and Sheena of ‘Luz Bakes’ bakery. They are absolute superstars and their food is terrific. Pies, cakes, quiches, puddings – everything is fabulous. Whenever I feel nostalgic for my homeland of Cornwall, I put in an order for one of their (stupendously good) Cornish pasties and the world is suddenly a better place. I’ve already reserved my Christmas cake and, if you find yourself in Luz this festive season, you should probably do the same. They don’t have a shop, but they do deliver to your front door. As I often say, ‘If you feel the need to grumble, then buy a Luz Bakes crumble’. Luz Bakes will put a smile back on your face.
My second saviour is the fabulous art scene that exists here in the town. There are so many excellent musicians, artists, writers, singers, photographers and so on in the area. There is no doubt that Luz has its own gravitational pull for those looking for artistic inspiration. I would go as far to say that the arty scene is crucial to the personality of Luz. It helps keep the town on its toes so it doesn’t fall into the ‘sleepy village’ category. If you would like an insight (or indeed a reminder) into the scene, I have created a Spotify playlist of some of the best music in the western Algarve. You can listen to the playlist by clicking THIS LINK. (Note: you will need a Spotify account).
My final saviour is all you lovely people that read my monthly blog. I have received so many kind comments this year and am extremely grateful to each and every one of you that takes the time to read it. I know that many have said it provides a welcome reminder of the town they love and I’m so pleased to be part of the catalyst.
If I may, I will sign off with an apothegm inspired my little housemate. We can only enjoy happy memories by creating them in the first place. I hope to see you in Praia da Luz soon.
More news next month.
David Lugg
#oceanvillasluz #davidluggwriter
All photo images owned by David Lugg