The pound’s spending power has improved significantly in some European countries since last summer, according to a survey by the Post Office, the UK’s biggest bureau de change. It found that the sterling cost of a basket of typical tourist purchases – including drinks, meals and suncream – has plummeted by 40 per cent in Portugal, compared with June 2009.

The research, based on figures provided by local tourist offices and travel companies, suggests that the typical cost of a meal out for two in the Algarve, including wine, is now just £16 – less than half the cost of last year and cheapest of the surveyed destinations. Financial Times 4th June 2010

Email from a client in June 2009: "Can I just say again what a pleasure it is to deal with your agency; we have been 100% impressed every time by the efficiency, pleasant staff and prompt replies, good value, accurate descriptions of villas and Algarve areas. We would, and do, unreservedly recommend your agency to anyone who wishes to spend a pleasant and hassle free time on the Algarve. After three years ( two bookings a year ), we would not even remotely think of looking at another agency. Well done and long may your business flourish!"