Jetting off to another country to become immersed in new experiences shouldn’t be about logistics. Packing efficiently can save time, reduce expenditure and ensure you can get on with having an unforgettable holiday. On a trip to Algarve, sun cream and common sense will go a long way. If you rely on any prescription medication, pack it in a sealed bag and keep everything in your hand luggage. If your bags do get lost or misplaced at the airport, the priority items will be close at hand. Trying to recall and pronounce the names of certain medications is tricky enough in English and trying to navigate a foreign prescription service is nothing short of a headache. Midday sun is especially potent in summer months in Portugal, so be protected with a wide-brimmed hat, properly treated UV shades, a high factor sun cream which should be applied 20 minutes before going outside and aftersun, preferably with aloe vera. Insect repellent is essential. To be savvy, bring a little ant killer if you’re going to be picnicking outdoors. A decent continental travel adaptor or two will enable you to use your daily essentials such as mobile phones, straighteners and mp3 chargers.
If your intention is to venture on day excursions, a lightweight backpack should be carefully planned. A mac is always a good idea: there is every possibility of a little rainfall, especially between October and May. Taking a sweater or cardigan will ensure you avoid getting chilled in the evening, as the temperature becomes much cooler. The Algarve is an affluent place, so if you’re planning on visiting one of the fashionable nightclubs or restaurants after a day’s sightseeing, a pair of smart shoes and a comb will help with admission.
A dress code may also be enforced on the golf course. A pair of golfing shoes, some well pressed slacks and a polo shirt will garner favour. Good hotels and resorts should provide extensive leisure facilities. The popular, award winning
Algarve Sheraton, for example, has its own Pine Cliffs Tennis academy. If you want to spend some time working on your volleys, bring lightweight, crisp whites and don’t forget your favourite racket! Good swimwear will seem an obvious inclusion but if you’ve spent your time hunting down a flattering little two piece or striking shorts on the local high street you’ll want to show them off poolside in the knowledge no one else will have anything quite the same.
Generally, locals will speak Portuguese, and bringing a native phrasebook along will endear you to the people of the
Algarve. At the very least, perfunctory attempts at greetings and the usual courtesies, however fragile your knowledge or pronunciation, will be met with respect and approval. A comprehensive map of the region will eliminate much time spent asking for directions, and when used in conjunction with a well-written travel guide should mean you can make the most of your stay. The final, most important item on the inventory should be a digital camera, so you can pack your suitcase full of memories for the return home.
