Get to Know Showaround Locals in Nazaré: Meet Leo

Background: I'm Leonardo, but everyone calls me Leo. I'm a 23-year old photographer and filmmaker, and I've been living in Nazaré, Portugal, all my life. I can honestly tell you that everyone who visits my town for the first time has a particular and indescribable feeling when coming here. There's something truly mystical about this place. You have to visit Nazaré to experience it for yourself!

Showaround: Why did you decide to become a Showaround Local?
Leo: I discovered Showaround through a friend of mine when he was visiting Nazaré. Right away I thought that this was a brilliant idea and an excellent way to help visitors to experience Nazaré in a real way and to show what this little town has to offer. Being a true local and photographer, I know every single corner and street of my hometown.

Showaround: Name three super local things to do in the city?
Leo: It all depends on the time of the year, but these are my top 3 local things to do and see in Nazaré:

**1.**During the summertime, I love to just relax, enjoy the sandy coastline and do some paddling with Nazaré Surf School. From time to time, I get off the beach to get a bite to eat. There's a lot of small tascas (small family-owned restaurants), and O Santo is a superb place to go if you're into seafood snacks.

**2.**Enjoying the sunset at the lighthouse or the beach, in Praia do Norte, where giant waves occur during the winter time.

**3.**Last but not least would be to attend the carnival. The carnival is very typical in our culture. You get to see it all - the local music and performances. The focus of this celebration is on our people, customs and traditions. It can be pretty wild so be ready and don't worry about not knowing the lyrics, you will be chanting them in no time!

Showaround: Favourite restaurant?
Leo: Nazaré has plenty of good places to eat, depending on what are you looking for. If you're into fine eating, then Taberna 8 ó 80 is worth checking out. For the best seafood in town, I would recommend Marisqueira Aki del Mar, and if you're into healthy food, Zulla Terrace Bar is by far the best option, and while you're there, grab a drink!

Showaround: Best place for a drink?
Leo: Along the seafront there's a lot to choose from, and with awesome places like Á'Deriva Beach Bar or Bussola Bar which are both situated on the beach, it gets pretty crowded. If you're looking for somewhere to grab a drink and sit comfortably with your friends where you can enjoy an epic sunset, then the best place, again, is Zulla Terrace Bar, situated in Sitio, the upper part of Nazaré. It's only a 5-minute walk from Praia do Norte.

Showaround: What about the nightlife?
Leo: Nazaré's nightlife is particularly eventful and buzzing during the summer. There are quite a few bars around town that can offer some once-in-a-lifetime memories with you and your friends. Give me a shout if you want to know my favourite spots!

Showaround: How would you describe the local people of Nazaré?
Leo: We are very friendly and helpful. But don't be bothered by potentially getting yelled at by the old ladies, they are just messing with you. Come here and make the most of it, have fun, enjoy the nature, hear our stories, but always be respectful. As a small town, we are very united, and if you are friends with one, you're friends with everyone.

Showaround: Thank you Leo for your answers!