Nazaré, Portugal: How A Fishing Village Became a Surfing Mecca

October 8, 2021

For centuries, Nazaré, Portugal was a traditional fishing village; until it made its way on the big wave surfing map. Now, it’s what many consider to be the Mecca of surfing, drawing crowds from across the globe.

Luis Ascenso from Lisbon, Portugal, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Historically, big wave surfers gravitated towards the waves found in the surfing communities of Hawaii and California. Locations like Jaws, Mavericks, Shipstern Bluff and Mullaghmore were thought of as the best of the best. However, it wasn’t until recently that Nazaré, Portugal made its name as a surfing destination. Nazaré’s beach of Praia do Norte has all the elements for disaster—a deep underwater canyon and currents of waves that collide into one, breaking towards the coast of monumental cliffs. Surfing there, in the winter especially, was long thought to be impossible. It wasn’t until 2010 that someone was daring enough to surf the uncharted waters and alter the history of Nazaré forever.

Just a few meters off the shore of Praia do Norte is the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater submarine valley 3 miles deep. When water currents move through the valley, they get compressed and begin to move faster. When these currents collide with the local water current, they forge waves upwards of 10 stories high. Among villagers, the waves in Praia do Norte were forbidden. Many had loved ones who died at sea, and they taught their children to avoid the huge waves. So in 2010, when Garret McNamara first arrived, locals were apprehensive about getting behind him and his mission to ride a 100-foot wave.

It took five years for McNamara to take up an invitation from Dino Casimiro, a local bodyboarder who worked to publicize Nazaré’s waves. When he first laid his eyes on the view from the cliff, he told The New York Times, “it was like finding the Holy Grail.” He’d spend the next year preparing, studying the rhythm of the waves, and developing a safety system with his team of jet-ski tow-riders and spotters on walkie-talkies. Finally, in November of 2011, McNamara conquered a 78-foot wave, earning him a Guinness World Record, and serving as proof that Nazaré’s waves were real and surfable. From that moment on, every big wave surfer in the world wanted their shot to make a name for themselves at Nazaré. Today, at least 20 professional surfers stay in Nazaré during any given week in the winter, including men and women like Justine Dupont, Lucas Chianca, and Kai Lenny.

In 2013, the town’s current mayor Walter Chicharro was elected. Chicharro worked with McNamara and Casimiro to capitalize on their waves’ fame and invested in the professionalization of the surfing scene. The World Surf League now hosts an annual big wave surfing challenge event every winter, a time that Nazaré’s 10,000 locals were accustomed to having to themselves. In additon, Mayor Chicharro opened the town’s 17th-century lighthouse, Farol Da Nazaré, both as a museum showcasing the town’s history and as a space to view the waves. According to an article in The New York Times, about 40,000 people visited it in 2014, while more than 220,000 entered the fort in 2018.

Today the town is used to the presence of surfers; even the local fisherman welcome them thanks to the business they bring. Joao Carlines, a retired fisherman, told reporters that “Surfers have a different relationship with the sea, but I’m happy the town’s become known for surfing because it means we have people coming here in the winter.” While the elusive 100-foot wave has yet to be ridden, rest assured that it will be one day, and it will be in Nazaré. In anticipation of that day, surfers and their fans will continue traveling to the seaside village in hopes of witnessing the historic event for themselves.

Stuck at Home? Try These 5 Virtual Travel Experiences

April 22, 2021

With uncertainty surrounding the pandemic’s end, many sustainable travelers are unsure of when they will be able to venture back out into the world. Sustainable travel is rooted in the idea that one’s trip leaves a positive impact on the community visited, and the risk of spreading COVID-19 to remote communities around the globe directly interferes with this principle.

However, many sustainability and social action travel companies have pivoted from in-person travel to offer a variety of virtual experiences which connect travelers with communities they would otherwise be unable to visit. Likewise, a number of tourism organizations, tech developers and travel lovers have created their own virtual travel offerings. This allows communities around the globe which have traditionally been reliant on tourism to maintain economic sustainability during this period of uncertainty. Here is our guide to five organized virtual travel experiences that you can do from the comfort of your home.

1. Learn to Prepare Mexican Salsas with ExplorEquity

*A variety of salsas. Chasing Donguri. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.*

Salsa is synonymous with Mexican cuisine. The delicious topping for chips, tortillas, tacos, burritos and enchiladas can trace its origins back to the Aztec, Mayan and Incan empires. Later popularized in Mexico and the United States throughout the 20th century, the salsa we know today can be made from combining an endless variety of ingredients. Given the regionality of Mexico’s cuisine, the country continues to innovate the popular dish in local restaurants, cafes, bars and homes.

With this unique virtual experience from ExplorEquity, travelers will learn to make a green creamy salsa, a red molcajete salsa and salsa macha. Led by chef Natalia from Mexico City, this virtual experience is perfect for salsa amateurs and connoisseurs alike. Each of the three recipes yields two servings, making this the perfect class to take with friends and family. ExploreEquity’s “Learn to Cook Mexican Salsa” class costs $39 per person and is generally offered every few weeks.

2. Practice Yoga in Sri Lanka, India and Portugal with Soul & Surf

*A person practicing yoga on a beach in India. Dennis Yang. CC BY 2.0.*

The origins of yoga date back thousands of years, but the practice is most commonly associated with Hinduism as one of its six orthodox philosophical systems. While still commonly associated with India, which is home to the world’s largest Hindu population, yoga over the past few decades has gained worldwide popularity for its physical benefits and meditative and spiritual components.

Soul & Surf, a wellness travel company operating in India, Sri Lanka and Portugal, offers travelers at home a unique opportunity to practice yoga with teachers from around the globe. Unlike other virtual yoga opportunities which generally consist of an archive of prerecorded sessions, Soul & Surf’s at-home yoga experience involves videos that are created and uploaded on a weekly basis, allowing travelers at home to connect with their teachers and destinations around the globe. Soul & Surf’s at-home offerings are continuous, and are sold as subscriptions for around $33 a month.

3. Break Bread with a Faraway Family Through Two Point Four

*A family sharing a meal in Mozambique. WorldFish. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.*

One of the biggest casualties of sustainable travel throughout the pandemic has been the ability to connect with communities around the globe on a one-on-one basis. These intimate connections help to build lasting relationships, provide an opportunity for a mutual sharing of cultures, and foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the depth and complexity of the global community.

Two Point Four, a family-focused experiential travel company, has created a solution to allow intimate global connections to be made without risk of the virus’s spread. Through a free survey, the company will connect family travelers with others around the globe to facilitate community-building. Using a series of group calls, travelers will be able to learn from local guides and travel experts, break bread with other families, and allow folks to support one another on the issues of travel, sustainability and curiosity as the pandemic continues. What you do on the call is entirely up to you and the folks on the other end of the line—feel free to share favorite travel stories, have a meal together or discuss your lived experiences. The calls are free and vary in length based on the availability of the traveler and the other family or travel expert.

4. Explore the Natural Beauty of Chile with Chile 360

*Amalia Glacier, Chile. Phil Parsons. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.*

Chile is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The 2,653 mile ribbon-shaped country, which hugs the western edge of Argentina, is home to countless climates and cultures, offering travelers to the country a unique experience. Visitors can wander the Atacama in the north, the world’s driest desert, or the fjords and glaciers common throughout Chile’s southernmost regions. Santiago, the nation’s capital, is a cosmopolitan metropolis offering a wide variety of experiences, cuisines and cultural attractions.

While travel to the country may not be possible for most due to the pandemic, the Image of Chile Foundation, a private nonprofit which works closely with the Chilean government to promote tourism in the country, has released an app called Chile 360 which provides users with the opportunity to explore Chile’s vast natural and cultural heritage. Travelers stuck at home can visit the turquoise waters of Patagonia’s Torres del Paine, explore the Rano Kau volcano on Easter Island, and get up close with the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a famous national landmark in the nation’s capital. The app is free and currently available on the Apple and Google app stores.

5. Visit Kyoto’s Historic Geisha District with Ken’s Tours Kyoto

*Cherry blossoms in the Gion neighborhood of Kyoto, Japan. Trevor Dobson. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.*

Geishas, a class of Japanese women who are traditional performance artists and entertainers, have continued to maintain 17th-century Japanese traditions into the modern era. Common throughout the country, but most prevalent in Tokyo and Kyoto, geishas continue to captivate local and international audiences alike with their unique art, performances, makeup and dress. Many in Japan today regard geishas as some of the most successful Japanese businesswomen ever.

Ken’s Tours Kyoto, a small group of travel experts who normally lead guided tours throughout the city, offers travelers the opportunity to virtually explore Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Through 40-minute guided sessions, travelers from home will visit some of the most famous landmarks in the neighborhood, listen as guides share childhood stories from growing up in Kyoto and learn various Shinto rituals and traditions. This unique experience is offered for $39 a session through Amazon on a rolling basis.

10 Travel Destinations Paving the Way in Sustainability

July 17, 2020

According to the United Nations, the global community must take drastic measures to alleviate the climate crisis. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, composed of nearly 1,300 scientists, predicts that global warming could increase worldwide temperatures up to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit by 2040. This temperature rise will almost certainly exacerbate food insecurity, disease transmission, sea level rise and loss of ecosystems. From 2009 to 2013, international travel alone accounted for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Roughly 1.4 billion people travel to a new destination each year, indirectly contributing to air pollution, land degradation and strained resources. These current levels of travel threaten the Paris Agreement, which proposes an annual 7.6% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Many countries have recognized the importance of environmental management and have striven for sustainability. From Malta to Japan, travel destinations are implementing eco-friendly practices, such as renewable energy and wildlife conservation. Travelers to these locations can explore pristine environments while positively impacting the planet.

1. Gozo, Malta

The coastline of Gozo, Malta. Zoltan Tasi. Unsplash.

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Gozo boasts a rich historical identity. Recognized by UNESCO, the Ggantija Temples are the world’s oldest free-standing structures, predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt. In addition to these historical sites, the island is relatively undeveloped, offering scenic hills and untouched coastlines. The European Environment Agency regularly monitors urban waste and pollution in coastal areas. According to their assessment, Maltese beaches rank among the cleanest in Europe. Within this pristine environment, common activities include swimming, snorkeling, deep-sea diving and kayaking. Gozo also hosts 85 endemic species of flora and fauna. To protect and preserve this unique landscape, the Ministry for Gozo established the Eco-Gozo Regional Development Directorate in 2009. Over the past decade, the island has become a model for sustainable development. Through renewable energy, green transportation and plastic reduction, Gozo is committed to reducing its carbon and water footprints. Ecologists have established protected spaces for endangered species, while local craftsmen sustainably restore ancient ruins like the Ggantija Temples. To further improve the standard of living in the Gozitan community, the island implements eco-education programs in schools and offers locally sourced, organic ingredients in restaurants. Named the Mediterranean’s Best Green Destination in 2018, this small island continues to gain recognition for its innovative conservation efforts.

2. Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Ljubljanica River, a pure water source in central Slovenia. Pedro Szekely. CC BY-SA 2.0

Known as “Slovenia’s Green City,” Ljubljana is the first European capital to establish a “zero-waste” initiative. The city currently recycles nearly 70% of its waste, reducing landfill trash to a mere 5%. Residual waste is processed into recyclable materials, solid fuels and high-quality gardening compost. Public green spaces, which include thousands of trees, comprise a third of the city’s territory and absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Visitors to Ljubljana can explore a variety of hiking trails, as well as an urban bee path that cares for 4,500 beehives. The city draws from the Ljubljanica River, which provides natural, non-processed drinking water and eliminates the need for plastic bottles. Since 2007, the historic city center has banned car traffic, allowing only bikes, pedestrians and electric trains. With fewer cars, the integrity of cultural and historical landmarks, like Preseren Square and Cobblers' Bridge, will be preserved for generations. In 2016, Ljubljana was deemed the “European Green Capital” and it plans to be zero-waste by 2035.

3. Azores, Portugal

The rugged cliffs of the Azores Islands in Portugal. Yves Alarie. Unsplash.

With nine volcanic islands, the archipelago of the Azores has diverse geological significance. The islands’ landscapes are dominated by craters, lagoons, waterfalls and lava fields. Visitors can hike among dense coastal forests, relax in natural hot springs and journey through dormant volcanoes. Azorean wildlife is varied and includes whales, dolphins, seals, bats and hedgehogs. However, rising sea temperatures spurred by climate change have driven aquatic species, such as the North Atlantic right whale, to near extinction. To protect the islands’ biodiversity, the Azores Islands harbor more than 60 marine protected areas which serve as sanctuaries for endangered species. Rather than burning fossil fuels, the Azores utilize geothermal power plants to harvest renewable energy from the earth’s subsurface. Geothermal power currently provides around 50% of the islands’ energy needs. Due to these sustainable developments, the Azores ranked among the world’s top 100 sustainable destinations in 2019.

4. Iwokrama Forest, Guyana

The dense foliage of the Iwokrama Forest. Kunal Shinde. Unsplash.

Named “The Green Heart of Guyana,” the Iwokrama Forest is one of the last pristine tropical forests in the world. For decades, global timber industries have exploited these natural ecosystems through deforestation, generating 18% of all greenhouse gas emissions. While tropical forests only occupy 7% of the Earth’s surface, they capture and store carbon naturally, with Iwokrama capturing over 1.4 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. In order to mitigate the loss of vital vegetation, Iwokrama employs a polycyclic harvesting system, resulting in the removal of less stems per acre and no significant gaps in the forest canopy. The Forest Stewardship Council has commended these forest management practices, which prioritize locals, wildlife and the natural environment. Amid lush forests, wetlands and savannas, visitors might encounter diverse wildlife such as jaguars, giant anteaters, black caimans and harpy eagles. While traversing the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, a 500-foot series of suspension bridges, travelers can examine nearly 6,500 species of plants. In 2016, Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Iwokrama Forest with the Green Award for its exemplary environmental stewardship.

5. Galapagos National Park, Ecuador

A Galapagos sea turtle swimming off the coast. Wexor Tmg. Unsplash.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos National Park and surrounding waters are protected for conservation. The 19 islands boast distinct landscapes, ranging from barren volcanic rocks to green sand beaches formed by olivine crystals. The Galapagos are home to a variety of endemic species, including 15 mammals, 45 bird species and 79 types of fish. Due to wildlife sanctuaries and habitat restorations, vulnerable animals like tortoises, iguanas and sea lions live in harmony with humans. The Galapagos Islands also have a rich variety of endemic flora, with over 500 species discovered. When visiting the Galapagos, visitors are expected to act responsibly and treat the environment with respect. Common activities include snorkeling alongside sea turtles, hiking over dried lava beds and whale watching from kayaks. The Galapagos National Park is well maintained and protected by park rangers and volunteers, who partake in regular coastal cleanups. However, to ensure long-term sustainability, the islands offer outreach and education programs. Ecologists and environmental experts teach locals and visitors about the harmful effects of climate change and pollution in the hopes that this diverse landscape will endure for years to come.

6. Felicite Island, Seychelles

Felicite Island in the early morning. Nenad Radojčić. Unsplash.

Located in the Indian Ocean, Felicite Island contains parts of Ramos National Park and multiple marine protected areas. This small island community has multiple initiatives to conserve energy and invites visitors to share the responsibility of offsetting their carbon footprint. Drip irrigation has been introduced as a solution to water and energy waste. Widespread rainwater harvesting allows the use of rainwater for non-potable needs, such as washing clothes and watering gardens. Organic vegetable gardens support the ultimate aim of self-sustained food and beverages in the Seychelles. Special efforts are given to waste reduction, with zero-waste and plastic-free initiatives. Recently, island officials banned plastic bags, plates, cups and plastic foam boxes in order to mitigate ocean pollution. Additional conservation programs include a reforestation project, sea turtle monitoring and coral restoration. Within this pristine paradise, visitors can partake in snorkeling, diving and community outreach programs regarding climate change.

7. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Elephants, an endangered species, graze the Serengeti. Hu Chen. Unsplash.

Founded in 1951, Serengeti National Park houses one the highest concentrations of mammals in Africa, with species such as lions, giraffes and hippos. It is also known for the largest remaining unaltered animal migration in the world, with over 6 million zebras, gazelles and wildebeests stampeding over the fertile plains. At least four globally threatened or endangered species, such as elephants and cheetahs, thrive in these heavily-patrolled conservation areas. Guided safaris allow visitors to witness this diverse wildlife from a close proximity. Serengeti, however, is committed to sustainable visitation in order to protect the environment from irreversible damage. Human activity and waste disposal are closely monitored by park rangers. Conservation areas and secure breeding grounds also mitigate the impacts of deforestation, poaching and urbanization. Through such practices, Serengeti National Park allows wildlife to roam freely in their natural habitat, an increasingly rare commodity.

8. Republic of Palau

Coral reefs, an endangered ecosystem. Qui Nguyen. Unsplash.

Located in the western Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Palau includes over 200 volcanic and coral islands. Palau supports a diverse aquatic environment, inhabited by nearly 700 coral species and 1,400 fish species. Coral reefs protect coastlines from waves, provide wildlife with refuge and offer opportunities for recreation. Due to climate change, this vital ecosystem is severely threatened. The Coral Reef Research Foundation promotes water conservation, renewable energy and recycling to mitigate coral destruction. In 2018, Palau banned sunscreens that contain environmental pollutants and established marine sanctuaries in 80% of its territorial waters. Travelers to Palau must sign a pledge declaring that they will preserve and protect the island. While scuba diving, snorkeling and surfing, visitors must adhere to this pledge and respect wildlife.

9. Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

Sun Moon Lake at sunset. Eddy Tsai. CC BY-SA 2.0

Residing in the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake prides itself on maintaining a low carbon footprint. Public transportation routes have decreased the reliance on driving, thereby reducing the emission of greenhouse gases. Cable car systems, electric boats and cycling paths are common alternatives to cars at Sun Moon Lake. This rural region also hosts a range of dams which generate 62% of Taiwan's total hydroelectricity. Travelers to Sun Moon Lake can hike through dense forests, kayak in turquoise waters and interact with Indigenous people who live in the area. Thao natives, such as the Bunun, believe humans and Earth are intrinsically connected, opting to practice sustainable farming and fishing. Sun Moon Lake adheres to this philosophy and strives to protect the fragile environment.

10. Kamaishi, Japan

A traditional Japanese torii. Tianshu Liu. Unsplash.

Along the rugged Sanriku Coast, Kamaishi is an important fishing and industrial city. In 2011, a 45-foot tsunami swept through the city, devastating the local fishing industry and taking the lives of roughly 1,000 people. Amid ongoing reconstruction efforts, Kamaishi is prioritizing sustainability. Established two years after the tsunami, the Sanriku Fukko National Park consists of towering cliffs, unique stone formations and isolated coastlines. The Jodogahama and Kirikiri beaches, surrounded by vibrant green pine trees, host diverse marine ecosystems. Salmon, scallops, crabs and sea urchins are among the many aquatic animals that receive protections from overfishing. Through coastal cleanups, inland forestry conservation and river purification, Kamaishi strives to reduce the impact of industrial pollution. Forms of public transportation, such as electric trains and ride-shares, further mitigate car traffic and fossil fuels. Kamaishi is also a leader in renewable energy, relying on solar power and biomass fuel to power residential areas. Environmental organizations have commended Kamaishi for rebuilding a cleaner community in the wake of such a devastating natural disaster.