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Golf being such a key activity in their lives, their first concern was to identify a locality with a course that they liked. Diana Monteiro, Manorpark’s Tavira branch manager, was happy to show the couple around the courses in the area. “She was so helpful” says Paul, “Extremely professional and nothing was too much trouble. Apart from familiarising us with the area, she made sure we had a thorough understanding of the purchase process in Portugal, plus other practical aspects that differ from what we were used to in Tenerife.”
On visiting Benamor just outside Cabanas, they found a super golf course and a club run in a way that appeals to them. “Also” Chris adds, “we found the prices to be very comparable to UK, contrary to what we’d heard, that golf in the Algarve is expensive.”
She recalls wryly: “We actually came out with two friends who were also interested to move away from UK. I suppose they felt our previous experience abroad would be useful. My main advice was obvious enough - never to buy the first place you’re shown - but you can guess what happened: that’s exactly what we did. We were shown this villa and it was love at first sight!”
“Ironically” adds Paul, “we were originally looking for a penthouse-type property or large apartment with a good sea-view - but look what we found instead for our money: a detached villa with a 360-degree panorama - it’s like being on top of the world! And the peace and quiet is simply stunning.”
Chris is a qualified fitness/yoga instructor and, once settled into their new life she aims to take this up again. At the moment she’s looking for a reasonable venue in the locality or in Tavira to start up some classes. “So, if any of your readers in East Algarve can help, maybe you could give this a mention?” So here you are, Chris - we’re pleased, as ever, to be of assistance! |