Faro, the capital of Algarve, is separated from the sea by a laguna, the Ria Formosa, which can be visited by boat. It has become a natural park, and a sanctuary for a number of rare species of wading birds. But the metallic bird seen flying here is not of the wading type. Faro is also the airport where planes disgorge their daily loads of tourists. It is true that by car, Algarve is a very long drive away from many north and central European countries.