People have been drawn to Cascais for hundreds of years. It has been the residence of Kings and exiled royalty as well as other rich and influential people. It is home to a varied and diverse population who desire living close to Lisbon but who want to enjoy a relaxed and hedonistic atmosphere. People still choose to purchase property in Cascais for a multitude of reasons, some of which are listed below.

Economy
Initially, Cascais existed as a fishing hamlet whose sole economy was built around providing Lisbon with fresh fish. Today, the fishing economy has been replaced by tourism as Cascais has become a popular destination for the wealthy. This regular influx of affluent visitors supports the local economy and it is an ideal place to purchase property as a medium to long term investment or to start a new business.

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LocationLocated on the Costa do Sol, Cascais is an easy commute from Lisbon. At a distance of only 25 kilometers from Lisbon, Cascais is an attractive place to live for those who work in the city but choose not to live there.

Golf
Like many other areas in Portugal, golf has become an essential form of recreation. Cascais has a variety of both nine and eighteen hole golf courses from which to choose with varying difficulties, and this appeals to a broad range players with various skill levels. Golf aficionados often consider Cascais when choosing to purchase property because of the stellar courses in the area.

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Beaches
Some of the best beaches in Portugal are located in Cascais. One in particular, the world famous Guincho beach, is accredited with having the best waves in Europe. Due to this, surfers and windsurfers alike flock to the area to take advantage of the great waves. The beaches near Cascais all have calm waters and fine sand, and many of the beaches have added features like loungers, shades, changing rooms and nearby restaurants.

Climate
The Mediterranean climate of Cascais is delightful; mild winters and comfortable summers have temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. Spring and fall are equally splendid and the warm fresh breezes that blow in off the Atlantic keep the days feeling fresh. People from all over the world choose to purchase property in Cascais to take advantage of the stunning climate.

Accessibility
Within an easy drive of Lisbon, Cascais is just off the A5 highway. In addition, there are a variety of commuter train routes that pass through Cascias connecting it to Lisbon and the rest of Portugal. The Aeroporto Municipal de Cascais is capable of handling small and commuter airlines, and for those travelling by sea, the harbor and marina are also well equipped. Ease of access to both the ocean and Lisbon are attractive features to Cascais that many potential property buyers are pleased with.

CoastlineWhile much of the coastline of Portugal is rugged cliffs followed by soft sandy beaches, the coastline of Cascais is particularly breathtaking. Carved from the cliffs, the Atlantic Ocean has chiseled away at the coastline creating an almost alien landscape of jagged rock formations. A short distance outside of Cascais is Boca do Inferno and this popular sightseeing attraction typifies Mother Nature’s aggression. Here the cliffs are pounded by the ocean and at certain times of the day the chasms turn into impressive blowholes. The rugged beauty of the area is a main feature for those who wish the amenities of city life without being landlocked.

Harbor and MarinaThe luxurious marina in Cascais caters to both the jet-set and local marine traffic. It is a modern and well equipped facility with sufficient mooring for 630 vessels and another 120 berths for boats passing through. In 2007 Cascais hosted the ISAF World Championship Sailing for yachts and dinghies. For the tourist the marina offers rentals and tours of the stunning coastline. This world class facility is a draw for those who wish to live near their boats and for this reason many choose to purchase property in Cascais.

Resort Atmosphere
Cascais has a vibrant nightlife which draws many young people while at the same time the relaxed atmosphere and sunny days make it seem like Cascais is not a thriving city but rather a vacation resort. This way of life of days filled with beaches and the sound of the surf and nights at fantastic restaurants followed by the disco, is what lures a lot of people to Cascais.

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Recreation
Another reason that people choose to purchase property in Cascais is due to the wide variety of recreational activities. There is a plethora of restaurants, multiple nightlife venues including bars and clubs, castle ruins, museums, parks, a small zoo as well as a variety of local sites. In addition, Cascais hosts multiple festivals which are always a popular diversion.

No matter the reason, Cascais is an attractive place to live and continues to be luring to those who wish to purchase property in the area. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city has unique charm and an old world feel that entices many to call Cascais home.

Tavira is located in the eastern half of the Algarve, and has a population of around 25,000. This city has recently benefitted from the tourism boom affecting most of the Algarve, and as a result the spotlight has begun to shine on this once sleepy city. With its own section of beachfront, Tavira is presenting itself as a viable option for property buyers to the over commercialized and populated tourist areas of the Algarve.

Architecture
The rich Moorish and Roman history of the area has left its stamp on the architecture of Tavira. With the traditional whitewashed walls and tiled roofs, Moorish doors and a plethora of ancient churches, this area is resplendent with history. People who are looking to purchase a truly unique property are often drawn to Tavira for the architecture.

Kid FriendlyIn a newly revised edition of their famous book on traveling with children, Lonely Planet recently announced that the beach at Tavira is one of the world’s top ten best beaches for families. Part of the reason for that accolade is the Sand Construction competition which is held yearly on Tavira Island Beach. Specifically for children, this is a highly anticipated event.

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Cultural Events
Tavira has a whole host of cultural festivals that run all year around. From the Oyster Festival and the Sea Gastronomy Festival to the traditional Tavira Carnival, there is always something going on in Tavira. In addition, there are a variety of museums open to the public including the Museum of Tuna Fishing and the Museum of Wine.
Tavira Island
A popular destination, this island is unique to Tavira and is incentive for many who choose to purchase property in the area. This island is accessible only by boat or ferry, which depart from the center of the city as well as a couple other places. The best beach in the Algarve is on Tavira Island, and the entire island is a part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and as such is a delight for bird watchers and lovers. In addition, there is an area for camping as well as several restaurants to service the tourists. While there are some privately owned homes on the island, a ban on construction ensures that no more are built and the current ones aren’t allowed to be sold.

Buy to LetPurchasing property in Tavira with the intent to use it as a second property and claim rental income from it is a popular choice. As attention shifts away from the populated and commercialized areas like Albufeira and Vilamoura, tourists and long term renters are looking for more traditional and less frenetic areas like Tavira.

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EconomyLike much of the Algarve, Tavira has benefitted from the tourist industry boom and to feed the need of tourists looking to branch out from Albufeira, Tavira has risen to the occasion by providing golf courses and resort accommodation for vacationers. As a result, this has provided an additional layer of economic stability to the area which has had a positive affect on home values and the demand for housing. Therefore, purchasing property in Tavira can be a wise investment with likely returns on your purchase once attention fully shifts toward this area as a viable alternative to some of the Algarve’s more populated areas.

GolfGolf is taken very seriously in Tavira. With a variety of courses to choose from, these relatively new courses cater to both resident and tourist. These courses offer stunning views of mountain or ocean, or both, and are a relief to the ever present construction which has plagued much of the area. Their endless rolling green fairways and challenging holes make a day of golf a pleasure indeed.

Climate
As part of Portugal’s sunny southern coast, Tavira is blessed with the kind of weather that those from northern and western Europe can only dream of. With more than three thousand hours of sunshine per year, and a climate which stays warm and not too humid, the climate is in itself incentive for many who choose to buy property in Tavira.

Accessibility
Located just off the IP1 Tollway, Tavira is easily accessible from Faro International Airport to the west, as well as to various other cities in Portugal by the variety of motorways which pass through or nearby to the city. In addition, Tavira is divided by a river and each half of the city is accessible by crossing the bridge.

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Way of LifeAttractive to many potential property buyers is Tavira’s relaxed way of life. Having yet escaped the full force of the tourism industry, Tavira is still a slow paced small city with emphasis on enjoyment of life and personal fulfillment. Taking time to chat with a neighbor or to linger over dinner is essential to the new buyer, and be sure to leave behind all your worries as you walk in the evening hours along the cobblestone streets through this ancient city.

Tavira is considered by many to be the hidden gem of the Algarve. It has managed to benefit from the tourism industry without being overwhelmed by it. By maintaining the traditional architecture the city has created a visual identity that is so appealing to many who choose to purchase property in this area and belong to a quaint and culturally rooted community.