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 ABOUT PORTUGAL |
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An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal established its continental frontiers in 1297 and is one of the oldest nations in Europe. |
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| Situated on the west side of the Iberian Peninsula, its geographic location along the Atlantic coast soon determined its vocation to the sea. |
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| In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on an epic voyage that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time founded settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa. |
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Traces of this worldwide historic presence may be seen as trademarks of the Portuguese genius. The Portuguese language became one of the most widely spoken in the world, and the Portuguese people were privileged for being exposed to so many different civilizations. The vast monumental, artistic and archaeological heritage does witness not only the 850 years of history of encounters with distant cultures, but also the presence in the territory of more ancient peoples (Celts, Suevians, Visigoths, Romans and Arabs). |
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The natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many holidaymakers, an ideal place for practicing water sports and playing golf, offering modern tourism facilities, and quaint and personalized means of accommodation, such as 'turismo de habitação' (privately owned homes ranging from wonderful farmhouses to manor houses), 'hotéis de charme' or 'pousadas'. |
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A member-country of the European Union since 1986, Portugal currently enjoys a steady economic growth. For centuries Portugal has kept the greatest treasure of a renowned reputation for hospitality that makes the country a haven of congeniality and safety. |
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| ABOUT ALGARVE |
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Portugal 's deep south is famous for its sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and secluded coves. Small fishing villages where fishermen still repair their fishing nets by hand, sit side by side with sophisticated hotels offering a wealth of facilities. Dotted along the coast, among the pinewoods are numerous golf courses. Water sports, tennis, horse riding, cycling and jeep safaris are available most of the season and the area offers fabulous walks especially in spring or late autumn. |
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Algarve |
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:: The areas main resorts are ::
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| Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo |
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The road west of Faro leads to the rolling hills and woodlands of Quinta Do Lago, Vale do Lobo and the tranquil estuary of the river Formosa . The estates put emphasis on quality and are excellent for golfers. |
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Vilamoura |
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Vilamoura is a man made marina with hotels casinos and a beautiful sandy beach. Sports facilities are said to be among the best in the Algarve , with more than 50 tennis courts and a host of golf courses. |
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Albufeira |
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This is a busy resort with fishing boats on the beach, reached by tunnel, yet retains quite some charm despite its popularity and is good for shopping - especially leather! |
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Porches |
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Porches is the place for hand painted pottery and tiles which can be made to order. The beaches are amongst the best in the Algarve . |
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Praia de Rocha |
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Praia de Rocha has restaurants nightlife and perhaps the Algarve 's most beautiful beach at the foot of rugged red sandstone cliffs often photographed for their strange formations. It is a 10-minute drive from here to larger Portimao. |
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Alvor |
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The fishing port of Alvor , is now a popular holiday destination on a pretty estuary and with a huge beach. It is 6km west of Portimao, which offers good shopping, and restaurants with lots of fresh fish and seafood. |
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All material © 2005 by Portugal Portugal. All rights reserved. |
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