Steps down and sunset at Camilo Beach Lagos

Lagos is one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve region of Portugal and for good reason. Many visitors are attracted by some of the best beaches in the Algarve and the dramatic beauty of its cliff-stacked coastline but that’s not all that Lagos has to offer. The oldRead More →

Inside Lisbon's Christmas tree. Image by Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal

If you’re going to be spending Christmas in Portugal, or New Year, and don’t know what to expect, this post is for you. Find out how and where to celebrate, how the Portuguese do things and what events are going on during the festive season. Note: As information gradually becomesRead More →

Group shot, Iberian Masks Festival

There are countless fairs and festivals in Portugal, celebrating everything from obscure beans to Roman heritage. Finding out about them can sometimes be a challenge so my guide to some of the best Portugal festivals is designed to give you a starting point.  Note that smaller festival dates, and especiallyRead More →

View of Viana do Castelo and River Lima from Santa Luzia

Viana do Castelo has definitely grown on me over the years and is one of the most interesting and attractive coastal cities in northern Portugal. With a fascinating history that dates back to pre-Roman times, remarkable costumes, unique jewellery and a restored hospital ship, not to mention the beaches, views,Read More →

Cork oak trees with harvested bark, Marvão

If, like me, enjoying a nice glass of wine is among your favourite hobbies, chances are you’ve held a bottle stopper made from Portuguese cork. Even if you prefer a fancy French champagne, the stopper is probably made of, you guessed it, cork from Portugal. Stroll down the high streetRead More →

Paper windmill, Ruas Floridas 2013

Every two years, the white-walled Alentejan town of Redondo becomes awash with colour and creativity during the Ruas Floridas (Flowered Streets) festival. Don’t be fooled by the name; there much more to this event than paper flowers. The forty-three participating streets are filled with themed displays ranging from football toRead More →

Souvenir Barcelos cockerels

If you visit any tourist destination in Portugal, you’ll undoubtedly find at least one version of the cheerful Barcelos cockerel dominating most souvenir shops. But what on earth does a cockerel have to do with Portugal? I hear you ask. Well, there’s a legend about that… As the story goes, backRead More →

Trapped, Museu do Oriente, Lisbon

Like most cities, Lisbon is steeped in history and even has an interactive museum dedicated to its story. While the Lisbon Story Centre certainly helps you understand the background to the enticing blend of old and new that shapes Portugal’s capital, it’s not one of the best Lisbon museums. There are many others thatRead More →