Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Algarve Tourism wants to reinforce the arrival of more foreign tourists to the region , namely North American tourists, having prepared several actions to boost the promotion of travel. Some of the municipalities included in this action of the Algarve Tourism are Vila Real de Santo António, Faro, Olhão, Portimão and Albufeira, being thought ten and a half actions to perform throughout this year in Portugal, the United States and Canada. The goal is to promote the district through proposals that show gastronomy, oenology and nature activities of the Algarve region , and the idea arises after having been announced the postponement of a direct flight between Faro and the USA. According to the entity, the Algarve registered, in 2023, an annual growth above 27 percent in the number of guests in the Algarve hotel units , and the trend is positive, It is expected to continue to grow through the displacement of about 200 guests across the Atlantic , including tour operators, journalists and influencers. André Gomes, President of Algarve Tourism, points out: the United States is already the seventh most important foreign market in the region. Visitors to this country, together with those from Canada, seek, and find, in the Algarve, some of the best golf courses and beaches in Europe. Keep abreast: New support for water efficiency in the Algarve: how does it work? , AHETA wants to build social housing to capture manpower and Live 10 minutes from the beach? Realize this dream with SUPERCASA
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Rapid statistics from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) show that air transport continues to rise, continuing to maintain, in February, historical highs of monthly passenger values in Portuguese airports. According to the analysis, there are 76,000 passengers to make, on average, a daily landing, corresponding to an increase of 4% compared to the values calculated in 2023. The Portuguese are travelling more to France , and this was the main destination of origin and destination of flights, although it has slowed to 6.6% in the number of passengers landed. The value is similar in the number of passengers on board, which was set at 6.4%. Compared to the same period last year, they are -6.6% and -6.4%, respectively. Spain is also one of the passengers favourite destinations in Portugal, followed by the UK. It is also concluded that, in February, national airports handled 19,600 tons of cargo and mail, which means an increase of 16.3% over the same period. This topic may also interest you: More tourists choose Portugal as a luxury holiday destination
Source: Aldeias Históricas de Portugal Author: Redaction If you are looking for an enriching cultural experience, where you can not only explore landscapes and nature reserves, but also a series of adventures and other activities, Castelo Rodrigo is one of the 12 Historical Villages of Portugal that you really have to visit. Belonging to the parish of the municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, it is surrounded by monumental spaces that will transport you to medieval times. What can you visit in Castelo Rodrigo? The variety of monuments will surprise you, but we suggest, mainly, a visit to the Castle, which is the main attraction of the village, imposing for its medieval design and which will provide you with a unique experience, the panoramic views over the region that will make you return in time and, soon after, we recommend you to explore the Citadel , where you will find narrow streets, stone houses and several points of interest, such as the Church of San Salvador, the Governor’s House and the Keep. If you prefer a cultural passage, the mandatory recommendation is the Côa Museum, where you will get to know the history of the region and the collection of rock prints with more than 25,000 years. Other points of visit we suggest: • Douro International Natural Park: this park covers part of the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, including the parish of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, and is an excellent option if you prefer to explore the surroundings. You will find river beaches and unmissable trails. • History Zone: inside the village of Castelo Rodrigo, you will find a series of traces of the past that will make you travel back in time to discover the medieval Jewish Quarter, the House of Mercy or the Church Matiz. What’s it like living in this historic village? The natural landscape of Castelo Rodrigo will surround you with history and beauty, being an ideal village for lovers of hiking, cycling or outdoor activities . Then, on a historical level, the heritage is vast and very complete, with lots of places of interest that will take you on a real history lesson . T he community of Castelo Rodrigo is extremely welcoming and hospitable, so you can expect a warm and happy stay, but also with the advantage of having a low cost of living , which is significantly lower than in the large surrounding Portuguese cities. And finally, one of the most appreciated points, is the security that the inhabitants feel, being able to walk leisurely through the streets at any time of the day, without any kind of problem, as it is an extremely peaceful and peaceful locality. On the other hand, by living in this village so aged, you may feel isolated and displaced from large cities, because the fact of being part of a rural area, without great infrastructure, and also the fact of having a relatively complicated car access, especially for those who come from outside, which hinders access to the cities of the periphery. Still, Castelo Rodrigo is a living postcard of obligatory visit for any Portuguese who wants to know a little of the historical past. It is a welcoming village that offers hospitality, history, natural beauty and contact with nature. And for all these reasons, Castelo Rodrigo can be the ideal place for you! If you are looking for houses in this region you will find several options in SUPERCASA
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Visiting Trás-os-Montes is synonymous with unique experiences and characteristics, marked by stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. For residents, the lifestyle is quiet and peaceful, characterized by a lush nature that includes mountains, valleys, rivers and plateaus. The whole region is a paradise for lovers of this type of natural scenery, as it offers an opportunity for hiking, cycling and bird watching or other outdoor activities. What is there in this natural retreat? In addition to the mountains and the variety of attractions available to visitors, from landscapes to charming villages, Trás-os-Montes brings together a number of options for those looking for a dynamic holiday or a pleasant walk . This region includes the municipalities of Alfândega da Fé , Bragança , Macedo de Cavaleiros , Miranda do Douro , Mirandela , Mogadouro , Vila Flor , Vimioso and Vinhais . Discover some of the places not to be missed! Montesinho Natural Park The Douro International Natural Park Viewpoints In the Montesinho Natural Park, you will find mountains covered with forests, rivers and waterfalls and is ideal for hiking, cycling and nature observation . In the Douro International Natural Park, there are gorges carved by the river with breathtaking views. As for the viewpoints, we recommend visiting the most famous ones, such as São Leonardo, in Miranda do Douro, and Fraga da Pegada, Mogadouro. Which villages should you visit? Miranda do Douro This is a historic city with a strong cultural and linguistic identity. Known for its Carnival and its typical houses with wooden balconies, it is a village not to be missed. Bragança You will remember this city by its walls, which constitute the medieval castle, and a well-preserved historic center. Mogadouro This village has a beautiful historic center and a museum dedicated to local culture, where you will get to know its stories and traditions. Vinhais The village is known for its almonds and its Port wine, but you can visit historical sites with beautiful landscapes. Festivals, traditions and traditional dishes not to be missed If you are looking for animation and a good Portuguese conviviality, in Trás-os-Montes you will find a variety of traditions and other attractions that will leave you surrendered to the transmontana culture, namely the festivals of popular saints , where you will find religious celebrations with arraiais , bonfires and popular music , or the dance of the pauliteiros of Miranda . Another of the biggest events in Trás-os-Montes is Carnival, where you can find the Caretos de Podence with their traditional colorful masks. On a gastronomic level, the suggestion is that you taste the DOP ham from Trás-os-Montes, with its intense flavor and unique texture, the alheira , traditionally made with bread, meat and spices, the Mirandesa steak and the goat cheese. Have you surrendered to this region? See houses for sale at SUPERCASA if you are considering moving
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction According to the latest study by Condé Nast Johansens, entitled Luxury Holiday Habits, Portugal is considered the sixth favorite destination of tourists for luxury holidays . There are several tourism awards that our country has collected in recent times, continuing to build its reputation. The lifestyle reconciled with the beaches and landscapes of the Portuguese coast attract thousands of visitors every year, however, the bar is now raised by the recent study of the reference guide in the luxury travel sector, that places Portugal in the Top 10 of the most sought after countries for this type of tourism. Of the travelers who reported travelling outside the UK, Spain stands out as the preferred destination with 30 percent, then follows France (27 percent), Italy (19 percent), Greece and the United States (with 17 percent) . Portugal is in sixth position, with 16% preference. As it was possible to ascertain, the average income of tourists in the luxury segment is about 100 thousand euros per year, with the average expenditure per traveler around 8 thousand euros. Related: Cascais is recognized as Green Destination
Source: Turismo Centro Portugal Author: Redaction The city of Pombal is one of the richest locations in cultural heritage, offering visitors a range of places, activities, flavors and unique experiences. From the outset - and a festivity not to be missed during the month of May -, it is mandatory to visit the Pombaline Festival, which celebrates May Month of the Marquis, in honor of its rich history and origins. But before this festivity, which only takes place in two months, the city invites you to visit the Serra de Sicó , facing the Atlantic Ocean, which will take you on a journey back in time, through hills and breathtaking views . It is here that a collection of historical and cultural heritage of the rulers of the city is hosted, dating back to the reign of D. José I. Another mandatory stop is the Pombal Castle , a fortress that, despite having undergone several improvements and reformulations, retains its unique structure. What is it like to live in Pombal? Living in Pombal is a truly enriching experience . This charming city in the heart of Portugal offers a quality of life that combines the best of the rural environment with urban conveniences . Here, residents enjoy a quiet pace of life, where the community is welcoming and traditions are valued. Strategic location One of the great advantages of living in Pombal is its strategic location. Located between Lisbon and Porto, the city offers easy access to the main Portuguese cities, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter life in the countryside, without giving up the amenities of urban life. In addition, the proximity to beautiful beaches of the west coast and stunning natural countryside landscapes , provides numerous options for leisure and outdoor activities. Hospitality The community of Pombal is known for its hospitality and warmth . Here, neighbors know each other by name and there is a strong sense of belonging to the community. Residents find mutual support in times of need and come together to celebrate local festivities, as happens during the month of May. Offer of services and structures Pombal offers a variety of services and infrastructures that contribute to a comfortable life . From quality schools, to well-equipped health centres, and a wide range of shopping and dining options, residents have everything they need at their fingertips. The rich history and culture of Pombal also enrich the experience of living in this city. Historical monuments such as the Pombal Castle and the Mother Church tell the fascinating history of the region, providing unique opportunities to celebrate the traditions and cultural identity of the community. In short, living in Pombal is a rewarding experience for those looking for a quiet but enriching life, in a warm atmosphere and with a rich cultural and historical offer. And now that you know this city, why not look for some real estate options for sale at SUPERCASA ?
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The TomTom company, manufacturer of GPS navigation equipment, has developed a Traffic Index where 387 cities were analyzed to determine which of these there is more traffic. According to the data, London, in the UK, is the city of the world where there is more traffic , followed by the cities of Dublin, Ireland, and Toronto, Canada. In the Portuguese case, as the index shows, it is in Funchal, on the Island of Madeira, where the traffic record is higher, being necessary 21 minutes and 30 seconds to travel a distance of 10 kilometers, being the only Portuguese city to integrate the Top 100 of the ranking , placing in 52nd place. Besides Funchal, there are four other Portuguese cities that appear in the Traffic index , namely Lisbon , Porto , Braga and Coimbra , in 139th, 204th, 271st and 291st places, respectively. On the other hand, the city of the world where there is less traffic, as the study found, is Oklahoma City, in the USA , where in just 8 minutes and 40 seconds it is possible to travel 10 kilometers. Did you find it interesting? Discover also: 3D houses: first models are ready , Lisbon is the 18th city with the most population in the EU and Electric cars: how do home charging work?
Source: CM Mealhada Author: Redação Located in the central region of Portugal, Mealhada is a charming city known not only for its rich history and unique gastronomy, but also for its warm atmosphere and conducive to good conviviality . For local residents and visitors, living in Mealhada is more than just living in a city; it is to immerse yourself in a vibrant community where interpersonal relationships are cultivated with affection and where quality of life is a priority. A Community Spirit One of the most striking features of Mealhada is its strong community spirit. The residents know each other by name and there is a palpable sense of belonging that permeates the entire city. The streets are the scene of spontaneous meetings, where smiles and friendly conversations are exchanged frequently. Whether in the cosy cafés or in the cultural events, it’s easy to feel the warm and welcoming energy that defines life in Mealhada. Gastronomy and Celebrations Gastronomy plays a central role in the social life of Mealhada. Famous for its roasted suckling pig, the city attracts visitors from all over the country to taste this unique delicacy. However, more than simply feeding the body, meals in Mealhada are opportunities to gather friends and family around a table, sharing not only food, but also stories and good mood. In addition, Mealhada is known for its lively parties and celebrations. From music festivals to local sporting events, there’s always something going on in the city to bring people together and celebrate community life. Traditional festivals are moments of great joy and unity, where residents gather to celebrate their traditions and culture. Nature and Leisure Although a vibrant city, Mealhada also offers a variety of natural spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Manicured parks and green areas provide a peaceful haven for locals, allowing them to connect with nature and recharge their energies. Whether through a stroll through the public gardens or exploring the trails around the city, there is always an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the serenity that Mealhada offers. Living in Mealhada is more than a simple choice of residence; it is to embrace a lifestyle centered on good conviviality and appreciation of human relationships. In this charming Portuguese city, community ties are strong, gastronomy is a celebration of life and nature offers a haven for the soul. Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer, Mealhada welcomes everyone with open arms, offering a unique and enriching experience that will be remembered with affection for a lifetime. And if you are still looking for a home in this wonderful city, SUPERCASA has solutions that you can enjoy! Check them here .
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The National Statistics Institute (INE) confirmed on Thursday that tourism revenues slowed down again in January, for the third month in a row. According to the statistical office, in the first month of 2024 the tourist accommodation sector saw a 1.8% growth in the number of guests , representing 1.5 million euros in revenue, while overnight stays remained stable, with 3.5 million in profit. For the third month in a row, total revenue growth slowed down , but remained positive compared to the previous year, at +9.4%, reaching 230.8 billion euros. As for accommodation, total revenue stood at 166 million euros, an increase of 8.5%. INE also reports that the average revenue per room stood at 83.7 euros , which means a growth of +7.6% in January compared to the 6.2% recorded in December, while the average revenue per available room stood at 30.2 euros. More topics that may interest you: Local Accomodation has new rules approved by the European Parliament and Hotels: average price per room increased to €141 in 2023
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The World Travel Awards, known as the Oscars of Tourism , took place last Wednesday, 6 March, at a ceremony in Berlin that honoured various destinations and cities, and in which Portugal managed to shine with a total of 31 awards. The distinction, which left Portugal in the spotlight at the ceremony, honoured the country in different categories, cementing its place as the destination of choice for international tourists. For the tenth time, Madeira was voted Europes best island destination , while Porto Santo made its debut as the best beach destination. At national level, the cities of Lisbon, Porto and Braga stood out, receiving the awards for best urban destination, best metropolitan seaside destination and best emerging destination, respectively. The Azores was also honoured as the best adventure destination. As for tourist attractions and projects, the Paiva Walkways were honoured as the best adventure tourist attraction, the Mondego Walkways as the best tourist project and Dark Sky Alqueva as the best tourist attraction and best responsible tourism project. Even TAP - Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, picked up awards, taking home two honours: best airline in Europe to South America and best airline in Europe to Africa. About travelling and tourism: Discover the wonders of Portugals most beautiful roads , Best cities in the world in 2024: Lisbon and Porto in the spotlight and Vila Nova de Milfontes: a guide to living in this town
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Local Accommodation (LA) will have new rules to prevent fraud and allow local authorities to create appropriate policies , which were approved by the European Parliament last Thursday, February 24. A proposal to harmonize the rules on collecting and sharing data on short-term rental services , which accounts for 25% of tourist accommodation in the European Union (EU), was presented at the plenary session of the European assembly. By changing the rules, MEPs want to promote a transparent and accountable platform economy in the EU, while protecting consumers from fraudulent short-term rental offers, says the European Parliament. Applicable within two years, after the Council adopts the text of the regulation and it is published in the Official Journal of the EU, the new rules for Local Accommodation will include mandatory registration and data sharing for properties located in areas where there is a registration procedure , such as on digital platforms. In addition to this measure, EU countries will have to establish a single digital entry point that receives data from platforms on hosting activity on a monthly basis , in order to verify that the host is complying with the registration process and apply appropriate policies in the short-term rental sector. In this way, the digital platforms that intermediate short-term rental services become responsible for ensuring that the information provided by the hosts is reliable and complete, as well as making efforts to carry out random checks on the information , adds the institution. We also recommend: ALEP submits complaint against Mais Habitação measures , New rules in LA: EU seeks to create more transparency and INE confirms increase in consumer confidence in February
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Inland Nautical Tourism in Central Portugal project, designed to promote inland nautical tourism, boost the economy and create sustainable employment based on the offer of integrated tourism products based on environmental, cultural and landscape resources, is ready to move forward by six inter-municipal communities (CIM). This initiative is led by the CIM das Beiras e Serra da Estrela and involves 77 municipalities and 28 public and private entities. It also includes the CIM da Beira Baixa , the CIM do Médio Tejo , the CIM de Leiria , the CIM da Região de Coimbra and the CIM de Visão Dão Lafões. The consortium, led by the CIM das Beiras e Serra da Estrela, applied for the project on February 16 , submitting it to PROVERE in the Central Region. At stake is a collective efficiency strategy to make the most of endogenous resources, as well as the creation, qualification and promotion of an inland nautical tourist destination. According to the president of the CIM Beiras e Serra da Estrela (CIMBSE), Luís Tadeu, its essential to focus on valuing the endogenous resource [water] as a structuring element for an excellent inland nautical tourist destination with national and international promotion , and he adds: the diversification of activities available, such as canoeing and kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, boat trips, sport fishing, surfing, sailing and wakeboarding, allows us to attract tourists who are looking for this type of product as a primary or secondary motivation for their trip to the area. In this way, the initiative will respond to the development problems of low-density territories that have high quality environmental , landscape and cultural resources, but which are still insufficiently valued due to a lack of economic and entrepreneurial initiative. The partnership for the start-up of the PROVERE Inland Waterway Efficiency Strategies (EEC) Nautica de Interior no Centro de Portugal is made up of various entities, which will ensure a complete and broad vision, as well as effective coordination with local players during the implementation phase, considering that this is a structural change for the region, and in particular for low-intensity territories. The project is therefore based on discovery, entrepreneurship and innovation, with the aim of creating and qualifying infrastructures, access conditions and equipment to enhance inland nautical tourism. The focus is on strengthening the regions competitiveness, especially in low-density areas, creating a more socially inclusive territorial innovation model, the sustainability and resilience of inland territories, and contributing to achieving the cross-cutting objectives of decarbonization and energy efficiency, digital transformation and the circularity of the economy, concludes Luís Tadeu. Topics that may also interest you: APPII calls for the creation of more green financing lines , Gondomar proposes €182M investment for affordable housing and Gaia to invest around €1.5M to renovate Biological Park