Living in the Algarve
The Weather in the Algarve varies throughout the year, from November through to March it is a cool temperature between 17 to 19 degrees Celsius then you begin to notice the rise in April where it starts at 20 degrees and by the time you reach the middle of the year at June it is a comfortable 25 degrees. Summer in the Algarve is considered July and August where the temperature is between 29 and 32 degrees depending where on the Algarve you are staying. From then the temperature slowly lowers to the cooler autumn/winter time, however the temperature in the east of the Algarve is always a few degrees warmer that other areas of the Algarve throughout the year.
Sea Temperatures in the Algarve can be a high as 22 or 23 degrees which is not as warm as the Mediterranean sea but not bad at all and makes for a lovely freshener during the summer season and it is like the the weather warmer in the east of the Algarve all year round.
Utilities - Gas, water and electricity are quite reasonably priced, the statements are monthly or quarterly and are normally estimated and then once a year you will receive a correct invoice.
Shops - There are many boutique's and clothes shops all over the Algarve, the general opening times are from 09.30 in the morning until 13.00 where most shops will close for lunch until 15.00 where they will remain open until 19.00. Many of the shopping centres will stay open until 24.00 during the week and some holiday periods - for example the Algarve Forum in Faro.
Bars will vary a great deal with regards to the décor and service, most will offer a good variety of Portuguese and international spirits and Portuguese beer is the main draft beer, however some bars will sell bottled beer and many soft drinks.
Restaurants in the Algarve are usually based on local produce, which can range from fish and shellfish to Pork and everything is always very fresh. The food is served with practically anything that you would like all you have to do is ask and the people are usually very accommodating. There are many delicious receipt's that you need to try and also some fantastic deserts!
Transport and Motorways - There are two main roads that run the length of the Algarve, the A22 or the IP1 which is the equivalent to a two lane motorway with a maximum speed limit of 120kmph, it can offer three petrol stations along the whole road which are open 24 hours a day. The EN125 is the coastal road which will lead you through the smaller towns and villages which is nice if you are exploring.
Child Care and Schools in the Algarve is quite varied and available at all levels. There are Portuguese pre-schools, middle schools and secondary, from middle schools English is usually taught along with other languages There is a new international school in Viragoes which we would be happy to put you in touch with.
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