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Portugal sits to the west of Spain on the Iberian peninsula. It also includes the islands of the Azores and Madeira. Its official language is Portuguese (somewhat similar to Spanish but also significantly different) and its currency is the euro. It has a population of a mere 10 million and while some coastal areas may be as busy as expected, inland areas can be fairly sparsely populated. Climate varies north to south, with the south having temperatures similar to southern Spain and the north being somewhat cooler and wetter.

Portugal is very much a maritime state, bordered on two sides by over 800km of Atlantic coastline. Hence its coastal seas are a little cooler than in Mediterranean countries, but the upside to this is some seriously rugged and dramatic scenery. For many, Portugal is synonymous with the Algarve, which certainly boasts some beautiful beaches and lovely seaside towns. However, less discovered areas such as the Alentejo are increasingly popular and the maritime grandeur of Lisbon and its coastal resorts is an absolute must. In the north, the Porto region offers green mountains, valleys and vineyards.

Portuguese cuisine, unsurprisingly, features alot of fish. The fresh fish here is some of the best, but also popular is dried cod or bacalhau. While this is somewhat an acquired taste, the Portuguese have fashioned so many dishes from it that it's usually possible to find one that will appeal. Coffee and cake is an afternoon must, featuring little cups of coffee and individual pastries such as Portugal's unique custard and nutmeg tarts. Wines are good, particularly white wine and of course the world famous port shouldn't be missed.

Getting to Portugal is very easy nowadays, with low cost airlines flying into Faro, Lisbon and Porto from various destinations. Portugal is also easily accessible by road and rail from Spain, with somewhat longer journeys from the rest of Europe. Once in Portugal, there is a good rail network and the motorway network has been considerably expanded and improved in recent years.

Accommodation ranges from huge luxury villas in the more expensive areas of the Algarve, through family sized villas, townhouses and seaside apartments. Villas and houses are often known as casas. The word 'quinta' is also often found in house names. This actually means 'farm' and quintas are often old farmhouses, but the term can be used for newer properties as well. Head inland for some pretty rural cottages, which make great places to stay if you want to get away from it all while still having access to the coast. Portugal also features some wonderful rural guesthouses and can offer bed and breakfast in converted historical buildings. It's always interesting to treat yourself to a few nights in a 'pousada'. Originally, these were state-run hotels in interesting or historically significant typically Portuguese buildings. Although they are now privately owned, they are still unique.