Cookie Policy
This page explains how this site uses cookies, what they actually do, and how you stay in control of them. There is not much to it, which is the point.
What cookies are
Cookies are small text files a website stores on your device. Similar technologies such as your browser's local storage work the same way. They let a site remember actions and preferences, or measure how it is used. Some are essential for the site to function; others are optional and only set with your permission.
My approach to consent
I do not set any non-essential cookies until you agree. When you first visit, a banner asks whether you accept analytics cookies. Nothing is sent to Google Analytics, and no analytics cookies are created, unless and until you choose Accept. The site uses Google Consent Mode, which keeps analytics fully denied by default. Rejecting is as easy as accepting, and everything works normally either way.
Cookies and storage I use
Strictly necessary
I store a single value in your browser's local storage, alg-cookie-consent,
to remember your choice so the banner does not return on every page. This is essential to
honour your decision and does not require consent. It holds only the word
granted or denied, which is not personal data, and it never
leaves your device.
Analytics, optional and only with your consent
If you accept, the site loads Google Analytics 4 so I can see which pages are popular and how visitors move through the guide. This helps me improve it. IP addresses are anonymised, and I never use analytics for advertising or sell any data. Google Analytics sets the following cookies:
| Cookie | Purpose | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|
_ga | Distinguishes individual visitors | Up to 2 years |
_ga_TKH3T8JRSK | Maintains the analytics session state | Up to 2 years |
Google acts as a data processor for this analytics data. For more on how it is handled, see Google's Privacy Policy. For the bigger picture on the data this site collects, read the Privacy Policy.
Changing or withdrawing your consent
You can change your mind at any time. Use the button below, or the Cookie preferences link in the footer of any page, to reopen the banner and update your choice.
You can also block or delete cookies through your browser settings. If you withdraw consent, analytics stops and the related cookies are no longer used on future visits.
Questions
If you have any questions about this policy, email me at andre@algarvelocalguide.com or reach me through the About page.