Hi again Michelle.
I flew from Birmingham last September when I went on this trip. Nice early flight and I think there were 9 of us. Sandwiches by the way are better and cheaper at Birmingham than most other airports I have been. :P
We got into Faro and were met by one of the local reps and had a mini bus transfer across the border to the hotel. We were met there by our TM and arrived to get settled in before lunch. The main party from Gatwick didn't arrive until later on in the day.
Some pointers if they help. :)
Make sure you have plenty of mosquito repellent and also a plug in with you. And also a really good sunscreen if you are fair skinned like me. :blush:
You have to pay a deposit at the desk for a beach towel and then get your deposit back at the end of the holiday. I can't remember what the deposit was to be honest.
The spa facility is nice but it is extra. I think we paid 5 euros for the hour and just used the nice warm indoor pool and the small Jacuzzi. The sauna is also in at that price I believe but treatments are extra. You do have to book to use the spa.
I didn't go on all the trips because I had problems with my feet and also the humidity but Tavira was nice (and also a chance to do a bit of shopping). I would recommend trainers for that trip because most of the pavement area is a marble effect and is a little slippery.
Seville is a dream but VERY humid.
I would love to go back at some point but whether it will be this year or not I do not know. I would go prepared for the humidity I think and take some not new footwear.
Happy to answer any more questions if it would help.