A star candidate but a lacklustre campaign in the run-up to the European elections has failed to inspire Portugal's comfortably apathetic voters, who seem unwilling to forsake the beach for the ballot.
Heading the list for the governing Socialist Party, and leading the running, is Mr Mario Soares, a grand old man not just of Portuguese politics and democracy but of the European scene also. He was Portuguese president from 1985 to 1995 and led Portugal into the European Community in 1986.
An avuncular 73-year-old, Mr Soares's candidature is a preamble to making an attempt to preside over the European Parliament. His age could count against him but Portugal might be well placed to press his case when it takes over the presidency in January.
The former president's prestige, combined with the current Prime Minister's solid performance, has put the Socialists well in the lead with around 48 per cent of the vote, according to opinion polls.
Portugal's unemployment is low at 6 per cent; growth estimates for the year are a healthy 3 to 3.5 per cent, and only creeping inflation of around 3 per cent mars the economic outlook. Consumer spending is high and there is a general climate of prosperity.
The country met its criteria for euro membership with time to spare. Nevertheless, investment in health, education and infrastructure is needed quickly for it to keep pace with its more advanced euro partners. Finding that money may be difficult.
The euphoria generated by Lisbon's Expo, held last summer, has faded a little and the European elections will provide some indication of voter feeling in the run-up to a general election due in the autumn. Portugal's effective Prime Minister, Mr Antonio Guterres, is expected to win but is hoping for an outright majority.
The Portuguese press has been covering the campaign energetically despite the absence of any real debate on issues or ideas. Portugal's strong growth and development as a result of joining the European Union mean that the view of membership is almost unquestioningly positive.
But the media have not transferred enthusiasm to the voters. Many failed to turn out for referendums last year on abortion and regionalisation and there is concern that abstention will once again be high, especially as the elections take place at the end of a holiday weekend.