Planning a trip to Europe and looking for some unusual places to visit? I love ferreting out unique and less touristy hidden gems in Europe. In my lifetime of travels in Europe, it’s always the tiny picturesque towns that steal my heart, don’t let go, and form the sweetest and most indelible travel memories. Here’s … Read more
Here’s my guide to the best places to find beautiful azulejo tiles in Lisbon Portugal. I have a confession to make. I’m obsessed with Portuguese tiles. While on a geographical cure in Lisbon, I poked in and out of so many ceramic shops that I lost count. I came home with so much pottery my … Read more
You know how I love old stones. Especially 2500 year old stones. I affirmatively seek them out in my geographical cures. And you have to love them to get to northern Portugal’s Citânia de Briteiros. It’s not off the beaten path. It’s a bit out of the way. Or possibly unheard of by most humans. … Read more
The mere mention of Alcobaça Monastery in Portugal conjures a mini history lesson on one of Europe’s oldest and best UNESCO sites. Alcobaça is a 12th century masterpiece of Gothic Cistercian art, after all. Its vaunted architecture and history make it a must see site on a tour of Portugal. But that’s the topic of … Read more
Here’s my complete guide to visiting Castelo de São Jorge, St. George’s Castle, in Lisbon. A truthful guide. St. George’s Castle is Lisbon’s most recognizable landmark. But it’s a fake. Yes, it’s a fake. You read that right. St. George’s Castle, is the most popular tourist attraction in the beautiful Alfama district of Lisbon Portugal. … Read more
Here’s my guide to visiting Carmo Convent in Lisbon Portugal. Lisbon isn’t a city with grand monuments and squares like other European capitals. There aren’t that many truly “wow” sites in Lisbon. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s true. The beauty of Lisbon lies more in its laid back artistic ensemble than in any … Read more
Here’s my visitor’s guide to Lisbon’s fascinating Museu Nacional do Azulejo or National Tile Museum. The museum is an underrated hidden gem in Lisbon. Not only is it beautiful in and of itself, the museum helps to explain Lisbon’s unique decorative appeal and architectural history. Lisbon is affectionately nicknamed “Queen of the Sea.” I like … Read more
Here’s my guide to the best places to take photos in Porto Portugal. Colorful vintage-y Porto Portugal is a travel photographer’s dream. Or just a dream. It’s so dreamy that, right now, Porto is one of Europe’s hottest city destinations. Portugal’s second largest city has a pretty palette. Medieval townhouses are stacked above the Duoro … Read more
I never thought I’d say this. It almost can’t be true. Yet it is. There’s a beautiful McDonalds in the world. Aqui é! When I was vacationing with my daughter in Porto Portugal recently, our Uber driver told us to check out the McDonalds. Internally, I scoffed. Really? Would McDonalds lease and preserve an ancient … Read more