A place in the sun; Portimao (Portimao)

Member Name: purple81

Product:	Portimao
Date:	11/06/09 (18 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Nightlife, Great Beaches, Great for Families, Water Sports & Parks, Golf

Disadvantages: Can be very hot in the height of summer

As a large family group we have been visiting Portimao in the Algarve region of Portugal for a number of years now. With ages ranging from small children, through twenty something's right up to the more senior citizen types we have always found this beautiful city to have something for everyone. Staying in a villa, sleeping up to 24 people, right in the heart of the city we can soak up the sun by the pool and still be only a stone's throw away from all the activities the Algarve has to offer.

We have loved this city and what it has to offer so much that we are going back again in just under 3 weeks and I for one can't wait. Portimao is a great destination for families, party goers, and older groups alike. Portimao is a hive of activity during the day: for families there are regular trips to the many water parks, aquarium, zoo and fun parks in the area from the tourist centre down by the Marina; for older people the Marina and the charm of this quaint city will capture your hearts; and for those seeking a more pleasure filled holiday there are regular bus fairs and taxis from as little as Euro1 per person into the more lively parts such as Praia da Rocha where the water sports can keep you busy on the beach all day and the tourist strip of souvenir shops, bars, restaurants and nightclubs takes you right through the night.

The people of the Algarve will make your holiday all the more special, the staff in every restaurant, hotel, bar, or shop and the general public all speak a variety of languages and are more than helpful with any assistance, advice or directions you may need. There is a wonderful charm to the people of Portugal and you can't help but get swept away in their relaxed attitude to life.

The only thing I can find at fault with this particular destination is the heat, with temperatures soaring to above 40 degrees c during the height of the summer season it can be a little much for some. My advice is to find some shade or lounge by the pool during the day and come out at when the heat stars to fade but the culture and bustle of the city certainly won't.

Boat trips on clear blue seas to discover hidden caves; water parks, fun parks and a wonderful zoo for the children (and the big kids amongst us); people watching at the Marina; eating fresh sardines right off the boats; shopping and sightseeing; architecture, culture and history; wonderful and more than helpful local people; beautiful beaches where you can relax, swim, play games with the kids or for the more adventurous partake in some great and exhilarating water sports; fabulous nightlife for all age groups with quiet quaint bars, rock bars, discos and nightclubs; great bus and train services to all the other fascinating towns and cities in the area.

What more could anyone ask for?

Summary: A wonderful city offering something for everyone