Old Places New Ways

“Portugal has a peaceful feel about it. I sit on the terrace overlooking the vineyard there and I feel cut off from the world. You need that sort of thing.”

–Cliff Richard, English musician.

Some destinations are well-trodden, even overdone - yet still feel new. This is especially true of Portugal. Travel Sommelier's Laurel recently explored it through the lens of rediscovery, where familiar places reveal unexpected depth.

From Porto’s historic neighborhoods to countryside vineyards, storybook palaces, and quiet Atlantic villages, the country unfolds in layers. Wander streets older than your home country. Linger over winery visits and café stops. Walk along wild, windswept beaches. Browse shelves of handwoven textiles and beautifully packaged tinned fish. Savor flavors you never knew you were missing. 

Laurel’s tip: "Wandering through the alleys of Coimbra, I came across a tiny window where a young Portuguese woman was selling warm pastéis de nata for just a few euros…literally the best one I had on the entire trip."

TS tip: Avoid June through August. Spring and fall are perfection- mild temperatures, calm streets, and the best of the country's 300+ days of sun

Despite its rising popularity, this corner of Europe remains refreshingly accessible…often less crowded and more affordable than many of its neighbors.

A skilled travel advisor knows how to shape your journey so that whether it is your first visit or your tenth, the country feels entirely new.