TRAVEL
TIPS
| Driving |
U.S
Driving Permit accepted |
| Currency |
(EUR)
Euro |
| Electrical |
230 Volts |
| Telephones |
Country
Code 351, City Code, Lisboa 21+7D, Porto 22+7D, Mealhada 231+6D |
Language
When written the Portuguese language has a visual relationship
to both Spanish and Italian. When spoken it takes on another character.
Although today the language has been influenced by modern means
of communication, the educated form can be likened to "Dickensian
English" in its style. It is courteous in content and suitable
flowery in description. Spoken Spanish can be understood by the
Portuguese but is best avoided. Anybody with knowledge of some
Portuguese history will be able to understand the reason. The
inhabitants have a wonderful ability to learn foreign languages
and you will find that the English language is normally readily
understood. This has been helped by the fact that all foreign
films on TV and Cinemas are shown in their original language with
subtitles.
Mail
Services
The word Correio denotes a Post Office or services. First class
mail is denoted by the words "correio azul" and normally
associated with the colour of blue. From Post Offices there is
an express service named EMS that also records delivery. These
offices are normally open from 08.30 hrs. until 18.30 hrs. from
Monday to Friday. In bigger towns they may also will also be open
on Saturday.
Money
The local currency is Euros. Money can be changed at Banks, Bureau
De Change (Cambio) or at one of the currency exchange machines
in the streets. These facilities will offer a better rate than
in Hotels and Receptions. Banks are open from Monday through to
Friday, from 08.30 hrs. to 15.00 hrs. Euro cheque is a cheaper
method than a Traveler Cheque in obtaining cash. All well-known
Credit Cards are usually accepted.
Museums
Although the majority of the museums and art galleries are State
owned there are a number of private Foundations and individually
owned exhibition places. This fact is particularly evident when
wishing to see contemporary art where they tend to reflect the
taste of the owner. State Museums charge a small entrance fee
that is usually waived on Sundays and Public Holidays. They are
open from Tuesday through to Sunday and pensioners receive a 40%
discount on the entrance fee. Sometimes there is no charge at
all for pensioners on showing your ID. Opening times are normally
from 10.00 hours to 17.00 hours, but sometimes closed during lunchtime.
