Algarve

A few years ago I went on holiday to the Algarve, Albufeira no less – What a lovely laid back tourist spot, fishing boats on the beaches, fishermen mending their nets talking about the catch of the day, idyllic. The scenes have most likely unchanged since the town was nearly all destroyed in an earthquake in 1755. It was merely a fishing village then.

We spent some of the long balmy days on the beaches, enjoying the water sports and getting a tan whilst the nights were spent dining on local cuisine. – fantastic! To get away from the beaten track we went inland to cooler areas and walked amongst the flora the region has to offer, such as almond trees, fig trees, pines and orange-trees. It was great to see the locals in the villages going about their traditonal living. We were made to feel very welcome.

However that was quite a few years ago, has the area changed much? Today Albufeira has a population approaching 40,000 residents with the number of tourists visiting the Algarve swelling considerably also. In fact during 2007 the tourist population increased between 5 to 6%. The largest increases being in golf holidays. The tourism portfolio also includes activities focused on eco-tourism, and culture,

If you wish to rent a really nice holiday property in the Algarve then visit our site where you will in access of 300 properties to choose from.

If golf is your thing book your tee times online

What about the locals today? Certainly the local have not changed in there friendly ways towards tourists in general and welcome the increased income it generates. However they do expect tourist to be polite. They will help you with any questions you have and most shopkeepers speak English.

Modern Albufeira changes in the late afternoons as the sun sets giving it a unique and vibrant character. There still remains a vast amount of restaurants, bars and clubs catering for all tastes and pockets.

The good beaches remain of course with a fine selection both east and west of the town. Praia de Balaia, Praia de Castelo, Praia de Falésia, Praia de Galé, de Olhos d’Agua, Praia de Maria Luisa, and Praia de São Rafael, being the best ones.

If you get too bored with the watersports and sun worshipping you can always visit the new Virtual Archaeological Museum. Or some of the old ruins!