Frequently Asked Questions
Portugal is a wonderful all year round holiday destination with its mild climate, annual 3000 hours of sunshine, 850 kms of splendid beaches bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, historical monuments and picturesque towns all within a few hours’ drive.
Q1. When is the best time to visit Portugal?
The weather in Portugal has very slight fluctuations in temperature between summer and winter. This makes it a perfect year long destination which offers bright summers and mild winters which are just right for Indians. Winter brings snow in Serra de Estrela in north-central Portugal, which makes it perfect for winter sports. The Algarve and especially Madeira enjoy temperate winters. In fact the best time to visit Madeira, is in the winter. The Algarve area is similar to Ibiza and attracts sun worshipers from North America and Europe.
Q2. Does it require a long visit to experience Portugal?
Portugal is a beautiful country and 9 -10 days would be sufficient for a first visit to this vastly diverse and colorful region. Even those visiting for a shorter period (or adding a few days of vacation to a business trip) can experience a taste of what the country has to offer.
Q3. Is there much to do in Portugal
Portugal is a country with an exceptional range of different landscapes, lots of leisure activities and a unique cultural heritage, where tradition and modernity blend together in perfect harmony. Its superb cuisine, fine wines and hospitable people make this a tourist paradise of the highest quality.
Q4. Is Portugal expensive?
Travelers from many parts of the world will find Portugal to be an excellent holiday option as prices are moderate. Portugal is still one of the more cost effective places to travel in Europe and there are a number of options for your stay. Traveling within Portugal is trouble-free with trams and cabs which are not very expensive and Indian food is easily available.
Q5. What type of food can travelers expect?
Traditional Portuguese dishes are often made from simple ingredients, based on local produce with an emphasis on fish. Due to its Indian influence Portuguese recipes are characterized by their use of a wide variety of spices, olive oil and fresh herbs. There are a number of authentic Indian restaurants which are run by Indians based out of Portugal.
Q6. Can travelers drive in Portugal?
In Portugal they drive on the right hand side of the road. Although it is easy to drive in Portugal, due to non congested roads, it is advisable to hire a chauffeur in Lisbon and also whilst travelling to different locations. This is not an expensive option and intercity travel is reasonably priced.
Q7. Can you experience Adventure Sports in Portugal?
Extreme sports in Portugal are ever popular and there are wide ranging options. Windsurfing, kite surfing, skiing, cycling, hiking, rock climbing and even mountain biking are all possible in Portugal. Additionally try rafting and canoeing on Portugal’s rivers.
Q8. What major historical sites must one visit in Portugal?
Some of the historical sites that you must visit whilst you are in Portugal are the shrine of Fatima, the old city of Porto, Batalha Monastery, Convent of Christ, Ajuda Palace, Belem Tower, Coimbra University and Lisbon Cathedral amongst others.
NAMASTE TOURISM – FAQ’S
Q1. Why is a customized holiday better than travelling in a group?
- a) You can set your own pace of travel and include the sights and activities that interest you and exclude those that you wish to avoid.
- b) Whilst travelling in a group, you are with strangers who you may meet for the first time and you are compelled to see all sights included and cannot increase or reduce the time at any location as you have to follow a fixed schedule.
Q2. What is the difference between SIC and private transfers?
- a) SIC – Seat in Coach basis, where on arrival at your destination, you will be transferred to your hotel by a coach i.e. along with several other people in a group. There could be delays due to flight arrivals in your transfers.
- b) Private Transfers, where on arrival you will be transferred to your hotel in your own vehicle and will not have to share the transport with anyone.
Q3. After reservation what type of confirmed documents will the customer receive?
- a) You will receive a confirmed Travel Program which includes the itinerary with hotel details and our office/guide contact information along with the hotel vouchers.
- b) You will also receive e-tickets if you are booking flights with us.
- c) Any other tickets will be waiting at the hotel reception or will be handed over by our partners at the destination.
Q4. Is there any minimum number of days before travel to book with Namaste Tourism?
There should be a minimum 4 to 6 weeks before actual date of travel if you wish to book with us. For special events and peak seasons, it is recommended that you book at least 3 to 6 months in advance to get the best deals on flights as well as accommodation. Last minute bookings are subject to availability and may also work out relatively expensive.
Q5. Does the company provide Visa and Airfare services?
Yes, we do help in Visa processing and airline ticket bookings as part of the tour programme.
Q6. Is there any amount of deposit that needs to be paid in order to book with Namaste Tourism?
A minimum of 30% deposit needs to be paid to initiate the booking process and once confirmed, the balance has to be paid immediately or as per our standard terms and conditions of booking. In case of events or peak season bookings, 100% payment may be necessary at the time of booking.
Q7. Is there a possibility to customize my travel plan?
Yes, Namaste Tourism specializes in customized holidays and that is our USP as we have 26 years of experience in this field.
Q8. Where can I book my holidays?
You can book with Namaste Tourism or any of our preferred travel partners – Travel Agents, Tour Operators and Destination Planners.
