Algarve

Being one of Europe's top golfing destinations, the Algarve has firmly established its reputation as a quality resort among all enthusiasts.
The high quality layout of the courses, many designed by the some of the very best international architects, toghether with the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscapes, meets the demands of most golfers. The region has in fact become a firm favourite among golfers from all around the world.
The pleasant climate, with over three hundred days of sunshine per year, ensures that golf can be comfortably played all year round.
The excellence of the courses is heightened by a variety of trees and vegetation, the greens, tees and the prevailing silence only to be diturbed by the sound of a well-struck shot.

How to buy in Portugal

1 - Not living in Portugal you should first request at the local tax office (Finanças) a fiscal number (Numero Contribuinte) in order to legally buy a property in Portugal (you will need that card number also for opening a bank account and it will be your personal ID for payment of anything to do with your property), needed first for the promise of sale and purchase contract; you will need the copy of the birth certificate of the buyers for the overture of the bank account in Portugal; you will need also all legal documentation for the sale explained on point 2;

2 - The legality of the property is assured by several documents that identifies the property, ownership, etc. such as the tax document or property matrix (caderneta predial) that gives a full specification of the property for tax purposes; the usage and habitation licences (licença de habitabilidade) that confirms that the residential area of the property is in order and according the regulations and plans, after being inspected (this document is provided by the council office - Câmara Municipal); the notary and registration certificate (Certidão de Registo) that also confirms the plot and building area as well as the ownership (similar to the tax document but provided by the local property registry office). It is our responsibility as I've told you to provide this;

3 - After eventual negotiations, it is time for the promise of sale and purchase contract that defines the terms, dates and conditions for the transaction and transfer of ownership, witch both parties sign. This signing is followed by a deposit payment witch is freely established between the parties (usually 10 to 20% of purchase value);

4 - On the established day on the promise contract the title deeds (escritura) takes place in a public/private notary office (the ones with the power to legally certify and "witness" the sale) were it is signed again by both parties. This is the final sale and purchase contract and at this time the final payment is made. In your case we need a translator present cause the act is in Portuguese. The title deeds legal copy for both parties is only provided days after. The documents needed for this act are: identification documents and portuguese tax number (obtained days before), property matrix, registration certificate, usage license and proof of tax payment (the IMT tax).

5 - About taxes in Portugal. Directly to the property it self there are two: the IMT Rate, a one off-tax, that it is payable whenever ownership of a property is deemed to have changed hands, witch usually occurs on the date of signing of the title deeds. The tax is according the transaction value - ex.: 7% exempting then 9.875 euros;

the other one is IMI annual tax, witch is pay semester (April and September) and it's value (tax) is defined by the city council (may be adjusted annually), this year it's 0,72%/per semester OR 0,45%/per semester if evaluated by the local tax office (always by the highest value, because the property as always an determined value on the registration certificate and on the time that you pay the IMT tax the local tax office determines a value for the property you are going to buy - if the highest one is the one on the registration certificate you pay the 0,72% if not the 0,45% - usually is the 0,45% because the evaluation from the local tax office is higher - the values on the registration certificate are usually not updated).

6 - You still have to be informed about the fees:

- Notary fees - payable on that date, at the public notary, for drawing up and witnessing the signing of the title deeds, made up from two parts: the notary fees around the 200 euros and the stamp duty 0,8% of purchase value. You have also some extras around the 50 euros and in case of mortgage usually around the 150 euros;

- Lawyer's fees - Depending on the purchase value and the complexity of the transaction but around 1 to 3% of purchase value;

- Registration Fees - The final step in a purchase is the final register on the local property register office and on the local tax office around the 150 euros an in case of mortgage an extra 135 euros;

- Extra fees - For changing the contract names for water, electricity, sewers, cable television supply, etc. around the 100 euros.

I'm sending you also some pdf documents with some more information, but you can get more on the portuguese banks web sites (user's guide)

Algarve Events 2008

Art
Algarve International Film Festival
10 - 18 May 2008 (annual)
The annual Algarve Film Festival, (FICA - Festival Internacional de Cine do Algarve), in the town of Portimão, is Portugal's oldest cinema event, dating back to 1972. It centres on a short%u2026

Festival Med
25 - 29 Jun 2008 (annual)
Loulé
The best of the Med comes to Loulé in the Algarve this summer for a music, dance and arts extravaganza in the form of Festival Med.

Festivals & Heritage

Moorish Nights
Jul 2008 (annual)
Cacela Velha
During the Moorish Nights, the Algarve village of Cacela Velha recreates the ambience of the Arab presence in the region from the 10th-13th centuries.

Cova dos Mouros Mine Park
10 May - 31 Oct 2008; Thu only (annual)
Cova dos Mouros Mine Park, Alcoutim
If you're interested in archaeological finds then head for the Cova dos Mouros Mine Park. Discover the remains of copper mines dating back to the Chacolithic period (2500 BC) and learn all%u2026

Loulé Carnival
Feb 2009 (annual)
Loulé
At carnival time the people of Loulé really let rip and stage a lively event with plenty of floats, fancy dress, parades and parties, mostly along the Avenida José da Costa Mealha.

Easter Festival
Mar 2009 (annual)
S. Bras de Alportel
Easter Sunday is celebrated in São Bras de Alportel with an unusual ceremony. The men of this inland town hold decorated torches while running through the streets shouting "Hallelujah".

Castelo de Silves
Daily
Castelo de Silves, Silves
Located at the highest point in Silves, this impressive castle once formed part of the wall that encircled the city and was an important defence when it was the capital and residence of the%u2026

Kids & Family

Moorish Nights
Jul 2008 (annual)
Cacela Velha
During the Moorish Nights, the Algarve village of Cacela Velha recreates the ambience of the Arab presence in the region from the 10th-13th centuries.

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
Daily
Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, Faro
Ria Formosa, on the coast of the Algarve close to Faro, is one of the area's most popular tourist destinations and a wonderful place for nature lovers to spend the day. Designated a protected%u2026

ZooMarine
Daily; not Mon
ZooMarine, Guia
Located at the heart of the Algarve tourist region, the ZooMarine oceanographic theme park in Guia offers a great day out for the whole family.

Krazy World
Daily
Krazy World, Algôz
Krazy World is a theme park that combines a mini-zoo and petting farm with a crazy golf course.

Castelo de Silves
Daily
Castelo de Silves, Silves
Located at the highest point in Silves, this impressive castle once formed part of the wall that encircled the city and was an important defence when it was the capital and residence of the%u2026

Algarve Live Science Centre
Daily; not Mon
Centro de Ciência Viva do Algarve, Faro
For adults and children alike, the Algarve Live Science Centre in Faro is a place of discovery and learning. The exhibits are interactive, encouraging the visitor to stretch the boundaries of%u2026

Lifestyle

Festival do Marisco
Aug 2008 (annual)
Jardim do Pescador Olhanese, Olhão
One of the most important gastronomic events in the Algarve, the Festival do Marisco (seafood festival) in the fishing town of Olhão has rows of stalls selling all kinds of fresh fish dishes.%u2026

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
Daily
Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, Faro
Ria Formosa, on the coast of the Algarve close to Faro, is one of the area's most popular tourist destinations and a wonderful place for nature lovers to spend the day. Designated a protected%u2026

Algarve Shopping
Daily
Algarve Shopping, Albufeira
AlgarveShopping is a giant shopping mall and entertainment centre just a short drive from Albuferia in the town of Guia. It features all the most popular high street and designer shops as well%u2026

Vilalara Thalassa
Daily
Vilalara Thalassa, Lagoa
It may sting your eyes, but sea water and its derivatives can do wonders for the mind, body and soul. The thalassotherapy centre at Vilalara is one of the best places in Europe to get a good soaking.

Monchique Thermal Baths
Daily
Monchique Thermal Baths, Monchique
Between the blue sky and the green Monchique mountains lies Monchique Spa, or Caldas De Monchique, the perfect place to soak away your worries (and maybe even the lines from your face) as the%u2026

Sports & Outdoors

Vilamoura International Showjumping Contest
Sep 2008 (annual)
Vilamoura Showjumping Course, Vilamoura
Once again the International Showjumping Contest takes place in the Algarve resort of Vilamoura. With first-class showjumpers from Portugal and overseas, the competition is as hot as the destination.

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve
Daily
Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, Faro
Ria Formosa, on the coast of the Algarve close to Faro, is one of the area's most popular tourist destinations and a wonderful place for nature lovers to spend the day. Designated a protected%u2026

Quinta do Lago
Daily
Quinta do Lago, Almancil
Used several times for the Portuguese Open, the Quinta do Lago is a deluxe golf course situated close to Almancil. Designed by William Mitchell and opened in 1974, the course favours the long%u2026

Algarve-Gold Luxury Coastal Cruises
Daily
Lagos
For a luxury day out, hire the Algarve-Gold 45ft motor cruiser, built by one of Britain's leading yacht builders. Periods of hire range from a few hours to days, weeks or even months.

Parque da Floresta Golf Course
Daily
Parque da Floresta Golf Course, Budens
The Algarve is renowned for its golf courses and the Parque de Floresta is one of the finest in Europe. Designed by Spanish golf architect Pepe Gancedo in 1995, it is an undulating course with%u2026

Alto Golf
Daily
Alto Golf, Alvor
Opened in 1991, the Alto Golf course was the last to be designed by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton. Located close to the coastal village of Alvor, golfers can enjoy the occasional picturesque%u2026

Boavista Golf Course
Daily
Boavista Golf Course, Lagos
This 18-hole course near Lagos was designed by Howard Swan and opened in 2001. Good for the average player, the course is set amongst umbrella pines, fig, almond and olive trees, with various%u2026

Palmares Golf Course
Daily
Palmares Golf Course, Lagos
Designed by Frank Penninck in 1976, this course is renowned for its breathtaking views and overlooks the Bay of Lagos. It is an open 18-hole par 71 with five challenging holes on sand dunes.%u2026

Penina Championship Golf Course
Daily
Le Meridien Penina Golf & Resort, Portimão
The Algarve is renowned for its golf courses and Penina was one of its first. Designed by Sir Henry Cotton in 1966, it was built on what was once paddy fields. With flat fairways and%u2026

Vilamoura Casino
Daily
Vilamoura Casino, Vilamoura
As well as international shows and game rooms, Vilamoura Casino has the famous Blackjack disco, all promising a night of adult entertainment.

Ocean Golf Course
Daily
Ocean Golf, Almancil
One of the many golf courses designed by Sir Henry Cotton, the Ocean golf course opened in 1968. As the name suggests, it boasts views of the Atlantic, with some holes along the cliff tops.

Algarve-Gold Traditional Sailing Trips
Daily
Lagos
For the perfect family day out, hire a traditional Portuguese sailing vessel, with a trip round the Lagos Bay and to the grottoes at Ponto de Piedad and the beaches at Burgau. Then anchor%u2026

Monchique Thermal Baths
Daily
Monchique Thermal Baths, Monchique
Between the blue sky and the green Monchique mountains lies Monchique Spa, or Caldas De Monchique, the perfect place to soak away your worries (and maybe even the lines from your face) as the%u2026

Praia do Alvor - Long sandy beach, limited by low dunes, inviting you for a walk. The calm waters are especially suitable for children.

Praia do Amado - The beach of Amado, located at the western coast, is very much sought after by extreme sportspersons. It has already been the venue of several national and international Surf and Body Board competitions.

Praia da Amoreira - Large beach and dunes, beautifully located close to the town of Aljezur. Here you can take a swimm in the sea and in the river.

Praia do Anção - Family friendly large sandy beach between Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, located in an extensive protected dune reserve.

Praia de Armação de Pêra - Large, family friendly sandy beach opposite the Armação de Pêra tourist centre promenade. Very busy during the summer season.

Praia de Armona-Mar - Located on the Ilha de Armona island between Olhão and Fuzeta. Access only by ferryboat from Olhão, followed by a 2 mile walk to the beac

Praia da Arrifana - Family friendly beach with blue flag near Aljezur. Outsite high season it is much asked by surfers and body boarders

Praia dos Aveiros - Small sandy beach embedded in a rocky bay of the cliffs of Praia da Oura east of Albufeira.

Praia da Barreta - Very isolated sandy beach, on the island Ilha Deserta opposite Faro. Access only by ferryboat from Faro.

Praia do Barril - Sandy beach on the island Ilha de Tavira in the Ria Formosa Natural Park with extensive dunes. Access by foot via a wooden bridge. Train shuttle on the island.

Praia da Batata - Both this beach and the Praia dos Estudantes are situated at the exit of Lagos' harbour below the Ponta da Bandeira fortress.

Praia de Belharucas - Pretty sandy beach opposite the Pine Cliffs rock formations found in front of the Sheraton Algarve hotel and Pine Cliffs Resort.

Praia do Benagil - Situated in a rocky bay east of Carvoeiro, the beach is also used by fishermen. Access is via a steep road with limited parking spaces.

Praia da Bordeira - It is a calm, little frequented beach that invites you to have a relaxing vacation.

Praia do Burgau - Small sandy beach in a bay below the village of Burgau between Lagos and Sagres.

Praia de Cabanas - Mar - On a peninsula in the Ria Formosa Natural Park opposite Tavira. Extensive dune system, access by boat, during low tide also by foot by crossing the lagoon.

Praia do Camilo - Small sandy beach situated in a rocky bay of the Costa d'Oiro west of Lagos.

Praia de Caneiros - Pretty sandy beach in a rocky bay, east of Ferragudo, the fishing village near Portimao.

Praia da Carriagem - The beach of Carriagem, located in the Costa Vicentina in the district of Aljezur close to Rogil, is not very frequented and ideal for lovers of nature.

Praia do Carvoeiro - Small sandy beach in the sheltered bay of the renowned resort of Carvoeiro, located in the centre of the village.

Praia do Castelejo - Sandy beach situated on the rugged Costa Vicentina (Algarve's west coast) near Vila do Bispo. Popular with surfers due to the strong breakers.

Praia da Cordoama - A wide, rugged stretch of sand set in a huge bay surrounded by steep cliffs on the Costa Vicentina near Vila do Bispo. Ideal for surfing and paragliding.

Praia da Culatra-Mar - Isolated sandy beach on the island Ilha da Culatra between Faro and Olhão. Access by ferryboat from Olhão (30 min.)

Praia da Dona Ana - Popular small beach, ideally located on the "Golden Coast" of Lagos with scenic cliff formations. Cave tours by boat.

Praia do Evaristo - Ideally located small sandy beach west of Albufeira. Excellent fish restaurant on the beach.

Praia da Falésia - In 2007 the section of the Praia da Falésia in front of the hotel Alfamar has been listed as an independent beach for the first time and awarded the blue flag.

Praia da Falésia-Açoteias - Pretty large sandy beach opposite the Pine Cliffs scenic rock formations. Ideal for a long walk to the east, all the way to Vilamoura if you can manage it!

Praia de Faro - Mar - Popular, endless sandy beach on the Ilha de Faro peninsula with access from Faro by a one-lane bridge. You can walk for miles to the west up to Vilamoura.

Praia de Ferragudo - Large sandy beach (former name: "Praia Grande") with ideal facilities, situated on the mouth of the Arade River opposite Praia da Rocha.

Praia de Vale Figueiras - With an extensive sandy beach and still little frequented, the beach of Vale Figueira is located south of the town of Aljezur

Praia da Fuzeta-Mar - The sea-facing beach is to be found on the eastern part of the island "Ilha de Armona" between Olhão and Fuzeta.
The local beach of Fuzeta is situated on the lagoon near the camp site and marina.

Praia de Galé - Leste - Eastern section of the popular, sandy Galé beach flanked by small cliffs between Albufeira and Armação de Pêra.

Praia do Garrão - Pretty large sandy beach between Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo with protected dunes. Possibility of endless walks in both directions to Faro or Vilamoura.

Praia da Ilha de Tavira - Mar - Lively sandy beach with an extended dune system, located on the Tavira island in a natural protected park. Access by two ferryboat services from Tavira.

Praia da Ilha do Farol - Mar - Isolated sandy beach, located on the lighthouse island "Ilha do Farol" opposite Faro.

Praia da Ingrina - Sandy but also stony beach situaded in a small bay, near Sagres. Access by car from the EN125 in Raposeira.

Praia Lota - The beach of Praia Lota is located to the east of the better known and larger beach of Manta Rota.

Praia da Luz - Urban sandy beach, protected by the surrounding cliffs, west of Lagos. Excellent facilities and water sports centre.

Praia de Manta Rota - Large, popular sandy beach with protected dunes west of Vila Real de St. António with excellent infrastructures.

Praia da Mareta - Small, excellent beach below Sagres, located in a bay well sheltered by the rock plateaus of Ponta de Sagres and Ponta da Atalaia.

Praia da Maria Luísa - Little sandy beach set among cliffs east of Albufeira between Olhos d' Àgua and Santa Eulália.

Praia do Martinhal - Large and flat sandy beach east of Sagres. The ideal place for surfing and walks along the beach.

Meia Praia - Very large and popular sandy beach east of the city of Lagos. Excellent sporting facilities and ideal for children due to the calm waters

Praia de Monte Gordo - Popular, large sandy beach near Vila Real de St. António and the Spanish border. The beach is very busy during the summer season.

Praia de Olhos d´Água - Small sandy beach of the up-and-coming village of Olhos d´Água, beautifully located in a small bay, surrounded by rocks and also used by local fishermen.

Praia da Oura Leste - Smaller sandy beach with rocky bays to the east of the Praia da Oura near Albufeira.

Praia da Oura - Long sandy beach east of Albufeira near the amusement quarter, surrounded by rocks, very busy during the summer season.

Praia do Pinhão - Small sandy beach situated on the Costa d'Oiro west of Lagos, accessible only by walking over the cliffs.

Praia do Pintadinho - Sandy beach with calm waters east of the fishing village of Ferragudo, protected by smaller rocks.

Praia de Porto de Mós - Several miles long and broad sandy beach west of Lagos, very popular for families.

Praia Grande - Large sandy beach between Salgados and Armação de Pêra. No infrastructures, ideal for nature lovers.

Praia da Quarteira - This large sandy beach stretches for several miles opposite the Quarteira promenade and is very busy during the summer season.

Praia do Quinta do Lago - Beautiful large sandy beach with protected dunes. Access by foot via a wooden bridge over the Ria Formosa Natural Park lagoon.

Praia Rocha Baixinha Leste - Large and flat sandy beach between Praia da Rocha Baixinha Oeste and the Vilamoura Marina with excellent infrastructures, perfect for families with children.

Praia Rocha Baixinha Oeste - Flat sandy beach adjacent to Praia de Falésia direction Vilamoura. Good infrastructures, perfect for families with children.

Praia da Rocha - Large sandy beach, ideally located opposite the busy promenade of the tourist centre of Praia da Rocha near Portimão.

Praia da Salema - Sandy beach in the bay below the village of Salema near Burgau. The eastern part is used by fishermen. Problems with water quality in 2006.

Praia da Samouqueira - A small and not very frequented beach. Small sandy spots mixed with gravel. Ideal for lovers of nature.

Praia de São Rafael - Sober sandy beach in a small bay surrounded by cliffs west of Albufeira

Praia da Sra. da Rocha - Sandy beach, located in a bay next the famous Nossa Sra. da Rocha chapel west of Armação de Pêra.

Praia da Stª Eulália - Beautifully located, long stretch of sand east of Albufeira, protected by rocks to the west.

Praia dos Três Castelos - Sandy beach section with bizarre rock formations near Portimao between the renowned beaches of Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau.

Praia dos Três Irmãos - Eastern section of the long sandy beach of Alvor. The name (3 brothers) is derived from the remarkable rock formation.

Praia do Vale de Centeanes - Located several miles east of Carvoeiro in a bay embedded in steep rocks, the beach is accessible on foot via a long stretch of stone steps.

Praia de Vale de Lobo - Beautiful sandy beach of the world class golf and holiday resort of Vale do Lobo near Almancil. The resort greatly endeavours to protect this natural beauty below the cliffs against sea erosion.

Praia do Vau - The beach, also frequented by the locals, is situated adjacent to the Praia da Rocha beach to the east.

Praia da Zavial - Beautifully located sandy beach in a rocky bay east of Sagres, with calm waters.

Ria Formosa's lagoon is located in the Algarve,formed by a barrier islands system that communicates with the sea through 6 inlets. Five of them are natural and have mobility characteristics and the 6th is an artificial inlet opened to allowing easier access to the harbour of Faro.

The main inlet is currentely the Faro-Olhão one, which was artificially opened. The process started in 1927 being completed only in 1952 showing its present configuration.

Antagonistic uses may be found within the Ria Formosa system. Part of the system is a Natural Park but Ria Formosa also plays an important role in the region's economy. Beyond the tourist use it also supports other economic activities such as seafood farms and the port in Faro.

The Ria Formosa is also a designated Natural Park of over 170 km² and a reference place for hundreds of different birds during the spring and autumn migratory periods.

The most important cities near the Ria Formosa are Tavira, Faro and Olhão.

Ther Natural Park is located in Olhão and can be visited through payment of a small entrance fee. There one can see apart from the resident Portuguese Water Dogs, a national breed originating from the area, an endless number of peculiar and unique wild life species following the paths indicated in the park as well as an old mill operated by tides...something not to be missed.

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The municipal area of Albufeira covers an area of approximately 140 km² with more than 30.000 resident inhabitants.
The place known today as Albufeira is an area full of history, with remainings of human occupation from the Neolithic and Bronze ages.
Apart from contacts with Phoenicians, Greeks and Carthaginians who taught the inhabitants about the alphabet, the use of monetary currency, as well as how to conserve food using salt, it was occupied by the Romans,when its original name was Baltum. The Romans initiated intense agricultural, mining and commercial activities. There are still remainings of aqueducts, roads and bridges built by them.

Commerce with the North African coast broought the Moors to the Algarve. The name of Albufeira comes from the Arab "Al-Buhera" which means "Castle of the Sea" - which could derive from the existance of a fortification built on the rocky outcrop that dominated the lagoon on the lower part of the town.

The christian conquest began by the end of the 12th Century. After decades of conflict, the Order of Santiago, finally drove away the Moors in 1249.

Many years passed and tourism only began to flourish by the 1960's giving a breath of fresh air to the local economy.
Thanks to an ever-growing tourist industry, Albufeira became one of the most thought after holiday destinations in Europe.

Montechoro, Areias de São João and the famous Oura became centres of attraction for visitors. The recent completion of the Albufeira Marina extended the town's urban development from its eastern side over to Galé and Salgados in the west.

Albufeira receives an average of the 5 million tourists annually.
Its extraordinary climate, with over 3000 hours of sunshine a year, and the friendly people persuade many foreigners to move residence to the region, both temporarily or permanently. Maybe you can be one of them...

1 - Albufeira Area
Golf Academy - Balaia Village
917 218 185

2 - Almancil Area
Barringtons - Vale do Lobo
289 396 622

3 - Carvoeiro Area
Vale de Milho Golf Academy - Carvoeiro
282 358 502

4 - Lagos Area ( Praia da Luz & Burgau)
The Vigia Golf Academy - Parque da Floresta
282 690 054

5 - Olhão Area
Vila Monte - Moncarapacho
289 790 790

6 - Portimão Area
Hotel Delfim Golf Academy - Alvor
282 400 800

7 - Portimão Area
Vale de Milho Golf Swing Academy - Carvoeiro
282 358 497

8 - Portimão Area
Raul Gritter - Praia da Vau
282 401 620

9 - Vilamoura Area
Super Golf - Vilamoura
289 321 460

1. Tiger Woods - USA
2. Phil Mickelson - USA
3. Padraig Harrington - IRL
4. Adam Scott - AUS
5. Ernie Els - ZAF
6. Geoff Ogilvy - AUS
7. Sergio Garcia - ESP
8. Stewart Cink - USA
9. Steve Stricker - USA
10. Jim Furyk - USA
11. Henrik Stenson - SWE
12. Justin Rose - ENG
13. K.J. Choi - KOR
14. Anthony Kim - USA
15. Vijay Singh - FJI
16. Kenny Perry - USA
17. Trevor Immelman - ZAF
18. Lee Westwood - ENG
19. Rory Sabbatini - ZAF
20. Miguel A Jimenez - ESP
21. Luke Donald - ENG
22. Robert Karlsson - SWE
23. Ian Poulter - ENG
24. Stephen Ames - CAN
25. Aaron Baddeley - AUS

Some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the entire world are to be found in the Algarve a favourite region for sun-seekers from all over. Arriving in search of the natural heritage that is now managed in a sustainable fashion,providing quality recreational facilities meeting all needs. With most of it's beaches having gained due recognition in the form of the EU "Blue Flag" for quality standards.
Along its 200 kilometre coastline, the Algarve has to offer all types of coves, cliffs and caves, its rocky beaches contrasting with broad expanses of sand.
The Algarve's mild climate all year round is also one of it's main attractions. From Odeceixe all the way to Vila Real de Santo António, the entire coast enjoys a Mediterranean-style microclimate with temperatures that vary from 15º C in winter through to 30º C in summer.
The best choice for your holidays!

You frequently hear about people who made their fortunes investing in the stock market, but you also hear about investors who lost their cloths playing the same game. You hardly ever hear about overseas real-estate investors who go bankrupt, however; that's because it doesn't happen often, at least not in Portugal property investments.

Those smart individuals who invested wisely in the Portuguese real estate market many years ago are living a very comfortable lifestyle. Investing in Portuguese real estate can bring interesting returns, so if you're just getting started or have considered investing in real estate, the information that follows is invaluable.

Go your way and take this calculated risk
No one hears about how much money one can make investing in real estate in Portugal. That's probably because it is a well-kept secret. If everyone knew about it, everyone would be doing it, right?

Wrong. Much like starting your own business, investing in real estate requires entrepreneurial skills and a vision, which is why not everyone is jumping on the real-estate bandwagon.
In fact, most people aren't willing to take the risk that real-estate investing entails; fortunately, these are the same people that will make you rich by renting from you. The little secret is that there are hundreds of individuals who procrastinate for every one individual who has a vision and chooses to take the risk.

What Lies Ahead?
Investing in real estate in Portugal requires a lot of time; you need to deal with a vast array of tenants, the good ones as well as the bad ones. Just like a business, you also have to deal with operating and fixed expenses, such as heating bills and renovation costs.

On the other hand, you don't have to wear a suit all day and run around doing someone else's bidding. Your dress code can consist of shorts and a shirt six months out of the year. If you want to go out of town for a few days, you can. You don't have to ask for vacation time.

While you are out of town, your rents keep ticking away 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether you're on the job or not and those loans keep amortizing. The magic is happening just the same. There are plenty of benefits in real estate in Portugal.

Cash flow
Cash flow is the difference between your income and your expenses on a piece of property. You can have a positive or negative cash flow. Obviously, you'll feel a lot better if the cash flow is positive.

A little advice on cash flow: Never use all of your positive cash flow for rapid debt reduction. You will be walking a thin line. By keeping a strong positive cash flow, you will have more options and space to manoeuvre.

The Benefits
Aside from being your own boss, having the freedom to travel while earning profits, increasing your net worth, and having a place of your own to call home, investing in real estate holds even more benefits.

Appreciation
Appreciation is the increase in value of a property. There are two kinds of appreciation. The first is from economic conditions beyond your control, such as inflation. But you won't gain much from this type of appreciation since the gain is offset by the higher cost of living.

The second kind is market appreciation, which you can control. When you improve a property (through renovations), you force its value higher. You can purchase a piece of property in need of repairs and bring it back up to neighbourhood standards or slightly higher; this will give you a property that is much higher in value.

Leverage
Leverage is the ability to borrow a percentage of the value of a piece of property. Real estate in Portugal, in comparison to other investments, offers a very high degree of leverage. In most of the cases, a couple buying a Portugal home can obtain 75 percent financing. This allows individuals to purchase real estate with little, of their own money. What other investments offer such a high degree of leverage?

Tax Advantages
Owning real estate in Portugal with the goal of making a profit allows you to deduct interest payments and other expenses come tax time. But don't be fooled into buying real estate for the tax advantages; rather, purchase it because it makes economic sense to do so.

Amortization
With leverage, or the use of other people's money, comes a repayment schedule. Your outstanding balance is reduced with every payment you make. Part of each payment goes to interest (applied first) and the rest goes to pay off the principal. The principal reduction is called amortization -- reducing debt. Hence, amortization can make you wealthy, slowly and steadily.

Benefits of Buying
Owning overseas real-estate is a great way to achieve your financial freedom. The benefits are definitely there.

Finally we can state that the real estate investment in Portugal is always worth to be considered, now and in the future.

Officially known as Portuguese Republic, Portugal is a country rich in history. The reality that it was home to historical personages like Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama makes Portugal a perfect place to retire for the Old World European lover.

Climate in Portugal
Portugal is a country subject to two different types of climate, oceanic and Mediterranean. Northern Portugal has a climate consisting of the former, which means that that the temperature and weather in the north are almost always moderate, not so hot during summers, not too cold during winters.
The Southern part is dominated by the Mediterranean climate which might consist of very hot summer days.

Portugal is known to be one of Europes warmest countries. In truth though, its average yearly temperatures of 18 degrees Celsius in the south and thirteen degrees Celsius in the north are still much cooler than any tropical countrys.

There are parts of the country which may exhibit extreme weather conditions. Examples are the extreme north locations which may reach temperatures of up to minus 4 to 6 degrees Celsius during the winter and the south locations with summers reaching up to a sweltering 40 degrees Celsius.

Government in Portugal
The constitution laid down in 1976 formed the government of Portugal to what it is today. With Lisbon serving as its capital, the government of Portugal is divided into four elements. The division of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial components is granted by the powers of the countrys constitution.

The first element of the Portuguese government is the countrys president. The presidential seat is merely supervisory and non-executive with a term lasting up to five years. The second element is the countrys parliamentary body called the assembly of the republic. This parliament is unicameral consisting of 230 seats for deputies with terms lasting for four years.

The next element, the government, is ruled by a Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the one responsible for appointing state secretaries and ministers which make up Portugals Council of Ministers. The two political parties dominating both the parliament and the government in Portugal are the Socialist and Social Democratic Parties. The last element of the Portuguese government, the courts, is organized into judicial, fiscal, and administrative.

Tax System in Portugal
The tax rate for Portugal for the year 2007 was between 10.5 percent to 42 percent. Some residents with incomes of specific types are granted tax exemption. For example, a resident with less than 149,753 Euros in annual income will be waived his or her annual tax fee. If you decide to move to Portugal and become a resident, you will be liable to pay taxes. Someone who works in Portugal will be taxed for earnings made in the country.

For you to be recognized as a resident of Portugal, you must have been living in the country for a minimum of 183 days. Sometimes, even less than one hundred eighty three days would suffice if you have a property in Portugal you can declare as your main residence. December 31 is the end of a taxable year in the country. Individuals are expected to file the tax details by the 30th of April.

Medical Care in Portugal
Despite being a developed country, the health care in Portugal is ranked among the lowest in the Western European regions. However, the country does present peace of mind regarding medical care since it has a ratio of 2.9 doctors to 1,000 patients which is higher than that of its neighbouring countries. These health care practitioners, however, are centred in the urban areas of Portugal, meanwhile even the rural areas which were before permanently in need are better served.

Portugal has a health system which pays for a residents hospital and medical bills in full. The system is offered by major urban hospitals, the regional ones, and several health centers.

Shopping in Portugal
Shopping centers in Portugal usually operate seven days of the week from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. Since Portugal is a member of the Euro zone, its currency is in Euro. Different banks exchange for different rates and with varying commissions charged. Currently, MultiBanco (MB) ATMs are all over the country which charge currency exchange commission of only 2 percent. Standard credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and American Express are accepted in Portugal. Eurocheque cards are also accepted and travellers cheques are exchanged without any problems.

Cost of Living in Portugal
Cost of living in Portugal has risen in the last decade. Still, it remains cheaper than the rest of its neighbouring Western European countries. As expected, high-end places in Portugal like Algarves golfing areas are expensive, but away from the countrys fashionable destinations, prices are quite low. To reduce every day costs, steer clear of plush supermarkets and venture to the street markets popular all over the country with fresh produce straight from the farms.

Real Estate in Portugal
Some years ago the majority of the rural areas in Portugal had no supply of electricity which prompted the residents to move to urban establishments. This caused over-population in Portugals urban dwellings, especially in Lisbon, where there is estimated to be 200,000 illegal housing structures.

The rental percentage in Portugal is 60 percent. In fact, even the opulent residents of country opt to live in rented apartments that the city of Lisbon is riddled with high-end buildings for their usage.

The most expensive regions of Portugal are Lisbon, Oporto, Estoril and Cascais. The most reasonable place to live on the other hand is in the Silver Coast, Central Portugal, Alentejo and the northern parts of the country.

Portugal continues to be an excellent retirement country, comparing to the world wide offer.

Austria
Clube Borda d'Água - 8200 Albufeira
289 510 900

Belgium
Rua do Santo António, 68, 2º Dtº - 8000 Faro
289 899 590

Brazil
Edifício Banco Português - 8125 Vilamoura
289 322 117

Cape Verde Islands
Rua Portas da Serra, 37 - 8500 Portimão
282 417 720

Canada
Rua Frei Lourenço Santa Maria, 1-1º Esqº - Apartado 79 - 8000 Faro
289 803 757

Denmark
Rua Conselheiro Bivar, 10 - 1º Dtº - 8000 Faro
289 805 561

Finland
En 125 - Cor-de-Rosa - 4 Estradas - Apartado 92 - 8125 Quarteira
289 399 873

France
Macaná - Vale das Rolas - 8125 Vilamoura
289 310 956

Germany
Avenida da República, 166, 4º Dtº. - Apartado 406 - 8000 Faro
289 803 158

Holland
Largo Francisco Sá Carneiro, 52 - 8500 Faro
289 820 903

Iceland
Rua Júdice Biker, 11, 3º C - 8500 Portimão
282 413 311

Italy
Rua 25 de Abril, 65 - 8900 Vila Real de Santo António
281 544 274

Norway
Rua Júdice Biker, 11, 3ºC - 8500 Portimão
282 414 878

Morocco
Avenida 5 de Outubro, 28 - 8700 Olhão
281 702 449

Mexico
Rua Cândido dos Reis, 40 - 8600 Lagos
282 762 814

Peru
Hotel Atlantis - Suite 927 - 8125 Vilamoura
289 389 977

Spain
Avenida Min. Duarte Pacheco - 8900 Vila Real de Santo António
281 544 888

Sweden
Rua Júdice Biker, 11 - 3º C - 8500 Portimão
282 413 311

United Kingdom
Largo Francisco A. Maurício, 7, 1º - Apartado 609 - 8500 Portimão
282 417 800

The word "Correio" denotes a Post Office or mail services. First class mail is denoted by the words "Correio Azul" and associated with the colour blue. The Post Office also offers an express service named EMS that records the delivery. A registered letter is "Correio Registrado", and postage stamps are called "Selos".

Post Offices are normally open from 08.30 hrs. until 18.30 hrs. from Monday to Friday but this is only a general rule as they vary from district to district. In some towns main Post Offices will also be open on Saturdays mornings or the whole day. Outside and inside many Post Offices, there are stamp vending machines that indicate the cost for each type and the weight of the item being posted.

Visitors wishing to receive mail when in Portugal may use the "Poste Restante". Items should be addressed as follows:

(Last Name), (First name)
Poste Restante
(Postal Code Number) Town
Country

Collection of items will be made against proof of identity of the receiver and there is a charge per item.

Major Post Offices also have the facility of sending and receiving Fax. There is also a system for receiving and sending e-mail by renting a Computer Unit.

Telephone
Public telephones are to be found in the street in major towns and in the Post Offices. This national service is run by a State owned company named Telecom (TLP). Telephones can be used according to the two ways of paying other than with cash. One is by a card named "Credifone" and the other is by "TLP Card". The former is accepted throughout the country and the latter only in Lisbon and Porto. Cards can be purchased at shops displaying signs advertising their sale.

International calls can be made direct and the dial code for Portugal is "351". A caller must first dial "00", then his country dial number, then the area code without the prefix "0", and lastly the subscribers' number. Call charges are cheaper between 22.00 hrs. and 08.00 hrs., and at weekends. Hotels normally charge a surcharge for an outgoing call. Within Portugal you can call direct to any subscriber first dialling the area code if the destination of the call is outside the area in which the call is being made. An area code is indicated by the prefix of "2" - example "289" - where "89" indicates the telephone area of Faro.

Mobile phones in Portugal use the GSM telephone service. Visitors using this system will have the benefit of Roaming. Portugal's international dial code number for mobile phon

Please Note

The locations below are listed for information purposes and are without any responsibility or act as a form of recommendation by the Site.
It is our understanding that all the locations listed below have Staff that are English or are bi-lingual and have a good working knowledge of English.

Albufeira Area
The Medical Centres
289 586 969

Almancil Area
Clinica Verde
289 399 844

Carvoeiro & Lagoa Area
German Clinic
282 356 339
Saltys
282 341 004
Vila Vita Parc
282 315 333
Vilalara Thalassa
282 320 000

Lagos, Praia da Luz, Burgau & Sagres Area
Clinica Medilagos
282 760 181
Luzdoc
282 780 700
Parque da Floresta
282 690 000

Portimão, Praia da Rocha & Alvor Area
Clinica da Rocha
282 495 713
Hospital Particular do Algarve
282 420 400

Vilamoura & Quarteira Area
Browns Sports & Leisure Club
289 322 740
The Medical Centres
289 396 157