Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Associação da Hotelaria de Portugal (AHP), in collaboration with an international booking website, prepared a study on the number of stays in 2022, the European Accommodation Barometer 2022, revealing promising data for the tourism sector. The study reveals that the evolution was positive in recent months, giving the national hotel sector a positive forecast for the future. The Hotelaria de Portugal Association commented on the subject that 85 per cent of Portuguese respondents (a figure much higher than the European average: 70 per cent), said the evolution over the last six months was good, or very good, as well as the increase in occupancy rates, particularly in the last six months of the year . And, in general, the Portuguese market shows an upward trend, with a tendency for an improvement in the financial situation. However, despite these forecasts, AHP adds that 46% of respondents still state that they will only resume pre-pandemic levels between the 1st half of 2023 and the 2nd half of 2024 , despite the fact that 54% of respondents have already reached 2019 levels. According to the report data, there is significant concern about the energy crisis caused by the war in Ukraine , with the costs of this raw material proving to be one of the biggest challenges, and also a general economic concern about taxes and competition, although there is also emphasis on positives such as digital transformation. Sustainability is a growing concern There has been preparation by the industry to move towards more sustainable practices , along with digital transformation, with European hoteliers becoming more up-to-date. However, there has also been registered dissatisfaction about the result of the efforts applied in this mission (13% of respondents), although more than half have an opposite opinion, with a record of a good or very good digital transformation. On the other hand, in Portugal, almost 70% of hoteliers attach great importance to government policies , highlighting their influence on businesses in the sector, in addition to the beneficial return that is expected. Read also: Tourism revenues in February increased 60.3%
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Data on Tourist Activity , released this Friday by INE (National Statistics Institute), reveal that February was a record month in terms of overnight stays in national tourist accommodation establishments , with 1.7 million guests and 4.0 million overnight stays, totaling increases of 33.0% and 38.5% respectively. These numbers translate into a 60.3% increase in revenue over the same period of the previous year, with a total of 245.7 million euros achieved in February alone. As for bedroom revenues, according to the statistical office, these increased 62% year-on-year, exceeding 179.5 million euros, and totalling an increase of 30.3% when compared to the pre-pandemic period of 2020. The data from INE also show that the Metropolitan Area of Lisbon was where total income was most concentrated , with 37%, and 39.2% with regard to room rates. Behind is the region of the North , with 16.3% and 16.5% respectively, followed by the Algarve (15.6% and 14%) and, finally, the Autonomous Region of Madeira (with 15.4% and 14.7% in the same order). Thus, Lisbon remains the region where there is the highest number of overnight stays, reaching 964 thousand overnight stays, a total of 23.8% in February, unlike Albufeira , where the downward trend has been increasing since 2020. INE also added data on the average income per available room (RevPAR) , which, reaching 36.3 euros, resulted in an increase of 49.5% compared to the same month of 2022: this indicator recorded increases of 53.7% in hotels, 37.3% in local accommodation and 16.1% in rural and residential tourism. As for the average income per occupied room (ADR) , it reached 79.3 euros in the month of February, totaling an increase of 16.7% compared to February 2022, in addition to an increase of 22.4% when compared to the same month of 2020, having grown 16.3% in the hotel sector, 21.2% in the local accommodation sector and 10.2% in the tourism sector in rural and housing space. Read also: Tourism in Portugal breaks records , Barceló Hotel Group opens a new hotel in Funchal
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction Easter time is always a good time for those looking for a moment of rest, with access to the Friday holiday that precedes the Easter Sunday weekend, it is the ideal time to book a holiday, or simply enjoy the days off, and set off to discover new places. In this case, we bring you a suggestion for a getaway through the villages of Portugal, which are many and full of stories and treasures that you will not want to miss. So, eat some almonds and chocolate eggs and pack your bags to get to know this beautiful itinerary we have for you, with unmissable suggestions, whether you are alone, with your partner or with your family, in Portugal! Village of Quintadona Located in the municipality of Penafiel , this village of vernacular architecture will delight any visitor. It is impossible not to surrender to the essence of this place, which will immediately transport you to a kind of fairy tale in real life, where you can visit the traditional wash-houses and the chapel which is over 200 years old, letting yourself surrender to this beautiful national historical landmark. Candal Village This wonderful village, which is part of the Schist Villages in the Lousã Mountains, will impress you at first sight. The highlight of this place is the belvedere overlooking the houses, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views. The most interesting part is that, although it looks like a village lost in the middle of nowhere, it often hosts different events throughout the year, which you can get to know on the councils website. Village of Rio de Onor This is a village that is separated by a small river with the same name, having as its neighbour the Spanish village Riohonor de Castilla. Located in Bragança and elected in 2017 as the 7th Wonder of Portugal, this charismatic village has a unique beauty that makes it different from many others, being a village that claims to be of two countries. Here, you can visit several of the attractions, such as the Casa do Touro, the Community Mill or the typical carabelhos of the area. Janeiro de Cima Village Janeiro de Cima is part of the council of Fundão and also integrates the Aldeias do Xisto, where you can discover the well-kept secrets of this millenarian village. The villages own organization will take you through alleys, lanes and yards that will make you imagine how life would have been in medieval times. To complete the experience you can visit the Weavers House, the São Sebastião Chapel, the Giant Loom or the Divino Espírito Santo Chapel. Village of Castelo Rodrigo This historical village, part of the municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo , enchants with its magnificent views and is, for those who visit, a monumental space which offers incredible pieces of medieval history. You can visit the ruins of Cristóvão de Moura, the medieval cistern or all the traces of that time. If you are still lacking ideas for an Easter getaway, you can stop looking. The SUPERCASA Notícias gives you all the suggestions you need: Easter holidays: Know the best destinations in Portugal , Peneda-Gerês in the list of the best parks in Europe or The 5 cheapest destinations in Portugal
Source: Barceló Hotel Group Author: Redaction Located in Funchals historic centre, the new Barceló Funchal Oldtown hotel is characterised by a meticulous architectural renovation project , in which the façades and interior slabs of six 17th-century buildings were restored, and by interior decoration inspired by the islands handicraft, which enhances Madeira s cultural heritage, according to a statement sent by the group to SUPERCASA Notícias . The restoration project managed to unite six 17th-century buildings located in Rua da Alfândega, in Funchal s historical centre , keeping their original façades and ancient interior slabs. One of the buildings that gives rise to the Barceló Funchal Oldtown was the headquarters of the Bordados Oliveiras factory, another of the buildings belonged to the Blandys family, one of the original founders of the Madeira wine trade and currently one of the largest producers of this fortified wine. During the excavation process - carried out under the supervision of a team of local archaeologists - important elements and traces of past centuries were found, which demonstrate not only the historical importance of the building but also its location in an enclave that, due to its proximity to the port, links it to the origins of the city: over a thousand pieces of pottery from the colonial period, the remains of a 16th century road, a 17th century cobblers scraper and 18th century coins, all of which are integrated into the hotels decoration, highlighting the local cultural heritage and offering all guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and legacy of the city of Funchal during their stay at the hotel. The interior design project combines modernity and tradition, in a clear tribute to the richness of local craftsmanship, noble materials and typical Madeiran embroidery. In the beams and in the original façade, the use of natural stone and wood, more than a hundred years old , has been maintained, symbolising the traditional way in which the walls were built in ancient times. On the other hand, the renovated rooms and restaurants of the Barceló Funchal Oldtown have references to the islands embroidery and wickerwork on their chairs and seats, as well as the presence of other typically Madeiran materials that have been included in different spaces, giving an authentic and local character to a hotel made by and for Madeira. In addition, the Laurissilva Forest of Madeira, a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1999 , is represented in drawings and in the decoration of the lobby and reception of the hotel through decorative elements that recall laurel leaves by their colour and texture. An elegant 5-star hotel in the historic centre The 111-room, five-star Barceló Funchal Oldtown hotel combines elegance and tradition in its facilities with impressive panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Funchal Cathedral. The gastronomic offer includes an à la carte restaurant, A Bordadeira, inspired by the Madeiran embroidery tradition. With a highly contemporary and welcoming context, guests can enjoy, in this space, an exquisite breakfast under the B-LikEat concept based on organic, seasonal and local food. Following the All day dining concept, the hotels restaurant Noz Café stands out for its fabulous outdoor terrace, while the elegant lobby bar offers the possibility to enjoy a warm and relaxing atmosphere while sipping the original cocktails that make up its extensive menu. Finally, the rooftop bar B-Heaven, located on the hotel roof, next to the pool, with a solarium and with a spectacular view of the sea, is one of the jewels in the crown and the perfect place to enjoy a drink accompanied by snacks. To complete the accommodation, according to what SUPERCASA Notícias found out, the Barceló Funchal Oldtown has 3 independent and fully soundproofed meeting rooms to celebrate any kind of event, making it the ideal hotel for those clients that visit Funchal for work purposes and want to extend their stay to enjoy the city and the hotel facilities. With this new hotel unit, Barceló Hotel Group reinforces its presence on the island of Madeira, where it already manages the Allegro Madeira hotel, a modern hotel exclusively for adults and located just a few minutes from the centre of Funchal. Did you like this news? Read also Portugal Historic Villages present themselves as an inclusive destination or The 5 cheapest destinations in Portugal
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction There are a little over two weeks left until Easter , which is a very appealing time for kids and adults alike. From the usual Easter eggs, chocolates and almonds, its a time when many people take the opportunity to take a holiday, accompanying the period of their childrens school holidays. With the arrival of spring and the sun, longer days and higher temperatures, there is a great desire to discover new places, something you can take advantage of this holiday period that is approaching. Why not start planning your itinerary now? SUPERCASA Notícias brings you the suggestions of the most attractive destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can make the most of the season and relax in the most beautiful and suitable places for the season. 1. Castelo de Vide If you still dont know this charismatic Alentejo town, it is time to discover it! It is one of the most beautiful places you will visit and it is perfect for an Easter holiday with the family or with your partner. You can stroll through the typical streets, full of secular heritage, and see the Jewish heritage by which it is marked. You will also have contact with Catholic traditions and rituals, and you can attend the Easter Vigil that brings the whole community together. 2. Óbidos Located a few minutes away from Lisbon, the town of Óbidos is ideal for those who want a trip back in time. Full of medieval elements, this is the ideal retreat for those looking for not only a complete Easter experience, since during eight days you will be able to follow several religious celebrations, but also a cultural tour full of traditional elements to discover. You can taste the famous ginja (cherry liqueur) in a chocolate glass and eat some delicious kisses from Caldas , a nearby town that you can also visit, discovering its typical ceramics and beautiful green spaces. 3. Aveiro If you want a more tranquil trip, we recommend Aveiro . You can venture out on a moliceiro boat and enjoy the famous ovos moles, typical of the region, or the tripe, which you can eat plain, filled with egg jam or chocolate jam. It is a perfect programme for those who like to escape the big crowds and enjoy the good sunshine of these longer days. 4. Braga A little over an hour from Aveiro, if you want a more dynamic visit, take the car and go to Braga ! Full of cultural elements, art and history, it is a destination that will leave you surrendered. However, especially during Easter time, you will see the new life of the city with the Easter celebrations, which bring a lot of people to the city. You can visit the monuments and enjoy the typical gastronomy. 5. Lisbon For a more cosmopolitan programme head to the capital and discover the various thematic activities, from Easter egg hunts to tasting the typical folares and almonds. There are several pastry shops in the city that fill their windows with cakes alluding to the festive season and engage in the confection of typical sweets, which you can taste while enjoying the view of the Tagus River. Have you already decided your Easter destination? Hit the road and celebrate this festivity, following all the tips and suggestions from SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Aldeias Históricas de Portugal Author: Redaction The Historical Villages of Portugal - Association for Tourism Development (AHP-ADT) presented today at BTL - Lisbon Tourism Fair 2023, at FIL in Lisbon, at the stand of Turismo Centro de Portugal , the multiple initiatives developed to make the destination inclusive and accessible, as well as the new promotional film of the Network, with a script that evokes the innovative work done in the area, according to information received in a statement by SUPERCASA Notícias . In fact, accessibility and inclusion , along with sustainability , have been important pillars of the strategy of the Historical Villages of Portugal - Association for Tourism Development, of affirmation of the project as a sustainable territory, both for its inhabitants, as for tourists and professionals who work in the region. That is, all a work developed with a focus on people. With respect for their peculiarities, the Network has invested in improving the physical conditions of circulation in the 12 Historic Villages, and in creating alternative ways to make monuments and points of interest of these places known , including to people with limited mobility or blind people. The promotion of universal accessibility in the territory is clearly evident in the physical space, in the built heritage, in transport, in communication, in accessible design and in infoaccessibility. In this sense, highlight for two initiatives that have strengthened the Historical Villages of Portugal as an accessible and inclusive destination: The partnership with ALTICE, which made the territory as the first, networked, fully covered with fibre optics and with free wi-fi. An investment that, in addition to improving the quality of life of residents, has increased the experience of tourists, as well as the conditions of professionals working in the territory. And the sustainable mobility project , launched in 2022. In partnership with Renault Portugal and the Municipality of Fundão, the Historical Villages of Portugal provide, free of charge, electric vehicles for tourists, residents and professionals who work in the region. Four models of electric vehicles are available from the Historical Village of Castelo Novo, one of them perfectly adapted to people with reduced mobility. But also the initiative Recipes that Tell Stories - Gastronomy and Wines from the Historical Villages of Portugal is highlighted in this years edition of BTL. The initiative was launched last year and recovers the extraordinary gastronomic culture of the 12 villages, in harmony with the wines of the region, and can already be known and experienced in several restaurants in the territory. Visit the Historical Villages of Portugal and continue to follow the SUPERCASA Notícias to stay up to date.
Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction As well as celebrating Womens Day, March marks the beginning of spring. And we can already notice the differences in temperature and length of days. So, taking advantage of this new phase of the year, in which more dynamic and outdoors programs are already desirable, SUPERCASA Notícias gathered for you some suggestions for getaways throughout the month, for all tastes. With your family, your partner or even alone, enjoy this month and visit new places! 1. International Chocolate Festival in Óbidos For the most sweet chocolate lovers, this unmissable programme will take you on a passionate journey through the walls of Óbidos Castle, surrounded by the sweet essence of chocolate. This is a programme for the whole family and will leave you captivated by the talent of the various artists present, in this 21st edition of the Festival. In addition to the chocolate sculptures and the delicacies available for tasting, there will be plenty of entertainment, several workshops and entertainment spaces, for children and adults alike, and this years theme is Comic Strip. You can visit this festival between March 10 and 26. 2. MotoGP Championship in Portimão If you are a sports fan we suggest a trip to the Algarve, where besides the wonderful beaches you can follow, for the first time in Europe, the MotoGP world championship. This will be held at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve , where you can follow and support the Portuguese Miguel Oliveira. Besides being a suitable programme for the more adventurous and water sports enthusiasts, you can always explore the region, the fauna and flora and the typical gastronomy. This championship will be taking place between March 24th and 26th. 3. International Camellia Festival For a more tranquil and romantic program we suggest a pleasant walk through the village of Celourico de Basto, where this is already a typical festival. The streets fill with colour, the façades of the houses come alive and you will find, in every corner, beautiful camellias that bring perfume and colour to the streets. The municipalitys railway stations will be decorated with hundreds of camellias, which is the biggest novelty of this edition. On the last day, there will be a battle of flowers. You can visit this living postcard from March 16 to 18. 3. Eel Month in Salvaterra de Magos If your interest is a good gastronomic tasting, why not take a trip to this beautiful town in the district of Santarém ? From fried eels to caldeiradas, there will be no lack of dishes to taste. You can also visit the National Fair of Handicrafts and Traditional Products, which is usually held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and take the opportunity to visit the Royal Falconry. This event takes place between 1st and 2nd April. Are you short of reasons for an escapade? Enjoy the suggestions of SUPERCASA Notícias and visit several points of the country, where you can enjoy the beauty of our regions and the events that take place, accompanied by good food and mild weather.
Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction According to the Aveiro City Council and Turismo Centro de Portugal, Aveiro will have reached record values in terms of tourism in the region during 2022. Specifically, overnight stays increased by 8.6% compared to 2019, and visits to museums and tourist spaces rose by 1.9% compared to 2022. These are record numbers, and are already higher than those verified in the pre-pandemic period. According to the Mayor of Aveiro, Ribau Esteves, these numbers are the result of a strategic and lasting work of Central Portugal Tourism, of the Aveiro City Hall, but mainly of citizens and companies, which have been offering each year more and better services to those who visit us, whether Portuguese or foreigners . For all this, the mayor underlines the importance of the municipalitys investments in segments such as environment and culture, in order to promote these results in tourism, and stresses that, at the management level, maritime-tourist operations, of the tourist trains, of the relationship with the businessmen of the sector, as well as the capacity of the City Hall to execute urban qualification works are being carried out. Read more in Houses of the week in Montijo or Peneda-Gerês in the list of the best parks in Europe
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction For all revellers, Carnival is a time for celebration, gathering and masks. Whether through parades with floats or caricatured figures, it is impossible to remain indifferent to the fun and games associated with the date. Whether for kids or adults, Carnival is celebrated all over the country, on what is for many a long weekend. If you want to start discovering the festivities that take place in the country, check the suggestions that SUPERCASA Notícias prepared for you and go on this itinerary of revelry and party. #1 Funchal , joy and mischief If you live in the islands or if you are on holidays in this wonderful place, you will have entertainment guaranteed with the famous Cortejo Alegórico and the mordazzo Cortejo Trapalhão. They began last Wednesday, February 15th and will be celebrated until February 26th. #2 Sesimbra to samba! Any die-hard Carnival fan cant do without a dance, let alone a samba. In Sesimbra , the party counts, precisely, with the parades of the samba schools of the region, transporting the families, youths and remaining community to the magic of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival. About a thousand elements will parade through the streets of the municipality, with a guaranteed show that promises to be a knockout. You can visit these attractions between 19 and 21 February. #3 Loulé , the oldest float in Portugal The oldest float in Portugal is back at Avenida José da Costa Mealha to bring spectators a unique experience of revelry and fun. It lasts three days, corresponding to the days of entrudo, and will parody through social, political or sport satire, as it has already accustomed spectators in previous years. #4 Go to Sintra and feel like royalty The Carnival party in Sintra is done with refinement, taking its participants on a journey to the XVIII century court. You can dress up and participate in the available masks workshops, besides the dancing and partying to the sound of music of the time in one of the halls of Queluz Palace. #5 In Ovar the night is magical In this parade children are the protagonists, with various activities and a parade where they will be filled with mischief. This, which is one of the most acclaimed carnivals in the country, brings this year a program full of proposals, from concerts, exhibitions and even a masked ball. #6 Torres Vedras, the king of Carnival Besides celebrating the centenary of the Carnival of Torres Vedras , this year also counts on the traditional parades. There will be various satires, with recourse to the already famous cabeçudos, and allegories in this parade full of festivity. The celebrations began on 17 February and continue until the 22nd of the same month. Have you already decided which party youre going to join? Dont miss the opportunity to have fun and keep following the suggestions of SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Global Press Author: Redaction With the arrival of Valentines Day, its time to prepare a special getaway for two. To surprise your better half, Quinta de Santa Teresa from A&D Wines in Baião, Quinta da Manoella from Wine&Soul in the Douro and Quinta de Chocapalha in the Lisbon region, invite you to celebrate love among the passionate scenarios of the world of vineyards and wines, with suggestions sent to the editorial team of SUPERCASA Notícias . 1. Enchanting wine tourism experience With an enchanting scenery over the Douro River valley, Quinta de Santa Teresa , the wine tourism spot of A&D Wines, located in the Vinho Verde region, sub-region of Baião , invites you to discover the exciting wine tourism programmes for a special moment with your better half. Besides being able to taste several wines from the A&D Wines portfolio, visitors have the opportunity to visit the vineyards, gardens and woods of the estate. 2. Exploring the senses Among the charms of the Douro landscapes, Wine&Souls Quinta da Manoella , the wine project of winemakers Sandra Tavares and Jorge Serôdio Borges, located in Vale do Pinhão, proposes various programmes that allow you to explore all the senses. Vale de Mendiz wine tourism has various experiences available from wine tastings with a guided tour of the winery to more complete experiences to enjoy close contact with nature, get to know the history, the vineyards where wines such as Pintas and Guru are produced, go hiking, have lunch or have a picnic. 3. Tradition and centenary landscapes Quinta de Chocapalha , located 45 minutes from Lisbon, in the historic Aldeia Galega da Merceana , suggests centuries-old tree-lined landscapes full of tradition as a backdrop for a getaway for two. The wine tourism proposals are varied and, depending on the programme, it is possible to have a guided tour of the vineyards, winery and barrel room in the company of a member of the Tavares da Silva family and also a wine tasting, harmonised with local snacks. Did you like these suggestions? Delight yourself in these programmes for two and continue to follow our tips in SUPERCASA Notícias .
Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction The National Park of Peneda-Gerês is already an ex-libris of Portugal, known for its natural landscapes, hiking trails and pure springs. There are various activities you can do here, from the most extreme sports to the most common, which include hiking, and it is for this very reason that the Peneda-Gerês has gained an international reputation, with one of the scenarios that most contributes to the practice of this outdoor sport. According to a study by Costwold Outdoor, a British company specialised in outdoor equipment, which analysed more than 80 European parks, t he National Park Peneda-Gerês won its place in the top 10 as the best in Europe for hiking, and to reach the announced results, factors such as popularity, difficulty and activities/accommodations were evaluated, something in which Peneda-Gerês wins points. Situated between Braga and Viana do Castelo , the Peneda-Gerês National Park was considered the ninth best in terms of walking trails, holding one of the most popular, and comes seventh in terms of activities and amenities on offer, which include viewpoints and camping fields. If you want to plan a trip around Europes best parks, see below for a list of the top ten ranked in the most popular hiking trail category: Teide National Park in Spain Lake Distric National Park in the United Kingdom Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia New Forest National Park, in the United Kingdom Carpathian National Nature Park in Ukraine Krka National Park in Croatia Triglav National Park in Slovenia Killarney National Park in Ireland Peneda-Gerês National Park in Portugal Rondane National Park in Norway Read more in SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction It was at the opening of the Madrid Tourism Fair (FITUR) that the president of Tourism in Portugal, Luis Araújo , said that the year 2022 is already considered to be the best ever from a revenue point of view , as more than 22 billion euros are estimated. This is well above the 18.4 billion recorded in 2019, which was the last year before the covid-19 pandemic. Luis Araújo believes there has been a recovery, earlier than expected due to the impact of the pandemic, and leaves quite positive forecasts for 2023. The president of Tourism in Portugal underlines: we believe we are very well positioned. An example of this is this fair, FITUR , making reference to the Spanish market which is currently one of the best for Portugal, both in terms of revenue and in terms of guests, and confirms that there is work to be done as far as Spain is concerned, to increase revenue in certain segments of the tourism market. The strategy involves diversifying the core of markets, in which Portuguese tourism still has many of its foundations, and in which a bet on improving air connections is necessary. Luis Araújo reinforces that we have managed to recover the routes that we had lost in 2020 and 2021 and we already have indicators very close [to those of previous years]. This year, 2023, we will surpass 2019. It is one of the great anchors for the recovery of the sector , highlighting the importance of growth in all airports and also highlighting the importance that Spain had as an optimal factor of distribution of tourists. To this extent, efforts continue to be made to strengthen links, but also to develop tourism in the interior of the country, in a strategy of cross-border cooperation between Portugal and Spain in the tourism sector. Read more at Portugal elected as destination trend of 2023 or Hotel sector predicts 27% increase in revenues
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