Portugal

Types of trips: Sun and Sea, Arts and Culture, Religious Tourism, Surfing, Sailing, Sport, Skiing

Best known for: Pastries and baked goods, Ceramics, Football(ers), Coastlines (The Algarve), Nandos, Fatima

Why Go?: Portugal offers a variety of activities and opportunities in a country that isn't visited quite as often as other destinations in Europe. It may or may not be a chance to take your students somewhere new but you're still within the confines of Europe and that makes travel arrangements easier. The added benefit to Portugal is that there is a good infrastructure in place for UK tourism.

Fact File

Population: 10,400,000      

Capital: Lisbon        

Language(s): Portuguese, Mirnadese   

Ties to the UK?: Popular holiday destination           

Landscape: Volcanoes and Mountains in North, Lakes, Rivers, Beaches

Climate/Seasons: Hot and dry throughout the summer, milder during the winter, quite cold in the south

When to Go: If you not going to be very active then go in the summer and soak up the sun but if you plan on hiking or walking long distances around the city you may be better off in either May or October when the weather is still really nice but its not as hot

Reasons to Visit: A scenic sunny country within Europe, easy to get to and enjoyable all year round.         

How to Get There: Flying is probably the best answer, you wont find it hard to get a low cost flight to Lisbon. Going by coach is an option but it is a very long way

Places to Go: Lisbon, Sao Jorge Castle, Douro, Pena National Palace, Jeronimos Monastery

Famous People: Cristiano Ronald, Eusebio, Minguel Corte Real, 

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Gruta dos Moinhos Velhos, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Ilha do Pico

History: Colonial Restoration, Republic and Turmoil      

Architecture: Belem Tower, Pena National Palace, Jeronimos Monastery

Culture: Fado, Maois celebration, 

Sport: Football, Basketball, Swimming, Athletics, Futsal

Events: SATA Airlines Azores Islands Pro, Madeira Wine Fest, Caramulo Motorfestival

Watch Out For: Sunburn, never assume food is free just because its on your table

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations are required

Watch this video about visiting Portugal