A STORY OF Passion AND TRAVEL
A STORY OF Passion AND TRAVEL
Fall in love with Portugal
Fall in love with Portugal
When you travel with us, you don’t just see Portugal—you feel it. As a Boutique Destination Management Company (DMC), we craft immersive experiences that go beyond sightseeing. From savoring local delicacies in family-run taverns to walking the cobblestone streets where history whispers, every experience is designed to connect you with the essence of this land.
Our secret lies in our Local Heroes: the people who breathe life into each experience. These are the chefs, artisans, historians, and adventurers who share their passion and craft, turning every moment into a story. They are the heartbeat of Portugal, and together with them, we offer more than just services—we offer connections.
Through The Local Affair, you’ll fall in love with Portugal’s beauty, traditions, and vibrant soul, creating memories that stay with you forever. Let us, your dedicated Boutique DMC, guide you on a journey where every detail is infused with care, authenticity, and warmth.
Meet the team
RICARDO
I’m Ricardo, a proud Lisbon native and a true “Alfacinha” at heart. Born and raised in Portugal’s vibrant capital, I’ve always been passionate about my country. From an early age, I had the privilege of traveling across Portugal, exploring every corner of this diverse and captivating land.
With 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, working in some of Portugal’s most prestigious hotels, I deepened my connection to the regions I served—from the laid-back elegance of Comporta to the sun-kissed Algarve and the lush beauty of Madeira. I’m particularly drawn to the South of Portugal, where the landscapes, flavors, and warmth of the people never fail to inspire me.
I thrive on welcoming guests and sharing my favorite recommendations for restaurants and culinary experiences that capture the true essence of Portugal. Beyond my love for hospitality, I’m an avid sports enthusiast. Mountain biking and weekly tennis matches are my go-to escapes, keeping me balanced and energized.
To me, Portugal is unparalleled in its authenticity. Our people have mastered the art of hospitality, blending genuine warmth with an innate sense of savoir-faire. My goal is to be an ambassador for my country, sharing its best-kept secrets and offering visitors an unforgettable journey that showcases the very best Portugal has to offer on every level.
JOÃO
My name is João Figueira, I was born and happily raised in the charming town of Sines in the Alentejo region, my hometown. At 16, I moved to Lisbon to further my studies in Logistics and Service Management, setting the foundation for an exciting and fulfilling career.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of living and working in different regions of Portugal, from the vibrant north to the serene south. Along the way, I’ve gained diverse professional experiences across supply chain, sales, and, most importantly, hospitality—my true passion. For the past decade, I’ve founded and managed several projects in tourism, leisure, and accommodation, where I get to do what I love every day.
Outside of work, I’m an avid traveler, sports enthusiast, and food lover who treasures spending quality time with family and friends.
As a local and hospitality professional I’m excited to connect with travelers exploring Portugal. My goal is to create unforgettable, 5-star experiences that showcase the very best of this beautiful country. Let’s make your journey extraordinary!
OUR MISSION & VALUES
At The Local Affair, our mission is to create meaningful and transformative travel experiences that connect visitors with the heart and soul of Portugal. We strive to craft journeys that go beyond sightseeing, offering authentic encounters with the culture, traditions, and people that make this country extraordinary.
What We Believe In:
Authenticity: We honor the essence of Portugal by collaborating with our Local Heroes, ensuring every experience is genuine and rooted in local traditions.
Connection: We believe travel is about building relationships—with the destination, its people, and its stories. Every journey we design fosters deeper connections.
Excellence: From meticulous planning to seamless execution, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and unforgettable experiences.
Sustainability: We prioritize responsible tourism, supporting local communities and preserving Portugal’s natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Passion: Portugal is our passion, and we aim to ignite the same love in every traveler who embarks on a journey with us.
Guided by these values, our mission is to turn every trip into an affair to remember—one that celebrates Portugal’s vibrant culture, its inspiring people, and its timeless allure.
