We are planning our first vacation in March 2001 to Portugal and Spain. Unsure of what part of the countries to visit during that time of the year. Has anyone been there in that time of the year, and what areas would be most advantageous to visit. Thanks Jim

Just returned from Portugal after spending March there. We chose the algarver region as it is warmer and the weather more predictable. Can be colder in the north. And the oceans and villages nearby are interesting, lots of history, etc. Can drive from the algarve to Seville (spain) which we did and stayed two nights in Granada. Also not too far to Evora (Roman ruins) and Estoril region. You can drive from Lisbon to the Algarve in less than two hours (the main roads are good). So, you could spend some time in Lisbon (I don't like big cities, but there is much rich history here.) and then head south. Stay, if you can, at some of the historic Posadas (good,consistent lodging and food) and usually some historic connection (old moorish castles, monestaries, etc.) If you book early enough and go to Granada, stay at the Parador de San Francisco in the Alhambra for a treat of a lifetime.

Jim-we just got back from a week in Lisbon/surrounding area the last week of March. The weather was perfect(70's and no rain) but the past week has been showery/rain.Everyone told us that they are prone to sudden downpours which are over suddenly so just pack an umbrells and you will be fine. Although we stayed in Lisbon-do a 1/2 day trip to Belem,full day to Sintra and do the coastal areas outside of Lisbon. We could not get over how similar the prices were to the USA. The food was great and the history is unbelievable! Enjoy-Debbie

Jim, I have done Portugal in March for <BR>2 weeks each on 2 seperate occasions. <BR>There are different ways to do it and <BR>it all depends on your travel style and <BR>preferences. I found the Minho as <BR>captivating on my second trip--it is the last place in Europe that is still <BR>old world culture. Contact me directly <BR>if you need more help.

Hi Jim! I was in Portugal in March 1996 and found that the weather in Lisbon was cold and rainy, but down in the Algarve region, Lagos in particular (on the southern coast) the weather was sunny, relatively warm and pleasant. So I would be prepared for both types of weather. Laura

We took a trip to Portugal and Spain in late September, when it was already starting to cool off. We stayed South, and ventured to Cordoba, Granada, the hill towns of Andalucia and Seville as well as Southern Portugal. I thought we had a great itinerary, you can check it out at www.markandmonica.com/travel/iberia.htm.