The Algarve is generally a safe travel destination and it is very unlikely that you will be in danger during your visit. However, before visiting any foreign country it is always a good idea to educate yourself about the specific safety advice for that region. Knowing what to watch out for will help you to protect yourself and ensure that your holiday goes safely and smoothly.

Dona Ana Beach, Algarve, Portugal by Lacobrigo

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while enjoying your holiday in the Algarve.

Watch Out for Crazy Drivers

If you will be renting a car to explore this region of Portugal, watch out for locals who tend to not stick to the speed limit and attempt to overtake at impossible places. Perhaps this is why Portugal has the highest accident rate in Europe! Driving along the rugged rural roads can be quite challenging as there will be plenty of potholes and perhaps even a goat wandering into your path.

Even though the locals can be crazy drivers, it doesn’t mean that you won’t get in big trouble if you are caught breaking the local driving laws. The fines for traffic offences such as using your mobile while driving or driving under the influence are very heavy. When driving in the Algarve, always follow the road rules and be vigilant of other drivers.

Beware of Pickpockets

Petty theft is a problem which affects tourists to the Algarve, especially when congregated in large crowds at the main tourist attractions. The skilled thieves blend into the crowd and can sneak your valuables right out of your pockets.

However, avoiding pickpocket theft is very easy. First of all, try not to dress in a manner which shows off your wealth, such as wearing expensive jewellery or designer brands. It advertises that you are likely to have a healthy wad of cash in your wallet, so go for an understated look instead. Keep your cash and valuables in your front trouser pocket and never in your back pocket. If you have a zippered or a buttoned pocket this is also ideal. Get out of the habit of “patting” your pocket to check if your wallet is still there, as it gives a watching criminal a clue to where you keep your valuables.

Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal by Had01

Sun-Related Hazards

One of the dangers that might not have crossed your mind is the effects of the sun. Of course, the warm sunshine is what makes a holiday to the Algarve so enjoyable, but too much of it can be a very bad thing. Because of the cooling breezes from the ocean, many people will not realize how hot the sun is until they have a severe sunburn or start showing symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These conditions can be dangerous and can require hospitalization, so make sure that you keep an eye on each other while out in the sunshine.

Wear an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen and some sunglasses to protect your eyes from the UVA rays. You might also want to wear a wide brimmed hat which will keep your head cool and shield your face from the sun. Avoid sitting out for extended periods of time in the hottest part of the day, which is during the early afternoon.

The Algarve is generally a safe place, but these are just a few of the tips you should keep in mind to make sure that you don’t run into trouble on your trip. Enjoy your holiday!

Here are some helpful safety tips to remember while on a holiday to Vale do Lobo resort in the Algarve, Portugal.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sue

Some people are intimidated by Internet resources. However, anyone who’s had basic computer classes will find booking online to be simple and painless. Take a look at some information that may be helpful during your quest.

Tips for Booking a Vacation to Algarve Online

1. Identify a Specific Location

Before you can secure a trip to Algarve online, it’s crucial to make sure you have a particular destination in mind. Algarve is comprised of several exhilerating cities, such as Albufeira, Lagos, Silves, and Monte Gordo, that attract swarms of tourists every year. Find out what makes each region unique so you know what area will best suit you.

2. Check Out Online Tourist Guides and Translator Services

Consulting with a virtual tourist guide or a representative of an online translation services can work wonders when it comes to expanding your knowledge of online resources regarding Algarve. A qualified tourist guide can provide their expertise on the region’s most popular attractions, weather conditions, recommended tours and excursions, cheap hotels, nightlife options, beach locations, restaurants, and much more.

In addition, finding a reputable translator is also valuable. If you’re not familiar with speaking Portuguese, a representative that speaks the language fluently can be extremely beneficial. Don’t let a language barrier put a damper on your vacation abroad.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Tony Bowden

3. Skim Websites with Affordable Packages

Bargain shopping online is just as essential as it is in retail outlets and grocery stores. As you’re looking to book your vacation to Algarve, review Money Saving Blogs that’ll provide essential cost-effective ways to have a good time even while on your dream getaway. Afterwards, it’s feasible to search websites with the most economical offers. Many sites enable viewers to purchase packages which is inevitably cheaper than securing flights, lodging accomodations, transportation, and additional items separately. Narrowing down your booking options by comparing the prices of several sites will ultimately save dividends in the longrun.

4.  Research Security Measures

Along with the positives of the dominant information age, there’s also several negatives that come along with it. One happens to includes nasty online scams that can sour users’ experience, or worse, their financial situation. Beware of identity theft and websites that don’t place a priority on protecting the personal information of its users. You need to ensure that all the details you provide over the internet are kept confidential and that the site doesn’t release your account specifics to a third party, but stores them in a hidden, secure database.

5. Know the Terms and Conditions

Another significant element of booking your trip online is to read the site’s terms and conditions in its entirety. Merely skimming the information can result in failure to read crucial details involving your arrangements and could make it impossible to recover from damages. For example, many of the more economical packages on some sites are non-refundable. You need to be aware of this in the event something comes up and you need to request cancellation.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by amaianos

6. Save Your Itinerary

Once you’ve confirmed the information on your travel arrangements and secured an itinerary, be sure to save it for your records. Many websites also store a copy in their system, but it’s always good to have a back-up option in your care in case of emergencies.

7. Relax

There’s no need to fret after your arrangements are in place. Sit back and take pride in your future vacation in Algarve. Safe travels!

Useful links:
Algarve.org (2012).
Algarve Online Services (2012).

Joy Martin is a travel writer with Article Writing Services who has developed quality travel content for sites like Computer Classes. For more information on booking cheap travel, check out Money Saving Blogs.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sue Elias

What to Expect in Algarve

There’s some places that encourage guests to visit at a specific time of the year to avoid uncomfortable weather conditions. Fortunately, that’s not the case in Algarve, Portugal. Tourists are welcome to spend time there year-round without having to worry about unbearable climate changes getting in the way of their fun. Although work schedules may need to be tweaked for those in the labor markets, retirees tend to prepare a vacation whenever it suits them. Also, tudents are typically fond of visiting on their own time, particularly those enrolled in online colleges that make it possible to submit assignments over the computer.

Overall, the weather in Algarve is ideal. Temperatures normally stay between 77 degrees to 95 degrees fahrenheit throughout most of the warmer months and typically never drops below freezing level (32 degrees fahrenheit) during the cooler months. In addition, it remains one of the most sunniest regions in the world and hardly gets rainfall. The area’s Meditteranean climate results in an influx of visitors flocking there during the holidays.

Weather by Season

Winter

Most people assume that every region experience drastic changes during the winter season. However, Algarve is among the few places that incurs very little alterations. From late November to February, temperatures are likely to fluctuate between 50 and 60 degrees fahrenheit. Occasionally, there tends to be more frosty weather, and rainfall is at its peak but the overall atmospheric condition is considered mild compared to other parts of Europe at this time. Those who want a fairly gentle winter and don’t mind some wet days will find this spot most suitable.

Spring

In the springtime, weather in the Algarve is extremely pleasant, especially for visitors who enjoy more sunshine accompanied by light breezes. March through May promises warmer temperatures that cool down during the evenings, particularly in areas near the ocean. Lovers of greenery and outdoor activities are urged to come during this time since plantlife is revived and the climate possess some coolness that makes it comfortable to engage in happenings that promote high energy and/or strenuous movement.

Summer

Those who are at their best in the sunshine will revel in Algarve’s climate between June and August. At this time, tourists can experience balmy conditions to seering heat. Normal  summer temperatures normally range from the mid 70′s to the mid 90′s, enabling people to cool off at one of Algarve’s many beaches. Be mindful of considerably dry atmospheres, as well as high levels of wind and sand that are blown in from the Sahara dessert.

Fall

Like the summer, autumn can remain fairly warm, especially in September and October. By November, the regions typically witnesses a dramatic cooldown with temperatures as low as 55 degrees. The weather becomes even colder as the sun goes down and night sets in, particularly in coastal areas. If you’re a fan of nature and attracted to the fall’s aesthetic quality, this is a good time to go on a few hikes or simply watch the leaves turn colors from the comfort of one Algarve’s many cheap hotels.

Sources
TripAdvisor, LLC. (2012).
HolidayWeather.com. (2012).

Joy Martin works with Article Writing Services to write travel content for Online Colleges and other websites and blogs. To find more information on traveling to Algarve, visit Global Travel Blogs.

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Carvoeiro is a picturesque village and popular resort. Beautiful is the local coast called Algar Seco that is typical for a number of bizarre rocky pillars, bridges and caves in a rocky labyrinth.

Carvoeiro has a clean sea and beaches with fine sand. It is surrounded by beautiful limestone cliffs. One of the favourite beaches is the beach of Carvoeiro, which is due to slow entry into the sea, suitable for families with children. Other great beaches are Carvalho or Alagar Seco.

Carvoeiro has a wide range of accommodation. There are many restaurants, bars and shops. Popular restaurants include O Castelo or Pátio. In the village you can try a range of water sports, but you can also play golf. Golf Course Vale do Milho Golf is located right in Carvoeiro and it is not the only one.

The area of the current village was inhabited already by the Romans. The current name is probably derived from an old medieval name of the fishing village “Caboiere”. However up to 60′s of the 20th century Carvoeiro was a sleepy fishing village, it is now widely popular resort.

Carvoeiro is best accessible by car. The nearest international airport Aeroporto de Faro is located in Alexandria, the port and railway station are in Portimao. For moving around the town you can use the tourist train.

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