Portugal FAQ

Traditions and Tides in Lisbon & Algarve

March 14–21, 2026 | Lisbon, Lagos & the Algarve Coast

Overview

This immersive program introduces students to Portugal through culture, history, and coastal exploration while reflecting on themes of Black identity, global citizenship, and cross-cultural connection.

Over eight days, participants will explore historic Lisbon, travel along the Algarve coast, and engage in workshops and cultural experiences that encourage thoughtful reflection and global perspective.

The program blends education, cultural immersion, and exploration while allowing time for independent discovery.

Who This Program Is For

This program is designed for:

University and college students
Recent graduates
Students interested in Afro-diasporic history and global learning
Anyone looking to build global awareness and travel confidence

No prior international travel experience is required.

Locations

Lisbon

Portugal’s vibrant capital known for historic neighborhoods, coastal views, and layered cultural history.

Lagos & the Algarve

A coastal region famous for dramatic cliffs, Atlantic beaches, and historical connections to Africa and Moorish history.

Program Highlights

Cultural experiences including the Afro-Lisbon tour
Diaspora identity workshop and discussions
African dance class in Lagos
Algarve coastal exploration and Benagil Cave excursion
Moorish history experience at Silves Castle
Independent exploration time in Lisbon and Lagos

Program Dates

March 14 – March 21, 2026

Arrival & Departure

Students should arrive in Lisbon on March 14.

Preferred arrival window:
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Students may arrive earlier or depart later, but program supervision and activities only take place during the official program dates.

Flights

Flights are not included in the program fee.

Students will book their own flights.

World Walker staff can review flight options before booking to ensure arrival timing aligns with program logistics.

What’s Included

Hotel accommodations in Lisbon and Lagos
Daily breakfast
One catered farewell dinner
Private bus transportation during program activities
Cultural tours and workshops
Pre-departure preparation sessions
Post-trip reflection session

Students should budget for independent lunches and some dinners.

Accommodations

Students will stay in hotels selected for safety, location, and suitability for group travel.

Lisbon — Hotel Turim Alameda
Lagos — Hotel Ancora Park

Room assignments will be shared before departure.

Packing Guidelines

Students should pack light and travel efficiently, as they will be responsible for carrying their luggage between locations.

Recommended Luggage

Carry-on suitcase + backpack

This allows for easy movement during airport transfers, bus travel, and hotel changes.

Not Recommended

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Large or multiple suitcases

Suggested Items

Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket or sweater
Swimwear for coastal activities
Athletic clothing for dance class or hikes
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Portable phone charger
Portugal power adapter (Type C or F)

Students should bring versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.

Tipping in Portugal

Tipping is appreciated but modest.

Restaurants: 5–10% if service is not included
Cafes: rounding up is common
Taxi or rideshare: rounding up the fare

Money & Spending

Most students find $150–$300 USD is sufficient for personal spending during the week.

This may include:

Independent meals
Coffee or snacks
Souvenirs
Optional activities during free time

Portugal uses the Euro (€).

Most places accept credit cards, but students should still carry some cash.

ATMs are widely available.

Phone & Internet

Most smartphones work internationally, but students should check with their mobile provider before departure.

Possible options include:

International roaming plans
Travel day passes
Temporary international plans

Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

Students will also communicate with staff through the program GroupMe.

Transportation During the Trip

World Walker provides private bus transportation between Lisbon and Lagos and for scheduled program activities.

During free time, students may use:

Walking
Lisbon metro or trams
Uber or Bolt rideshare services
Local taxis

Safety

Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in Europe.

However, students should remain aware of their surroundings in busy tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur.

Students should:

Keep valuables secure
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash
Remain reachable through the program GroupMe

Pre-Departure Preparation

Students will participate in three preparation sessions covering:

Travel logistics
Cultural context of Portugal
Community building and safety preparation

Post-Trip Reflection

After returning, participants will take part in a reflection workshop designed to help students process and connect their experiences to future goals.

Cost

Program fee: $1,750

The program fee includes accommodations, in-country transportation, cultural programming, and select meals.

Flights are not included.

Questions

For questions regarding the program:

World Walker Program Team
Info@WorldWalker.org