Interview with Portugal Tourism - Insider Travel Tips

We predict a bit of an increase in visitors looking for cheap Portugal holidays this year. There is something about the slightly aloof country sitting on the far West of Europe and if their rose port is anything to go by, I think many of us will be already thinking about returning. To get to know the country a little bit more and find out what we really want to know – the insider travel tips – we got in touch with Portugal tourism and they very kindly answered our questions to help you make the most of your Portugal holiday this year.

1. – What is the one tourist attraction people often miss that they really shouldn’t?

Portugal is divided into seven regions, for all seven regions they are:

Algarve – Via Algarviana, one of the most impressive walking trails in southern Europe (www.via-algarviana.com)

Madeira – Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Porto Santo – Thalassotherapy and white sand spa treatments;

Azores – Whale watching, with more than 20 different types of cetaceans, making it one of the world’s biggest whale sanctuaries

Centro Region – Naturtejo which is a 4,600 Square Km Geopark ready to be explored by visitors.

Lisbon Region – The Lisbon Oceanarium, opened in 1988 and was the centerpiece of the XXth Century’s last World Fair, themed “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future”. this impressive aquarium will entertain children and adults in a visit that will show maritime examples from all oceans.

Alentejo – Balloon ride over Alentejo’s vast plains;

North and Porto – Portugal’s birth place, and this year’s European Capital of Culture, Guimarães, a beautiful ancient city in Northern Portugal.

2. – Which is the best beach in Portugal to avoid the crowds?

In western Algarve, the Carrapateira area is an excellent choice for those seeking privacy. The Alentejo’s coastal beaches, also offers vast sandy golden beaches, ready to be discovered.

3. – We fancy a night out, where should we go, what should we eat/drink?

Bairro Alto offers a variety of entertainment, form traditional Fado music (recently awarded UNESCO intangible heritage) to modern contemporary music. Here visitors can savour renowned restaurants, listen to live music or even go clubbing.

4. – Is there anything about Portugal that people would be surprised to know?

Portugal produces more than 50% of its energy consumption, thus contributing to a cleaner world. Foreign visitors should be aware that their holiday in Portugal leaves a far smaller carbon footprint on our planet.

5. – What is new in Albufeira/Algarve this summer?

For hotel openings, Hilton Conrard in Quinta do Lago will open in Spring this year. Also Onyria Palmares Beach and Golf Resort is set to open 2012.

6. – Are there any up and coming Portugal destinations people may be interested in visiting?

Alentejo’s Alqueva dam has created Europe’s largest manmade lake. Its shores offer unforgettable holidays for those looking for peaceful break. The archipelago of Madeira comprises of two inhabited islands, less known Porto Santo offers a stunning beach with just over 9km of white sands and warm Atlantic waters. An ideal family destination for those seeking sea and peaceful break.

7. – When is the best time to visit Portugal?

Portugal mainland and its islands are an all year destinations. Those able to visit us in the spring or autumn will benefit from great weather without the crowds of the summer months.

A big thank you to Isabel Salgueiro and the team at Turismo de Portugal for answering our questions and giving us some insider Portugal tips!