The number of UK citizens flying to Portugal for the summer has more than doubled following the launch of a new Drink And Be Merry kids club was launched, say tourism authorities.
The popular new idea allows parents to go out with friends and drink as much as they like without worrying about the children.
"It's such a relief to go on holiday and know you can let your hair down," said Gerry McDoc. "For months we struggle with late nights and early mornings dealing with the demands of our children. All we want to do on holiday is get some time for ourselves."
Another family, the McMurdochs from Belfast, said, "It's great. We started drinking as soon as we arrived at the hotel. When we stopped we woke up in a comfy hospital bed, and the kids had been put to bed by social services for us."
Portuguese authorities are recruiting more child carers to cope with a huge increase in demand, as UK parents flock to book the new Kids Go Free While You Drink holidays.
Portuguese tourism minister Luis Dos Asbos said, "British parents like a drink, and children just get in the way, so this new scheme is a clever idea to boost inward tourism into our country.
"Portuguese people always keep their kids with them on nights out and don't fall over drunk. We really could learn a thing or two from you Brits."
