Banks Hints

Normal Hours: 
8.30am-3.0pm Monday to Friday
Weekends:   Closed all day
Commission Charged per transaction regardless of amount
 Climate Hints

The Algarve has a  warm climate with over than 3,000 hours sunshine a year, more than the Costa Brava, Mallorca or French Riviera.  

Summer temperatures are however below  the extremes of those in the Mediterranean countries and see breezes keep temperatures down in the evenings.

The ideal time to visit is spring, in April and May the countryside is lush and green with a profusion of wild flowers. But to see the almond trees in blossom you need to visit Algarve in January or early February.
Clothing Hints
Take light clothes in summer, plus a jersey or two for cool evenings.  In winter it is wise to take a warm jacket or coat, though during daytime you are likely to  need no more than a jersey, if that.  Casinos and some luxury restaurants prefer men to wear jacket and tie.  Elsewhere casual wear  is the norm.  Whatever  time  of year you go, remember to  take sunglasses.  
Currency Hints
The Portuguese currency is the Euro.

Travellers' cheques  are the safest way to carry  money. If lost or stolen they can be replaced.  The exchange rate for traveller's cheques are more favourable than they are for cash.Eurocheques, with card are widely accepted in hotels and good restaurants.
Automatic cash dispensers generally available. Nearly all restaurants and shops change traveller's cheques, but the commission tends to be higher than the bank rate.
Major credit cards are accepted by larger hotels, restaurants and shops, and most petrol stations.
Driving Hints
  • EU driving licences or international driving licences are valid in Portugal.
  • Have your documents with you.
  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road
  • Seat belts must be  worn.
  • Car speed limits:

* In built up areas 50km/h
* Side roads 90km/h
* Highways   100km/h
* Motorways 120 km/h

  • Alcohol limit: 0.5 gm/l, which is lower  than in UK. Any fines must be paid on the spot.
Electricity Hints
The supply is 220/240 Volts AC. 

Plugs have two round pins and most British and American appliances will need  an adaptor. The larger hotels will usually supply these 
Emergencies Hints
Dial 112 free from anywhere to contact :
  • Police
  • Fire brigade
  • Ambulance
Health Hints
  • Vaccinations:  No vaccinations are officially required  for visitors from EU or USA
  • Pharmacies: will advise on minor matters. There are reciprocal arrangements within the EU on free treatment in clinics and hospitals. When requesting treatment, show your passport, or an E11 or E12 form.
  • Hospitals: in Faro , Portimao and Lagos
  • Health Clinics: deal with less serious problems
  • Private doctors: British, German and Dutch as well as Portuguese will give more personal treatment but without insurance it can be expensive
Insects Hints
Ants are out and about all over the Algarve during  the warm months and will home in on any scraps of food left lying around. They are easily deterred by insecticide powders  which can be bought from supermarkets. Use repellants to deter mosquitoes from zeroing in on exposed flesh at sundown and after dark
Language Hints
Portuguese is the official Language of Portugal. Knowledge of Spanish or French will help to understand written Portuguese, but the pronunciation is not as easy.

On the coast English is widely spoken, but north of N125  you are likely to need at least a smattering of Portuguese.

Mastering even few key words  is invaluable:

I don't speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues

I don't understand: Nao compreendo

Yes/No: Sim/Nao

Where is..? Onde e..?

When..? Quando..?

How much does it cost..? Quanto custa..?

Do  you have a room..? Tem um quarto livre?

Good morning: Bom dia

Good afternoon: Boa tarde

Good night: Boa noite

Hello: Ola

Goodbye : Adeus

Please: Por Favor

Thank you: Oprigado/Oprigada 
Lost Property Hints
To report or inquire about air travel baggage gone astray in transit, phone Faro airport lost property office (289) 818302. 
Property lost in Portugal should be reported to the nearest GNR police station
Tipping Hints
Although restaurant bills normally include service it is quite common to leave a bit extra, particularly if you think the service warrants it. 
Hotel bills include service but doormen will appreciate a few escudos.
 If you knock on the door of the local priest to see a church, or the sacristan to go up a tower, it is customary to leave something towards the upkeep of the church buildings. 
A taxi driver will be delighted with a tip but won't necessary expect one. 
Transport Hints
By air : TAP Air Portugal and British Airways operate a regular service direct to Faro Airport from  Heathrow, Gatwick and all major UK airports.
The flight takes approximately 2 1/2 hoursTo book a flight or find out more click here
Visas and Passports Hints

All the visitors to Portugal from Europe, United States of America and Australia need only their passport for up to 3 months visit.
EU residents may use excursion passes or visitor's passports. 

 

Water Hints
Mains tap water is treated for health reasons, so it is okay to drink but it doesn't taste good. Drink bottled mineral water.
As  the Algarve is  in a low rainfall area  there is a shortage of water, and so it is important not to waste tap water.
Water cuts are not as common as they used to be, but may come without  notice during the summer.
Many apartments and villas are equipped with reserve tanks to tide you over a short period.