Loul is both a town and a municipality in the region of the Algarve, in southern Portugal. The municipality is home to over sixty-two thousand inhabitants while the city proper has a population of around twenty thousand. With eleven parishes, the municipality of Loul is one of the larger ones in the Algarve region. 

The city of Loul is a study of contrasts. Labyrinthine cobblestone streets meander through the oldest parts of the town and lead to the primary church of the area, the Nossa Senhora da Piedade which is a modern, dome shaped building. Whitewashed walls and gaily decorated chimneys of the traditional homes in town give way to more modern accommodations for both resident and tourist. No matter where you look in this colorful city, old is juxtaposed with new in a charming way that draws crowds of tourists every year.
Originally a market town, Loul was established as early as 400 B.C. and like many other areas of the Algarve it has changed hands many times. It remained an important commerce district throughout these changes and remains famous to this day for its Saturday morning market. Located at the end of Rua da Nossa Senhora da Piedade, this historical market is a must see and tours are even available from the other cities in the Algarve.

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There is much to see and do for the tourist in Loul, and as a result both hotel and resort accommodations are plentiful, but so are rental properties. In addition to the usual waterfront activities offered, Loul is home to the remains of a castle, a variety of ancient churches of historical significance, hermitages, monasteries and two interesting museums. The Municipal Museum is located in the commander’s residence in the ancient castle. Included in its exhibits are a variety of archeological and industrial objects from the municipality. In addition, the Museum of Dried Fruits may seem like an odd choice for a museum but it showcases the dried fruit industry of the area and how the process was completed with the lack of modern machinery. There is also a municipal art gallery in the city which is very worth a visit.

One of the biggest draws to Loul is the yearly carnival that is held in February each year. Spanning three days, this colorful festival includes music, dancing and much merriment which consumes the entire city. The city is flooded during carnival time so be sure to plan well ahead of time.

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Loul is also home to vast underground stores of salt. At a depth of more than 230 meters stretch several kilometers of rock salt galleries where this nearly pure salt is collected. In recent years production has been on the decline and there is movement toward putting the salt mines on the tourist map. Of great historical and geographical importance, the salt mines are currently a little visited area of Loul, but nonetheless a fascinating one.

It seems like every twist and turn of a street in this picturesque city leads you somewhere equally fascinating as the last. From a myriad of restaurants, bars and cafes to quaint boutiques for shopping and hidden alcoves with benches to rest under a shady canopy, there really is something for everyone in Loul. Because it is located in the heart of the Algarve region means that Loul is also centrally situated to a multitude of world class golf centers and courses as well as endless beaches both large and small.

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This city is also home to many expatriates of the United Kingdom, Europe and even North America. The charm of this ancient market town blends harmoniously with modern amenities and services to provide an ideal area for people who want both the traditional Portuguese feel without having to sacrifice convenience. As a result of the demand for both primary housing and temporary accommodation, Loul is home to a variety of resorts and hotels which cater to the tourist, and also a large selection of newly built villas, apartments and community townhomes to suit those looking for an investment property or a primary residence.
Loul boasts all the charm of traditional Portugal while still accommodating the needs of the modern citizen. Both the city and the municipality of Loul are well worth a visit and choosing the city of Loul as the location for purchasing property is indeed a wise decision.

Located at the southernmost point of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas has gained in popularity over the last few decades. The peak tourist season here is between November and February. Gorgeous scenery, terrific weather, and exotic flora and fauna beckon to anyone looking for a relaxing and pleasurable vacation. In fact, numerous cruise ships include this as a stop along their journey.

A Mexican vacation at Cabo San Lucas may not be one filled with educational side trips to ancient ruins or museums, but it is most certainly filled with activity. In addition to the sun and fun that can be had on the sandy beach, sport fishing and golf draw thousands of visitors every year.

The night life is bubbly and exciting. In fact, the Cabo Wabo Cantina, a local Mexican nightclub in the Cabo San Lucas area, has gained even more notoriety for the excitement to be had in this vacation paradise.

Cabo San Lucas attracts a younger crowd than other towns and vibrates with an energy that explodes with excitement at local parties. A veritable hot spot for singles looking to connect, the beaches of Cabo San Lucas are filled to overflowing with bathing beauties.

Unforgettable memories can bring back some of the pleasure of an unforgettable vacation- if the memories are good ones. To get the best deal for your vacation and hotel accommodations in Mexico, ask the following questions before booking your room.

When to Go?

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Enjoyable year-round, Mexico experiences peak seasons when every hotel is full of guests. The southern coast is particularly crowded between the months of July and September when hordes of North American college students descend upon Mexico for spring break. At the same time, numerous European tourists also descend upon the cities of Mexico.

The number of tourists decreases somewhat during the more temperate months between October and May, and especially between December and February when the weather turns downright chilly. Hotel rates will also decrease at this time. Weekends are always busiest and more expensive. Not only are hotel rates cheaper during the middle of the week, but also, fares for air travel are cheaper.

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Is It Possible to Bargain with Hotel Rates?

Quoted hotel rates, such as those found in travel guides, are frequently the highest rate that a hotel will charge. You can request a better room rate for hotels in Mexico, but do so politely. Find out if special rates are available for senior citizens or families.

Should I Use Recommendations?

Using someone else’s recommendation to book a hotel stay is usually a good idea. After all, if they had an enjoyable stay, then chances are that you will too! If you don’t know anyone who has made a trip to Mexico, try looking at travel message boards for suggestions.

Are There Any Hidden Extras?

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You should always ask this question. Hidden fees are one of the ways that your bill can increase dramatically. Services that you might take for granted at home usually cost more while you are away. Most hotels charge extra fees for things such as phone calls, spa facilities, rentals, and more. Never assume that these costs or others like them are included in the cost of your room. Better yet, ask for a list of the free services that are available to you during your stay.