The name “Algarve” inspires a vision of Southern European exclusivity, in much the same fashion as “Riviera”. At least that is the case for this particular modestly-travelled, timeshare-owning writer.

It is, for the sake of simplicity, that south-facing part of Portugal in which the climate seldom dips anywhere close to what any Englishman would consider winter and where, even in February, the visitor from northern climes is often to be found at the beach or somewhere around the pool while the natives look on, amused.

The Portuguese are a very friendly people. Historically Portugal has been England’s traditional ally in its sundry disputes and quarrels around the continent and beyond. Today that friendship manifests itself in the genuine courtesy and warmth with which the tourist is greeted when visiting the shops, bars and cafés along this understandably popular coastal stretch of the Iberian peninsular.

Although it is polite, at least for the regular visitor, to make some kind of effort at negotiating at least the rudiments of the native tongue, many if not most of the inhabitants of this part of Portugal do speak at least some English. Some speak it fluently, particularly those whose living is made in the service industries. Not unreasonably though the tourist who does make an effort is always appreciated, especially if he or she is in permanent residence rather than simply an occasional holidaymaker.

Another plus point for the Algarve, for many of us at least, is that it is a fairly inexpensive place to be, certainly by comparison with some other luxury resorts in this general region. Food, drinks and most other everyday items are, even at the top of the range, comparable in price to their British equivalents and in many cases substantially cheaper. But inexpensive in this context shouldn’t be taken to mean cheap, the Algarve is a place where comfort and quality can be taken for granted. This is most certainly not a haven for the visitor whose idea of the perfect Iberian vacation is to gorge on chips and alcopops (although both can be sourced for the benefit of those whose thing it is).

Of course what Portugal’s Algarve really is famous for is golf, and for the serious golfing enthusiast there truly is an impressive range of top quality courses to enjoy. Aside from golf there are also bowling greens, horse riding, and of course countless swimming pools that can be enjoyed in the open air for most of the year.

When dining on the Algarve most tastes are catered for. Whether one prefers to go English or native there are eateries galore to suit most, and for those who cannot decide between the local and the familiar there are, within about a kilometre of the famous “strip” in Albufeira, restaurants boasting Indian, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese and American food as well as most likely other options too.

When eating indoors the supermercado, or supermarket as it is called at home, is a familiar, unintimidating place with most of what anyone is likely to need available on the shelves but without the corporate overkill that Britons will be familiar with.