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Portugal: Good things come to those who wait till November
I don't usually do this, but this article seemed such a good idea that I had to post it all here. Thanks to Jessica Labrensis for the travel suggestion and information (taken from the USA today):
(The photo is from Impressions of Portugal, a great website)
Portugal: Good things come to those who wait till November
Why Portugal in November?
While other parts of Europe become wet and dreary in November, much of Portugal enjoys the unusually warm and sunny weather referred to as St. Martin's summer. St. Martin's Day on November 11 brings country-wide celebrations, which usually involve indulging in roasted chestnuts and a local alcoholic beverage called gerupiga.
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In addition to the pleasant weather and St. Martin's events, the first half of November also marks the National Horse Fair in Golega, one of the most important horse festivals in Portugal. Events include equestrian competitions, a horse auction and an array of local food and beverages.
From Nov. 8-13, chocolate lovers will delight in the International Chocolate Festival in Obidous, featuring tastings, chocolate sculptures (including the world's biggest chocolate salami) and a chocolate fashion show.
Travelers in Lisbon at the end of November might consider attending the city's fifth annual Contemporary Art Fair, which occurs from Nov. 24-28. November also brings several music festivals to Portugal. The historic nothern city of Guimares hosts the small 10-day Guimares Jazz Festival. And, the Seixal Jazz Festival takes place in the Beiras region, featuring two concerts per night for a week, along with music exhibitions and workshops.
Visitors can also expect fewer crowds in Portugal during November, which will make exploring the hilly streets of Lisbon, relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve or touring the countryside less hectic than in the summer months.
Portugal travel and ways to save for November
Because November is the beginning of the off-peak travel season for much of Europe, airfare and lodging is much less expensive than in the summer. And by taking advantage of St. Martin's summer, travelers do not have to sacrifice good weather for cheap fares.
TAP Air Portugal offers savings of more than $200 on flights from New York (Newark) to Lisbon in early November instead of late October. While TAP Air Portugal flies only from New York, Continental, British Airways, Iberia and Lufthansa are among the airlines that offer flights from the U.S. to Lisbon. November rates on these carriers are generally much less expensive than summer and early fall fares.
Airfare, accommodations and car rental vacation packages are less expensive in November than in October from providers including Gate1Travel, Go-today.com and Expedia. Gate1Travel's four-night air-and-hotel package is $350 less in November, while Go-today's fly-and-drive package offers savings of $210.
Many visitors to Portugal choose to stay in one of 40 historic pousada hotels scattered around the country, often located in castles, convents or fortresses. By taking advantage of low November rates, travelers can save up to 33%. Visitors can also purchase a "Pousadas Pass" that includes hotel, dining, and shopping vouchers, and may also include car rental.
For more information on planning a getaway to Portugal, explore Portugal's official tourism website.