Tips for Algarve/maps etc...

Smiley_Mum

You can check out this website which has loads of info/tips. Maps to download for most of the main resorts. These Freemaps are readily available throughout but you can check them out before you go.

http://www.freemaps.net/

Taxis are reasonably cheap around 4 euros for a short run, fares increase after 9pm and on weekends etc. There are Giro City buses too, flat rate of 1.20 euros per person. Little bit of info here...

http://www.albufeira.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=286&get=last

http://www.albufeira.com/info/transportation.asp

Also info on EVA buses which are one of the main bus companies on the Algarve...

http://www.eva-bus.net/home.php?lang=UK

Will give you an idea of times etc. Timetables were like gold dust, where we were anyway. Tourist Info centres weren't very helpful either.

They don't do half fares for kids, or returns. That may apply just to the regular bus routes between towns/villages etc. Buy your tickets in advance from the local bus office or risk the wrath of the bus driver.

Eat where the locals go, lot cheaper. Portugese are very friendly and adore kids, my two were fussed over everywhere we went.

If you are going to Aqualand near Albufeira worth checking out their website before you go. I printed off vouchers which gave us 3 euros off per person and they gave us a free swim bag/satchel thingummy emblazoned with Aqualand (value 2 euros) which you can pick up at the store there too. Didn't buy the tickets at the apartments where we stayed, the bus driver just asked if we had a ticket, nope so he waved us on without charging us anything.

See here..

http://www.aqualand.pt/algarve/?wlang=en

http://www.zoomarine.pt/Start.htm

http://www.portugal-links.com/

.