“We are seeing last-minute cancellations following the restrictions, due to the worsening of the pandemic. We continue to have reservations, but our forecasts, which were very optimistic for this New Year’s Eve, are not confirmed”, said the president of the Algarve Hotels and Touristic Enterprises Association (AHETA).

According to Elidérico Viegas, the new restrictions and the worsening of the pandemic have led to "many cancellations", especially by the Portuguese, who are the ones who most seek out the region at this time of year.

"Although there is still demand, the data we have now does not allow us to confirm the forecasts we had", said the official, expressing the hope that, throughout the week, there may be last minute reservations, in case there is a slowdown in the number of new cases.

Elidérico Viegas also recalled that more than 40% of the hotels and developments in the Algarve are currently closed, which was already the case, as it is the low tourist season.