Since the opening on November 9 of the well known English Supermarket store, Iceland, there has been twice as much custom then was anticipated. Therefore, additional members of staff have been recruited. The manager of this newly opened store in Guia said it was “the most successful overseas opening so far”.

So time to head down and stock up for your Christmas dinner!!!

Algarves beaches recognised in the bi annual European awards!

The European accolade is attributed every two years by the EUCC – The Coastal and Marine Union, which is based in Holland.

For 2011/2012 Tavira and Lagos are included and will be awarded on 13 May during a ceremony in Cyprus.

The water quality, the promotion and availability of sustainable transport, the existence of rubbish and recycling bins, and policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gases are other criteria on the list for the jury to assess.

This is a big reason for the popularity of the Algarve compared to many other European destinations, with some many high quality beaches it’s a huge draw and provides a great basis for tourism.

The Algarve is renowned for it’s stunning coast line, and golden sandy beaches. This is reflected in the regions constant desire to improve the number of Blue Flag rated beaches.

Property for sale on beaches front locations are highly sought after, and represent a fantastic investment for anyone buying a property here.

In 2009 there were, 54 blue flag beaches, not bad for a coast line of less than 200kms. 2010 that number increased to 69, and 2011 we hope to see 74 beaches awarded the coveted blue flag status.

The award to given to beaches, and marinas, that have a high level of cleanliness both on the beach and in the water, facilities and amenities.

Portugals golf courses look set to have the VAT payable by players reduced from 23% to 6%. A massive saving.

As part of the countries tourism appeal, with Golf property around the many top courses attracting massive year round appeal this is welcome news.

Hopefully this will help to continue the improvement in tourism for the country, and drive more and more visitors to the country.

Well it certainly looks like it. A recent story from the Algarve Resident, states that the Post Office holiday barometer declared Portugal to be the best value holiday destination not just in Europe, but Worldwide.

The story goes on to compare various prices of everyday things, such as refreshments and suncreams.

A lot of people where put off of the Algarve, citing that it was just to costly. But now the restaurants and bars have starting fighting back and it seems to be working!

Lets hope we get even more people back here from the UK this summer!

You can read the full story here – http://www.algarveresident.com/story.asp?XID=39985

For golf lovers the Algarve is a paradise at this time of year, the weather is fantastic and the swarms of summer tourists are gone, perfect for a few rounds.

The Portugal Masters, which is held at the Victoria Golf Course in Vilamoura, will for the 4th year running, host some of the games top golfers. Including some of the Ryder cup winners!

If you plan to visit the Algarve for this, the competition starts from the 13th October until the 17th October, and ticket prices at the gate from €10.00.

The Algarve is of course well known for it’s Golf courses, and the properties for sale around them become even more attractive as these events continue to grow here.

Some of the top properties for sale in the Algarve are in fact based around golf courses. If you fancy having your morning tea, or evening cocktail whilst watching the action transpire then it may be the perfect time to look at buying a property in Portugal.

We have some fantastic golf front properties for sale next to the Victoria course with amazing discounts to boot.

If you’re interested then you can have a look at Victoria Gardens, and Monte Laguna both top quality developments within a stones throw of the beautiful courses, and club houses.