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  • Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #454

Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #454

A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Portugal, Raleigh-Durham Airport Expands Reach, Scratch Kitchen & Taproom in Cary

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭 Spotlight Hook Trivia

😀 Meme of the Day

🧭 Hello, Algarve! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Portugal

✈️ Raleigh-Durham Airport Expands Reach with Popular Long-Distance Routes

🧭 Discover Cary (Eat & Drink): Scratch Kitchen & Taproom

❤️ You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Judie!

🏛️ Support Local Businesses

Editor’s Note: What I listened to while putting together today’s issue. Enjoy!

Question: What was the first new institution established in Cary, NC, following the start of its population boom?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

Discover Bee Banhmi, a local business sponsor of Cary Spotlight. They do catering, online ordering, home delivery and in-store. Great food made with quality ingredients.

“Dined with you today and had forgotten how fresh your ingredients are and how tasty the food is! Thanks for making me feel like I am visiting Family when I come in to eat. Friendly staff welcomes you in and eagerly share their knowledge about the choices to ensure you get exactly what you want/need! Love Bee BanhMi!” ~Lorraine Cross

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Meme of the Day.
Brought to you by Cary's Daily Newsletter.

What’s faster than word of mouth? Cary Spotlight! Keeps you updated on what is going on locally and connects businesses to our vibrant community.

Who else do you know in Cary who might also want enjoy reading the Cary Spotlight?

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Ready to Race for a Cause?
The Tobacco Road Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a mission. This premier annual event has raised over $1.8M for charities like the American Red Cross and Hope for the Warriors. Want to be part of something bigger while crushing your PR? Use code "Spotlight" (case-sensitive) for $20 off your registration!

Credit: Algarve, Portugal

Hello, Algarve! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Portugal

Welcome to the Algarve, where golden cliffs meet turquoise waters, and every sunrise paints a masterpiece across the Atlantic horizon. Over the next five days, you’ll uncover the treasures of Portugal’s southern gem—from exploring secret sea caves and hiking dramatic coastal trails to savoring fresh seafood that captures the essence of the ocean.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor ready to soak up the region’s iconic beauty or a seasoned traveler seeking its hidden corners, this itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation. Pack your sunscreen (and your sense of wonder)—your Algarve escape begins now!

To complement your 5-day Algarve itinerary, here's a video that showcases the region's highlights:

Here's a detailed 5-day itinerary to explore the Algarve region in Portugal:

Day 1: Faro and Tavira

  • Morning: Arrive in Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Explore the charming Old Town (Cidade Velha), visiting landmarks like the Arco da Vila and Faro Cathedral.

  • Afternoon: Drive to Tavira, a picturesque town known for its traditional white houses and cobbled streets. Visit the medieval Tavira Castle for panoramic views and stroll along the Gilão River.

  • Evening: Return to Faro for dinner, enjoying local seafood specialties.

Day 2: Benagil Cave and Carvoeiro

  • Morning: Head to Benagil Beach for a sunrise kayak tour to the famous Benagil Cave, a stunning sea cave accessible only by water.

  • Afternoon: Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, offering breathtaking coastal views and leading to Praia da Marinha, one of Europe's most beautiful beaches.

  • Evening: Explore the town of Carvoeiro, walking along the Carvoeiro Boardwalk and visiting the Algar Seco cave system.

Day 3: Lagos and Ponta da Piedade

  • Morning: Drive to Lagos and visit Praia do Camilo, known for its golden cliffs and clear waters.

  • Afternoon: Hike along the cliffs to Ponta da Piedade, featuring dramatic rock formations and grottoes. Consider a boat tour to explore the caves from the sea.

  • Evening: Wander through Lagos' Old Town, enjoying its vibrant nightlife and dining options.

Day 4: Monchique and the West Coast

  • Morning: Visit Monchique, a mountain town offering a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Explore the Serra de Monchique mountains and enjoy local cuisine.

  • Afternoon: Drive to the Algarve's west coast, visiting beaches like Praia da Amoreira and Praia do Monte Clérigo, known for their natural beauty and surfing opportunities.

  • Evening: Stay overnight in a coastal town such as Aljezur or Sagres.

Day 5: Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente

  • Morning: Explore Sagres, visiting the Sagres Fortress and learning about its maritime history.

  • Afternoon: Relax at nearby beaches like Praia do Tonel or Praia da Mareta.

  • Evening: Visit Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Europe, to witness a stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive experience of the Algarve's highlights.

G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides. Check out the Online Deals: The Whole World is on sale! Shop Travel Deals

What’s Your Favorite Algarve Must-Try Activity?

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Travel Guides - Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip to Zanzibar:

  • The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide (2025): Everything You Need To Know

    This guide offers detailed insights into Zanzibar's history, attractions, accommodations, and transportation options. It covers various regions of the island, including Stone Town, Nungwi, Kendwa, and the northeast areas, providing recommendations for activities and places to stay.

  • Zanzibar Travel Guide | All You Need to Know - Colors of Zanzibar

    This resource provides essential information about Zanzibar's culture, history, and tourist attractions. It includes details on Stone Town, Zanzibar City, and the island's beautiful beaches, offering tips on activities such as spice tours, diving, and dolphin watching.

Raleigh-Durham Airport Expands Reach with Popular Long-Distance Routes

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) ranks as the 35th-busiest airport in the U.S., having served more than 14.5 million passengers in 2024. American Airlines leads RDU's carriers with a 21.3% market share, followed by Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. Avelo Airlines also expanded its presence, opening a base at RDU in 2023.

RDU's domestic network includes over 50 destinations, with the eighth-longest route connecting to Denver International Airport (DEN), covering 1,436 miles. This route, supported by United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Frontier Airlines, saw nearly 293,000 passengers in 2024. United offers the most flights on the route, with a double-daily frequency.

The airport’s international connections span Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and transatlantic destinations like London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Reykjavík. With RDU maintaining robust passenger volumes and a growing array of routes, it continues to solidify its position as a key transportation hub for the region. Read Full Report

Credit: Scratch Kitchen & Taproom

Scratch Kitchen & Taproom

Scratch Kitchen & Taproom is one of the local restaurants nominated by Cary Spotlight’s readers for our Discover Cary project. If you’ve experienced the food and service at Scratch Kitchen firsthand, we’d love to hear your recommendations.

Scratch Kitchen & Taproom in Cary, NC, is a welcoming eatery known for its made-from-scratch southern-style dishes, such as fried green tomatoes and truffle mac & cheese burgers, and vegan dishes, complemented by a selection of local craft beers and creative cocktails.

Learn more about the their menu on their website.
Address: 160 E Cedar St, Cary, NC 27511

Scratch Kitchen & Taproom

Click to share 3 things you love about this place or recommend an item people should try on their menu.

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You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Judie!

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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇

The Cary Public Library was the first new institution created here after the population boom began. Organized by the Cary Junior Woman’s Club, under the direction of Tommie Williams and JoAnn Glass, it opened October 22, 1960, in a wooden building that stood at 123 West Chatham Street.

Hill Road. (Source: Around About Cary, p117-118)

For more historical insights into Cary's development visit these resources: