|
HANDICRAFTS
Portugal is well-known throughout the world for the
high quality of its handicrafts, many of which play
an important part in everyday life. Intricately-woven
embroideries and fine laces are a speciality on the
island of Madeira and many parts of Northern Portugal,
while woollen carpets from the town of Arraiolos in
the Alentejo are always a popular purchase. The ceramic
tiles and panels made all over country today represent
a long-standing tile-making tradition that stretches
back hundreds of years. Vista Allegre porcelain made
in Aveiro, south of Oporto, is much appreciated for
its refined quality.
HEALTH TREATMENT
If medical assistance is required, it is advisable to
go to the nearest health centre, which exist in all
districts and are numerous in the major cities. Some
health centres have permanent emergency services called
SAP or CATUS. We suggest that the "Serviços
de Urgência dos Hospitais" (Emergency Hospital
Services, or Casualty) be used only in extreme situations
such as serious trauma, poisoning, burns, heart attacks,
strokes, breathing difficulties, etc. EU citizens have
the same benefits as Portuguese citizens in accordance
with European Community law. For access to health services,
EU citizens who are not resident in Portugal should
have their passport or identity card and E111 and E112
forms ready.
HORSE RIDING
Portugal is famous for its equestrian heritage and magnificent
Lusitano horses. Horse riding facilities are available
in various parts of the country, including Quinta da
Marinha near Cascais and Quinta do Lago in the Algarve.
Grão Pará's Estalagem da Cegonha in Vilamoura
offers traditional accommodation and excellent horse-riding
facilities.
HUNTING
The hunting season in Portugal runs from October through
January. Visitors can hunt solo or join one of the organised
partridge, pheasant and duck shoots that are common
in the Alentejo and other parts of the country. Larger
game, such as red deer and wild boar, can be hunted
in the forests, while clay pigeon and target practice
is available at clubs up and down the country.
|
