Hello there Sao Joao is part of Albufeira and it is classed the new bit of Albufeira,the old town deserve a visit as does Faro and Lagos for example there will be loads of resturants and bars to chose from as the Vilanova is located right on the strip so you will be spoilt for choice.Zoomarine is a great day out dolphin shows etc etc you and the children will have a great day there.Enjoy the holidays:-)

Thanks for that.

I've heard that both Coconuts and Ben & Jerrys are worth a visit - is this correct.

Will I have to worry about Mozzies. When to Alcudia a few years back and got bitten to death - am now worried that this may happen again whenever I go abroad.

Hi MegBex,

I have never been bitten while in the Algarve and have been many times. A thread a while back said using Avon Skin so Soft moisturiser (forest fresh??) keeps the mozzies away but I have never tried it. Boots do a small roll on stick that you just dab on. Put it on wrists, ankles. knees and elbows, it work for me every time.

I spray Dum Dum in the apartment/room before going out at night as well so when you get back at night the room is clear.

Good luck

Lummie

Thanks for the tips. Use Skin So Soft in Alcudia - so obviously that didn't work. Will try Boots dab on this time just to be safe.

Have never heard of Dum Dum - where can I can get it from?

Dum Dum is just a Mozzie spray and you can buy it in most supermarkets over there. I have some at home too as the mozzies in Scotland are huge compared to the wee one in the Algarve. Its a baseball bat you need for the mozzies in Scotland

Lummie

If you are staying the actual Vila Nova Hotel then you will find the beds are Concrete with a mattress on top - surprisingly comfortable.
Coconuts is a great place if you want the wee one entertained. If you get a chance to see the "Michael Jackson" show it is brilliant.
There is also a small Restaurant tucked away half way down the strip called "Tom & Jerrys" if you ar elooking for English food, it si spectacularly clean and ran by a great British Woman.
I would also recommend a Safari Trip if your child is a little adventorous - great fun.
Have a great time - you will love it

The Safary trip sounds interesting. My daughters are both up for a bit of adventure!

Do you happen to remember the cost?

I am sure it was about £20 per person, not sure if there was a reduction in child price - I would imagine there would be as the Portugese are very child friendly. The drivers are great and you get to stand up in the Open Jeep and race across the countryside where they show you different plants but make it all sound so interesting. There is a couple of surprises in store too but I will not give anything away - definetly recommende - I have been on 3 - sad

Have to say I've been bitten by mozzies a few times in the Algarve much to my suprise. We use a repellent like Jungle Formula or another that has DEET in it. Also have a fan going in the bedroom at night stops them flying about.