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Showing posts with the label Portugal

Alfama Neighbourhood Guide: Lisbon’s Most Charming District

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Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, its most traditional and charming. One of the only districts to be spared from the devastating earthquake of 1755, Alfama is the historic soul of Lisbon and its steep, cobblestoned lanes stand just as they were in medieval times. When the WOW Team visited Lisbon recently, we headed directly to Alfama to explore the heart of Lisbon and to kick off our trip the right way! Here’s our guide on the very best that this charming neighbourhood has to offer. Things to do: Castelo de São Jorge Alfama’s castle can be seen from almost anywhere in Lisbon and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can climb the towers or wander along the ramparts for some of the most breathtaking views across the city, the river and on clear days, the distant Atlantic Ocean. Get lost in the steep, cobblestoned lanes Exploring Alfama’s maze of tiny streets, cobblestoned lanes and steep staircases feels as though you’ve stepped back in time. The ...

Things to do in Madeira – Europe’s Hidden Hawaii

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Now, I know a lot of you are curious about my visit to Madeira and it has taken me a while to write this, but here I am with all the info for you! In this article you’ll find my thoughts on Madeira Vs Hawaii, things to do in Madeira, where to stay in Madeira and a few helpful tips for visiting Madeira. Basically, everything you need to know, with lots of pretty photos in between. Now, let’s get started! ( FYI – This post contains affiliate links). Things to do in Madeira and More Madeira Vs Hawaii Maui or Madeira? This is MADEIRA! I visited Hawaii (Oahu and Maui) in February 2016 and Madeira in March 2017. I was struck by the similarities between the two. In particular the similarities between Maui and Madeira island. Both are volcanic islands in the middle of an ocean. Both have the soaring, cloud-piercing, mountains covered in bright green foliage with waterfalls flowing down the sides. Both make you want to hum the Jurassic Park theme tune as you drive the...

Vineyards, Relaxation and Star Gazing: A weekend in Alentejo, Portugal

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Vineyards, Relaxation and Star Gazing: A weekend in Alentejo, Portugal Portugal | Europe Published: May 2018 | Partner content produced on assignment with Lonely Planet + Booking.com In south-central Portugal, to the right of show-stealing Lisbon and above the summertime fun of the Algarve, the underrated and understated Alentejo region packs a punch. Technically two regions, Alto and Baixo translating to higher and lower, The Alentejo is awash with Roman and Moorish history, designated dark sky star-gazing reserves and countless grapes hanging from vines ready to be turned into one of Portugals greatest exports, and my favourite refreshment, wine. The visitor count might not be as high here as other parts of the country, but that is very much its charm. Cruising along a near-empty motorway for a weekend escape, the rolling green countryside of vineyards with the odd castle provided a refreshing vacation from the bustle of the city. I was on a mission to unearth a unique plac...

I Wish I’d Had a Date – 5 Most Romantic Places in Europe

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  Now, don’t get me wrong, I haven’t suddenly gone all soppy. I love travelling solo. I’ve travelled solo in Peru, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and a bunch of other places. I like being able to go wherever I want, whenever I want, without worrying about anybody else. I especially love how many people I meet when I’m solo travelling.  However, I’m still a girl/woman/ lady (questionable) and I sometimes arrive at places and think “damn, this is romantic”. And THOSE kinds of places are the places that I wish I’d had a date (no that’s not anti- feminist). These, in my opinion, are some of the most romantic places in Europe. I’ve been to them all this year and each place has made me feel like it would be worth revisiting on a not so solo trip. THE MOST ROMANTIC PLACES IN EUROPE Dona Ana – Lagos, Portugal I only found this STUNNING (not literally) view point on my last day in Lagos, Portugal after spending ...