Sun-seekers flock to the Algarve, yet commercial activity remains lackluster
Algarve's Sluggish Start to Summer Season: Foreign Tourists Rule, National Tourists MIA
Summer in Algarve is typically packed with locals and tourists alike, but this year, it's a different story. Businesses near the beach are swamped with foreign clients, while the Portuguese crowd remains scarce.
It's a repeat of the forgettable April and most of May - the usual influx of national tourists just isn't happening. The ones who do show up are young, budget-conscious foreigners.
But balmy July and August are still on the horizon, and the Algarve's business owners are keeping their fingers crossed. However, an undercurrent of concern buzzes around - the slow start to the season is cause for worry.
The COVID-19 Factor
The COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on global tourism in 2020, and Algarve was no exception. With governments shutting borders and forcing stay-at-home orders, international travel plummeted. However, in 2021, the number of international tourists rebounded to about 1.3 million, a sign of recovery largely driven by foreign visitors[1].
National Tourists: Nowhere to Be Seen
The decrease in national tourists can be attributed to several factors within Portugal, all connected to the pandemic. Internal travel restrictions, economic woes, and a hesitancy to venture into crowded tourist spots have kept the local crowd at bay[5].
The Global Appeal of Sun, Sand, and Surf
Despite the slowdown, the Algarve is still a favorite destination for sun-and-sand enthusiasts. With its infrastructure geared towards international markets, Albufeira, in particular, continues to attract foreign tourists[5]. The region's popularity, coupled with Faro Airport's international flights, keeps the foreign crowd pouring in.
In essence, the pandemic's impact on travel has shifted the tourism landscape in Algarve, with foreign tourists taking center stage this summer while the local crowd camps out at home[1][5].
The tourism landscape of Algarve this summer is markedly different, with an increase in foreign tourists replacing the usual presence of national tourists. Despite the ongoing sluggish start to the summer season, Algarve remains a popular destination for sun-and-sand enthusiasts worldwide, particularly in bustling destinations like Albufeira.
