Author: Larry Austin
Source: ezinearticles.com

With about 200km of coastline washed by the Atlantic Ocean, Algarve is one of Portugal’s most sought after holiday destinations. Algarve boasts about 100 sandy beaches in one of the most unpolluted areas of Europe. And, due to the extended maritime shelf and water currants the sea can be surprisingly warm even in the winter months.

Catering to a vast number of holidaymakers every year, Algarve features some of the best theme parks and other activities. The best family resorts are located in central and eastern Algarve which includes Albufeira, Vilamoura and Quarteira. Vilamoura and Quarteira are ideal for relaxation with its choice of boat trips and excursions as well as the family friendly beaches, whereas Albufeira offers adventurous family activities.

The Aqualand adds to the popularity of Algarve as a family holiday destination- located just 15km outside Albufeir, the water park features some of the best family rides in Europe adding moments of pure adrenaline joy and adventure to the holiday.

The Kamikaze ride, a 95 metre slide, descends 36 metres in just about 4 seconds, the Banzai Boggan which plummets down a 23 metre vertical slide accelerating over the pool at the bottom and the snake like multiple water slides known as the Corkscrew Anaconda, best describes the excitement and the adventure in store.

For the less adventurous the park feature attractions on a much calmer note such as the semi-Olympic swimming pool, white water rafting on artificial rapids, the soothing, slow moving Congo River and the surf beach with simulated waves. A Mini park with slides, giant crayons and a shallow water pool will keep the younger ones well occupied.

Spread over 8 hectares, the Zoomarine – an ocean life extravaganza – is an entertaining and educational attraction in Albufeira. Whilst conserving marine life and providing ecological awareness, this oceanography park offers a choice of animal shows including dolphin shows and tropical bird shows. The on-site 4d cinema features educational movies on global warming and other environmental issues.

The Zoomarina also provides leisure and relaxation by way of a swimming pool and fun family rides such as a mini roller coaster. The park also features a choice of restaurants, kiosks and a host of shops.

Another great family attraction in the area is the Krazy World Algarve Zoo. It hosts various attractions such as Krazy Golf, professional guided tours to view the animals and animal shows. The zoo also features a playground, a large swimming pool as well as restaurant.

Larry Austin is a freelance journalist who writes on travel related topics such as hotel and destination reviews etc. He is currently working for roomsnet.com which offers visitors the option of world wide hotel bookings. roomsnet.com offers many deals for Family Holiday in Algarve, Portugal.

Author: Jeff Martinezbr
Source: ezinearticles.combr
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With the global economy still sour, theres no question we all continue to feel the pinch. News of soaring unemployment, mounting layoffs and skyrocketing costs has dominated the headlines in 2009. Yet, all of that does little to dampen the holiday spirit of travelers planning to squeeze in time with friends and family over the next few months. Though the holidays bring welcome respite, its easy to get wrapped up in holiday planning, which in turn creates the very thing we try to shy away from over this joyful time of year – stress!

Whether youre loading up the family car for a road trip or getting ready for a cross-country flight, the tips below will help take the guesswork out of holiday planning, ensuring that things go smoother for you this holiday season.

1. Plan Ahead: Its never too early to book, as holding out for a last minute deal may translate to having to pay even higher prices. By booking early, you can actually save later. A myriad of holiday deals can be had in top destinations, and your pocketbook will certainly thank you for it. Additionally, try to book direct flights and avoid layovers. Doing so will reduce the chances of losing your luggage and having to deal the hustle and bustle of yet another airport. Be sure to factor in flight delays, traffic and inclement weather when making your reservations. Also, if traveling by car, make sure to fill up your gas tank well in advance of your departure date. The earlier you can set out on your trip, the more likely you are to beat the traffic.

2. Pack Essential Supplies: If you plan to hit the road, try to limit the load by including only the most necessary provisions; flashlights, batteries, non-perishable foods, maps, directions and a first aid kit are musts. Note that the Transportation Security Administration mandates that gels, liquids, gels or aerosols be in containers of three ounces or less. But feel free to bring along a few items to divert yourself, including books, CD player, iPod and the like. With kids in tow, these little extras will go a long way in keeping them entertained during lengthy flights or road trips.

3. Stay Healthy and Informed: With anxiety over the H1N1 flu virus on the rise, some travelers are wary of traveling on fears that their next destination might pose a high risk of infection. Be sure to stay abreast of health-related news pertaining to your destination, including the incidence of the virus in that particular area. Consult your doctor beforehand regarding flu shots and other remedies. As a safety precaution, itd be wise to familiarize yourself with nearby hospitals and clinics. Airlines already have been stepping up preventive measures by reminding passengers to cover their cough and wash their hands thoroughly.

4. Keep Items Unwrapped: If youre packing gifts, they must be unwrapped in order to go through security. Gift bags make a convenient alternative – you can easily pull out the items as needed and not have to worry about frenetically undoing five hours worth of gift wrapping at checkpoint.

5. Make Timely Arrangements for Home: Surely, youll want to avoid a scene reminiscent of the holiday classic Home Alone. Will you have to leave your cat Whiskers with the neighbor? Will you have to arrange for your uncle Tom to water the plants while youre gone? Checking off these items before leaving will give you piece of mind and lessen the chances of an oops catching up on you later on.

6. Have Fun and Dont Sweat the Small Stuff: Dont let a flat tire, flight delay or any other unexpected inconvenience spoil your planned vacation. The holiday season only comes once a year, so why not make the best of it? Kick back, relax and relish some valuable time with friends and family.

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