Where are you going for your summer holidays this year? After the below par summer we had last year, when many people were forced to stay put in England due to recession-related issues, this year we are all dying to head south to warmer climates. But trying to find an affordable holiday that will please everyone – culture, beach, and countryside – is no easy task, especially if you want to avoid the hordes of British tourists hoping to do the same. A recent survey by sunshine.co.uk found that previous Brit favourite Spain, is now just ‘too English’. The Costas have apparently lost some of their original charm as fish and chip shops have taken over from tapas bars and hotels have been thrown up without consideration of traditional design and the local environment. However, we do love the climate and prices of the Iberian peninsula, so a smaller, less tourist laden country is making a go of it. Portugal is now proving to offer a winning formula of fantastic beaches, quaint and traditional fishing villages, family-friendly resorts and spectacular landscapes. But it’s not just about beach life or mini city-breaks to capital Lisbon. You can surf along pretty much all of Portugal’s coastline from rocky outcrops with large breaks, to smaller bays with gentle, undulating bays for beginners.  It is also famed for its golf courses. The Algarve area has the most, which is perfect as you can easily divide your time between the beach and the fairway. Lisbon too has its fair share, so you can have a city break with extras.  Another reason why Portugal is becoming the ‘new’ Spain is the cost. Flights are cheap thanks to an abundance of low cost carriers flying to the country. Living costs are low meaning it is fairly cheap to have a family holiday there despite the poor exchange rate with the Euro. Hotels have been slashing their rates to fill rooms fast; due to the hard times incurred as a result of the recession, they are in desperate need of your Euros.  For any holiday you take this year, whether a romantic weekend city break or a family holiday in the sun, make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Go Travel Insurance offer comprehensive travel insurance on their website, with specific cover for golf holidays, making it the ideal choice for holidays in Portugal.