Travel
Like The
"Rich and Famous. . ."
Discover How A Pauper
Travels Like A King!
Why an Algarve Vacation?
by: Jennifer Dodds
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.
Todays Travel Tip
Lots of the new ships are now charging for extra activities like
miniature golf and in line skating, among others things. Be sure
and find out what activities are not included before making a
commitment. These fun & games can really add up. Our Pauper
enjoys playing as well as the next guy; he just likes doing so with
money in his pocket! Check back tomorrow for
another tip.
P.S.
If you have ever wanted to travel like the "rich and famous," here is
your opportunity. The Pauper's Secret Confessions alone, are
worth 10 times the cost of this book. Never take another trip
without being prepared!
