A Brief History

CASA was founded nearly 50 years ago, in the late 1970s, with a simple and enduring idea: to bring expatriates in the Algarve together in a relaxed, social setting. What began as a monthly dinner soon developed its own character. Evenings didn’t always end with dessert—members with a flair for the dramatic would often take to the floor, turning gatherings into impromptu performances that became a hallmark of the early group.

As word spread, so did attendance. Before long, the original venue could no longer contain the growing enthusiasm. In the early 1980s, the group naturally evolved into two paths: those drawn to the theatrical side went on to form the now well-known Algarvian amateur theatre group, while those who preferred the social side continued under the CASA banner. Some members, unable to choose just one passion, remained happily involved in both.

Over the decades, CASA has continued to evolve alongside the Algarve itself and its ever-changing expatriate community. While the club was originally rooted in the small coastal town of Carvoeiro—reflected in its original name, Carvoeiro Association for Social Activities—its reach has since expanded well beyond those early boundaries.

Today, CASA represents a vibrant and diverse membership spread across the West-Central Algarve. Reflecting this broader identity, the club formally adopted its current name, Club for Algarvian Social Activities, at the AGM in March 2023—a name that honors its origins while embracing the wider community it now serves.

Activities

CASA members typically gather once a month to share a meal at a welcoming local venue. As reflected on the map, these gatherings are usually held somewhere between Lagos and Albufeira—striking a balance that keeps things convenient while offering a rotating taste of the region’s many excellent spots.

Beyond our regular dinners, CASA adds a dash of adventure to the calendar. Some years include group trips—often by coach—to explore Northern Portugal or venture across the border into Southern Spain. Closer to home, we’ve been known to organize car treasure hunts or “away days” to places of local interest, blending curiosity with good company. To keep everyone in the loop, we also publish a monthly newsletter filled with updates, highlights, and upcoming plans.

Most CASA events are open to non-members, usually for a small additional fee, making it easy for newcomers to join in and get a feel for the group. During the Covid pandemic, however, the few events that could be held were limited to members only.

While CASA is first and foremost a social club, giving back to the local community remains an important part of who we are. We support a range of charitable organisations, often nominated by our members. The Bombeiros Voluntários have been frequent beneficiaries, receiving donations of €1,000 in 2014, €1,500 in 2016, and €1,000 in both 2021, 22, and 25. In addition to financial contributions, we also provide practical support in the form of much-needed equipment, benefiting the Bombeiros as well as children’s homes, care facilities, and other local Portuguese organisations in need.

For more details on recent charitable efforts, please visit our Latest News page.

Membership

Membership is open to both individuals and couples of all nationalities. While CASA is an international community, all events and communications are conducted in English. As of Spring 2026, the club has a membership of just over 65 people.

CASA is not limited to full-time residents. Alongside those who live in the Algarve year-round, we are pleased to include members who join us for part of the year, returning regularly to enjoy the region and reconnect with friends.

The annual membership fee is €10 per person and runs from January through December—an accessible invitation to be part of a lively and welcoming social circle.

Management

CASA is run by an elected committee of dedicated, unpaid volunteers who generously give their time to keep the club active and thriving.

Each year, members gather for the Annual General Meeting—typically held in early March and accompanied by a dinner. This event provides an opportunity to elect the committee, reflect on the past year, and share ideas and suggestions for the future in an open and friendly forum.

   Your Committee for 2026/27

Committee Members are Morri Bookout, chairman; Bill Tomko, Publicity; Bob Berg, Newsletter; Jamie Mary Berg, Membership; and Karen Tomko, Treasurer and Social Secretary.

We would like to welcome Mary and Bob to the committee.

Please use our contact form.