The Algarve is the perfect location to buy the holiday home you have always dreamed about. It equally is a delightful location for long term residents and retirees. The Portugues are a very warm and welcoming people who particularly like families. If you want a quiet, family orientated society with all modern conveniences, superb golf courses, some of the best beaches in Europe and sunshine all day long, then the Algarve is the place for you. The Algarve has easy access from most Northern European countries with daily flights to Faro. Flight times average 2 ½ hours from Northern Europe thus making the Algarve a real weekend retreat.

Following a programme of infrastructure investment, funded by the European Union, the Portuguese authorities have ensured that the Algarve has a high quality road network with equally modern telephone and electricity supply systems. Broadbank penetration is very high and by using satellite TV you can watch all your favorites programmes in the sun.

Virtually all services can be paid for using a credit card at an "ATM" cash point. Professional services, such as lawyers, accountants and engineers are sophisticated and inexpensive by northern European standards.

Language is not a problem in the Algarve, especially in the larger towns where virtually all young people speak English and the older generations are not averse to helping the visitor with their Pigin-Portuguese!

Being in the Eurozone has helped to streamline the movement of funds around the EU and Portugal has embraced the change from the Escudo to Euros. It is a very simple matter to have cash transferred to a Portuguese bank account or you can use local ATM machines to access you bank account at home. You do not need to carry traveler’s cheque any more. If you wish to have a local bank account the process is very simple and with the assistance of a friendly bank official it takes only 10 minutes.

Finally, the Algarve has something very important to offer the potential resident - Relaxation! Once established in the area, it soon becomes apparent that this is not the place to be rushing to and fro. This is the place where one comes to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This is where stress is no longer part of one's vocabulary and where harmony and peace take over from hassle and pressure.
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