So what's new for the coming summer season?
In and around Parque da Corcovada:
The central gardens at Block 38 are really developing nicely and the landscaping by the superb central pools is looking particularly attractive.
The nearby snack restaurant has changed hands, but is still serving good value snacks and chicken dishes at lunchtimes and in the evenings.
There is now a new high class Indian restaurant on the globe roundabout corner of the complex.
May's Bistro, offering a very good value (circa 12 Euro) complete evening menu deal, has also opened.
Nearby restaurants update:
There have been a few changes in the nearby area. Most notably, the da Enzo Italian restaurant and pizzeria has moved to opposite Eduardo's in St Eulalia road, just across from the globe roundabout. These two restaurants are thoroughly recommended, as they are close and convenient to walk to and offer excellent food. Enzo's is authentic Italian, while Eduardo's is simply the best value for money quality food available locally - his 'menu complete' three courses and drink of choice offer at around 12 Euros is great value. I also enjoyed a very decent peppered steak at the Invictus bar bistro (between the bottom of St Eulalia road and The Strip).
Shopping:
All of the main supermarkets remain, you can still get great caked and deli food from the supermarket opposite Eduardos, whilst a further five minute walk to the Intermarche at the bottom of St Eulalia road will reward you with very reasonably priced fruit, veg and meats. The tangerines at 79c a kilo were excellent, whilst the grapes at 2E a kilo were also excellent value. Make sure you buy fresh local bread - a bag of 4 rolls is usually around 60c and a decent 500g loaf will be around 1E - there's nothing like fresh baked bread for breakfast!
For those who couldn't quite pack enough clothes in their airline baggage allowance, or forgot a vital item, why not try the local clothes shops. There are some excellent boutiques with really stylish clothing, whilst the Chinese Shopping outlet opposite the Parque da Corcovada complex sells all the beachwear and associated items you could ever need - all at very decent prices.
New recommendations:
If you can head a bit further west from the lovely Oura beach, there is a super beach bar on the more secluded neighbouring Aveiros beach cove.
Further afield - visit Alvor:
I concur with those who recommend the Sao Rafael peninsula beaches and lovely coves on the way to Galle from Albufeira, whilst also really enjoying the closer St Eulalia beach.
However, for those who wish to travel further afield my latest tip is to visit the beautiful up market sea front at Alvor (about 25 minutes drive west towards Largos) . The fish restaurants are superb and the vast expanse of beach and superb board walk are fantastic!
Organised excursions:
There is an abundance of organised excursions available from Albufeira and these appear to be getting more competitively priced. Although still out of the main season, so likely to rise for the main summer season, I was surprised to see day trips to Lisbon (about a 2.5 hour coach ride away), including guided city tour, offered for 25E per person!
