Domestic bliss

While exploring Lisbon, American magazine Anthology fell head over heels for the colours in painted tiles, of the sky above, of people walking the streets.

"From its rich and thriving tile history to heritage buildings undergoing modern transformations, Lisbon’s past-meets-present mystique has never been more alluring." And topping the list of highlighted shops: "A Vida Portuguesa specializes in domestic products, some by old Portuguese brands. There might not be a better place to grab a souvenir: its two Lisbon shops are packed with tinned sardines, cork accessories, craft beer, local skincare items and more.” Written by Chadner Navarro, photo by Miguel Manso

The reinvention of embroidery

Inspired by flowers and the time-honoured techniques of Nisa embroidery, Kitty Olive bags are handmade by craftswomen in 100% wool felt. Now available from A Vida Portuguesa shops with a 25% discount and even more irresistible!

Bulletproof footwear

“Reinventing military footwear with lace and flowers. Cortebel, a shoe manufacturing company from Cortegaça, Ovar, takes inspiration from its vintage legacy to create new collections. Keeping shoe’s structure, patterns are changed and new materials introduced. This brand wants to leave obscurity behind to tread the catwalks of Paris and Milan.” Written by Sara Dias Oliveira, photos by Adriano Miranda for Público newspaper.

Back to school

It’s that time of the year again and we turn to good old staple items. Tried and tested by many generations, they taught many Portuguese how to read and write. Off to school and off shopping we go!

Algarve concentrate

It tastes like a concentrated version of some of the finest things the Algarve has to offer – and it really is. Almonds grown from a bed of white blossoms, sun-dried figs and a sprinkle of magic that ranges from cacao powder to Arabian spices. Fig Cheese is handmade according to a traditional recipe honed to perfection by the family-owned Cabrita Neto company - to the delight of many sugar fiends.