Working in paradise is a dream shared by many and, with the pandemic limiting normal commuting, it may as well be a reality soon. The Algarve has all the perfect conditions for this, with good weather, a widespread use of the English language and good offer for those who wish to work in the region.

Algarve Tech Hub is a perfect example of the infrastructure already in place in the region. “The purpose is to promote the Algarve as a competitive and attractive global technological hub for companies, institutions and individuals”, like digital nomads and other segments, according to Miguel Fernandes, one of the project’s leaders.

“We have worked with the various public and private entities in the region to define and implement a technological development strategy for the next 10 years”, he states, adding that Algarve Tech Hub has “organised networking events for digital nomads” to “present the region’s technological ecosystem” and “will soon announce a program for digital nomads to come to know the region with a range of services such as access to coworking space and specialised guides for the segment”.

For digital nomad Christophe de Oliveira coming to the Algarve was somewhat of a life changing experience.

This self-titled “nomad entrepreneur” brought his company, Artisan Lofts, to the region, because he and his family wanted to “escape the city and live a more peaceful life, closer to nature”.
Christophe de Oliveira worked to “fully digitise” the business and now operates “remotely from the Algarve” with “regular trips to France”. “We achieved our goal of working where it is good to live”, he states.

Miguel Fernandes believes the Algarve “has everything to be one of the best lifestyle tech hubs in the world” like an “authentic culture and gastronomy”, the “best beaches and one of the best climates in the world”, Portugal’s safety, a good international airport, and a “diversified accommodation offer”.

“Digital nomads appreciate the quality of life, the international side of the region, the reasonable cost of living and the infrastructure of the Algarve that allow them to fly to any place in Europe from Faro”, says Christophe de Oliveira, adding that “most of those who are here want to stay and attract other nomads”.

At the same time, “the Algarve has been one of the least affected regions in Europe by the coronavirus thanks to its ‘Clean & Safe’ campaign. Hundreds of tourism businesses signed up to follow its rigorous hygiene procedures, which has helped to keep the rates low”, assures Algarve Tourism.

‘Workation’ packages

Algarve Tourism suggests several ‘workation’ packages for those wanting to change the pace of their daily lives.

Hotel Faro, a four-star property overlooking the Ria Formosa natural park in Faro, offers special rates for extended stays. Their remote working package includes high speed wifi, TV in the room with HDMI connection, second monitor and laptop support option, private meeting room (30 days/8 hours or 15 days/4 hours), and access to the coworking space. And ‘on tap’ is a stunning rooftop restaurant with panoramic views over the nature reserve, a heated outdoor pool, gym, sauna, Turkish bath, garage, 24 hour reception service and laundry services.

Four Seasons Fairways, situated in Quinta do Lago and close to the Ria Formosa nature reserve is the ideal setting for a ‘workation’ – combining blue skies, peaceful and private villa accommodation with hotel style facilities to cover everything you need for remote working and play. Between work commitments, the Clubhouse awaits – home to stunning heated indoor & outdoor pools, Kids’ Club, wine cellar, fully equipped gym and cleverly designed indoor-outdoor bar.

For a more rustic and countryside environment, one of the oldest vineyards in the region Morgado do Quintão offers extended farm stays. It has various houses to rent on the estate, each with its own swimming pool and outside area. The homes are centered around a large family property restored in the early 1800s. The vineyard is located between Silves, Monchique and Lagoa.

Robinson, TUI’s premium club provider is also turning the hotel room into a home office. The Workation @ ROBINSON is available at the ROBINSON Club Quinta da Ria from January 2021. Workers are given rooms in a quiet location that are equipped according to their wishes whether that’s fast and stable internet connection for video conferences or an ergonomic desk chair in a separate office. After work visitors can enjoy the golf course, a relaxing massage, tennis or a bike tour in the surrounding nature reserve.

Wyndham Grand Algarve has just released a unique and personalised package for ‘Digital Nomads’ for stays from 1st February until 1st April 2021, with bookings available until 15th March 2021. This package includes a very advantageous discounted rate for stays of 14 nights or more in a One Bedroom Suite, buffet breakfast, a daily late evening drink in the Lobby Bar, a complimentary nature experience in Ria Formosa Natural Park and transfers from/to Faro Airport. During the stay, guests will also have free access to the SPA, stay active in the state-of-the-art gym or swim in the indoor or outdoor swimming pools.

The five star Hilton Vilamoura is offering 2 new programs: HOMEinALGARVE is an extended stay package applicable to free upgraded suites and one- and two- bedroom fully equipped apartments. Each comes with a comfortable well-lit work area with a desk and chair set in a spacious lounge, plus extras such as free tea & coffee. Hilton Vilamoura Home Office offers additional ready-to use solutions in a private Business Floor to work alone or for co-working. All options have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi, office support services plus the extensive resort facilities of swimming pools, gym, kids club, beach, golf and spa.

Source:
www.algarvepromotion.pt/en/
Algarve Tech Hub