Portugal unveiled: A journey through time, culture, and culinary delights

My journey through Portugal unfolded like a vivid tapestry woven with history, culture, and culinary delights, starting in the bustling city of Lisbon. As soon as I arrived, the city’s energy captivated me. Lisbon is a place of striking contrasts: ancient art and architecture coexist with vibrant street art and contemporary music, creating an exhilarating dynamic that’s a thrill to explore. The melodious strains of Fado music echoed through the streets, a sweet counterpoint to the buzz of city life. Riding the famous yellow trams through the Alfama district wasn’t just transportation; it was like travelling back in time. From the heights of São Jorge Castle, the sweeping views across Lisbon to the River Tagus narrated stories of history and progress.

A short trip from Lisbon, the enchanting town of Sintra seemed to spring from the pages of a fairy tale. The Pena Palace stood majestic with its whimsical towers and vivid colours, a fantastical vision set against the lush green backdrop. Roaming Sintra’s mystical gardens, with their classical statues and secretive nooks, felt like a stroll through an enchanted forest, offering a cool, serene escape from Lisbon’s lively streets.

In Belem, I indulged in one of my favourite sweet treats, the pastéis de nata, at the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery. Watching these custard tarts being made and tasting them fresh from the oven was a delight. The flaky pastry and rich custard, warm and dusted with cinnamon, were heavenly. Belem, steeped in history as the heart of Portugal's Age of Discoveries, features landmarks like the Monument to the Discoveries and the Jerónimos Monastery, which underscore Portugal’s influential maritime history.

The magic continued in Coimbra, where the sight of students in traditional black cloaks brought to mind scenes from Harry Potter, a series inspired by Rowling’s time here. Dining on leitão, a perfectly crispy suckling pig, paired with local sparkling wine, perfectly captured the festive and rich culinary culture of the region.

Porto’s soul was palpable along the historic Ribeira waterfront. Here, traditional boats floated on the Douro River, and locals gathered in the shadow of the iconic iron bridge. Porto’s character is deeply intertwined with its port wine cellars, where tasting this rich, fortified wine offered insights into the region’s storied wine heritage. The city’s vibrant street art and bustling markets brought a modern flair to its historical charm.

My Portuguese odyssey culminated in a serene sail down the Douro River, meandering through landscapes dotted with rolling hills and vineyards. This peaceful cruise was a moment to reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences that defined my travels. Each glass of wine, each scenic view, each friendly encounter seemed to capture the essence of Portugal - its beauty, history, and charm.

Exploring smaller towns, I delighted in the serendipity of discovering a hidden shop selling handcrafted pottery or a café where the coffee and pastries were just perfect. These moments, though simple, were profound, offering intimate glimpses into the country’s spirit.

Throughout my travels, Portugal felt remarkably safe and welcoming, whether I was navigating the lively streets of Lisbon at night or wandering through tranquil coastal towns. The warm hospitality of the locals made me feel both secure and cherished.

With its temperate climate even in winter, Portugal is an ideal escape from the snowy Canadian winters, offering a warm respite filled with enchanting experiences and sights. Portugal didn’t just invite exploration; it invited connection and wonder, leaving a lasting imprint on my heart and a yearning to return.

Footnote.

I’m about to embark on an epic South African adventure, funded by credit card points. This inspired me to share one of my favourite charities: Give A Mile. This wonderful non-profit provides flights for loved ones during critical illnesses or hospice care using donated frequent flyer miles and travel loyalty points.

Give A Mile, founded by Kevin Crowe, has provided over 740 flights across 150 countries, even during COVID-19. Crowe started the initiative after seeing the impact of family visits on his terminally ill friend.

Supporting this incredible cause means the world to me. I know firsthand the difficulties people face when trying to see their loved ones who are suffering. I will never forget my husband dying: we all rushed home to be with him on December 18, 2005, leaving me as a single mother of four. So, I can totally relate. This is why I feel so passionate about spreading the word and encouraging everyone to support Give A Mile – your unused air miles can make a significant impact on families around the world. 1160 flights given since 2013.