The Algarve is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal, incorporating, amongst other localities, the cities of Faro, Albufeira, Lagoa, Lagos, Loulé, Olhão, Portimão, Quarteira, Silves, Tavira, and Vila Real de Santo António. The Algarve is one of the Regions of Portugal according to NUTS II subdivisions. The region coincides with the district of Faro, and has as its administrative centre the city of Faro, where are located both the region's international airport (Faro Airport) and public university (University of the Algarve).
In the 1960s the Algarve became a very popular destination for tourists, mainly from Britain. It has since become a common destination for the Germans and the Dutch. Many of these tourists own their own property in the region. There are Algarve-based English-written publications and newspapers specifically addressed to this community. In addition to the natural beauties and plenty of beaches, the Algarve has invested in the creation of a network of golf courses. Well-known beaches in the Algarve range from Praia da Luz to Armação de Pêra. A well known spa town is Caldas de Monchique.
Algarve's mild climate attracts interest from Northern Europeans wishing to have a holiday home or residence on the region. Being a region of Portugal, and therefore in the European Union, any EU citizen have the right to freely buy property and reside with little formality in the Algarve.[1] British expatriates, followed by German, Dutch and Scandinavians, are among the largest groups wishing to own a home in this Portugal's sunny region.
Tourism plays an important role in the economy of the Algarve region. A large number of seasonal job opportunities are tourism-related and are fulfilled by thousands of immigrant workers arrived from countries like Brazil, Ukraine and Cape Verde, among others.
eAlgarve.com... coming soon...