Portugal to host lifestyle fair

Portugal’s first Carnival of Luxury London - Arabstoday Enjoy five days of the word’s most luxurious goods, lavish entertainment, exclusive Haute Couture fashion shows, and a spectacular gala dinner, all under one roof.  From April 25, the Algarve will play host to Portugal’s first Carnival of Luxury, an event organised by Vida De Luxe which will take place in the Arade Congress Centre, near Portimão placing the spotlight on the region known as Europe’s most famous secret. Housing dozens of the world’s exclusive brands in the form of all manner of luxury goods from cars to jewellery to real estate, the Carnival of Luxury is also encouraging local companies who produce luxury products to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase what Portugal really has to offer to the international market. Long known for its high-end real estate and premier golf courses, the Algarve is also fast becoming a destination for corporate events and is keen to develop interest beyond traditional product areas in highlighting the diversity and business potential of the region. With glorious weather and first class gastronomy offerings, many sites of natural and historical beauty and a hospitable population, the region is ideally placed to play host to this event in the global luxury goods and services calendar, a sector which is flourishing despite the global financial crisis. Organisers, Vida De Luxe, is working at bringing the best national and international brands, along with great entertainment, to the Algarve. The organisers are aiming to bring well-established boat, fashion, real estate, accessory, art, investment, aviation, technology, fine drinks and leisure brands under one roof to showcase their products at the carnival. Throughout the five-day event there will be ongoing music and dance entertainment followed by grand evening performances ranging from modern ballet to burlesque and a gala dinner which will include a Carnival celebration. The Carnival of Luxury will aim to bring together a series of catwalk events highlighting fashion, shoes and accessories, with a strong emphasis on innovation, and providing the opportunity for emerging designers to display their designs alongside top names. The first day of the event will be for VIPs only where international guests will participate in the grand opening ceremony, take a guided tour of the event, observe a demonstration from makers of bespoke luxury items and attend a lavish gala dinner and show. They will have the first opportunity to purchase any of the luxurious items on sale, some of which will be unique or of limited edition. The last day of the carnival is "Business Monday" where businesses will be encouraged, both at the event and in the region, to negotiate new contracts and deals. A large bar with fine drinks will be open all day, and several live music acts will play throughout the venue. A beauty corner, where women can be pampered by professional and internationally renowned beauticians, hair stylists and nail designers will complement activities for men who may prefer to sample a new wine or port or admire a luxury vehicle. Children may wish, during Sunday’s Family Carnival, to experiment with the latest gadgets or drive a go-kart. Vida De Luxe also strongly believes in giving back to the community, and as such is giving a percentage of its profits to a local and an international charity. Tickets, accommodation packages and concierge services can all be booked via the website: www.carnivalofluxury.com, which also allows potential exhibitors to download an exhibitor’s pack. All those interested can also follow the event on www.facebook.com/Carnivalofluxury to receive daily updates.