Portugal
is gradually leaving the “Unusual Destination
List”. I did some research and found that Portugal has one of
the highest visit number increase for tourist between 2016 – 2017. Ordinarily I
shouldn’t be talking about Portugal as it is gaining awareness very fast and
seem to be on the lips of tourists these days but will still mention it for
those who haven’t heard.
Portugal
is known for its culture, diverse and dynamic art, world class cuisines, a very
rich history, amazing architecture, safety, beautiful environment, and the most
interesting of all; a very affordable economy.
The
capital of Portugal is Lisbon. It is also known as “the
city of Seven hills” just
like Rome. The two majorly visited cities in Portugal are Lisbon and Porto.
These cities are one of the most pocket-friendly cities in Europe.
Interestingly they both have different landmarks or symbols but are both
beautiful.
Lisbon
is identified by its vibrancy, colours, sunshine, free-spirited lifestyle, cozy
weather, beautiful trekkable streets, green-yellow ambience etc. Lisbon is
Vibrant.
While,
Porto
is very rich in culture, artworks, medieval palaces and cathedrals and sweet
Porto wines. Porto is Heritage.
It
just reminds me of Johannesburg South Africa and Capetown South Africa. It
gives me the same kind of effect. You know the YIN and YANG effect.
LISBON
IS THE YIN AND PORTO IS THE YANG. They are two perfect cities depending on your
preferences. I can’t seem to choose one above one as I love adventures and
wouldn’t swap culture and art and history for ambience, cool look-out points,
cuisine and vice-versa.
The cuisines
are out of this world. Very rich, traditional and tasty no matter the city you
are in.
You love shopping then visit Lisbon. You want souvenirs
then visit Porto. You want very beautiful relaxation points then swap
between the two.
You want
to visit beaches, cute and affordable hotels, children spots, whatever gets you
going on a vacation, then visit Portugal.
My number
one country on the list for this summer is actually Portugal!
I
can’t help going on and on about this nation, it’s the in-thing for now. Its
highly trending and would recommend it to travelers, adventurers and even
first-timers to try this one!
Below
are some of the places to visit, whether you are in Porto or Lisbon.
Oceanario
de Lisboa
This
is a modern aquarium built on water. It is amazingly beautiful and also very
large.
Padrao
dos Descobrimentos
It is
an enormous monolith that leans over the River Tagus. Its an amazing sight.
Arco
da Rua Augusta
This is
a massive riverfront square. It is just a majestic view. A very beautiful spot
for selfies.
MUDE
A
fashion and design museum
Rossio
Square
A
beautiful huge plaza
Belem
tower
This
uniquely, medieval and stunning structure sits on the Tagus River
Dom
Luis Bridge
A
beautiful showpiece
Clerigos
Tower
A very
beautiful place that overlooks the entire city
Majestic
Café
It’s
just as its sounds
LELLO
Bookstore
I keep
wondering how a bookshop can look this beautiful.
Serralves
Museum
An architectural
wonder and beauty surrounded by a magnificent park
Portugal
also has other beautiful cities such as Sintra, Faro, Coimbra, Lagos, Fatima,
Portimao, you know so many beautiful cities, town and villages.
The
streets are beautiful and a great sight to behold, trekkable for more fun. The hotels
are highly affordable. You will be dazed at how wallet-friendly the rooms are.
Am soooo
obsessed with Portugal right now. I might be doing something more on some of
the other cities in Portugal as the week goes by……
Most
people have already travelled for summer, I call them the early bird. Some others are just
about to join. If you are still indecisive on where to go and you truly want to
holiday in Europe; Please do Portugal!!!
XOXO!!!