Portugal

Portugalhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugalPortugalhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/portugal/how-safe-is-madeiraMadeira is an island of dramatic beauty. Here's how to navigate this Portuguese outpost safely.2025-05-13T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/portugal/how-safe-is-madeirahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p class="p1">Madeira is spectacularly beautiful and ideal for adventure, but how safe is it? This island, off the northwestern coast of Africa, is a fantastic destination for travelers of all ages. It’s long been most popular with retirees but now Madeira is quickly becoming one of the world’s digital nomad hotspots.</p> <h2 class="p2"><b>Crime in Madeira</b></h2> <p class="p2">Madeira experiences very little crime, and what there is does not usually target visitors. Even typical traveler concerns, such as pickpocketing, are rare on the streets of Madeira. In spite of this, I still recommend taking your usual safe-traveler precautions;</p> <ul class="ul1"> <li class="li1">keep valuables close by and/or hidden, especially at night.</li> <li class="li1">when walking after dark, stay close to main or familiar roads – it’s always best to be smart while in a new country.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/madeira/GettyImages-1212537387.jpg" /> <figcaption>The fishing village of Cámara de Lobos in Madeira. Photo credit: Getty Images/ Eduardo Ramos Castaneda</figcaption></figure> <h2 class="p4"><b>Scams in Madeira</b></h2> <p class="p1">The only real scam concern in Madeira (specifically in the capital Funchal) is the possibility of being overcharged by a taxi driver. To avoid this, always insist on using the meter, or better yet, grab an Uber.</p> <h2 class="p1"><b>Drugs and alcohol in Madeira</b></h2> <p class="p1">Overall, drug abuse and drink spiking are not big issues in Madeira. Drugs are not sold openly but are available in some circles. Alcohol is of course common and can be found at any local bar, restaurant, cafe and even petrol stations.</p> <p class="p2">If you do plan on partying on Madeira, do what you normally should: remain in control, know where your drink is at all times, and if it’s drugs that you plan to dabble in, keep in mind that drug possession is illegal on Madeira and that there are stories of drugs such as cocaine being cut with less savory ingredients such as speed or crystal meth. Your best option is to simply not use drugs.</p> <h2 class="p2"><b>Transport: getting around safely</b></h2> <p class="p2">In order to drive in Madeira, you need to be very confident and experienced. It can be surprising to see local drivers hitting tight spots at speed, and if you’re not used to it, it can feel pretty aggressive.  </p> <p class="p4">To stay safe and have a trip without mishaps, never try to overtake on dangerous curves. If you find drivers trying to overtake you, let them – there’s no point in getting into a road war. <br /><b></b></p> <p class="p4">If you plan on self-driving, don’t exceed the speed limit, never drive under the influence, and be extra careful on mountain roads and during inclement weather. Roads in Madeira are notoriously steep and winding. <span class="s2">I also recommend you avoid driving at night, when you’re more likely to encounter reckless driving.</span></p> <p class="p4">While Madeira’s climate is consistently mild, gnarly storms can blow in without warning. Always check the weather in the morning before you set out for a drive, especially if you plan to head to more remote areas.</p> <p class="p2">It’s also a good idea to have some sort of offline map of the island downloaded on your phone – I personally think maps.me does the job well. If you don’t plan on self-driving, hire a driver from a reputable company.</p> <h2 class="p2"><b>Staying safe on hikes</b></h2> <p class="p1">Madeira is hiking heaven, and there are some seriously epic trails to get acquainted with. But, with incredible views can often come a bit of danger, and Madeira is no exception.</p> <p class="p2">The island is known for its iconic<i> levadas</i> (water irrigation channels), many of which now are linked by hiking trails. Even so, some of these might be dilapidated and possibly hazardous so be careful. Make sure you carry enough water, a <a href="https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/arcteryx-beta-ar-review/"><span class="s3">quality rain jacket</span></a> and warm layers in case the weather turns. Be sure to only attempt hikes that fit your skill level, and if you want to push your limits, take a local guide along.</p> <h2 class="p2"><b>Weather and climate</b></h2> <p class="p1">Located in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira’s weather is changeable and you might find yourself caught in a storm.</p> <p class="p2">Keeping a rain jacket close by is always a good idea. Although major flooding occurred in 2010, such events are rare.</p> <p class="p2">Rip currents are possible, though not common. If you plan to swim, make sure the beach is safe and obey any flags or advice from lifeguards. And if you’re considering water sports (as you should) always check company reviews and wear a life jacket when applicable.</p> <p class="p2">The sun in Madeira can be fierce – always wear sunscreen and a hat.</p> <p class="p2">Overall, Madeira is a very safe destination for families, backpackers, adventurers, solo travelers and retirees. As long as you use your commonsense travel safety knowledge, you’ll have a great time enjoying the island known as the Pearl of the Atlantic.</p>Getty Images/Marko Stavric Photography 0 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/portugal/travel-alertsWhat are the important issues affecting travelers visiting Portugal? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts you need to know.2021-09-28T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugal/travel-alertshttps://www.worldnomads.com<div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Previous travel alerts for Portugal</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Algarve Coast wildfire – August 2018</h2> <p>A major wildfire burning in the Monchique area in Faro district currently remains out of control, with authorities evacuating affected towns, popular holiday resorts and surrounding areas.</p> <p>Portuguese authorities have advised that for safety reasons, travel to the affected areas is to be avoided.</p> <p>If you are traveling in the area, it's important that you listen to and follow all instructions from local authorities such as Portuguese Police and Civil Protection personnel.</p> <p>Faro Airport remains open and working to schedule.</p> <p>It's a good idea to touch base with the following:</p> <ul> <li>Your home country's embassy</li> <li>Your family and friends</li> <li>And when you are in a safe location, use Facebook's Crisis Response tool.</li> </ul> <p>For World Nomads customers, the cut-off for coverage is 8 August 2018 at 3pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time).</p> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/LuisPortugal 1540094314 Getty Images Portuguese Flag

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/portugal/transport-and-getting-around-portugalHow to use transport and get around Portugal safely. From driving and cycling to public transport, this is what you need to know.2020-02-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugal/transport-and-getting-around-portugalhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Portugal has so much to see and do and one of the most important things for visitors to do once they arrive is organize transport. Whether you rent a car or use public transport, here are a few tips to help you get around Portugal safely.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#driving">Driving in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#safety">Road safety in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Public transport in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#cycling">Cycling in Portugal</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="driving">Driving in Portugal</h2> <p>There are plenty of places to hire a vehicle in Portugal. The legal driving age is 18 but to hire a car, the minimum age is 23 or 25 depending on the hire company. If you are an inexperienced driver, you may have to pay an extra premium. You must also have a valid drivers' license. An International Driving Permit is required if you are from a country other than the EU or US, or if you will be staying and driving for longer than six months, but it's a good idea in any case.</p> <p>By law, your car must have a warning triangle, reflective jacket or vest, and spare wheel in case of a breakdown, and seat belts are compulsory.</p> <p>In Portugal, you drive on the right-hand side (same as the US) and overtake on the left. Undertaking (overtaking on the right) will see you hit with a 1,000 euro fine. On motorways, the middle lane is for overtaking.</p> <p>Driving in Portugal can be dangerous. The EN125 in the Algarve, the IC2 and AI (Lisbon-Porto), the IC19 (Lisbon-Sintra), the EN2 (Chaves-Faro), and the EN109 (Porto-Leiria) are particularly dangerous roads. There are lots of windy, narrow roads and in rural areas, many are poorly kept.</p> <p>There are several toll roads in Portugal. You can pay for them with card or cash, but motorways accept the VIA Verde automatic payment system, using a <span>magnetic card attached to the vehicle’s windscreen. </span>so check that your rental vehicle has a toll tag. There is also a system called Easy Toll, which tends to be easier for visiting motorists. You enter your card details at the border a photo is taken of your number plates. The system then automatically deducts the toll payment every time the registered vehicle passes a toll booth.<br /><br /><span>As a visitor, you can drive your own vehicle to Portugal for up to 183 days in any 12-month period, and can only use your vehicle for tourism; you are not allowed to loan it to anyone else. If you want to stay longer, you have to apply to the Portuguese Customs authority to have the car legally imported. </span></p> <h2 id="safety">Road safety in Portugal</h2> <p>When it comes to road safety, Portugal has one of the less impressive records in Europe, however, authorities have been taking steps in an attempt to improve the statistics; with fatalities dropping by 43% between 2020 and 2020. <span>In 2022, there were 63</span><span> road deaths per 1,000,000 of the population compared to the EU average of 46 road deaths per 1,000,000 people.</span></p> <p>Some other points to be aware of when negotiating Portugal's roads:</p> <ul> <li>Watch out for potholes and oncoming traffic. Some roads are also poorly lit so driving at night can be especially hazardous.</li> <li>Street signs can be missing, so make sure you have a map or GPS to avoid getting lost.</li> <li>Look out for pedestrians on the road. A lot of streets don't have sidewalks and it's not uncommon to see people walking, sometimes four deep, on the road. So take it easy and slow down.</li> <li>If you're traveling through rural areas, you may come across livestock on the road. Be cautious when driving around bends and be prepared to stop quickly.</li> <li>Watch your speed when you're driving in Portugal. Police are very vigilant and will issue on-the-spot fines. There are also fixed and mobile speed cameras.</li> <li>The speed limits in Portugal are signposted in kilometers per hour. The national speed limits are 31 mph (50km/h) in urban areas, 56mph (90km/h) on main roads, and 74mph (120km/h) on motorways.</li> <li>It's illegal to drive while using a cell phone. It's a finable offense that could leave your wallet up to 600 euros lighter.</li> <li>Dropping litter from the car will cost you 300 euros.</li> <li>Don't drink and drive. Any reading over 0.5 mg/ml (0.05%) will result in a hefty fine, the loss of your license, and/or time inside a Portuguese jail cell.</li> <li>The emergency number in Portugal is 112.</li> </ul> <p>Should you get stuck in a sticky situation while driving in Portugal, here are a few handy phrases:</p> <ul> <li><em>Eu <g class="gr_ gr_130 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="130" data-gr-id="130">tenho</g> um <g class="gr_ gr_132 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="132" data-gr-id="132">pneu</g> <g class="gr_ gr_131 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="131" data-gr-id="131">furado</g></em> - I have a flat <g class="gr_ gr_923 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling multiReplace" id="923" data-gr-id="923">tire</g></li> <li><em>Onde é <g class="gr_ gr_168 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="168" data-gr-id="168">a estação</g> de <g class="gr_ gr_133 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="133" data-gr-id="133">policia</g>?</em> - Where is the police station?</li> <li><em>Onde <g class="gr_ gr_127 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="127" data-gr-id="127">fica</g> o <g class="gr_ gr_128 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="128" data-gr-id="128">posto</g> de <g class="gr_ gr_129 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="129" data-gr-id="129">gasolina</g>?</em> - Where is the gas station?</li> <li><em>Onde é <g class="gr_ gr_125 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="125" data-gr-id="125">a agência</g> dos <g class="gr_ gr_123 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="123" data-gr-id="123">correios</g> <g class="gr_ gr_124 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="124" data-gr-id="124">mais</g> próxima</em> - Where is the nearest post office?</li> </ul> <h2 id="transport">Public transport in Portugal</h2> <p>Portugal has a very reliable and inexpensive public transport system. Trams, trains, buses, and ferries all offer fast and affordable transport. But as with any public transport, users must exercise common sense and appropriate safety precautions while aboard to avoid becoming a victim of petty crime. <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">Keep all bags in front of you</a>, zipped up and locked. Store money and valuables out of sight.</p> <p><span>Most public transport companies in Portugal have websites and mobile apps with up-to-date information on timetables, routes, and ticketing.<span> </span></span>Lisbon's Tram 28 is a popular route for visitors to the capital. Opportunist pickpockets are known to frequent this line so keep an eye on your belongings, secure your valuables and never leave any bags unzipped.<br /><br /><span>Portugal’s rail system is managed by the state-owned </span><a href="https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en">Comboios de Portugal</a><span><span> </span>(CP) which operates an extensive, scenic rail network. The fastest and most frequent connections are between major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra, Faro, and Lagos.<br /><br /></span>The extensive bus system operates around the country and are comprised of high-speed buses that connect cities as well as slower regional routes. You can buy tickets online or at bus stations. <br /><br />Taxis are also readily available and a much-less-crowded alternative to other forms of transport.</p> <p>In areas including the Portuguese islands of the <a href="/explore/europe/portugal/sao-miguel-portugals-untamed-emerald-island">Azores</a> and <a href="/explore/europe/portugal/7-reasons-to-visit-madeira">Madeira</a>, taxis often make more sense given the shorter travel distances. Always set the fare with the driver before hiring to be sure that everyone is in agreement and there are no unpleasant surprises at the end of the ride.<br /><br />There are ride-sharing apps including Uber, Cabify, Bolt, BlaBlaCar and Boleia.</p> <h2 id="cycling">Cycling in Portugal</h2> <p><a href="/explore/europe/portugal/5-ways-to-discover-portugal-by-bike">Cycling is also a popular way of traveling around in Portugal</a>. Off-peak times such as April to June and September to November offer the best climate and fewer tourists. There is a network of dedicated bike lanes in cities, long-distance bike paths are popping up on former railway tracks in rural areas, and there are more than<span> 850mi (1375km) of trails and backroads from the north to the south of Portugal. </span>With <a href="https://www.gira-bicicletasdelisboa.pt/">Gira Bike</a><span> you can rent bikes</span> to pick up and drop off bikes at docking stations throughout the city. Motorways are off-limits to bikes. Drivers tend to be very bike-friendly. </p>Getty Images/bennymarty 0859233334 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/portugal/portugal-tips-and-dangersHere are a few tips to enjoying Portugal's nightlife safely, from alcohol consumption and areas to avoid to what you need to know about drug laws.2021-09-20T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugal/portugal-tips-and-dangershttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#moderation">Drinking in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#spiking">Drink spiking</a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Drugs in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#seedy">Areas to avoid in Portugal</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="moderation">Drinking in Portugal</h2> <p>Portugal produces some of the world's finest wines and has a thriving nightlife. But while it's okay to enjoy some of the local alcohol, it's also important to remember that drinking so much that you become intoxicated can make you a prime target for thieves.</p> <p>After all, it's much easier to steal from someone who is not fully alert and <a href="/travel-safety/europe/portugal/how-safe-is-portugal-for-travelers">aware of their surroundings</a>. Enjoy a few drinks, but just know when you have had enough.</p> <h2 id="spiking">Drink spiking</h2> <p>Portugal has a great nightlife with a huge selection of bars, restaurants and clubs. While not exclusive to Portugal, hand in hand with the intoxication warning is the <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/drink-spiking">threat of drink spiking</a>.</p> <p>While not incredibly common, there have been reports of people being given the drug GHB (commonly referred to as the date rape drug). This drug is very dangerous and can cause dizziness, vomiting, unconsciousness, coma and even death. Notably, it is used to commit sexual assault. </p> <p>Always watch your drinks being poured, keep them in your sight at all times and never accept a drink from a stranger.</p> <h2 id="drugs">Drug laws in Portugal</h2> <p>Drugs are quite common in Portugal, with tourists often being approached with the offer to sell. Many travelers report being solicited to purchase harmless items such as sunglasses, only to quickly find out that the merchandise being sold is actually drugs. This is something to look out for, because the police are present and watchful for these types of drug deals.</p> <p>Sometimes, the police are responsible for setting up these transactions as sting operations, which can result in an unsuspecting tourist being arrested and jailed. The police in Portugal take drugs very seriously, and so should you. If approached, firmly refuse and keep walking.</p> <p>In 2001, drugs were decriminalized in Portugal, resulting in significant drops in drug-related crime, drug overdoses, and HIV infection. However, it's still illegal to have drugs in your possession for personal use and drug usage in general. These offenses are treated in a more administrative manner such as a warning, fine or directed into a drug use reduction program.</p> <p>Drug trafficking and driving under the influence of drugs are both criminal offenses.</p> <h2 id="seedy">Areas to avoid in Portugal</h2> <p>Like any country, Portugal has areas that are best avoided, especially at night. In Lisbon, the popular tram routes 15 and 28 are also popular with petty thieves. Watch for pickpockets at the Time Out Market, Bairro Alto, and Cais do Sodre. Casal Ventoso is known for drug users and traffickers.</p> <p>While most of Lisbon's city center is safe to explore in the day, caution should be applied at night, especially Martim Moniz, Intendente, and Anjos which can all be risky locations when prostitution and drug deals tend to be more common.</p> <p>In Porto, Bairro da Pasteleira, Bairro do Cerco, and Bairro do Aleixois are best avoided.</p> <p>Not much good can come from being in a rough area you are unfamiliar with, so try to stick to more populated areas and avoid traveling alone.</p> <p>Although violent crime is rare in Portugal, gangs have been known to congregate near the beaches between Cascais and Lisbon where they occasionally accost beachgoers.</p> <p>Your best protection is to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and if you see a group that appears to be up to no good, don't go near them.</p>Getty Images/greta6 1495096930 Getty Images Nightlife in Portugal

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/portugal/how-safe-is-portugal-for-travelersIs Portugal Europe's safest destination? Here's everything travelers need to know to avoid scams and petty crime.2020-08-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugal/how-safe-is-portugal-for-travelershttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><br />Portugal is by far one of Europe's most popular travel destinations. From beautiful architecture to breathtaking <a href="/travel-safety/europe/portugal/staying-safe-on-portugals-beaches" title="How to stay safe on Portugal's beaches">beaches</a> and <a href="/explore/europe/portugal/inside-a-dormant-volcano-on-terceira-island">islands</a>, great food and <a href="/travel-safety/europe/portugal/portugal-tips-and-dangers" title="Nightlife safety in Portugal">exciting nightlife</a>, you'll never want to leave. Although Portugal is a safe country, there are a few things travelers should keep in mind.</p> <p>From scams to petty crime, here are our top tips to avoiding trouble in Portugal.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#rate">Portugal's low crime rate</a></li> <li><a href="#pickpocketing">Pickpocketing in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#bag">Bag snatching</a></li> <li><a href="#car">Car theft in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#scam">Don't be scammed</a></li> <li><a href="#hot">Crime hot spots in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#Lisbon">Is Lisbon safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#tips">Tips to avoid petty crime</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ+ safety in Portugal</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="rate">Portugal's low crime rate</h2> <p>In the <a href="http://visionofhumanity.org/reports/">2020 Global Peace Index</a>, Portugal is third out of 163 countries when it comes to overall safety. In Europe, Portugal comes second out of 36 countries, sitting right behind Iceland.</p> <p>Portugal boasts one of the world's lowest crime rates, with violent crime a relatively rare occurrence and typically isolated to certain bad areas.</p> <p>However, non-violent crime is an ongoing problem, particularly in the <a href="/explore/europe/portugal/where-to-go-in-lisbon-to-avoid-the-crowds">capital city of Lisbon</a>. Petty thieves are known to frequent areas where visitors can be found, looking to steal anything of value, from cash to passports to jewelry.</p> <p>Here are some of the things to watch for and some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim.</p> <h2 id="pickpocketing">Pickpocketing in Portugal</h2> <p>One of the most frequently reported crimes in Portugal is pickpocketing. Pickpockets often work in teams (sometimes using young children as a distraction) so it's important to always be aware of your surroundings.</p> <p>Public transportation, airports, and hotel lobbies are prime locations for this petty crime because they are very crowded and usually full of tourists.</p> <p>One place in particular where pickpockets seem to be quite active is aboard Tram 28, a popular tourist attraction that brings visitors to the famed Castle of São Jorge. Its frequent stops and crowded environment make it a perfect location for thieves to target their victims so if you're hitching a ride be sure to keep your valuables well concealed.</p> <h2 id="bag">Bag snatching</h2> <p>Women who carry bags should be aware that if they leave them in plain sight, chances are a thief is interested. This is particularly true at restaurants, where women may hang their bags over the backs of their chairs or place them on the floor, leaving them vulnerable to crooks.</p> <p>Bags should always be in sight, preferably on your lap or with the strap wrapped around either your leg or arm.</p> <p>When walking, always hold your bag in front of you with a firm grip. Luggage is also a prime target for petty thieves, especially when left unattended in hotel lobbies or at the airport, so be aware.</p> <h2 id="car">Car theft in Portugal</h2> <p>Parked cars left unlocked or with the windows down are easy targets, especially in lots that are close to tourist attractions and near restaurants.</p> <p>If you hire a vehicle, make sure it doesn't have stickers identifying it as a rental car. Keep your car doors locked at all times, whether you are moving or not.</p> <p>Areas where visitors should be particularly cautious include the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace in <a href="/stories/discovery/just-keep-running">Sintra</a>, and at the beachfront areas of Guincho, Cabo da Roca and Boca do Inferno.</p> <h2 id="scam">Don't be scammed</h2> <p>Criminals in Portugal have been known to target tourists with various scams so visitors should be wary of anyone approaching them on the street attempting to sell them something.</p> <p>One popular scam involves the sale of discounted tickets to area attractions, such as the Torre de Belem, which are not valid. Remember the old adage, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.</p> <p>Some restaurants charge exorbitant prices for dishes that would normally be cheap or fairly priced. The prospective diners see the menu outside the restaurant showing reasonable prices and decide to dine there. A waiter will come along to attend to the diners, mentioning the daily specials and emphasizing how good they are and why. Diners choose the specials only to find out later how expensive the specials are when presented with the bill. When querying the bill, the diners are presented with a different menu showing the prices which they didn't see before.</p> <p>Authorities generally can't do much about these overcharging restaurants but social media plays a vital role in naming and shaming the restaurants. So check reviews on Google or TripAdvisor before dining. </p> <p>There are reports that accommodation scams are on the rise in Portugal. Always book your accommodation through reputable vendors who use secure payment facilities and websites.</p> <h2 id="hot">Crime hot spots in Portugal</h2> <p>Some areas to be cautious in include the Alfama and Bairro Alto districts, the Castle of São Jorge and train stations including the Rossio, Oriente and Santa Apolonia.</p> <p>Lisbon tends to have more crime than the rest of Portugal, particularly in the Belem neighborhood.</p> <p>Outside Lisbon, the towns of Mafra, Fatima, Sintra, and Cascais have their share of thefts and scams, as does the <a href="/explore/europe/portugal/the-world-nomads-podcast-portugal" title="Listen to the World Nomads Podcast on Portugal">Algarve</a>.</p> <p>In Madeira, petty crimes occur in the popular Old Town and Santa Catarina Park areas of Funchal, although it's rather infrequent.</p> <h2 id="Lisbon">Is Lisbon safe?</h2> <p>Crime rates are low in Portugal, but like most cities, there is opportunist crime. Pickpocketing, bag snatching and theft on public transport and at transport hubs are not uncommon and the usual precautions should be taken (see below). Popular tram routes 15 and 28 can be prone to thefts. Be wary of leaving your drink unattended in bars or clubs because of the possible use of date rape drugs, drink responsibly and stay with friends when on nights out. Protecting tourists is a priority and there is a good police presence., but dodgy areas to avoid include Casal Ventoso, and Sintra, Mafra and Cascais <span>in Greater Lisbon.</span></p> <h2 id="tips">Tips to avoid petty crime</h2> <p>Some ways to avoid being a victim of a petty crime are obvious - don't carry a lot of cash, keep valuables well concealed and stay alert. But there are a few other suggestions that will help you enjoy a safe, crime-free trip to Portugal:</p> <ul> <li>Invest in a money belt and wear it in the front, under your clothing</li> <li>If you use a shoulder bag, choose one with a sturdy strap (preferably metal-lined), and wear it across your chest</li> <li>Carry backpacks on your chest rather than your back and keep zippers securely locked</li> <li>Never carry more money than you need for the day</li> <li>While sitting in a restaurant, keep purses and bags on your lap. If this is not possible, keep them in your sight and firmly wrap the straps around either your arm or your leg. And always keep them zipped. Never leave a wallet sitting on your table. Gives thieves an easy snatch and grab the opportunity</li> <li>Avoid wearing visible jewelry</li> <li>Prior to traveling, make copies of all important documents (passport, ID, visa) and store the copies in a secure place. Keep originals on you, stored securely in your money belt</li> <li>If you need to check your guidebook or map, try to do so while sitting in a restaurant or cafe. If this is not possible, lean against a nearby wall while you consult your paperwork.</li> </ul> <h2 id="lgbtq">LGBTQ+ safety in Portugal</h2> <p class="p1"><span class="s1">Same-sex marriage was legalized in Portugal in 2010, and in urban areas LGBTQ+ communities are accepted. However, outside of larger cities, attitudes may be further behind in what is a conservative Catholic country. Lisbon has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, and annual Pride marches are held in Lisbon and Porto. However, discretion is advised further afield.</span></p>Getty Images/minemero 1493747096 Getty Images Lisbon at night

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/portugal/staying-safe-on-portugals-beachesLearn how to read beach warning flags and stay beach safe in Portugal, from jellyfish to sharks, and other underwater dangers.2020-08-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/portugal/staying-safe-on-portugals-beacheshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Portugal has some of the best beaches in Europe. With more than 1,056 miles (1,700km) of coastline, it's the perfect place to travel for sunshine, swimming, surfing or simply exploring coastal towns.</p> <p>But before you travel to Portugal's coast, you should be aware of the possible dangers and what to avoid to <a href="/travel-safety/europe/portugal/portugese-petty-crime" title="How to stay safe in Portugal">ensure your visit is a safe one</a>.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#underwater-dangers">Is it safe to swim at Portugal's beaches?</a></li> <li><a href="#flags">Understand lifesaver beach flags in Portugal</a></li> <li><a href="#west">Portugal's west coast</a></li> <li><a href="#pool">Swimming pool safety</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="underwater-dangers">Is it safe to swim at Portugal's beaches?</h2> <p>Given Portugal's long coastline, the risk of drowning is a possibility, and each year there are deaths in the beautiful waters off Portugal.</p> <p>One of the biggest causes of beach drowning is a rip, a dangerous current that cycles water back into the ocean and often pulls unsuspecting swimmers along with it. Rips are particularly dangerous because they can't be seen and are extremely strong.</p> <p>Beware of uncrowded areas and those that are designated as surf zones, as they more likely to conceal hazardous currents.</p> <p>Parents should be especially cautious when allowing their children to swim. In 2007, four tourists drowned off the Algarve coast while trying to save three children from strong currents.</p> <p>If you find yourself caught in a rip, don't panic. Frantically battling the current will quickly exhaust you, prevent you from thinking clearly and subsequently increase the risk of drowning. Draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help. Stay calm, float and go with the flow until the rip's pull weakens, and then try to slowly swim parallel to the shore away from the rip, aiming for the breaking waves.</p> <p>Some areas hide dangerously shallow water and rocks. If you are going to dive in, be sure it's in an area that you know is deep enough.</p> <h2 id="flags">Lifesaver flags and warnings in Portugal</h2> <p>Avoid swimming in areas where there are no lifeguards. You should also exercise caution when swimming at beaches that connect to rivers as the streams and currents can be more hazardous.</p> <p>On the beaches where there are lifeguards, there are typically flags placed to indicate the level of danger to swimmers. It's important to know what these warning flags mean and to adhere to them.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Green flag</strong> = Safe to swim</li> <li><strong>Yellow flag</strong> = You may remain at the water's edge, but no swimming</li> <li><strong>Red flag</strong> = Danger, no swimming</li> <li><strong>Checkered flag</strong> = Beach is temporarily unmanned</li> <li><strong>Blue and purple flags</strong> = Dangerous marine life has been spotted e.g jellyfish, stingrays, sea snakes, sharks</li> </ul> <p>Keep in mind that if you ignore any of the warning flags there are consequences (besides the obvious safety ones) – the Maritime Police frequently issue fines to those not adhering to a lifeguard's warnings.</p> <p>It's also important to note that after September, the swimming season in Portugal is considered closed, so although the weather may still be mild and beaches inviting, there are no lifeguards on duty and no safety flags will be displayed, regardless of conditions. </p> <p>Check with the locals about when and where is safe to swim or surf, and be extra vigilant when in the water.</p> <h2 id="west">Portugal's west coast</h2> <p>The water on Portugal's west coast tends to be more hazardous due to the powerful Atlantic Ocean. Surfers and wind-surfers like this coast for its conditions and near-perfect waves, but obviously the wilder water presents a greater risk. Extra caution should be used if you plan on swimming or participating in water sports on the west coast.</p> <h2 id="pool">Swimming pool safety</h2> <p>Many hotels and holiday rental homes have swimming pools, and in the popular Algarve region of southern Portugal, the majority of drowning deaths occur in pools. </p> <p>There are currently no regulations in place in Portugal for private swimming pools to have safety measures including fences, covers or alarms (including hotel pools). Just because a pool may appear safer and more serene than the ocean, it doesn't mean it is. Always make sure children are supervised in the pool and that they don't have access to it when no one else is around which might include locking villa or apartment doors to stop children leaving without an adult.</p> <p>Never swim while or after drinking alcohol.</p>Getty Images/katatonia82 1841662940 Getty Images