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All of this has opened the door for a lot of moving abroad and relocation. When it comes down to it, there are many reasons why people decide to move abroad, but in general when they are asked they will give the same few reasons over and over again as the driving forces behind their move.

It may sound obvious, but the main reason for many who are looking to move abroad is simply due to job opportunities. With the economy still in a bit of a rough shape, some areas of Europe are just not performing as well as others. Thus, some quite talented workers, in Greece for example, who want to work but are having trouble finding a position, might explore relocation to Germany, a place with a robust economy.

Another popular reason is quite simple, it’s due to retirement. Once retired and with the children grown and out of the home, many couples look to do a bit of travel and exploration, they might have always dreamed about a little beach house on the coast of Portugal that was the spot for many family holidays over the years. Now will be the time to make it a reality.

Hand in hand with that is the weather. As we all know, some places in Europe can be a bit dreary during parts of the year, winters in Norway, or the rain in the UK, for example. Many dream of being able to wander about during the winter in the warmer climates of Spain and Italy whenever they feel like it. So, they decide to move to a new place to experience that.

Quality of life is another consideration for many. A person or family could just be growing tired of a stressful fast paced life and long to live in a place that has much less hustle and bustle, yet at the same time still provides some nice career options. Or, they could be looking to downsize, practice less in the way of consumerism and just have a much more simple existence.

Finally, many also cite looking for a fresh start or a new experience as a reason for moving abroad. An investment banker in London who has grown quite tired of his job can take the opportunity to follow his lifelong dream of opening up a snowboarding lessons shop in Switzerland. The opportunities to start fresh and change careers or passions are quite appealing to many when they consider moving abroad.

As you can see, there are many personal reasons that go with thinking about a move abroad. But there are many singles, couples and families doing it now, with plenty more to come over the next decades as well.

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Restaurant in Algarve, Portugal by Tom Godber

You may or may not leave tips as a habit in your home country, but if you visit somewhere and a tip is expected and you don’t provide it, your behaviour can be insulting to your server and make them think that they have done a poor job waiting on you. Conversely, if you do tip in a culture where it is not expected, this can also seem insulting, condescending and ignorant. Before you go anywhere on holiday it is always a good idea to do some research on the accepted behaviour and act accordingly.

To prepare you for your holiday in the Algarve, or anywhere else in Portugal for that matter, here are some guidelines to remember about tipping in this culture:

To Tip or Not to Tip

Make sure that you always have some small change on you, because Portugal is indeed a tipping culture.

Most of the wait staff, clerks and attendants earn a very low wage and they rely on tips from visitors to supplement their income. Also, many of these tourism industry workers experience unemployment in the off season when the demand is low, and then have to work very long hours in the summer. Tipping them for their service will be greatly appreciated.

In some parts of Europe, a service charge is usually automatically added to the hotel or restaurant bill which makes tipping easier. However, this does not usually happen in Portugal so take a look at your bill and add an extra 10% if you have received good service. If you have been especially pleased with your experience you could possibly leave a little bit more.

Hotel pool, Algarve, Portugal by Dan Taylor

When you arrive at the hotel and the bellhop brings your luggage to the room, it is customary to give them one or two Euros for their help. You can also leave a couple of Euros per day for the maid, especially if they provide you with extra services such as bringing breakfast to the room.

Keep it Private

In Portugal, tipping is sometimes considered an inappropriate thing to do if it is done blatantly in public with people watching. It is much preferred if you give your tip in private, such as leaving it on the table as you exit the restaurant.

Taxi Rides

If you take a taxi somewhere in the Algarve, do you need to tip the driver? Keep in mind that the driver will likely have already added in a fee when they calculate your taxi fare. However, if the driver has been especially nice to you it does not hurt to add one Euro. Some people also round the taxi fare up to the nearest multiple of five. For example, if the fare was 8 euro you could give the driver 10 euro.

When is it not Necessary?

There are some situations in Portugal where tipping would not be considered necessary. For example, when getting a haircut you do not need to tip your stylist. If you use a washroom with an attendant you don’t need to tip them, unless they have given you some sort of extra service.

Tipping can be confusing, so knowing in advance what to expect goes a long way to making sure that you are acting appropriately in a different culture. These are just a few etiquette guidelines to keep in mind when you are visiting the Algarve on your next holiday.

Are you wondering whether or not you should tip while you are in the Algarve? Here are some guidelines to remember during your holiday at Monte da Quinta Suites.

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Scotland

It’s hardly surprising that Scotland is still the number one Mecca for real lovers of golf. With an incredible number of courses, there are many different types of golfing holiday to be had in Scotland, from the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity to something more accessible and friendly. Of course St Andrews is the first place many people think of, and for good reason, for the facilities are second to none, the scenery breathtaking, and the town itself is a charming one to spend time in while you’re here.

England

England has for a long time been a major player within the golfing world, with literally thousands of golfing clubs operating up and down the country. Lower Stondon in Bedfordshire is a popular choice, and an accessible one you can relax and enjoy yourself in. Sheringham in Norfolk is another excellent option, an 18 hole course set on a stunning coastal location. Cromer is another top pick for golfing in England, a pretty seaside town a stone’s throw from Norwich.

Ireland

Ireland has had a huge role to play within the history of golf, having made an enormous contribution to organising it on a competitive level. The golfing resorts here are truly exclusive, so if you’re in the market for top-notch facilities and a spot of luxury here and there look no further. The K Club acted as setting for the Ryder Cup in 2006, while the magnificent spot at Killeen Castle was host to the Solheim Cup in 2011.

Spain

Spain is the way to go if you’re looking for golfing on mainland Europe, as the only place on the continent to host the Ryder Cup. The Valderrama Club is a much loved choice, set in the exclusive resort of Sotogrande. One of the natural advantages to booking a golfing holiday in Spain is that you get the Spanish climate and culture thrown into the mix. From the gorgeous beaches to the picturesque towns, not to mention the amazing hospitality you’ll enjoy on site, this is certainly a premier option.

Portugal

Portugal is another excellent place to enjoy a golfing holiday in Europe. The Praia d’el Rey resort is home to a fantastic, well maintained golf course, set in an unbeatable location with the Atlantic spreading forth off the coast. Portuguese culture is another irresistible ingredient on a holiday here, with the warm climate making for some of the best local food and drink produce you’ll find anywhere in Europe.

Wherever you choose for a golfing holiday in Europe, you can expect excellent services as well as fun places to visit in the surrounding areas. Just remember it doesn’t all have to be about golf!

My name is Nisha I work as the editor for Holiday365. I have been representing the business for the last 2 years now. Feel free to visit our site for more information on holiday parks.

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Sand and Sea

Albufeira features over 25 of the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe.  The gorgeous sands and sea are set against a backdrop of beautiful, dramatic cliffs.  In addition to sunbathing and swimming, there is parasailing, kayaking, plenty of jet ski and boat rentals, boat tours to go out and enjoy the scenery and maybe even watch dolphins play, and several wonderful diving schools.  If you fancy, you can even book a trip on the “pirate ship” Leaozhino and enjoy a sailing experience like no other.

Cycling and Hiking

With challenging courses and trails, Albufeira is a great place for cyclists and hikers alike.  Nowhere else on Earth will you find trails like these combine with such beautiful scenery as your backdrop.  Enjoy mountain biking through the rocky terrain of the cliffs surrounding Albufeira, or take one of the guided bike tours throughout the old town for a unique sightseeing experience.

Golfing

Albufeira features six world class golf courses to choose from, making it an excellent destination for a golf getaway.  Perfect your shot with the blue sea and old town villages as your backdrop.  If you are a less experienced golfer, lessons are offered by skilled and friendly pros.

Nightlife and Dining

Whether you are a young adult or just young at heart, Albufeira has an active and vibrant night life.  The strip is the main party street in Albufeira.  Lined with a multitude of bars, dance clubs, and restaurants, it is where you should seek out if you are looking for a lively and entertaining night out on the town.  It can actually be quite economical if you are looking to have drinks on a budget, as the proximity of one bar to the other allows you to bounce from happy hour to happy hour.

Whether on the strip or in Old Town, the dining in Albufeira is both delicious and affordable.  Don’t make the mistake of shying away from the street grills.  You will them to have delicious chicken and absolutely fabulous fresh fish.  If that just isn’t your cup of tea, there are a multitude of restaurants featuring everything from Chinese to Indian food, as well as some higher scale steak houses and some “posh” dining experiences as well.

Historic Sightseeing

Visit the winding cobblestone streets of Old Town and admire the Arabic style buildings and friendly people of the original town center, which still retains the essence of the village it has always been.  Visit museums, galleries, and castles as well.    One of Albufeira’s landmarks is the castle wall, the remains of one of the towers of the castle that crumbled to dust in the 1755 earthquake.  Another beautiful landmark to behold is the famous Clock Tower of Albufeira.  Adorned with an iron crown, the tower was built in the 19th century and rings out the hours dutifully.  It’s a must see for sightseers.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Albufeira regardless of your age and interests.  I strongly encourage you to give it a visit the next time you go on holiday.

Albufeira is an amazing holiday destination and what better place to stay than in Albufeira apartments?  Visit the Owner’s Direct website and take a look at some of the best the region has to offer.

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Barcelona

To start off experiencing the Mediterranean in a major city filled with action, fantastic shopping and dining, and a nightlife that is second to none, Barcelona is an ideal place.  During the day, there are many museums to experience filled with the rich history of Barcelona.  One of the most popular is the Barcelona FC Museum, dedicated to the incredibly popular football team – it is the second most visited museum in all of Spain!  At night, you can visit one of Barcelona’s many nightclubs and dance your cares away.

Carassonne

Carassonne in southern France should be on everyone’s list of places to visit when exploring the Mediterranean.  It is a thriving medieval Castle that is filled with Renaissance history.  As soon as you enter through the drawbridge, you will feel like you have stepped into a history book.  The best way to get the full Carassonne experience is to stay overnight so you can have the city essentially to yourself after the many tour groups have left.  Halloween is an especially great night to visit thanks to the house of terror they put on as well as other decorations.

The Algarve

The Algarve is the most popular holiday destination in Portugal and with good reason.  It is very safe, very welcoming, and is relatively cheap.  The beaches are also stunning and clean, which is made even more impressive by the fact that there are over 200km of beaches to enjoy.  English is widely spoken at most of the resorts as well.  If you love playing golf, then The Algarve is a perfect holiday destination as it is home to over 30 courses.  It may shock you to learn that the total population of The Algarve is under 500,000, yet the region receives over ten times that amount of tourists per year.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hugo Cadavez

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island by area and is an extremely popular holiday destination for tourists.  Every year, over 2 million visitors travel to Crete, the majority of them staying in the capital, Heraklion.  One of the biggest draws is of course the magnificent beaches, but also the tremendous nightlife which will give you plenty to do to fill your days as well as your nights.  If beaches and nightclubs aren’t really your thing, Crete also has some magnificent mountains that are ideal for hiking in.

Cefalu

Cefalu located in Sicily is a beachside village that has a very strong feeling of history.  The streets are all narrow and cobbled and barely provide enough room for a Smart Car to navigate.  Lining the streets are antique shops, craft shops and fruit and veg markets, all of which are worth a visit.  Relatively quiet compared to other destinations, you will be able to enjoy the water in Cefalu without the frantic pace of life in other destinations.  There are a lot of ancient buildings, such as the Cathedral of Cefalu that provide a great experience for tourists too.  Cefalu is also home to numerous bars and restaurants so you will never run out of things to see and do.

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If you are planning on visiting the Med for the first time, look into staying at the La Manga Club.  A stay here is guaranteed to make you want to return time and time again.

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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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Faro was originally just a fishing village built by the Romans, who called it Ossonoba. In 1249, thanks to Alfonso III. was freed from the power of the Moors and became to prosper as a city. But in 1596 a city suffered a damaging blow, it was burned by the Earl of Essex, who was a great favorite of Queen Elizabeth I. And later, in 1755, it was damaged again during the massive earthquake. Although the remnants of ancient city walls managed to preserve until today, most of the beautiful buildings either did not outlast the destruction or have been largely damaged. So the buildings that you can see today in Faro, come mainly from the late 18th and 19th century.

Faro is now a beautiful coastal city protected by a low sandy islands Ilha de Culatra, Ilha da Barreta and Ilha da Faro. Unfortunately, many tourists pass Faro without stopping here, even though it has the largest number of cultural and historical monuments from all the towns in the Algarve region. Preserved old town center around the cathedral and behind the old city walls, definitely worth a visit.

The historical center of Faro can easily be explored on foot. It lies in a small bay and is partly surrounded by medieval walls. The old harbor area has arched entrance gate with a bell tower called Arco da Vila. This arch was built in the 19th century for Bishop Dom Francisco Gomes do Avelar, who has decided to rebuild the dilapidated city. Street behind it, paved with cobblestones, leads to a beautiful Largo da Sé Square, where you can see the cathedral. From the original Gothic cathedral from the 13th century, which was destroyed in 1596 by English forces led by the Earl of Essex, are preserved only unusual tower, covered porches and two inner chapels. The reconstruction of the cathedral took a long time, so it is now built both in Renaissance, and Baroque style.

Inside the cathedral you can see a huge pipe organ decorated with spectacular Chinese motifs. During festive occasions, there are playing Europe’s leading organists. The cathedral also houses one of the most important Algarve’s collections of sacred art from the 17th and 18th century. And its tower offers a beautiful view of the city.

On the square Largo da Sé is also a Bishop’s Palace Paço Episcopal. If you go through another stone arch in Arco Repouso, walk up to the church of São Francisco, which was built in the 18th century. It is decorated with tiles and scenes from the life of St. Francis. Further north, another church rises in Pé Nossa Senhora da Cruz, who is an exceptional oil paintings depicting episodes from Genesis.

In the monastery Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção (Monastery of Our Lady of the Assumption), which is the oldest Renaissance building in the Algarve, is probably the most beautiful cloister in southern Portugal, which was built in 1540 by Afonso Pires. The monastery was founded by Leonor, sister of Manuel I (king of Portugal). The monastery has been carefully restored and since 1973 houses a museum devoted to archeology where you can see the local archaeological finds. The collection includes also Roman, medieval and Manueline stone reliefs and sculptures. The main exhibit is a 2,000 year old Roman mosaic floor measuring 9 x 3 meters, showing a head of the god Neptune.

The most interesting church in Faro is Igreja do Carmo (Carmelite Church). It has an imposing facade with two towers and a beautiful gilded interior, but its biggest attraction is haunted Bone Chapel. Besides the Carmelite church from the 18th century is located another museum – Museo Marítimo exhibiting a small collection of marine exhibits, including model ships. You will see a flagship example of Vasco de Gama, which he used during his voyage to India. Plus you can learn here about the traditional methods of fishing on the coast of the Algarve.

The main artery of Faro is the elegant pedestrian street Rua de Santo António, which is full of shops, bars and restaurants. On the northeast of the city lies the Jewish cemetery, founded for the community, which was brought here by Marquis de Pombal in the 18th century.

About 7 kilometers from the town is a beach. The local coastline is attractive because it includes a number of small sandy islands with a unique nature reserve. In the vicinity of the bay is the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is a favorite resting place for many species of migratory birds.

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Those who visit Madeira and hike through the island, soon discover that everything on the island is either downhill or uphill. Plane landscape can not be find here. However, Paul da Serra will surprise you. It is a huge plane. Another World.

If the weather is nice, you can see both a northern and southern coast of the island. But it is very occasionally and rather do not expect to be so lucky.

Do not underestimate the clothes, as here on the plateau may be a lot colder than at the sea. Also fogs can be formed very quickly and remain long enough. Therefore, be prepared for those natural changes. It is also recommended to go on guided tours.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jörg Schmalenberger at wikipedia.com

Paul da Serra attracts tourists by its unusual landscape and beautiful scenery. At the road to Porto Moniz you can get into a nice valley of Rabacal. Here you can choose from two popular hiking trails leading along the irrigation canals Levadas. The first route is easy, it’s more comfortable for walking. After fifteen minutes you get to the Risco waterfall. The second route is more challenging. The steep climb takes you to 25 Fontes (which means to 25 springs). The whole tour takes about three hours. Both routes are very attractive and should be included in all the maps of Madeira.

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Ski Serra da Estrela is a small ski resort in Portugal. It is located in the central part of the country in the mountains of Serra da Estrela, at an altitude of 1851 – 1988 metres above sea level. Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain in Portugal’s mainland and does not have any highest summit, but instead of that it is a plateau, known as Torre (Tower), measuring 1,993 meters. However the highest point of Portugal is situated on the island of Pico in the Azores and it is called Mount Pico (2,351 metres). The entire Serra da Estrela mountain range belongs to Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela.

On the highest point of Serra da Estrela is the radar station, the old observatory, and 7 m high monument in order to reach an altitude of 2000 meters. At the top you can also find a store, where you can buy mainly cheese and ham (prosciutto).

Below the mountains, on the east, is a great city of Guarda, on the south is the ski town of Covilha with an information centre of the natural park. The best starting point for hiking is the village of Manteigas situated in the middle of Natural Park.

Ski Serra da Estrela has 9 pistes with a total length of 7.7 km. There is 1 black, 4 red, 2 blue and 2 green slopes. Transportation is provided by 4 lifts and a chair lift with a total carrying capacity of 2000 persons per hour. The ski area of Serra da Estrela has also a snowpark.

The skiing season starts here usually in December and lasts to April. One-day ski-pass in high season costs €25 and €15 off-season. You can also find here a restaurant, 2 bars, ski school and ski rental services. Among favorite after-snow activities are snowshoeing, sledding and snowmobile riding.

For further information about Serra da Estrela ski resort with actual snow conditions visit official website skiserradaestrela.com.

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Guimarães, which is reportedly the oldest city in the whole of Portugal, was built in the middle of slightly hilly landscape. In 1139, Alfonso Henriques proclaimed himself king Alfonso I. and chose Guimarães for his royal seat. Although the capital city of Portugal moved quickly to the city of Coimbra and the seat of a king to the city of Porto, Guimarães remained forever a birthplace of the nation. The proof of the city’s importance is the characteristic shape of the local castle, which appears on the Portuguese coat of arms in the middle of the state flag.

The city center is full of the narrow medieval streets that are lined with shops and cafes and invite you to a pleasant walk. The oldest street is Rua de Santa Maria, which is paved with cobblestones and decorated with the old houses with ornate statues. It leads from the main square, Largo da Oliveira, along the palace Paço dos Duques up to the castle. This is the biggest tourist attraction of the city.

Castle Castelo de Sao Miguel is composed of huge square castle tower, which is surrounded by eight smaller towers with battlements. It was built in the 10th century to protect the city against attacks of Moors and Normans. About 200 years later, it was spread thanks to the initiative of Henry of Burgundy. According to the legend, Alfonso I. The chapel inside has a mysterious character because the floor is made of gravestones of the first Portuguese kings and their ancestors.

During your visit you should not miss a visit to the charming church of São Francisco, which was built in 1400 in the Gothic style.

City of Guimarães is also known for its football club Vitória de Guimarães. The stadium is located in the northwestern part of Guimarães and is quite large in comparison with the city. Forests surrounding Guimarães consist mainly of non-native eucalyptus. The current population of the city is more than 52,000 inhabitants.

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