Useful Information
Time - local time is GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).
Electricity - electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.
Money - Portugal is a member of the EU and its official currency is the Euro. There are numerous banks, bureau de change and ATM's available in tourist destinations. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques.
Language - Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.
Entry requirements for UK nationals - British citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.
Health - there are no health risks attached to travel to Portugal.
Tipping - service charges are usually added to hotel and restaurant bills, but it is customary to leave an additional 10%. Bar staff and taxi drivers also expect tips, which are usually the rounding up of the bill to the nearest Euro.
Safety - travel to Portugal should be trouble-free, but as with everywhere nowadays reasonable care should be taken with your belongings.
Communications - the international access code for Portugal is +351. There are no area or city codes required. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the UK). Portugal is well covered by three GSM phone networks and Internet cafes are available in most towns and resorts.