The Algarve is hard at work to establish itself as a leading wedding destination. So says the Algarve Tourism Association (ATA), the entity responsible for promoting the region abroad.
The goal of ATA’s promotional efforts is to showcase what the region has to offer to couples around the world and strengthen the Algarve’s position as a “preferred destination for weddings.”
Currently, Irish and British couples are among those who most frequently choose the region to say ‘I do’, while France and the USA are among the markets showing the most significant signs of growth.
“Recognising the immense potential of weddings and similar celebrations for the region’s tourism sector, the Algarve has been strategically investing in this segment. An example of this is the Portugal in Love event, an international forum exclusively dedicated to the wedding segment, taking place for the first time in the Algarve from November 13 to 15,” the association says in a statement to the press.
This year’s edition of Portugal in Love features 35 exhibitors and wedding planners from 13 different markets (United Arab Emirates, Brazil, USA, United Kingdom, Spain, Lebanon, France, Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, Austria, and Portugal). ATA’s hope is that by participating in this event, more people will see the Algarve as an attractive wedding destination.
“We want to take advantage of the fact that the Algarve has everything that those seeking a dream location for their wedding need,” says André Gomes, President of the Algarve Tourism Association (ATA).
“Weddings are an excellent promotional opportunity for the destination, as they allow us to showcase the diversity of experiences the destination has to offer to all guests in an organic way. Typically, these celebrations involve a stay of several days, providing participants with a comprehensive view of the region,” he explains.
The Algarve’s mild temperatures also ensure that the region remains attractive throughout the entire year, not only for weddings but also for other celebrations, such as honeymoons, vow renewals, or the celebration of 25 and 50 years of marriage.
ATA also stresses the “strategic importance of this segment” due to its contribution to mitigating seasonality outside of the busy summer season.
Aside from the region’s famous climate, its beaches, diversity of venues, natural beauty, hotels, and professional services are also highlighted by ATA as factors that set the Algarve apart, as well as its quality-price ratio and good air links.
The regional tourism association also says the necessary legal formalities are completed easily in Portugal, whilst the multicultural environment of the region and the legality of same-sex marriages also play into why more and more couples are looking to ‘tie the knot’ in the Algarve.
On its website, the Algarve Tourism Association provides a set of key information about marrying in the Algarve.