Portugal. Fresh air, wonderful nature, modern hotels and clear streets.
20:07 Portugal. Fresh air, wonderful nature, modern hotels and clear streets. | |
 Portugal is defined as a Mediterranean climate (Csa in the south, interior, and Douro region; Csb in the north, centre and coastal Alentejo; and also Semi-arid climate or Steppe climate (BSk in certain parts of Beja district) according to the Koppen-Geiger Climate Classification), and is one of the warmest European countries: the annual average temperature in mainland Portugal varies from 12 °C (53.6 °F) in the mountainous interior north to over 18 °C (64.4 °F) in the south and on the Guadiana river basin. The Algarve, separated from the Alentejo region by mountains reaching up to 900 metres (3,000 ft) in Pico da Foia, has a climate similar to that of the southern coastal areas of Spain or Southern California. Annual average rainfall in the mainland varies from just over 3,000 mm (118.1 in) in the northern mountains to less than 300 mm (11.8 in) in the area of the Massueime River, near Côa, along the Douro river. Mount Pico is recognized as receiving the largest annual rainfall (over 6,250 mm (246.1 in) per year) in Portugal, according to Instituto de Meteorologia. International airports are: Lisboa, Porto, Faro, Funchal (Madeira), Ponta Delgada (São Miguel, Açores), and Lajes (Ilha Terceira, Açores). The national airline is TAP-Air Portugal. The regional air company, SATA, flies connections to the Açores Islands. There are also air links between Funchal (Madeira) and Porto Santo. Portugalia also operate scheduled flights to and from Portugal in Europe. Every day, international trains run between Paris and Lisbon (Sud Express); Lisbon-Madrid (Lusitânia Train), and Porto-Vigo. Portugal is among the 20 most visited countries in the world, receiving an average of 13 million foreign tourists each year. Tourism is playing an increasingly important role in Portugal's economy, contributing to about 5% of its Gross Domestic Product. Tourist hotspots in Portugal are Lisbon, Algarve and Madeira, but the Portuguese government continues to promote and develop new tourist destinations, such as the Douro Valley, the island of Porto Santo, and Alentejo. Lisbon is, after Barcelona, the European city which attracts the most tourists (with seven million tourists occupying the city's hotels in 2006, a number that grew 11.8% compared to previous year). Lisbon in recent years surpassed the Algarve as the leading tourist region in Portugal. Porto and Northern Portugal, especially the urban areas north of Douro River valley, was the tourist destination which grew most (11.9%) in 2006, surpassing Madeira (in 2010), as the third most visited destination. Most tourists in Portugal are British-, Spanish- or German-origin visitors, travel by low cost airliners, and not only seek sun and beaches, but increasingly search for cultural, gastronomic, environmental or nautical experiences (or travel for reasons of business). Urban public transport - in the main towns, there is a complete public transport network. In Lisboa there are buses, the underground, and trams. One may also use public elevators (lifts). Tourism Information Centers at Carris (Lisboa) and STCP (Porto) sell tourist tickets every business day from 8 am to 8 pm. Taxis are painted mostly cream with a roof-light to identify them. However, there are still some taxis which keep the old colors, green and black. In towns, they use taximeters, but once outside urban boundaries the service is charged by the kilometer, and includes the price of the driver's return trip to his starting point. From 10 pm to 6 am, the rate increases by 20%. It is normal to give a tip of 10% on top of the fare. Luggage is charged according to a fixed rate. All taxis have an updated chart in two languages. Express trains run between Lisbon and Porto stopping in Coimbra (Alfa trains), while regional trains (Inter-cidades and Inter-regional) connect the different parts of Portugal. These trains have first and second class carriages, except for local and suburban trains, where there is only one class. Special tickets are available, including tourist tickets valid for 7, 14 or 21 days. There are special return ticket discounts on "blue days" for trips exceeding 100 km. There're number of 5 star hotels in Portugal where you can enjoy your free time. Look here ! 1. Sofitel Liberdade Lisbon Comfort, luxury and style reign supreme at the Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade. Located on the prestigious avenue of the same name, its 171 rooms will live up to your expectations . Add our AdLib restaurant, a fusion of French culinary know-how and Portuguese cuisine and your Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade experience is complete. Well-equipped conference rooms, Wi-Fi access throughout the building, fitness center, lounges or library, as well as a devoted, multilingual team of staff to ensure your well-being during your stay in the Portuguese capital. Lowest price $240. 2. Pestana Palace - Lisbon At the Pestana Palace Hotel all rooms and suites have Air conditional Central heating, Cable Television among other services. The hotel has a Health Club (with Gymnasium, indoor & outdoor swimming pools, sauna) and major sport facilities nearby such as 18 hole golf courses. Pestana Palace has fifteen meeting rooms equipped with air conditioning and the most modern audio-visual equipment. The recently restored XIX century ancient coach house ideal for the holding meetings congresses and conferences. Making Lisbon a perfect choice for corporate events. Located in Lisbon city but only a short drive from the Estoril Coast and its beaches, the hotel incorporates a XIX century palace, now fully restored to its former glory and classified as a National Monument. The Pestana Palace looks over an inner private park lush with many subtropical trees and plants and enjoys panoramic views over the Tagus River. Lowest price $210. 3. Four Seasons Ritz - Lisbon Long considered the city's finest hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon reflects the nobility and charm of historic Portugal, and offers vistas of Eduardo VII Park, St. George's Moorish castle, the Old Town and the Tagus River from atop one of Lisbon's seven hills. Within walking distance of the historic old town, a landmark hotel enhanced by outstanding contemporary art. Spacious guest rooms, many with balconies overlooking the city, Lisbon's most sophisticated dining and the impeccable standards of Four Seasons. Lowest price $200. 4. Martinhal Beach Resort - Sagres A stay at Hotel Martinhal is an invitation to discover Portugal’s unspoiled western Algarve. Carefully positioned within the grounds of Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel, this luxury beachfront hotel – the first five-star property in the Sagres region – sits comfortably between the land and the sea, with a protected natural park as its neighbour. The architecture combines a natural simplicity with contemporary style to create a building that appears organic, as if born to Nature. The 38 rooms, including two duplex Beach Suites, all have private balconies or terraces that afford impressive ocean views. The hotel’s O Terraço restaurant serves a full buffet breakfast and offers a tempting dinner menu based on Portuguese and seasonal produce, prepared with a modern flourish. Lowest price $195.  5. Palace do Bussaco Hotel - Luso The Palace Hotel do Bussaco is a remarkable Portuguese hotel located in the heart of a natural woodland reserve in Bussaco, Portugal. This exquisite hotel is a superb representation of The Portuguese 'Manueline' style of period architecture. This popular Portuguese hotel is somewhat of a renowned destination for its luxury and ornate decoration, drawing tourists and locals alike to ponder its timeless palatial charm. Guests staying in this 5 star exclusive property will enjoy a superior standard of luxury and pleasure when staying in Palace Hotel do Bussaco. Rooms are well appointed offering essential room amenities while the in house dining rooms and lounge areas are second to none! The staircases, lobby and saloons adorned with paintings and stuccoes, are truly breathtaking, while a walk though the landscaped gardens will let you drift away in pure relaxation. These quaint details make staying in The Palace Hotel do Bussaco absolutely worthwhile! Lowest price $185. 6. Altis Avenida Hotel - Lisbon Hotel Altis Avenida is a Boutique Hotel de Charme in Lisbon, with an extraordinary location in the city centre on the Praça dos Restauradores. The architecture and decoration is inspired by the '40s and revolves around the concept of retro urban chic, where past and future meld in a unique atmosphere of charm and glamour. There are 70 Rooms including two Suites, with very clear aims: providing a cosy, sophisticated and glamourous environment. Giving you many reasons to stay forever with a broad range of services from the round the clock room service to detailed local tips from the concierge about city itineraries. A genuine 5 star Hotel in central Lisbon. Lowest price $200. 7. Albatroz Hotel - Lisbon Situated on the bay with waves gently lapping below, the elegant Hotel Albatroz was formerly a royal summer retreat, until its transformation into one of Portugal's top boutique hotels. The combination of excellent hotel service and the charm of a privately owned residence gives each of the 53 rooms, including 10 suites, its unique character. The exquisite dinning room, the atomspheric bar and the salt-water swimming pool, all feature panoramic views of the beautiful bay. Lowest price $205. 8. Reids Palace - Madeira Located on the outskirts of Funchal, set in Madeira's sub-tropical paradise, Reid's Palace Hotel magnificent cliff top setting is an ideal venue for a meeting or incentive for businessmen or women who appreciate elegance and luxury. Reid's Palace Hotel has 130 rooms and 34 suites individually decorated in pastel colours, with a traditional style and comfort and have new wicker tables and chairs on the balconies or terraces, with sea facing views of either gardens or Funchal Bay. Take an invigorating dip in one our three swimming pools or enjoy one of the many watersports and activities available. Visit our Fitness Room or have a round of golf at one of Madeira's excellent golf courses. Organised children's programme, 'Fun at Reid's' (seasonal) and business services are also available. Reid's Palace Hotel has a variety of superb restaurants to enjoy and socialise in the utmost comfort. Have a lunch buffet in the Pool Terrace, have afternoon tea in the Lounge or Tea Terrace, eat alfresco cuisine in Brisa do Mar under the stars (seasonal), dine at Les Faunes in an elegant modern ambience (seasonal), or the elegant Dining Room, serving full table meneu or a la carte with live music, savour the Italian cuisine in Ristorante Villa Cipriani, overlooking the Atlantic, or just relax in the privacy of your own room and take advantage of our Room Service. Reid's Palace offers a variety of facilities and activities to enjoy. Take an invigorating dip in one of our three swimming pools or enjoy the many water sports and outdoor activities available. Visit our Fitness Room and work out in the gym or have a relaxing massage. Organised children's programmes, 'Fun at Reid's' (seasonal) and business services are also available. Madeira is the closest subtropical island to northern Europe at a distance of only three and a half to four hours' flying time. Lowest price $250. 9. Olissippo Lapa Palace - Lisbon A true oasis in the centre of Lisbon, Olissippo Lapa Palace was originally a 19th Century aristocratic villa. Located in the elegant embassy district of Lisbon, just a short taxi ride from the central shopping area of the city. It boasts beautiful landscaped gardens with streams and waterfalls and a heated outdoor swimming pool-all helping to create a cool and shady retreat in Lisbon. The hotel is made up of 2 wings over 5 floors and is built partly into a hillside, which means that many of the large and elegantly furnished rooms and suites can offer terraces with beautiful views over the gardens and the city. Lowest price $175. | |
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