The Algarve
20 March 2008
When to go - Generally a year-round destination, July and August can be very hot. Check the forecast.
Approximate flight time - Around 3 hours flight time from London to Faro.
Currency- Euro. Check latest exchange rates.
Visa requirements - None.
Language - Portuguese.
The Algarve at the southern tip of Portugal has plenty to offer both children and adults. It is famous for its fresh fish, which is a must to try. No matter where you chose to stay or whether you chose a hotel or a self-catering apartment or the luxury of renting your own villa, you won’t be lost for things to do and see in this beautiful region. For example, James Villa holidays have some beautiful villas in the
also have properties available in the region.
Many hotels in the area organise boat trips to see the caves and coves that characterise the area. There are boats of all sizes to choose from but a small boat’s great for one family. You should be able to get one with an umbrella for shade and a boatman to drive it.
Places of interest
The Algarve has plenty to offer the adults too should you be lucky enough to escape without the little ones for a n hour or two! There are Moorish castles, Gothic cathedrals, dramatic cliff top views and of course shops.
Food and drink
Everywhere in the Algarve you will find good value restaurants.
The Algarve is particularly famous for its fresh fish and seafood (which unfortunately is no longer cheap). Generally eating out is inexpensive. Most resorts boast restaurants serving a variety of dishes from around the globe and there are plenty of simple chicken and fish dishes suitable for the younger children.
Shopping
Shops are open 0900-1300 and 1500-1900, Monday to Friday, closing lunchtime Saturday. The siesta, so much a part of life in nearby Spain is not observed here, but two hours for lunch is the norm. Supermarkets may open 0800-2000 weekdays.
Many supermarkets open on Sundays. Fresh fruit and vegetables can be purchased at markets held daily in the market buildings of Lagos, Albufeira, Loule, Portimao and Armacao de Pera. Larger markets where you can buy clothes, shoes and handicrafts are held the following days: Lagos - first Saturday of the month Quarteira - every Wednesday morning Portimao - first Monday of the month Loule - every Saturday morning Silves - third Monday of the month Albufeira - every Tuesday morning.
Where to get medical assistance
Chemists
The “farmacias” (pharmacies) are open during normal business hours, there is one pharmacy in every town that is on duty through the night, it’s address is posted in the window of every other chemist and in local newspapers.
Hospitals
There are hospitals at Faro, Loule, Albufeira, Portimao and Lagos, all of which have some English speaking staff.
Doctors
There are doctors and medical centres at most resorts usually manned by English speaking doctors.
Dentists
Portuguese dentists are available in all major towns. English dentists can only be found in Almancil and Faro.
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Thomson Holidays
Thomas Cook
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