Located in Southern Europe next to Spain, Portugal has been a
favorite destination for travelers for many, many years. With a
wealth of beautiful countryside and charming cities that are
full of life, Portugal offers something a little different for
your next vacation or holiday. The country is relatively small,
but in the 900 or so years it has been around, it has played a
part in some major movements around the world. After becoming a
free democracy in the 1970s, the country began a turn-around
that continues today. While it's not the world power it once was
(especially during the discoveries of North America by the
Europeans), that doesn't mean it's not an enchanting place to
visit.
Places to See and Things to Do in Portugal
Lisbon - The "city of seven
hills" is the modern capital of Portugal and somewhere you'll
probably end up if you travel to the country.
Coimbra - This city has one
of the oldest universities in the world.
Cabo da Roca - This is the
furthest Western point in Portugal and all of Europe.
Fátima - If you are
Catholic there's a good chance you have heard of this place.
It's where many have said they have seen the Virgin Mary.
Swimming - Along the
Western Coast there are quite a few wonderful beaches that
will allow you to enjoy some fun in the sun - even if that
means laying on the beach resting and getting a tan.
Golfing - If you're a
golfer, there are actually many great courses located all over
Portugal. You might even plan a whole vacation around them.
Eating - Some might say
that eating is the national sport of Portugal. While it may
not be that bad, people in the country love to eat. Because of
this, you can expect a wide variety of cuisine to be available
depending on where you go in the country. Obviously, seafood
is going to be more prevalent on the coast.
Drinking - Wine is the
alcohol of choice for most people in Portugal. There are other
alcoholic drinks available depending on where you go, but if
you like wine, you're going to be in for a treat.
Things to Consider when Traveling to Portugal
Language - It's a good idea
to at least make an attempt to learn Portuguese - or enough to
answer basic questions or ask for information. If you stick to
the tourist areas, however, you're going to find quite a few
people who speak English to varying degrees.
Money - The Euro is used in
Portugal, so you'll want to exchange your US currency before
you arrive or once you get there. Stay away from money
exchanges that are close to areas with a lot of tourist
traffic.
Safety - Portugal is about
as safe as any other European country in the region. As with
anywhere you travel these days, you'll want to take certain
precautions, but as long as you're not out drunk wandering
around in seedy neighborhoods at 2 a.m. in the morning, you
should be okay.
Portugal: Perfect European Vacation Possibilities
When it comes to traveling to somewhere in Europe for
vacation there are many different possibilities depending on
what you want out of your holiday time. With a lot of the Old
World and plenty of the modern world too, there's something in
Portugal for you to do no matter what you're into. With a rich,
cultural history and beautiful landscapes all over the country,
there's something in Portugal to affect you on many different
levels at once. And if you just want to get away to relax and
have no worries, Portugal has a lot to offer you as well. With
many great resorts along the coast and in the interior of the
country, Portugal is a perfect place for a restful getaway.
