beat the brochure

2012 is set to be a huge year. Not only will the Olympics and Euro 2012 be taking place, but the world is actually set to end on 21st December too if you believe the Mexicans (Google it if you haven’t heard!) Whilst this year is going to be massive for various sporting reasons, Portugal has plenty to smile about in 2012 too. The western most country in Europe is to play host to a number of top events and shows which will certainly put a smile on the faces of tourist bosses as well as millions of visitors who will flock to its shores.

The European Capital of Culture

Past winners of this prestigious award in recent years have included Istanbul and Liverpool, and in 2012 it is the turn of the Portuguese city of Guimarães. The city is a preserved world heritage site and throughout the year there will be a whole number of events taking place to mark its year in the spotlight. Keep an eye out for event announcements and join the thousands who are expected to take a trip to this beautiful city in 2012.

Music Galore

Portugal is not perhaps the first place you think of when it comes to international music festivals, but in 2012 it is the place to be for music lovers. Superstars such as Lenny Kravitz and Bruce Springsteen are to perform at the bi-annual Rock in Rio-Lisboa. The festival lasts from late May to early June and a whole host of other big names are set to confirm their presence. Forget Glastonbury, what could be better than seeing the world’s biggest rock stars in the warm sunshine of Portugal this spring? It sure beats sitting in a muddy field in Somerset!

Affordable and Accessible Lisbon

As of April 2012, EasyJet will open a new base in Lisbon, meaning flights from and to Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Venice and Asturias will now be possible. This will open the city up to even more tourists and will help Portugal’s fragile economy get back on its feet. And the economy is something which could actually work in Portugal’s favour – it is a lot more affordable to visit the country now then it has been in past years. Due to well publicised financial problems, the country is currently very cheap for tourists. Never has it been more affordable to book cheap Portugal holidays!

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many more events going on throughout the year. If you have any suggestions as to where to go or if you want to highlight a certain event in Portugal, let us know!