Thursday, 26 June 2008
Picture 4
This is a picture of one of the locations that we visited during the jeep safari excursion. It is one of many interesting locations on the trip but i feel this one more than any other shows a different side to Albufeira with its excellent landscape.
Picture 3
This is a picture of the heart of Albufeiras old town. I think it shows the very clean cobbled centre and shows a relaxed atmosphere.
Picture 2
This picture shows the beach located in the old town. The beaches in Albufeira are all maintained very well and i think this picture displays that aswell as how spacious the beach is.
Picture 1
This picture is a view from one of the rooms our group stayed in. It shows the open layout of the apartment complex and the well maintained garden and paths.
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
Compare and contrast the appeal of Zoo marine, bar crawl and jeep safari to different visitors
All three attractions aim to attract different types of visitors using the products and services on offer. It’s obvious that the bar crawl is aimed at young adults who want to have a good time and meet new people. The zoo marine is aimed at families with young children and the jeep safari usually will attract visitors of all ages.
Golfers would benefit from the jeep safari and the bar crawl. This is for different reasons, the bar crawl provides an opportunity to meet new people in a fun atmosphere whereas the jeep safari is an all day excursion so it would keep the occupied throughout the day and its better than being stuck in the hotel or at the beach all day.
How these attractions could could increase their appeal to these different visitors
I think the zoo marine could develop their thrill and water rides to attract teenagers and young adults. This is because I feel it would be a good idea due to the amount of young adults Albufeira and other local areas attract. Another thing that might benefit the park would be to introduce a mini golf themed part of the park. The reason for this is because a lot of golfers holiday in the Algarve so they could still enjoy a golfing theme at the park but in a more relaxed and fun atmosphere with their partners.
The jeep safari is quite misleading as when it was first mentioned, I like many other people, assumed there would be animals involved. However this was not the case. This could be a point to improve and it could be done by the jeeps stopping off at more secluded and animal inhabited areas. This would attract a wider range of people and make the trip that bit more interesting.
The bar crawl could be improved by having a more structured games programme for the night. I would also help if the reps running the night were more charismatic.
All three attractions aim to attract different types of visitors using the products and services on offer. It’s obvious that the bar crawl is aimed at young adults who want to have a good time and meet new people. The zoo marine is aimed at families with young children and the jeep safari usually will attract visitors of all ages.
Golfers would benefit from the jeep safari and the bar crawl. This is for different reasons, the bar crawl provides an opportunity to meet new people in a fun atmosphere whereas the jeep safari is an all day excursion so it would keep the occupied throughout the day and its better than being stuck in the hotel or at the beach all day.
How these attractions could could increase their appeal to these different visitors
I think the zoo marine could develop their thrill and water rides to attract teenagers and young adults. This is because I feel it would be a good idea due to the amount of young adults Albufeira and other local areas attract. Another thing that might benefit the park would be to introduce a mini golf themed part of the park. The reason for this is because a lot of golfers holiday in the Algarve so they could still enjoy a golfing theme at the park but in a more relaxed and fun atmosphere with their partners.
The jeep safari is quite misleading as when it was first mentioned, I like many other people, assumed there would be animals involved. However this was not the case. This could be a point to improve and it could be done by the jeeps stopping off at more secluded and animal inhabited areas. This would attract a wider range of people and make the trip that bit more interesting.
The bar crawl could be improved by having a more structured games programme for the night. I would also help if the reps running the night were more charismatic.
Zoo Marine: Impacts on the local environment and community
The zoo marine has many impacts on the local environment and community both positive and negative.
The environment is important to any large organisation but the zoo marine does not have any sustainability plans in place. However they are working with the government towards implementing a plan to minimise negative impacts on the local environment. Solar panels are on the list of things in the future to provide energy for the park from the suns natural rays.
The park also has a strict recycling policy in place with many colour coded recycling bins located throughout the park.
The local community is also very important to this organisation. This is shown in the massive 80% of people employed by zoo marine coming from the local area. The only staff they look for elsewhere are specially trained personnel who are fully trained in working with the parks animals etc. many of the products sold in the park from food to souvenirs all come from the local area which improves the local economy. The major benefit of having such a reputable tourist attraction in the community is the money that will be spent in local businesses such as accommodation, taxis and bars / restaurants around the zoo marine vicinity.
The zoo marine has many impacts on the local environment and community both positive and negative.
The environment is important to any large organisation but the zoo marine does not have any sustainability plans in place. However they are working with the government towards implementing a plan to minimise negative impacts on the local environment. Solar panels are on the list of things in the future to provide energy for the park from the suns natural rays.
The park also has a strict recycling policy in place with many colour coded recycling bins located throughout the park.
The local community is also very important to this organisation. This is shown in the massive 80% of people employed by zoo marine coming from the local area. The only staff they look for elsewhere are specially trained personnel who are fully trained in working with the parks animals etc. many of the products sold in the park from food to souvenirs all come from the local area which improves the local economy. The major benefit of having such a reputable tourist attraction in the community is the money that will be spent in local businesses such as accommodation, taxis and bars / restaurants around the zoo marine vicinity.
Compare and Contrast Hospitality at Clube Humbria, Faro Airport and
Zoo Marine
I think that all of these organisations provide a high level of hospitality as they quite simply have to. All have adequate facilities for the amount of visitors they will accommodate throughout the year.
Clube Humbria offers more of a luxury hospitality package as it has a 4 star rating to justify to its customers. Similar can be said of the Zoo Marine as it is one of the more popular visitor attractions in the Algarve therefore it has a responsibility to provide a high standard of amenities and care for its customers.
The airport again offers a high standard of hospitality as it has to accommodate so many people all year round.
I feel that in terms of level of hospitality, Clube Humbria come out on top. It has everything you would need as a guest and more. However I do think that when compared to the Zoo Marine, the Clube Humbria can only provide this level of hospitality due to its size.
For its size and location, I think the zoo marine offers more than adequate hospitality to make it an enjoyable experience for the thousands of visitors it attracts throughout the year.
Faro airport also as a high standard of hospitality but it goes that extra bit further for its customers. Examples of this are having first class lounges and massage areas.
All three organisations have adhered to international laws on disability discrimination and offer total disabled access throughout.
How they adapt to meet the expectations of certain customers
Clube Humbria:
The hotel has everything you need should you be a golfing widow or have teenage children. Rooms have cable TV and there are plenty of activities during the day to keep teenagers occupied. The hotel also offers a lot of information on excursions available at different times during the week. For teenagers it is important to keep in touch with friends back home through networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace. The hotel offers computers with internet access in the lobby area but also internet connections in every room.
Faro Airport:
The airport also has a lot of information on all local excursions for golfing widows and families to consider. Shops and restaurants that sell products and provide services for all ages are on offer and like at most busy airports; arcades are on site for teenagers to enjoy.
Zoo Marine:
The main demographic the park aims to attract is families with young children. Therefore the products and services are aimed at younger children or teenagers. Shops selling fun souvenirs are consistent throughout the park along with fast food eateries and ice cream vendors. Buggies are provided for visitors and for the first time I saw a staffed location for customers to use this service.
Zoo Marine
I think that all of these organisations provide a high level of hospitality as they quite simply have to. All have adequate facilities for the amount of visitors they will accommodate throughout the year.
Clube Humbria offers more of a luxury hospitality package as it has a 4 star rating to justify to its customers. Similar can be said of the Zoo Marine as it is one of the more popular visitor attractions in the Algarve therefore it has a responsibility to provide a high standard of amenities and care for its customers.
The airport again offers a high standard of hospitality as it has to accommodate so many people all year round.
I feel that in terms of level of hospitality, Clube Humbria come out on top. It has everything you would need as a guest and more. However I do think that when compared to the Zoo Marine, the Clube Humbria can only provide this level of hospitality due to its size.
For its size and location, I think the zoo marine offers more than adequate hospitality to make it an enjoyable experience for the thousands of visitors it attracts throughout the year.
Faro airport also as a high standard of hospitality but it goes that extra bit further for its customers. Examples of this are having first class lounges and massage areas.
All three organisations have adhered to international laws on disability discrimination and offer total disabled access throughout.
How they adapt to meet the expectations of certain customers
Clube Humbria:
The hotel has everything you need should you be a golfing widow or have teenage children. Rooms have cable TV and there are plenty of activities during the day to keep teenagers occupied. The hotel also offers a lot of information on excursions available at different times during the week. For teenagers it is important to keep in touch with friends back home through networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace. The hotel offers computers with internet access in the lobby area but also internet connections in every room.
Faro Airport:
The airport also has a lot of information on all local excursions for golfing widows and families to consider. Shops and restaurants that sell products and provide services for all ages are on offer and like at most busy airports; arcades are on site for teenagers to enjoy.
Zoo Marine:
The main demographic the park aims to attract is families with young children. Therefore the products and services are aimed at younger children or teenagers. Shops selling fun souvenirs are consistent throughout the park along with fast food eateries and ice cream vendors. Buggies are provided for visitors and for the first time I saw a staffed location for customers to use this service.
Accommodation
Hotel Clube Humbria 4*
Clube Humbria is located in Olhos d’Agua just outside Albufeira. The whole accommodation from the rooms, restaurant, bar and gardens are spotless. This goes a huge way towards justifying its 4 star status.
One bedroom apartments sleep 2 adults with another two adults able to make use of the sofa beds in the living area. Rooms are equipped with toilets, shower, satellite TV, air con, electric fan, heating, fridge, telephone, balcony and for a small charge a safe is also available.
All inclusive option:
Food: Breakfast (8am – 10am) Lunch (12:30 – 2pm) Dinner (7pm – 9:30pm)
All served as a buffet
Packed lunch available in advance
Drink: mineral water, wine, beer, soft drinks, tea/coffee available from 12 noon – 11pm.
Entertainment
Programme:
May – Oct
Live shows (2 a week), karaoke, bingo, cocktail party, board games.
Children:
Children’s pool, playground, babysitting, kids club, video club.
Health and Fitness
Aerobics and aqua-aerobics, sports, table tennis, football, archery, French boules.
Facilities
Olhos d’Agua beach is 850m away and there are shops and bars on the way. Albufeira centre is 8km away and Vilamoura 11.5km.
Accommodation facilities
Outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, sun beds, parasols, entertainment bar, lobby bar, poolside bar, currency exchange, internet connection, convenience store, public bus service and cleaning and laundry service.
Hospitality – Clube Humbria
Rooms:
The rooms at Humbria very clean and spacious with many facilities available. As we were all inclusive we didn’t need to use the kitchen facilities in the room however it would be very useful if visitors are on a half board basis. This allows customers to be flexible with whether they would like to eat in the restaurant or in their rooms.
The beds are changed 3 times a week and towels are replaced on a daily basis. The rooms are also cleaned on a daily basis which is part of the 4 star service.
Reception:
The staff in the reception area are very polite and give excellent customer service. At first they were quite abrupt but I put this down to the large number that we travelled in. There was also it seemed a new member of staff present so he was quite under pressure dealing with such a lengthy book in. The reception area itself was very clean and welcoming. There is plenty of information on and around the desk regarding all sorts from health and safety to excursions on offer in the Algarve.
Bar & Restaurant:
I was very impressed with the variety of food available all through the week in the restaurant. The service in the restaurant was also very high. Even though the food was self service, several waiters are always on hand to prepare your table or provide beverages. All done in a very professional manor and always with a smile.
Bar Melody, which is located opposite the restaurant, is also staffed with professional staff who give the impression they enjoy offering great customer service which makes the whole experience a lot better. The bar is very spacious with a lot of places to sit and have a drink. There is also a stage in the bar area for when entertainment is on which is every night. This means that, if you wished, you could stay in the hotel and still have a highly entertaining night.
Pool Bar:
The pool bar is open after breakfast and all through the day up until 6 in the afternoon. It offers a variety of snacks and hot food for people who miss breakfast or who get hungry when sitting by the pool during the day. The bar also offers a range of beverages from beer, soft drinks and spirits.
Hotel Store:
There is a small shop in the reception area of the hotel which is very handy. It sells all kinds of souvenirs, postcards. Batteries, inflatable’s and pick n mix for the kids. I think having a shop shows good hospitality as you do not need to venture out should you run out of batteries or other provisions.
Other:
Here are some other means of hospitality provided by Humbria:
Dry cleaning and pressing, internet access, crèche, concierge service, porter service and disabled access throughout.
Faro Airport
The hospitality provided at Faro airport is as good as I can be for the size and the amount of passengers that pass through. The passenger flow around the airport is good as the signs provided allow for easy movement from check in through security to departures. Queues are minimised by opening several check in desks and security gates. As far as I know we did not have a problem when checking in and going through security. All airport staff were very friendly which makes the sometimes hellish experience easier.
Once through check in there is a range of things to do whilst waiting to go to your departure gate. The duty free shop is quite a size with the usual things on sale. Cigarettes, alcohol, perfume etc. There is also a variety of small restaurants to choose from although I found them to be highly expensive. There is a WH Smith in Faro airport with all British newspapers available.
Other forms of hospitality are provided by the airport. You can have a locker to put your belongings in. this would be particularly useful if your flight was delayed. Shrink rapping is also available at a small cost with other forms of baggage security available. There is a succession of information desks available should you have any queries. Vending machines, cash points, photo booths, currency exchange, disabled access and first class lounges make the hospitality provided by Faro airport a very high standard.
Zoo Marine
The zoo marine attraction is largely seen as the number one tourist attraction in the Algarve. Part theme park, zoo and marina the park is home to many animals including dolphins, seals, crocodiles, turtles and many tropical fish.
Spectacular water shows featuring performing dolphins and seals are the highlight of this award winning visitor attraction. The park is open 10-5 and 10-7:30 in the summer seasons.
Being the award winning visitor attraction that it is, the zoo marine has the responsibility to provide a high standard of hospitality for its many customers. It does this through its many shops and restaurants available. The shops are there to sell not only souvenirs but useful products such as swim suits, sun cream and provisions for entertaining children.
The restaurants at zoo marine sell a variety of food and drinks. The main place to eat which is located opposite the 3-D cinema provides a huge space for visitors to eat and drink both indoors or outside under a large canopy.
Dotted around the park are many vending machines and ice cream stalls for customers who are on the move and wish to grab a quick drink before moving onto the next attraction. This is consistent with most theme park attractions the world over.
Disabled access is in place wherever you look around the park so everybody can enjoy the shows and demonstrations put on by zoo marine.
Hotel Clube Humbria 4*
Clube Humbria is located in Olhos d’Agua just outside Albufeira. The whole accommodation from the rooms, restaurant, bar and gardens are spotless. This goes a huge way towards justifying its 4 star status.
One bedroom apartments sleep 2 adults with another two adults able to make use of the sofa beds in the living area. Rooms are equipped with toilets, shower, satellite TV, air con, electric fan, heating, fridge, telephone, balcony and for a small charge a safe is also available.
All inclusive option:
Food: Breakfast (8am – 10am) Lunch (12:30 – 2pm) Dinner (7pm – 9:30pm)
All served as a buffet
Packed lunch available in advance
Drink: mineral water, wine, beer, soft drinks, tea/coffee available from 12 noon – 11pm.
Entertainment
Programme:
May – Oct
Live shows (2 a week), karaoke, bingo, cocktail party, board games.
Children:
Children’s pool, playground, babysitting, kids club, video club.
Health and Fitness
Aerobics and aqua-aerobics, sports, table tennis, football, archery, French boules.
Facilities
Olhos d’Agua beach is 850m away and there are shops and bars on the way. Albufeira centre is 8km away and Vilamoura 11.5km.
Accommodation facilities
Outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, sun beds, parasols, entertainment bar, lobby bar, poolside bar, currency exchange, internet connection, convenience store, public bus service and cleaning and laundry service.
Hospitality – Clube Humbria
Rooms:
The rooms at Humbria very clean and spacious with many facilities available. As we were all inclusive we didn’t need to use the kitchen facilities in the room however it would be very useful if visitors are on a half board basis. This allows customers to be flexible with whether they would like to eat in the restaurant or in their rooms.
The beds are changed 3 times a week and towels are replaced on a daily basis. The rooms are also cleaned on a daily basis which is part of the 4 star service.
Reception:
The staff in the reception area are very polite and give excellent customer service. At first they were quite abrupt but I put this down to the large number that we travelled in. There was also it seemed a new member of staff present so he was quite under pressure dealing with such a lengthy book in. The reception area itself was very clean and welcoming. There is plenty of information on and around the desk regarding all sorts from health and safety to excursions on offer in the Algarve.
Bar & Restaurant:
I was very impressed with the variety of food available all through the week in the restaurant. The service in the restaurant was also very high. Even though the food was self service, several waiters are always on hand to prepare your table or provide beverages. All done in a very professional manor and always with a smile.
Bar Melody, which is located opposite the restaurant, is also staffed with professional staff who give the impression they enjoy offering great customer service which makes the whole experience a lot better. The bar is very spacious with a lot of places to sit and have a drink. There is also a stage in the bar area for when entertainment is on which is every night. This means that, if you wished, you could stay in the hotel and still have a highly entertaining night.
Pool Bar:
The pool bar is open after breakfast and all through the day up until 6 in the afternoon. It offers a variety of snacks and hot food for people who miss breakfast or who get hungry when sitting by the pool during the day. The bar also offers a range of beverages from beer, soft drinks and spirits.
Hotel Store:
There is a small shop in the reception area of the hotel which is very handy. It sells all kinds of souvenirs, postcards. Batteries, inflatable’s and pick n mix for the kids. I think having a shop shows good hospitality as you do not need to venture out should you run out of batteries or other provisions.
Other:
Here are some other means of hospitality provided by Humbria:
Dry cleaning and pressing, internet access, crèche, concierge service, porter service and disabled access throughout.
Faro Airport
The hospitality provided at Faro airport is as good as I can be for the size and the amount of passengers that pass through. The passenger flow around the airport is good as the signs provided allow for easy movement from check in through security to departures. Queues are minimised by opening several check in desks and security gates. As far as I know we did not have a problem when checking in and going through security. All airport staff were very friendly which makes the sometimes hellish experience easier.
Once through check in there is a range of things to do whilst waiting to go to your departure gate. The duty free shop is quite a size with the usual things on sale. Cigarettes, alcohol, perfume etc. There is also a variety of small restaurants to choose from although I found them to be highly expensive. There is a WH Smith in Faro airport with all British newspapers available.
Other forms of hospitality are provided by the airport. You can have a locker to put your belongings in. this would be particularly useful if your flight was delayed. Shrink rapping is also available at a small cost with other forms of baggage security available. There is a succession of information desks available should you have any queries. Vending machines, cash points, photo booths, currency exchange, disabled access and first class lounges make the hospitality provided by Faro airport a very high standard.
Zoo Marine
The zoo marine attraction is largely seen as the number one tourist attraction in the Algarve. Part theme park, zoo and marina the park is home to many animals including dolphins, seals, crocodiles, turtles and many tropical fish.
Spectacular water shows featuring performing dolphins and seals are the highlight of this award winning visitor attraction. The park is open 10-5 and 10-7:30 in the summer seasons.
Being the award winning visitor attraction that it is, the zoo marine has the responsibility to provide a high standard of hospitality for its many customers. It does this through its many shops and restaurants available. The shops are there to sell not only souvenirs but useful products such as swim suits, sun cream and provisions for entertaining children.
The restaurants at zoo marine sell a variety of food and drinks. The main place to eat which is located opposite the 3-D cinema provides a huge space for visitors to eat and drink both indoors or outside under a large canopy.
Dotted around the park are many vending machines and ice cream stalls for customers who are on the move and wish to grab a quick drink before moving onto the next attraction. This is consistent with most theme park attractions the world over.
Disabled access is in place wherever you look around the park so everybody can enjoy the shows and demonstrations put on by zoo marine.
Daily Diary
Thursday 10th April
We arrived at Faro airport at around 9:15am and the weather was very wet and windy. After all the bags were collected we made our way outside to coach ready to transfer us to our accommodation.
When we arrived at our accommodation we waited in the reception area to be checked into our rooms. My first impressions of the apartments were that they were very clean and the land in and around the accommodation was very well looked after. The hotel staff were quite abrupt at first which I think was due to the large group that we were in. This only lasted a short time as they became very friendly towards us there after.
Once we got settled in a few of us had a walk around the local area to look for a shop. On the way we encountered a few souvenir shops, bars and restaurants. As they were few and far between I got the impression that the area surrounding the apartments was quiet but resourceful.
The first night we decided to stay in the grounds of the accommodation as it had been a long day. There is entertainment provided every night in bar melody. I think this is mostly aimed at families with young children.
Friday 11th April
Our first full day started with breakfast in the restaurant. There is a variety of food available from cooked “Full English” style to continental breakfast. This is to cater for the different nationalities that visit the resort throughout the year.
After breakfast we had a visit from our first choice representative who conducted a welcome meeting. She explained the many excursions available whilst going into detail about Albufeira’s centre and old town. After having a brief discussion about which excursions we would like to go on as a group we opted for the jeep safari, zoo marine and a bar crawl with the reps.
After the welcome meeting we had a brief break before having a talk about the hospitality provided by the accommodation. The talk was conducted by a senior member of the hotel management. After an in depth insight into the way the apartments are run from catering to environmental impacts, we had an opportunity to question the staff member. This gave us the perfect opportunity to gain some primary research.
After dinner we ventured outside the accommodation to experience the local nightlife. The rep had told us about the strip so with a short taxi ride we arrived at the centre of Albufeiras nightlife.
Saturday 12th April
Saturday was the first opportunity to go on an excursion. We had to get up relatively early for breakfast and leave the hotel at 9:55am. The coach was to pick us up at a bus stop just round the corner from the accommodation.
The coach arrived at around 10:15am. Zoo marine put on their own shuttle service that goes around Albufeira and the surrounding area picking up visitors at a set time.
We arrived at the park around 30 minutes after being picked up. When we got inside the park we were given a time to meet back at the entrance ready for a talk from management at the park. After a brief walk around the attraction it was time for us to meet up again. The talk unfortunately did not go ahead due to our first choice representative not doing her job to an acceptable standard.
We did however get to speak to a member of staff at the park who talked to us about environmental impacts the park has but also how it tries to improve the local community. After he gave us a walking tour of the park we had some free time to experience the rides and attractions. We saw the sea lion show which was made even more impressive by the animators. Shortly after we watched the dolphin show where we found out that zoo marine is home to the oldest male dolphin in the world.
After the shows a few of us decided to try out the rides. They were not the best of ‘thrill rides’ however I do think it would be an ideal attraction for families with small children. We left the park at around 4:30 and got back on the zoo marine coach ready to drop us back to our apartments.
I think that the zoo marine is the ideal attraction for golfing widows and families. There is plenty to do whilst in the park and the manor of which the shows are spread out over the day means it will occupy visitors for a long period of the day. However I think that teenagers will find it hard to keep occupied throughout the day as the shows and the rides are aimed more towards a younger audience.
Sunday 13th April
Again we got up relatively early to have breakfast as we were to be out for the majority of the day. We met in reception where taxis were called and we made our way into Albufeira. Once there, we caught the ‘tourist train’ through Albufeira and into the old town. The journey took about 20 minutes and we got to see a lot of residential areas on the way. We got off the train in the old town right next to the beach. As we made our way through the old town it was clear that this side of Albufeira attracted a different type of visitor. As we got into the old town centre, looking around, it was packed full of restaurants and people trying to get you to dine in theirs. There was also entertainment in the form of pipe players in the square. With so many people around, this gave us the perfect opportunity to conduct some primary research. After having lunch in the square we made our way down to the beach. I was surprised at how clean but also spacious the beach was when we arrived.
Having spent a few hours on the beach we caught a taxi back to out accommodation. We had a few hours to relax in our rooms before getting ready for the first choice organised bar crawl.
We met at Linekers bar which is located at the bottom end of the strip. After meeting our reps we started the drinking games and this continued in numerous bars as we made our way down the strip. Overall I thought the night was put together well by these particular reps.
I think this excursion alone would be a great way to keep teenagers occupied as it gives them a chance to have fun and meet new people on the night. Golfing widows would also benefit from this night out as they could also meet new people and possibly visitors who are in the same boat as themselves.
Monday 14th April
Today was the Jeep safari which everyone was really looking forward to. As we waited in the reception area our jeeps turned up and the group was divided into groups and we all got into our jeeps. The first stop was at a small restaurant; here we met the drivers and tourists from all over Albufeira on the same tour as we were about to do. The drivers were all very knowledgeable about the country but they delivered this information in a humorous manor. I think this enabled everyone to relax more and have a good time.
The first actual sightseeing stop on the tour was a waterfall which is located at the foot of the hills. We were able to get out the jeep and have a look round for 10 minutes before we got back on the road. Our next stop was set slightly up in the hills; a small community where a very Old Portuguese lady sits all day and makes baskets my first impressions of this stop were feeling sorry for this lady who literally sits there while group after group of tourists stand there and watch her. Then I realised that this was her living and was more than likely use to it.
Next stop on the tour was lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. The restaurant itself was very clean although quite dark. Soup was the starter which I thought was very nice. The main course was pork and salad with peri peri sauce and chips. Personally I don’t like spicy foods so I tried to avoid the sauce but overall I thought the meal was very nice.
After our meals we drove a short distance to a field of cork trees. Cork, being one of the countries biggest exports, is highly valued in Portugal. One of the guides gave us a brief history on the cork trees and how they farm them. I found this talk very interesting as I did not know how important a cork tree could be to a countries economy.
The next stop on the tour was a small secluded distillery where the countries own spirit ‘Medronho’ made. The farm also makes honey and they were both on offer for all to try. Due to myself having a hangover I was in no rush to drink the local fire water at 60% proof. After having a brief talk about how the Medronho is made we had an opportunity to walk around the farm. There were a few chickens around but mainly dogs and new born puppies.
The penultimate stop on this tour was set high up in the hills around Albufeira. Before actually going on the tour our rep had told us that this part of the tour was good as there is a lagoon here and we would get the opportunity to swim in it. When we got there however there was nothing more than a stream. Our guide explained to us that during high seasons, locks at the bottom of the stream are closed and this allows it to fill up and people are allowed to swim in it. Not exactly a lagoon but I imagine it would still be fun all the same. There was also a shop with drinks and snacks available here so after a short break we were back on the road.
The last stop was in a remote field by the side of the road. Here the drivers said a final goodbye to everyone and it gave us an opportunity to thank them all before returning to our hotel.
I thought this excursion was a great day out and would recommend it to anyone. I think that the nature of the day means that it would be appealing to all types of visitors. This is because it’s an all day excursion but you are constantly on the move visiting different locations. Some locations are very informative and interesting and others like lagoon part of the trip, although we didn’t personally experience it, would be highly entertaining for all ages.
Tuesday 15th April
Tuesday was a relatively relaxing day with a tour of the kitchen area on the agenda. The talk wasn’t scheduled until 3:30pm so for the most part of the day we spent by the hotel pool and using the facilities. Come 3:30 we met the food and beverage manager outside the restaurant and we started the tour. I was pleasantly surprised to see how organised and hygienic the kitchen was. Not that I was expecting it to be dirty but it was extremely clean. We saw all the kitchen staff preparing dinner for the hundreds of guests that were visiting the hotel. The tour was finished off with a tour of the stock rooms which wasn’t really relevant to what we were doing but was an interesting insight all the same.
Wednesday 16th April
Today was our last opportunity to experience an excursion. We were to visit the gypsy market in Quarteira. The market is located quite a distance away from our resort. Took about 15 minutes in a taxi but a coach is also available to take you through your travel representative.
When we arrived at the market you can see pretty much all of it as it goes downhill. Another good first impression is that it is located right next to a beach so it seems to attract a lot of tourists. Only when walking round it do you become to realise the vastness of the market and the variety of things on sale. One thing that you do have to be weary of is drug dealers. Literally I alone got asked if I wanted to buy drugs no less than 14 times in the space of about an hour and a half. However don’t let this put you off altogether as the market is policed well and there are plenty of people about.
After everyone had grabbed their bargains at the market we walked the short distance to the beach. Here we had a look up and down the promenade and relaxed for about 45 minutes. Again I was surprised at how clean the beach was and how empty the whole area was. However I do imagine it being a very vibrant place in peak season.
On the Wednesday night we went to a traditional Portuguese restaurant called O’Pinhal. This was to celebrate our tutor’s birthday and thought what better way than to experience traditional local produce. Seafood and pork was on the menu with chips and chicken also available. The waiter brought out the first dish which was presented in a large bowl. It consisted of all kinds of seafood from prawns to clams. A lot of people were put off immediately by this dish including myself at first. I do usually tolerate fish but this huge dish of freshly caught produce was quite daunting. However I did try some and in all fairness it was really good. The second dish was pork which most people opted for. A birthday cake was brought out after our meals but I wasn’t particularly in the mood for it after a meal but apparently it was very sweet.
After out meals we caught a taxi back to our accommodation as we had an early start the following day.
Thursday 17th April
We had to get up early to check out of our rooms. We waited for about half an hour in the reception area for our first choice coach to transfer us to Faro airport.
We arrived at Faro airport at around 9:15am and the weather was very wet and windy. After all the bags were collected we made our way outside to coach ready to transfer us to our accommodation.
When we arrived at our accommodation we waited in the reception area to be checked into our rooms. My first impressions of the apartments were that they were very clean and the land in and around the accommodation was very well looked after. The hotel staff were quite abrupt at first which I think was due to the large group that we were in. This only lasted a short time as they became very friendly towards us there after.
Once we got settled in a few of us had a walk around the local area to look for a shop. On the way we encountered a few souvenir shops, bars and restaurants. As they were few and far between I got the impression that the area surrounding the apartments was quiet but resourceful.
The first night we decided to stay in the grounds of the accommodation as it had been a long day. There is entertainment provided every night in bar melody. I think this is mostly aimed at families with young children.
Friday 11th April
Our first full day started with breakfast in the restaurant. There is a variety of food available from cooked “Full English” style to continental breakfast. This is to cater for the different nationalities that visit the resort throughout the year.
After breakfast we had a visit from our first choice representative who conducted a welcome meeting. She explained the many excursions available whilst going into detail about Albufeira’s centre and old town. After having a brief discussion about which excursions we would like to go on as a group we opted for the jeep safari, zoo marine and a bar crawl with the reps.
After the welcome meeting we had a brief break before having a talk about the hospitality provided by the accommodation. The talk was conducted by a senior member of the hotel management. After an in depth insight into the way the apartments are run from catering to environmental impacts, we had an opportunity to question the staff member. This gave us the perfect opportunity to gain some primary research.
After dinner we ventured outside the accommodation to experience the local nightlife. The rep had told us about the strip so with a short taxi ride we arrived at the centre of Albufeiras nightlife.
Saturday 12th April
Saturday was the first opportunity to go on an excursion. We had to get up relatively early for breakfast and leave the hotel at 9:55am. The coach was to pick us up at a bus stop just round the corner from the accommodation.
The coach arrived at around 10:15am. Zoo marine put on their own shuttle service that goes around Albufeira and the surrounding area picking up visitors at a set time.
We arrived at the park around 30 minutes after being picked up. When we got inside the park we were given a time to meet back at the entrance ready for a talk from management at the park. After a brief walk around the attraction it was time for us to meet up again. The talk unfortunately did not go ahead due to our first choice representative not doing her job to an acceptable standard.
We did however get to speak to a member of staff at the park who talked to us about environmental impacts the park has but also how it tries to improve the local community. After he gave us a walking tour of the park we had some free time to experience the rides and attractions. We saw the sea lion show which was made even more impressive by the animators. Shortly after we watched the dolphin show where we found out that zoo marine is home to the oldest male dolphin in the world.
After the shows a few of us decided to try out the rides. They were not the best of ‘thrill rides’ however I do think it would be an ideal attraction for families with small children. We left the park at around 4:30 and got back on the zoo marine coach ready to drop us back to our apartments.
I think that the zoo marine is the ideal attraction for golfing widows and families. There is plenty to do whilst in the park and the manor of which the shows are spread out over the day means it will occupy visitors for a long period of the day. However I think that teenagers will find it hard to keep occupied throughout the day as the shows and the rides are aimed more towards a younger audience.
Sunday 13th April
Again we got up relatively early to have breakfast as we were to be out for the majority of the day. We met in reception where taxis were called and we made our way into Albufeira. Once there, we caught the ‘tourist train’ through Albufeira and into the old town. The journey took about 20 minutes and we got to see a lot of residential areas on the way. We got off the train in the old town right next to the beach. As we made our way through the old town it was clear that this side of Albufeira attracted a different type of visitor. As we got into the old town centre, looking around, it was packed full of restaurants and people trying to get you to dine in theirs. There was also entertainment in the form of pipe players in the square. With so many people around, this gave us the perfect opportunity to conduct some primary research. After having lunch in the square we made our way down to the beach. I was surprised at how clean but also spacious the beach was when we arrived.
Having spent a few hours on the beach we caught a taxi back to out accommodation. We had a few hours to relax in our rooms before getting ready for the first choice organised bar crawl.
We met at Linekers bar which is located at the bottom end of the strip. After meeting our reps we started the drinking games and this continued in numerous bars as we made our way down the strip. Overall I thought the night was put together well by these particular reps.
I think this excursion alone would be a great way to keep teenagers occupied as it gives them a chance to have fun and meet new people on the night. Golfing widows would also benefit from this night out as they could also meet new people and possibly visitors who are in the same boat as themselves.
Monday 14th April
Today was the Jeep safari which everyone was really looking forward to. As we waited in the reception area our jeeps turned up and the group was divided into groups and we all got into our jeeps. The first stop was at a small restaurant; here we met the drivers and tourists from all over Albufeira on the same tour as we were about to do. The drivers were all very knowledgeable about the country but they delivered this information in a humorous manor. I think this enabled everyone to relax more and have a good time.
The first actual sightseeing stop on the tour was a waterfall which is located at the foot of the hills. We were able to get out the jeep and have a look round for 10 minutes before we got back on the road. Our next stop was set slightly up in the hills; a small community where a very Old Portuguese lady sits all day and makes baskets my first impressions of this stop were feeling sorry for this lady who literally sits there while group after group of tourists stand there and watch her. Then I realised that this was her living and was more than likely use to it.
Next stop on the tour was lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. The restaurant itself was very clean although quite dark. Soup was the starter which I thought was very nice. The main course was pork and salad with peri peri sauce and chips. Personally I don’t like spicy foods so I tried to avoid the sauce but overall I thought the meal was very nice.
After our meals we drove a short distance to a field of cork trees. Cork, being one of the countries biggest exports, is highly valued in Portugal. One of the guides gave us a brief history on the cork trees and how they farm them. I found this talk very interesting as I did not know how important a cork tree could be to a countries economy.
The next stop on the tour was a small secluded distillery where the countries own spirit ‘Medronho’ made. The farm also makes honey and they were both on offer for all to try. Due to myself having a hangover I was in no rush to drink the local fire water at 60% proof. After having a brief talk about how the Medronho is made we had an opportunity to walk around the farm. There were a few chickens around but mainly dogs and new born puppies.
The penultimate stop on this tour was set high up in the hills around Albufeira. Before actually going on the tour our rep had told us that this part of the tour was good as there is a lagoon here and we would get the opportunity to swim in it. When we got there however there was nothing more than a stream. Our guide explained to us that during high seasons, locks at the bottom of the stream are closed and this allows it to fill up and people are allowed to swim in it. Not exactly a lagoon but I imagine it would still be fun all the same. There was also a shop with drinks and snacks available here so after a short break we were back on the road.
The last stop was in a remote field by the side of the road. Here the drivers said a final goodbye to everyone and it gave us an opportunity to thank them all before returning to our hotel.
I thought this excursion was a great day out and would recommend it to anyone. I think that the nature of the day means that it would be appealing to all types of visitors. This is because it’s an all day excursion but you are constantly on the move visiting different locations. Some locations are very informative and interesting and others like lagoon part of the trip, although we didn’t personally experience it, would be highly entertaining for all ages.
Tuesday 15th April
Tuesday was a relatively relaxing day with a tour of the kitchen area on the agenda. The talk wasn’t scheduled until 3:30pm so for the most part of the day we spent by the hotel pool and using the facilities. Come 3:30 we met the food and beverage manager outside the restaurant and we started the tour. I was pleasantly surprised to see how organised and hygienic the kitchen was. Not that I was expecting it to be dirty but it was extremely clean. We saw all the kitchen staff preparing dinner for the hundreds of guests that were visiting the hotel. The tour was finished off with a tour of the stock rooms which wasn’t really relevant to what we were doing but was an interesting insight all the same.
Wednesday 16th April
Today was our last opportunity to experience an excursion. We were to visit the gypsy market in Quarteira. The market is located quite a distance away from our resort. Took about 15 minutes in a taxi but a coach is also available to take you through your travel representative.
When we arrived at the market you can see pretty much all of it as it goes downhill. Another good first impression is that it is located right next to a beach so it seems to attract a lot of tourists. Only when walking round it do you become to realise the vastness of the market and the variety of things on sale. One thing that you do have to be weary of is drug dealers. Literally I alone got asked if I wanted to buy drugs no less than 14 times in the space of about an hour and a half. However don’t let this put you off altogether as the market is policed well and there are plenty of people about.
After everyone had grabbed their bargains at the market we walked the short distance to the beach. Here we had a look up and down the promenade and relaxed for about 45 minutes. Again I was surprised at how clean the beach was and how empty the whole area was. However I do imagine it being a very vibrant place in peak season.
On the Wednesday night we went to a traditional Portuguese restaurant called O’Pinhal. This was to celebrate our tutor’s birthday and thought what better way than to experience traditional local produce. Seafood and pork was on the menu with chips and chicken also available. The waiter brought out the first dish which was presented in a large bowl. It consisted of all kinds of seafood from prawns to clams. A lot of people were put off immediately by this dish including myself at first. I do usually tolerate fish but this huge dish of freshly caught produce was quite daunting. However I did try some and in all fairness it was really good. The second dish was pork which most people opted for. A birthday cake was brought out after our meals but I wasn’t particularly in the mood for it after a meal but apparently it was very sweet.
After out meals we caught a taxi back to our accommodation as we had an early start the following day.
Thursday 17th April
We had to get up early to check out of our rooms. We waited for about half an hour in the reception area for our first choice coach to transfer us to Faro airport.
Welcome to the south of Portugal, on the south-west tip of Europe... to the Algarve, Europe's sunniest spot: a unique jewel where the finest beaches and weather on the continent meet traditional historic Portugal!!
In this blog i will detail what our group did on a day to day basis, Explain hospitality on offer at our accommodation and Faro airport and inform you of the excursions/places of interest in Albufeira and the surrounding area and what impacts these have as a visitor attraction.
So Enjoy...
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