Portugal

Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Its long, varied coastline, sunny climate, and the relaxed lifestyle of the inhabitants of its charming towns and villages have made it a sought-after holiday destination. The delight of Portugal is that, although it is undeniably part of modern Europe, it retains some rural enclaves where time has stood still and traditions flourish. In the southern province of the Algarve, modern high-rise resorts line the coast and buzz with all the trappings of a package tour destination; the capital city, Lisbon, on the west coast, is a bright, busy, crowded metropolis surrounded by bustling tourist resorts. Travel a few miles north or east, however, and discover a largely undeveloped picturesque countryside full of medieval villages and towns where life has changed little over several centuries.

The Portuguese have a close affinity to the sea: for centuries their famed mariners led the way in the exploration of Africa and the Americas, and opened trade routes to the East. The country became a strong colonial power, and remained so until the mid-20th century, resulting in distinctive foreign influences on the local culture and architecture. From Africa, for example, was imported the now traditional, sentimental fado music, which is one of the country's unique experiences for visitors, particularly in the cafés of Lisbon.

In recent years Portugal, long overlooked on the list of the world's top vacation stations, has been investing time, money and effort into ensuring it is discovered by the world's travellers, just as once it was the Portuguese who discovered the world. This new age of discovery is paying off, as increasing numbers of visitors arrive each year and hotel and resort construction has exploded. From the visitor's point of view the compactness of the country makes it easy to take in all the best elements: sandy beaches, scenery, history, wonderful cuisine, lively entertainment, charming handcrafts, thrilling nightlife, country fairs, excellent sporting facilities and warm, friendly people.

From the cobbled winding streets of Lisbon's medieval citadel to the cork forests in Alentejo, and from fishermen mending their nets on remote beaches to the shopping malls and sophisticated glitzy resorts, Portugal is a country well worth discovering.

Climate

Summers are hot and dry throughout Portugal, particularly in the Algarve, which experiences very little rain. However refreshing sea breezes make for pleasant conditions. Winters are cold and wet, particularly in the northern and west coast regions. Spring and autumn are good times to visit with cheaper rates at hotels and less crowded beaches, restaurants and golf courses.

Money

Portugal is a member of the European Union and its official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. There are numerous banks, bureaux de change and ATMs available in main cities and tourist destinations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and automatic currency exchange machines. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques.

Passport Visa

All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.
• Passport holders endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas), British Overseas Territories Citizen and British Subject, all with the right of abode in the UK, do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. In all other cases a visa is required.
• Canadians do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.
• Australian nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.
• South African nationals require a passport and a Schengen visa.
• Irish nationals do not require a visa to visit Portugal. A passport is required.
• New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport is required.

Health

There are no health risks attached to travel to Portugal. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is necessary for entry for anyone travelling from an infected area and destined for the Azores or Madeira. Health facilities are good and reciprocal health agreements exist with most European countries, including the UK, whose citizens can receive low-cost emergency care at state hospitals. It is advisable that travellers obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travel. Dental care and repatriation costs are not covered under this agreement, and medical insurance is therefore advised.

Embassy Consulates

• Portuguese Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 328 8610.
• Portuguese Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7235 5331.
• Portuguese Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 729 2270.
• Portuguese Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6290 1733.
• Portuguese Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 341 2340.
• Portuguese Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 412 7040.
• Portuguese Consulate, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)9 259 4014.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 727 3300.
• British Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 392 4000.
• Canadian Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 316 4600.
• Australian Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 310 1500.
• South African Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 319 2200.
• Irish Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 330 8200.
• New Zealand Embassy, Rome, Italy (also responsible for Portugal): +39 06 853 7501.