Situated on the west side of the Iberian Peninsula, its geographic location along the Atlantic coast soon determined its vocation to the sea. In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on an epic voyage that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time founded settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa. Traces of this worldwide historic presence may be seen as trademarks of the Portuguese genius. The Portuguese language became one of the most widely spoken in the world, and the Portuguese people were privileged for being exposed to so many different civilizations. The vast monumental, artistic and archeologic heritage does witness not only the 850 years of history of encounters with distant cultures, but also the presence in the territory of more ancient peoples (Celts, Suevians, Visigoths, Romans and Arabs). The natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many holiday makers, an ideal place for practicing water sports and playing golf, offering modern tourism facilities, and quaint and personalized means of accommodation, such as turismo de habitacao (privately owned homes ranging from wonderful farmhouses to manor houses), hotels de charme or Pousadas. Amember-country of the European Union since 1986, Portugal currently enjoys a steady economic growth.

Portugal drives on the right. Except when otherwise indicated, all vehicles approaching from the right have priority at intersections. Safety belts are compulsory. Drinking and Driving: the upper limit for alcohol in the bloodstream is 0.2 g/l. The maximum speed in towns and villages is 50 km/h, except where otherwise indicated. On main roads and motorways speed limits are 90 km/h and 120 km/h, respectively. Petrol stations are generally open from 8 am to 12 am, and some work 24 hours a day.

Credit cards most accepted in Portugal are Visa, Amex, Eurocard, Eurocheque, Diners Club and Mastercard. For those visiting or planning a holiday in Portugal, here is some general information that may be useful. Further help is available from ICEP offices or at tourist information posts within Portugal.

The weather in Portugal is gentle, without great variations of temperature. Winter is not very cold nor is it very hot in summer because of the influence of the Gulf Current. In the Azores, the weather is mild and pleasant, always softened by the Atlantic winds, while in Madeira the climate remains mild throughout the year.

Banks: Open from 8:30 am to 3 pm from Monday to Friday; closed on official holidays.

Open from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm (working days). On Saturdays, most shops close at 1 pm. In the shopping centers located in larger towns, shops are normally open too on Saturdays, Sundays and other holidays from 10 am to 11 pm.

Open from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm. Closed on Mondays. Some places also close on Wednesdays.