Hello all, We have booked a week in Lisbon at the end of July. Now with the economic crisis looming over portugal, people are advising us to cancel. I am not sure sure how this would affect our trip, but as my husband and I only get one week alone away from the responsibilities, I thought it was safer to ask.

Thanks

I don't understand why you wouldn't go....

Not going because of an economic crisis? If so, shouldn't that be a reason to flee the U.S.? Are those "people" expecting fish riots or something? What on earth is their reasoning? ("reasoning" seems hardly appropriate to describe this sort of reaction)

Why would they suggest you cancel? These austerity measures affect the people living in these countries, not tourists (other than maybe an increase in VAT). You may get stuck with a random strike, but those usually only last a day and dont impact most tourism other than potentially transport (but I havent heard of any in Portugal and I like in the UK). If anything your tourist dollars will help these countries and you may get some good deals.

We are heading to Lisbon for a week in Dec and woudlnt think of cancelling based on the 'crisis'

I want to go to Lisbon in late Sept. PLEASE post a trip report. Thanks

Since the euro is currently much lower against the dollar than has been usual, it seems like a great time to go.

Nlingenfel- click on my name for my Lisbon TR.

"People" always offer all sorts of crummy advice. Ignore them.

Are Americans offering this bad advice? Ask them if they are advising tourists from other countries to stay away from the US because of our bad economy.

Go. You will only get more value for your money. And in Portugal that is even more of a bargain.

The advice I have for you is to make sure you rent someplace with air conditioning even if it is an apartment.

We were there in August 2009 and it was very hot in Lisbon proper. We were also on the Lisbon coast and did not need the air but in the city we were glad for it.

WE are going in June and my only concern is the volcanic ash and flight disruptions. So Portugal is not in good shape financially...my guess is that our dollar will buy more...usually people who have not been out of their country or at least not very experienced travelers give that kind of advice...they wish they could go!! Maybe they see the major disruptions in the streets of Athens and are basing it on that?? I'll admit right now Greece is not the best at least Athens but Portugal is not at that point yet. I think it is a very good time to go.

We'll be in Lisbon and Algarve from June 9th to the 18th. I did rent apartments for the kids and I. We are staying clear of Greece though.

I think so too. Thanks for all the input.