My Portugal: pastel de nata, wine & amazing people

The Algarve, Portugal

Let me try to express how much I love Portugal!

It’s an enchanting country chock full of amazing history, remarkable food, delicious wine, and some of the friendliest people on the planet. I’m as excited to dream of my next trip as I am to introduce this wonderful country to future first-time visitors!

I started in Lisbon at the opulent Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel, where its photo wall of famous guests (Madonna, King Charles & Queen Sophia, to name a few!) added a touch of gravitas to our adventure. Immaculate rooms, the grandeur of the palace, its lush gardens – this is a haven of luxury. Our garden view room, with its antique furniture and artwork seamlessly melded the Pestana’s long history with the modern world.

We toured Lisbon in a tuk-tuk, weaving through narrow lanes and bustling districts like Alfama and Baixa. Great way to pack in Lisbon’s diverse neighborhoods in one day. Our sociable driver took us to A Ginjinha, a historic little bar where we were given shots of Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur, and trying it is a must when you’re in Lisboa! (All I can say is that it’s an acquired taste, but I came home with a couple of bottles!)You cannot go to Lisbon without a visit to São Jorge Castle. We joined a group tour, exploring every nook and hidden staircase while learning the incredible history of the castle (the first settlement dates back to the 8th century BC!). It’s hard not to be blown away by stunning view of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Lisbon is the home of amazing food. Pastéis de nata (I’d rather not admit how many of those custard tarts I devoured! ??) Side note: when in Lisbon, I highly recommend Golden Vista Karaoke for a thoroughly entertaining night out and about with Lisbon locals!

On our way to The Algarve, we stopped off at Herdade da Malhadinha Winery for a wine tasting and a picnic lunch overlooking the vineyards. I mean, wow! Not much beats sitting on a gorgeous property, sipping delicious in-house wine with friends as the sun sets over the vineyard. Scooped up a case of their Vinho Verde!

Our home for the next four days was the luxurious Vila Vita Parc, a seaside oasis overlooking the Atlantic. This resort is amazing. Ten restaurants, infinity pools, cabanas, and bars with delicious cocktails. We spent hours at The Whale infinity pool, glasses of Portuguese Sangria in hand, staring into the deep blue Atlantic Ocean and plotting a hundred ways to move into one of the villas so we wouldn't have ever to leave Portugal!

It’s really one of the most relaxing places I’ve ever been. The Algarve is a truly magical place with golden beaches and rugged cliffs. The highlight was a coastal boat trip, which took us into hidden caves along the Algarve coast, including the Benagil cave/Algarve (one of the most iconic Instagram spots in The Algarve!). Make sure you get a boat small enough to zip into the caves which many tour boats could not do. a little extra touch for an experience that’s off the chart. And then stop off at Waterfront, and when the waiter says, "Can I bring you a mix of our best dishes," say "YES!" (You won't regret it!)

Portugal is a dream vacation. An opportunity to immerse yourself in a country chock full of history, where great food and amazing views are endless, and you’re surrounded by the nicest, most welcoming locals you’ll ever meet.

After reading this post, I hope Portugal moves to the top of your bucket list. Be it a momentous birthday celebration, family vacation, group travel experience, for wine and food, or luxury travel, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Together, we’ll design a blissful experience where you’ll dream of your next visit before your plane leaves Lisbon! Let me put my experience, love for Portugal, and great connections to work for you!