Long a destination low on the radar for many travelers, Portugal is now a rising star on the travel heavens. From the far flung Azores Islands to vibrant Lisbon, the country is really somewhat of a Russian doll. An endless menu of experiences for every palate, mind or adventure seeker. Read on for tips on where to go, what to do, where to stay and last but not least, what to eat and drink.
The popularity of the Portuguese capital has surged lately, and it is not hard to understand why. Stunning architecture and a food scene unlike any other are just the start. Once you have been to Lisbon you will be drawn to go back, again and again.
A destination I have not yet been to, the Azores are at the very top of my list. Situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean these islands are only a 5 hour flight away from the East Coast and thus perfect for a stopover.
Many people compare Lisbon to Rome, and Porto to Naples, and I think that well reflects this city's identity as a somewhat naughtier younger sister. A bit more rough around the edges, but utterly charming nonetheless.
Portugal's long coastline to the South offers everything from secluded beaches to rugged cliffs and fantastic golfing. Faro, the main city in the region is beautiful and serves as a gateway to this exciting region. For a family trip the Algarve would be my first choice.
Mostly known for its eponymous wine, Madeira will also wow you with its lush scenery. A paradise for outdoorsy hikers and sun worshippers alike, this island truly has it all. Charter a boat and spend the day whale watching. Madeira is the perfect addition to any Portuguese itinerary.
The once sleepy town of Comporta has become the chic playground for well to do Lisboetans and international celebrities. But don't be fooled, it is still very casual and prides itself on being a Bohemian retreat for the spiritually rather than the materialistically inclined.
Stay: opt for the Sublime Lisboa where I can get you free breakfast, and possibly also an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out. At The One Palacio da Anunciada you get all of that, plus USD 100 F&B credit.
Eat: check out the TimeOut market for a taste of what is moving and shaking in Portugal's food scene. And do go to Belem and try a Pastel de Nata for dessert.
Explore: must sees include the cathedral, the São Jorge bridge, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos and the Aquarium. Then you venture further afield and do a day trip to the National Palace of Sintra.
Stay: opt for the Octant hotel, part of a group of distinctly Portuguese yet contemporary, modern design hotels. When booking through me you get free breakfast, and possibly also an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out 8subject to availability at check-in). Not to mention a free, fabulous 50 minute massage for two at their lovely spa.
Eat: seafood of all kinds, including the ubiquitous Balcalhau, is the order of the day. Make sure to wash it down with a mineral, volcanic white wine from local producer Pico Wines (they also do wine tastings).
Explore: apart from the fabulous food and wine, the Azores are all about nature and the Atlantic Ocean. Try surfing for a rush of adrenaline, or go on a whale safari for an equally thrilling experience.
Stay: check out swanky Hospes Infante where booking through me gets you free breakfast, an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out, plus USD 100 F&B credit. Across the river is in Vila Nova de Gaia you should stay The Yeatman, where you will be treated to breakfast, an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out, not to mention Porto and Pastel upon arrival and an exclusive "Discover Porto & Douro" wine experience.
Eat: this column should read drink as Porto is all about wine, both port and the regular kind. The dining scene in Porto is spectacular and my list of good places too long to mention here.
Explore: apart from exploring the town itself, a visit to the wineries in the nearby Douro valley is a must. Top it off with a scenic river cruise for a perfect day trip.
Stay: opt for the stunning Pine Cliff's Resort perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. Booking with me gets you free breakfast plus USD 100 F&B credit, and possibly also an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out. At the equally beautiful Anantara Vilamoura you get the same perks.
Eat: make sure to schedule a visit to Portimão to try sardines in one of the town's many restaurant. Algarve style clams "conquilhas" are also a must. If you are not into seafood try another local specialty, the grilled chicken. Order a "frango da guia" and you will receive tender, grilled chicken marinated in piri piri chilies, garlic and lemon.
Explore: the beaches are a must see, and Algarve's main attraction. Especially the Praia da Faleia, Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana and the rock formations in Ponta da Piedade, all of them worth a visit.
Stay: opt for the fabulous Reid's Palace part of the legendary group of Belmond Hotels. Booking with me gets you free breakfast, a VIP welcome treat plus USD 90 F&B credit, and possibly also an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out.
Eat: while also known for lots of amazing seafood, Madeira also has a mountainous inland where you can try the famous "espetadas", skewers of cubed beef grilled at the table (in some restaurants), usually served with fried maize and "bolo de caco", a local flatbread. And of course you must do a Madeira tasting while there.
Explore: Madeira has plenty of beaches and cliffs, but offers more than just sunbathing. Try the many hiking routes to make up for all that food, or do a guided tour of a banana plantation. A boat trip is also a great idea, especially if combined with a bit of whale watching.
Stay: opt for the laidback luxury of your own chalet at the Sublime Comporta where booking with me gets you free breakfast, USD 100 resort credit, and possibly also an upgrade and early check-in, late check-out. Alma Lusa is another great option where you will get free breakfast, guaranteed late checkout at 2pm, a very special welcome gift, EUR 20 resort credit per day and possibly also an upgrade at check-in.
Eat: a reservation at the Philippe Starck designed Praia na Comporta is a must for the scenery and the food alike. The JNcQUOI Beach Club is also another favorite with the local in-crowd. For more laid-back beachside dining try the Comporta Cafe which has been around since before the town became known as a jetset spot.
Explore: in addition to all the beach clubs, dining options and shopping opportunities, Comporta has fascinating wildlife, including birds, dolphins and flamingoes. You can also ride horses in the sand dunes, or ride a boat through the Sado Estuary.