Portugal is one of the top destinations for British travellers seeking sun and relaxation.
Visitors from the UK numbered over 2.3 million last year, the majority of whom headed for the Algarve.
Portugal’s popularity is increasing with travellers from all over the world, not just the UK.
Data provided by the National Institute of Statistics show that tourist numbers in general were up almost 20 percent in 2023 from the previous year – with almost 27 million visitors recorded.
The tourist boom is being felt across the country, with all of the country’s regions benefitting.
The Tagus Valley saw a jump of 18 percent compared to 2022, the north of the country 14 percent and Greater Lisbon 11.8 percent.
However, travellers should be on their guard for scammers particularly in the country’s capital Lisbon.
Bars and restaurants allegedly have created a two-tier system when it comes to prices, which discriminates against the unsuspecting traveller.
Locals are offered a cheaper price than what’s displayed on the menu, while tourists get no such discount.
The special offers are made subtly, devised in such a way as not to draw the attention or suspicions of the tourist.
This involves making the offer in a low voice and in Portuguese, or on special menus that are carefully hidden, according to the Espresso newspaper.
Some tourist industry bosses have expressed their deep dissatisfaction at the cunning deception.
They argue that selective pricing on the basis of nationality is “completely illegal”.
However, the national body of the hotel and restaurant industry in Portugal said it was unaware of the new practice.
Some argue that discounts for locals are a long standing and common practice, designed to encourage repeat business.
They insist it is not a ploy to try and rip off unsuspecting tourists, but a smart business move to keep customers who live in the area year round.