Have you ever wondered why sometimes the smallest little things are the better? We really don't know why, but they are. The lovely country of Portugal is a great example of it. It's isn't a big powerful ruling state, but somehow they managed to live happily in peace, and show off all their love and beauty to the world. I've travelled there an endlessly amount of times, and that has only made me like it more and more each and every day. There is a huge range of different hidden gems there, from the cities to the countryside. There will always be something right for you.
I'm writing this in order to show you, you, the one who is reading this how incredible this country is, and why you will deeply fall in love with too (just in case you haven't yet).
I'm writing this in order to show you, you, the one who is reading this how incredible this country is, and why you will deeply fall in love with too (just in case you haven't yet).
1- They did pretty cool things for how tiny they are. Just think about it. They once arrived to India (Vasco Da Gama, remember?) when none of their fellow Europeans had, they once owned half of the world, they were the first colonial power to abolish slavery and have an international diplomatic alliance (with England). They have the oldest library in the world and the longest European bridge. And it has had the same exact borders since Middle Ages, turning Portugal into the oldest state-nation in the continent. Isn't that so awesome?
2- There are some really wonderful cities in this country... Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Evora, Aveiro. They all have their special taste, their unforgettable features. Cities in Portugal are different, not huge but insanely cozy and sweet. The old vintage houses all around the country and the sense of peace just make it perfect. Do you want to have a ride in the worldwide known yellow little Lisbon's tram, or why not take a cruise at the Douro River in the city of Porto? Or maybe you are more about visiting the Roman ruins in Evora? Whatever your choice, there is no doubt you'll adore the cities.
3- ... and stunning nature places. But that's not everything. Portugal has much more to offer. The beautiful beaches of their islands, Madeira and Açores... The jaw-dropping cliffs through the coast... The magnificient mountains of Serra Da Estrela... There is a wide incredible range of nonhuman attractions offered, you just can't miss. You just have to find the perfect one that will suit what you are looking for!
4- Food, glorious food. Mmmh... you're mouth is probably melting if you've ever tried any of the Portuguese culinary delights. They have the best soups in the world, incredible fish and the tastiest bread I have ever tried. Even the most basic, easily made, dishes such as a steak with french fries, salad and a fried egg are delicious and better there, but make sure to try out some of their specialities such as cork or duck rice or sardines. And not to forget the famous Porto wine. Too many good things in a little country, I know!
5- Like sincerely, have you tried pasteis de nata? Bakery is where they reach its gastronomic zenith. So. Good. Cakes. I promise! While you walk around all that coffee shops storefronts offering you some seductive pastries will eventually make you stop and try them. They will all be awfully good (but do yourself a favor and taste at least once the pasteis de nata).
6- Portuguese sound just so sweet. Some languages have something magical in them that just are enchantingly pleasant to hear. You might have completely no idea what they are actually talking about, but it will just sound so harmonious and rhythmic that you will immediately think you understand it all. You might even desperately want to learn it (and it is an official language in nine countries, so it isn't such a big waste of time). I really wonder what it is, if the vocals, the movement, the sounds the emphasis.... but there is something pretty charming in there.
7- It's one of the tops surf spots. Surf lovers come from all over the world to test the recognized excellent waters of the Atlantic Sea in Portugal. No matter if you just want to give it a try or you already are a professional, there is one place in that country that will absolutely suit you. And even if you can't stand surf it's worth showing up at some of their gorgeous beaches.
8- Their melodic joyful music. The beat and rhythm art is a culture in Portugal. From their traditional singing Fado to their revolutions, music goes by their hand in life. Their unstoppable flow with musical notes and passion for it is incredible. And, if you ever are in Lisbon, don't miss the chance to listen in live a charming women singing a charming Fado. But even buskers or street musicians will be pleasant to listen too.
9- It can much remind you of Middle Ages times. When you first visit Sintra, that place of enchanted castles and fairytales, a feeling of melancholy and nostalgia will evade you instantly. You might feel like a farmer taking care oh his lands or a king and queen ruling the world at ancient times. It will take you back to remote times. Imagine how powerful and fictitious it was. Because anywhere you go, anything you see has that aura of medieval sense. The architecture, the castles, the cathedrals... all you will ever need to conquer the world is there.
10- The people will usually be so lovely with you. They really are. As everywhere in the world you might run into a stupid mean one, but chanced that this happen to you in Portugal are lower (though, don't forget there still might be). When you are there it's so nice to enjoy a nice little talk with a local portuguese. They passion and calm for life is really inspiring. They make the perfect union between what you see and how you feel. The perfect combination for your best trip ever.
So, what do you think about Portugal?
Sincerely,
Vera
Vera
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