British tourists planning to visit Portugal this summer are being advised to avoid two specific areas due to rising tensions and lack of amenities. The warning comes from an American expat who has shared her insights on YouTube.
Key Takeaways
- British tourists are advised to avoid Alentejo and Monsanto in Portugal.
- The warning is based on the lack of amenities and rising local tensions.
- Portugal remains a popular destination for retirees and tourists.
Areas to Avoid
Terry Coles, an American expat living in Portugal, has cautioned against visiting Alentejo and Monsanto. According to her, these areas lack essential amenities such as hospitals and grocery stores, making them less suitable for tourists and expats.
"There’s nothing there as far as hospitals, grocery stores, or expats, so it’s a place you only want to visit and not live," Terry explained. Alentejo, despite its rural charm, is primarily farmland with limited tourist attractions outside the city of Evora.
Portugal’s Appeal
Despite the warnings, Portugal continues to be a favored destination for many, especially retirees. The country offers a straightforward visa process, over 300 days of sunshine a year, and a large expat network. Additionally, Portugal boasts excellent healthcare, beautiful scenery, medieval villages, and a stunning coastline.
Terry highlighted several positive aspects of Portugal, including Lagos and Lisbon. "Lisbon combines old-world charm with all the modern conveniences needed to feel at home, with some of the best weather in Europe," she said. Porto is also praised for its rich culture and history, and the Algarve region is noted for its warm weather.
Balancing Tourism and Local Needs
Portugal is currently trying to balance the influx of tourists with the needs of its local population. The introduction of a digital nomad visa scheme has led to frustration among locals, particularly those priced out of increasingly expensive cities.
Several Portuguese holiday hotspots have introduced tourist taxes to control the flow of visitors. For example:
- Olhao: €2 charge per night from April to October, halved for the rest of the year.
- Faro: €1.50 per person during the summer season, with children under 12 exempt.
- Figueira da Foz: €1.50 per night from October to March.
Local residents are increasingly vocal about their concerns. "Local people are really fired up. They aren’t happy at all," said Guya Accornero, a sociology researcher at the University Institute of Lisbon.
Conclusion
While certain areas in Portugal may be less welcoming due to rising tensions and lack of amenities, the country as a whole remains a popular destination for tourists and retirees alike. Visitors are encouraged to explore other regions that offer a blend of cultural richness, modern conveniences, and natural beauty.