Algarve

THE ALGARVE  situated on the extreme South of Portugal is one of the top holiday destinations with one of the most pleasant climates in the world.
The region is best known for its spectacular coastline, including superb beaches, unspoilt countryside, friendly people and the excellent Portuguese gastronomy to be found in the various restaurants within the area and of course the renown hospitality of the locals.

It is both a place to relax and do little, or if you prefer indulge in one of the numerous recreation activities such as: golf, tennis, sailing, big game fishing, horse-riding, bird watching, walking, swimming, jet skiing and micro light flying, etc...
Most activities are in the clean fresh air, although there are a growing number of well-equipped gyms as well as health clubs and beauty salons.
Saying that, with much of the coastline being protected, there are many areas of The Algarve that remain unspoilt by overdevelopment.
The naturally beautiful environment is much less spoilt and polluted than in others European countries, the skies are predominately blue all year round, including mild sunny winters.

The Algarve is increasingly the first choice location for home-buyers and property investors alike. The old world charm of The Algarve with the traditional friendly values of Algarveans who mix well and are always willing to help and to share their traditions with the increasing members of the international community.

The Algarve is composed of 5.411 square kilometres with approx. 420,000 (Year 2004) permanent inhabitants, many of which being Europeans, seeking to exchange the stress of the fast pace of the modern life in their own country, for a more relaxed healthy lifestyle abroad.
There are about 100 attractive sandy beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean and due to the maritime shelf and water currents, the sea temperature is often surprisingly warm even in some winter months.
The standard of living is high and costs are relatively low in comparison to U.K. and other Europe countries.

Portuguese is the seventh most widely spoken language but it is not easy to learn. Much to the relief of European visitors, most of the Portuguese and those in business or the tourist industry, have an excellent command of English, which is now the second language in schools.

The only aspects that you may find missing here, comparatively with other sunny places such as Spain, France, Italy and Greece are sweltering summers, pollution or high crime rates.