  
KITESURFING HOLIDAYS IN PORTUGAL, MADEIRA & THE AÇORES
HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: PORTUGAL
Portugal has very few health issues to be concerned about. No inoculations are needed and the health infrastructure is of a good standard.
DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE
Portugal has the highest road accident rate in Europe. The standard of both road building and driving is much lower than in Northen European countries, and you need to be continually alert and cautious. Be especially aware of vehicles suddenly emerging from side roads, and of maniac overtaking.
ZERO TOLERANCE
High-profile police patrols are becoming ever more vigilant and ever less tolerant of bad driving, speeding and drink driving. You also risk heavy penalties if you break the law and quite honestly there is no need to be driving like an ***hole, you're on holiday, relax, enjoy the surroundings and if you party, get a taxi or designated driver to drive you.
INSECTS
Ants are out and about all over the Algarve during the warm months and will zero-in on any scraps of food left lying around. This means you need to be a bit tidy, if like me, you find this really hard to do, most of the supermarkets sell insecticide powder.
Use a good insect repellant to deter mosquitoes from munching on your all too exposed flesh at sundown and after dark.
MEDICAL
Clinics and medical services as well as pharmacy info etc. is dealt with on a region-by-region basis please see more information here:
The Algarve | Lisbon region | Porto & the North |
SUNBURN
You can get sunburned quickly and seriously, even through clouds. Try to avoid getting roasted by scathing ultraviolet. Use a sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor (We recommend SPF 45), wear a hat or baseball cap when not in the water and use sun block on your nose and lips. Calamine lotion and aloe vera are good for mild sunburn. Protect your eyes with good-quality UV sunglasses, particularly when you're on the beach and near the water.
5 basic things to remember:
1. Whenever possible wear a hat/baseball cap.
2. Use sun block/sunscreen, get a SPF 45 for your face and arms.
3. Find some shade during the middle of the day
4. Wear polarized sun glasses.
5. Try and 'cover up' when not in the water.
SECURITY
Theft from cars, locked or otherwise, is increasingly common. Don't leave documents and valuables in the car. Common sense security measures should be enough, be a cautious as you are at home, and when you go out, be sure to lock up.
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Algarve
