Why an Algarve Vacation?

If a vacation, as defined by a dictionary is: 'leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure', then one taken in Algarve must be the epitome of that term.

The southern-most region of Portugal, Algarve is a holiday-maker's dream. Wonderful year-round weather, great beaches, fabulous scenery and - best of all - the local people!

Algarveans are a tolerant, laid-back lot, who have seen much change in the several decades since their region started to become a tourist magnet. Some of the age-old ways of life (such as small-scale fishing) continue undisturbed by the leisure-seeking visitors who are drawn to this lovely area.

Most who sample the attractions of Algarve become converted enthusiasts. If you love warm places, sand and sea and generally relaxed holidays, then Algarve is your dream destination.

It's a compact area, only some 90 miles by 30 miles at its furthest extremities - but it's home to over 100 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches.

While, for those who don't mind leaving the coast behind for a while, the region is steeped in history, and has much to delight the visitor's eye. Much of the Algarve's heritage has been preserved, especially in the profusion of Moorish-influenced architecture on show. And the contrasts, between coast and mountains, sand and greenery, modernity and history, offer visitors many choices of how to spend an Algarve vacation.

The region's ancient past is positively celebrated, and most sizeable towns boast a local museum that shows relics from Roman times - and even earlier.

Algarveans are proud of their distinct culture and some of the diversion on offer to the holiday-maker is even free (concerts and gallery admissions spring to mind from my last visit). Whatever the month of year, there's usually a Saint's day that gives rise to a colourful festival, in which the locals take a whole-hearted part.

Public transport within the region is efficient and cheap, which serves to keep the tourist dollars and Euros circulating, while allowing holiday-makers to sample more than just the tourist areas.

Even a tour of either the western or eastern halves of Algarve can be undertaken within a single day (though it helps to have your itinerary sorted before you set out). And a meal at an inland restaurant during the return journey to your holiday accommodation will likely prove cheaper than one taken in the tourist-populated coastal areas (a bonus for the more adventurous tourist!).

Am I keen to get back there soon? You bet!

Which leads me to a rather obvious question: why am I sitting here writing this, instead of making a booking with my friendly local travel agent?

About The Author

Jennifer Dodds is the owner of www.algarve-beach-life.com, her enthusiast website, where she shares everything she loves (and is still discovering) about her favourite vacation spot. She publishes a monthly newsletter, Algarve Beach Life News to update subscribers about what's new on the site.

---

An Island A Day

Stand by the shores of Casco Bay on the coast... Read More

Come to Orlando and Vacation Like You Never Have Before in a Town Home!

Of course you are anxious to take a vacation this... Read More

Family-Friendly Vacation Condos on Hilton Head Island

Many vacationers on Hilton Head Island have discovered a simple... Read More

What Not To Wear

What makes certain styles of pants so popular? One reason... Read More

European Car Rental - Top Ten Tips for Europe Travel: Tip #3 Insurance

Car rental insurance has to be one of the most... Read More

Hampshire - Mild, Convenient, and Full of Variety

The southern English county of Hampshire is only two hours... Read More

Vacation Rentals in the Bahamas

The Bahamas serve as the perfect relaxation destination. With pristine... Read More

You Only Have One Life, Let Your Caribbean Dream Come True

Turning your dream to Reality?Buying in the CaribbeanBuying a home... Read More

Washington, DC a Bargain Travel Guide

Welcome to Washington, DC - The nation's capital is a... Read More

Buying Real Estate in Cozumel

As beautiful and modern as Cozumel is, visitors must remember... Read More

Vacation Villas in Orlando Florida - What are They?

What is a villa? Come to Orlando, Florida to find... Read More

Ten Reasons to Move to the Costa Brava

After France, Spain is Europe's most popular holiday destination, and... Read More

Vacation / Honeymoons 101 - Planning for Perfect Weather on Your Trip

Did you ever worry when traveling about the weather? Most... Read More

Dare to Dream: The Vacation of a Lifetime In A Timeshare

What are your chances of getting the vacation of a... Read More

Top Family Vacation Destinations

Planning a family beach vacation? Looking for destinations with family... Read More

Vacation Rentals on Hilton Head Island

Each year, over two million people find their way to... Read More

Palmetto Dunes Plantation ? Hilton Head Island

An Award Winning Vacation, Golf, Tennis and Beach ResortIf you... Read More

Lodging and Entertainment Deals in Orlando Florida

Disney Area Lodging DealsThe Orlando area communities of Lake Buena... Read More

Hotels Aren?t the Only Place You Can Stay on Vacation!

Today, we as travelers have a ton of options to... Read More

Vacation Destinations

Many times, when we plan a vacation, we know where... Read More

Cottage Holidays

Holiday time is around the corner and its time to... Read More

A Dream Vacation

What is the meaning of a "dream vacation"? What is... Read More

Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals

Cabin rental in Pigeon Forge are one of the city's... Read More

Vacationing with Children

Traveling with children will be a memorable event ? the... Read More

Orlando Vacation Accommodation - Unforgettable Accommodation

As a family, we have been visiting Orlando since 1998,... Read More

Apartments are Good for Your Health

Work-rate, health and even personal relationships may be affected if... Read More

Home Exchange

Have you ever wanted to travel to far away places... Read More

Caribbean Pearl Secret, Margarita Island is Not So Much a Secret Anymore

Margarita Island is one of the lesser known Caribbean islands.... Read More

From Vancouver Down The Oregon Coast To Napa Trip

Spent a fantastic trip going down the Oregon Coast to... Read More

Hilton Head Vacation Rentals

Hospitable to all of our visitors, rental agencies on Hilton... Read More

Visiting Whistler Before The 2010 Olympics?

As a resident, business owner and frequent skiier at Whistler,... Read More

Review of Car Rental Abroad

Are you thinking of travelling Abroad?You will surely want to... Read More

Simple Ways to Stretch Your Orlando Lodging Dollars

You've thought and dreamed about it for months, planning each... Read More