This month my family and I ventured to Albufeira in Portugal for the first time. Usually we go to Florida or Greece on our family holidays but for my final family holiday we decided to go for Portugal.
The hotel, Aparthotel Paladim, and the whole area of Albufeira is extremely clean and built up with beautiful stretches of beaches, plenty to do and a lively night life.
From our hotel the main beach area was about a 15-minute walk, which is nice since all you do all day is lie around sunbathing. The view is amazing and there is even escalators to reach the beach, as well as a lift further up the beach.
The beaches are golden and the sea was often clear but slightly cold, perhaps because it is September, but many people had warned us in advance. I still went swimming in it everyday and spotted some fish too – although there were also plenty of dolphin spotting trips advertised too.
A holiday to Albufeira is perfect with your partner, family or even a group of friends – there’s definitely something for everyone.
The old town is right next to the main beach area, with endless shops, restaurants, bars and some clubs. At night the old town gets quite lively and rowdy in some parts, with some bars full to the brim, karaoke in full swing and plenty of street acts out – and this is in mid-September never mind during the peak summer months.
In terms of prices, typically beer was €2.50-4, cocktails were around €5-8 and food ranged greatly. For example, at Shallom II it was all you can eat chicken wings with salad and fries for €15 and other restaurants typically had deals for the same price for 3-course or 2-course meals. It’s very affordable and decent quality too.
Portugal is a beautiful country with golden beaches, perfect temperatures, a lively night life and plenty to keep you busy!
THE SOLO WANDERER 