Portugal's southern Algarve Region, so named after the Arab word for 'The West', has long been a favorite destination of tourists, artists, and adventurers from all over the world. For anyone who has gazed upon its rugged coastline, which is famed for the way massive, golden rock outcroppings duel with white, sandy beaches along perpetually green and tranquil waters, this continued popularity is no surprise, although the natural features that drive it remain among Europe's great wonders. Many people, however, might be surprised to learn that this storied corner of the near tropical Atlantic still possesses a number of small towns that have gone largely undiscovered by the outside world. Almancil, a town of 8,795 in Algarve's civil parish of Loule, is one such hidden gem. Situated between the more well known developments of Quinta Do Lago and Vale Do Lobo, Almancil retains the traditional charm and look that has made rural Portugal a favorite vista for painters and hikers for generations. With an interior that is completely covered in blue and white 'azulejo' ceramic tiles, even, its Igreja de Sao Lourenco, or 'St. Lawrence's Church', is a prime example of the care that has been taken to preserve its cultural traditions. The past, however, is only part of Almancil's appeal, as an increasing number of individuals from both the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland have been drawn to the area due to its many English-speaking shops, entertainment venues, and fine dining establishments. It's for this reason that both Almancil's yearlong and seasonal non-Portugese residents often report feeling as free and comfortable here as they do in their native countries.