The Holiday Money Report from Post Office Travel Money ranks the Algarve in southern Portugal as the most cheap European holiday location.
Forty destinations were surveyed for the Post Office Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer, which evaluated eight items that visitors typically buy on vacation: a three-course meal for two with wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of local beer, a can of cola, a glass of wine, a bottle of still water, sunblock, and insect repellent.
Portugal is the only European location in the top five most affordable destinations, while Turkey and Bulgaria fall behind this year. Furthermore, the Algarve was the greatest value among 40 places globally for purchasing a glass of wine at £1.76 and a coffee at 0.88p.
According to the Post Office, resort and city prices are one of the most important considerations for visitors considering travels overseas. According to their research, 84 percent of them – rising to 89 percent of family travelers – said that the cost of products like as meals and drinks would be one of their most important concerns when picking a holiday destination.
Hugo Nascimento, Executive Director of Algarve Tourism, responds to the research and offers advice on where to obtain even more value if visiting the region. He says, “With a cost of living crisis currently affecting many countries, this report will really help holiday makers to decide on where to book a holiday this year.
Accommodation in the East and West of the region is typically more affordable than the central area of Portimão, Albufeira and the ‘Golden Triangle’ area between Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura and Amancil. There are a vast array of accommodation types from self-catering properties, small characterful boutique hotels to larger resorts with more facilities.”
He added that for those who don’t want to hire a car, places like Loulé, Faro, and Olhão are suitable possibilities because they are close to the airport and can be reached by taxi or Uber for a low cost. Alternatively, head inland for an off-the-beaten-track break to places like Aljezur, Vicentina Coast, Silves, and Monchique, where rates are lower.
In terms of eateries, Hugo says: “You can’t go too wrong with a local, typical place – the ones that don’t outwardly market themselves to tourists. The food is generally of a high quality and features delicious fresh seafood.”
“And for those that can travel outside the key school holiday and the peak season of July and August, the prices are dramatically cheaper.”
The Algarve can be reached in just over two and a half hours from numerous regional airports in the UK and Ireland, with aircraft arriving at Faro International Airport.
The sea is central to the Algarvian way of life, which is closely linked to nature. Inland, old communities preserve a historical and culturally rich way of life that is in sync with the seasons. Whitewashed cottages and small local cafes serving bica (espresso) can be found in communities with small, cobblestoned streets, while sardines are cooked openly on the streets, as they have for years. The region’s stunning beaches, wildlife reserves, charming villages, golf courses, castles, and fortresses are open to the public all year.
For hotel alternatives and activities, visit www.visitalgarve.pt.
