The Portuguese food is mostly simple but excellent. Served in large portions it gives very good value for money. For lovers of seafood, like I am, there are lots of excellent dishes to choose from.

My favourite is "arroz de mariscos", mixed seafood in rice.

The spiciest dishes are found in the Azores and Madeira. These islands were ports-of-call for the navigators who would barter with the natives, offering spices in exchange for fresh fruits and vegetables.