Atlantic Hoppers

Comparing Villas in Spain, Portugal and Cyprus

So, you have decided that you want your next holiday to be in Europe, as the self-catering experience is the best way to enjoy your holiday at your own pace while striking a balance between eating out and dining in. However, you’ve reached a dilemma: where should your destination be? With fantastic villas in Spain, Portugal and Cyprus, choosing somewhere to stay can be a painstaking decision, but this article will allow you to consider the different options available.

Before delving into the differences between each of these stunning tourism hotspots, it’s worthwhile to think about the choices you have with villas in all three of these locations. The first thing you need to determine is whether you want a villa with a pool. One of the best advantages of having your own pool on holiday is the opportunity to swim in privacy without the cramped conditions and noise you’ll find in many hotels. If you so wish, you can get a beautiful sun lounger, bathing on crystal blue waters while you read a gripping novel. Alternatively, you will be able to find some cheap inflatable toys from a nearby marketplace so the kids can play to their hearts’ content. A pool makes a positive difference to any villa holiday, particularly if you like to cool off while the temperature is warm.

The next thing to think about is how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need. By taking into account the number of guests you will have on holiday, and the amount of space each of you require, reading the descriptions of the villas on offer will allow you to make an informed decision. If you like to sleep in a cool environment, air conditioning may also make your summer nights comfortable.

Price is one thing that can be flexible with a villa holiday, and this depends on the time of year you are visiting. Finding somewhere to stay is easy throughout the year, and the months are divided into three categories; low season, mid season and high season. Of course, each of the prices reflects demand, and you may find going a little earlier in the year could save you a nice amount of money. In places like Spain and Cyprus, you will find that the weather will still be idyllic and a vast improvement from the UK. Even during autumnal months like October, typical clothing to wear includes a light jacket during the evening, with warm temperatures in the day.

As the famous programme once said, another factor is location, location, location. You need to determine whether you want to be in the thick of the action or not. Whereas some villas will be secluded in mountainous locations, others will be just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, where beaches, cafes and restaurants are all easily accessible. Location is important because you also need to think about whether you will need a rental car, or to arrange transfers if your accommodation is far away from the airport. While you browse the different villas on offer for your holiday, adding them to a shortlist will enable you to browse exclusively through the accommodation you had an interest in, saving you time.

Now we have looked at the factors to think about when selecting your villa, it’s time to contrast the various destinations on offer. Villas in Cyprus are becoming popular as tourists begin to realise how much of a hidden treasure this island is. With stunning golden beaches and vibrantly coloured waters, this location is perfect for those who love to spend their holidays sunbathing. Also stooped in culture, the archaic remains from the country’s eventful history means that Cyprus is recommended for those who want to study its historical significance.

Elsewhere, Spain has a place in the hearts of many Britons, and millions of us have emigrated to this sun-drenched European tourist hotspot. From the ever-popular region of Andalucía in southern Spain to the orange-producing city of Seville, there’s something for every holidaymaker to enjoy, regardless of whether they are seeking something contemporary or traditional. With many notorious markets opening frequently across the country, sourcing authentic ingredients to create native dishes is easy in your self-catering villa. Even metropolitan locations like Barcelona have amazing hubs of locally-grown fruit, vegetables and olives, as well as fresh poultry and fish for you to purchase and cook back in the comfort of your villa. Famous dishes like paella will taste infinitely better when specialist Spanish ingredients are brought together in a culinary feast.

Meanwhile, neighbouring Portugal also has plenty to offer, with so many luxurious resorts to select. Through reading the vivid reviews and descriptions of villas online, you will soon be spoiled for choice over the best place to spend your getaway. One exceptional tourist resort is Villamoura, where golfers will be able to sample some of the best courses that the country has to offer. Once you have topped up your tan in the splendid heat of the sun during the day, strolling down the marina at night to savour the different tastes available will not disappoint. As well as home-cooked fish soups and mixed grills using the finest meats, there are plenty of themed restaurants that include Italian eateries if you want something traditional and familiar.

Whether you choose Cyprus villas or accommodation in Spain or Portugal, it’s essential to do your research about the location where you’ll be staying. If you have hobbies such as diving, golfing or fishing; a penchant for attractions such as water parks and theme parks; or prefer to visit the beach and read a novel over a coffee, the Internet will allow you to double-check that all of these points of interest are in easy reach of a villa. The last thing you want to do is to be travelling and looking for attractions for the entirety of your holiday, and so planning in advance will allow you to squeeze every last minute out of your well-deserved trip.