Portugal Blog - Portugal Visitor Guide

Gallery Hostel Porto

2012-01-13T08:53:00.001Z

Gallery Hostel in Porto opened in an historic building in the summer of 2011 and blends art and hospitality.

Gallery Hostel features a bar and cinema lounge as well as a small library and garden and has been getting rave reviews for guests, impressed with the modern, clean design within the over 100-year-old building.
The Rua Miguel Bombarda is one of Porto's most fashionable streets with art galleries, chic shops, cafes and restaurants all within walking distance of the Gallery Hostel.

Gallery Hostel
Rua Miguel Bombarda, nº222 - 4050-377 Porto
Tel: (+351) 224 964 313

Gallery Hostel is not far from the center of Porto just north of the Jardim do Carrigal.

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Portugal Slideshow

2011-12-03T07:17:00.000Z

See a slideshow of images of Portugal. See photographs of the Algarve, Lisbon, Evora and Elvas.

©: PortugalVisitor.com

Windmills in Algarve Portugal

2011-12-02T05:46:00.001Z

The western Algarve can be a pretty windy place with strong breezes blowing in from the Atlantic. A number of picturesque windmills were built in the 19th century on the Algarve coast and were used as olive and corn mills.

A number of the Algarve region's preserved and historic windmills have now been tastefully converted into self-catering holiday cottages or homes.

Calling abroad from Portugal – easier than it seems

2011-11-07T15:06:00.000Z

When you've moved away from your family to work abroad, you realize how important is to hear them as often as possible. And, since calling internationally can get quite expensive, here are some more affordable options for keeping in touch with your loved ones.

Calling cards or how the Portuguese call them "Cartões Telefônicos Pré-pagos para Ligações Telefônicas Internacionais" can be purchased either online or in physical shops. Portugal Telecom offers a varied selection of phone cards to call different countries that can be purchased in their stores. For more information about their products, check out their website.

International calling cards from providers such as EnjoyPrepaid.com are a flexible and affordable option for making international calls. With one of these prepaid cards, you can call anywhere in the world at rates as low as 1cent per minute. They can even be used from your computer, provided you have a working internet connection or from your smartphone.

Calling from your PC is a good alternative to traditional landlines and mobiles since it is often cheaper and easier to use. Skype or Google Talk is a good choice and if your loved ones also have a PC, the calls are free. If you're looking to call internationally, go for a calling card since the rates are sensibly lower.

Martinhal Beach

2011-10-30T11:37:00.000Z

Martinhal Beach near Sagres in the Algarve is the site of the Martinhal eco-resort. Located in the Costa Vicentina National Park, the Martinhal Resort is up-market accommodation for people who appreciate local Algarve crafts and cuisine.

Martinhal Beach can get a little windy but is perfect for such activities as surfing, wind-surfing, hiking and jogging.

Martinhal Beach Resort and Hotel
Sagres
8650-908
Portugal
Tel: 00351 282 620 026

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Why cheap travel insurance works well for people passionate about travel

2011-09-27T14:43:00.002+01:00

Are you crazy about travelling around the world for more than 3 months at a time? The rise of the staycation has meant that travel insurance costs have actually become cheaper for most travellers. Staycations continue to soar in popular in the autumn and winter months because many people in the UK want to escape the cold chill of colder months for sunnier climates. If this sounds like you, check out a few of the top advantages of cheaper travel insurance:

• Rewards: Cheap travel insurance rewards people who know the difference between Paris and Pyongyang. As a frequent traveller, you have sophisticated taste when it comes to travelling however that does not mean that you have to splash out on too much. Keep your purse bulging with plenty of money for entertaining yourself when you go travelling by purchasing cheap travel insurance. The rewards are a lower rate than if you are not a frequent traveller.

• Value for money from insurance: If you have wanderlust, you know that getting the most value for money is crucial if you are going to continue to indulge in travelling. It is almost as if travel insurance providers are reading the minds of today’s brand of travellers who want to save as much money as possible. The wealth of savings to be made with your cheap travel insurance policy comes when you choose multi-trip insurance cover. This is ideal if you are someone who likes to go on more than one holiday per year.

• Departure cover: It is every common frequent traveller’s worst nightmare but sometimes you can’t help it if the traffic is very thick! If you miss your departure or if you miss your flight back to the UK, do not worry because some cheap travel insurance providers give you missed departure cover. This is bound to be a positive for people who love to travel with their families. You can rest easy because if you have a large family entourage, missing the flight to your destination does not mean that your holiday has ended.

Travel Insurance Tip: When you arrive in your destination for your staycation holiday, be sure to check out where all the local hospitals are and to check if they are near where you are staying. This is to give you a sense of direction in case you become ill whilst you are on holiday or if you injure yourself.

Lagos Zoo

2011-08-30T05:54:00.001+01:00

Lagos Zoo is a fun day out for all the family. Lagos Zoo has a large collection of animals, plants and birds, set in a beautiful location. There are over 120 species of animals and over 200 species of plants, with a particularly diverse collection of primates including marmosets, gibbons, guenon, tamarin, siamang, and lemurs.

Lagos Zoo opened in 2000. Visitor facilities include a petting zoo with pigs and goats, a children's playground, a couple of decent cafes and a restaurant. Animal feeding times are particularly popular with visitors and occur throughout the day for the different groups of animals.

Lagos Zoo is north west of Lagos town near Benzafrim on the A22. Open 10am-5pm October through March and 10am-7pm the rest of the year.

Other attractions in or around Lagos include Lagos Fort and Camilo Beach.

Lagos Zoo
Quinta Figueiras, Sítio do Medronhal
Barão de S.João
Lagos
Algarve
860-013
Tel: 282 680 100

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Cabo de Sao Vicente

2011-07-29T03:56:00.000+01:00

Cabo de Sao Vicente is where the end of the world was - or at least, where people thought it was. When Europeans believed the world was flat, the most Western part of Europe would have been the last land before the world ended.

Despite this historical importance, Cabo de Sao Vicente is remarkably undeveloped.

A naval academy, which gave birth to navigation techniques which would change the history of the world was established here. There is also a lighthouse and a solitary cafe and gift shop in the grounds.

Cabo de Sao Vicente offers fantastic views back along the cliffs of the West Coast but sadly the academy blocks an uninterrupted view towards America.

Cabo de Sao Vicente is named after a preacher who was burnt at the stake by the Romans in the 4th century.

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Praia da Bordeira Carrapateira

2011-06-26T14:07:00.000+01:00

The beach at Praia da Bordeira, Carrapateira in the west of the Algarve on the Atlantic Coast, features 3km of fine, often largely deserted sand. Cross the Ribeira da Bordeira river from Carrapateira to get to this long, windswept beach, which is popular with surfers.

The beach is known for its limestone cliffs and sand dunes and is quieter than nearby Praia do Amando, which has the better surf.

Bordeira has the fantastic and very reasonably priced Restaurante de Cabrita which has great sea food, as well as toys for kids and live sea creatures in a saltwater tank.

The Restaurante de Cabrita is located by the entrance to the carpark.

Visitors to Praia da Bordeira near Carrapateira can also easily access the beaches at Praia da Vale Figueiras to the north, Praia do Amado and Praia do Castelejo to the south, Cabo de Sao Vincente and the town of Sagres all to the south.

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Ossuaries

2011-05-31T09:16:00.000+01:00

Capelas dos Ossos or "chapels of Bones" were found all over medieval Europe. There is another, similar chapel in Faro, for example

This image is from the famous Igreja de São Francisco in Evora.

There are other ossuaries throughout Europe including the Skull Chapel in Czermna in Poland, the Sedlec Ossuary in the Czech Republic, the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini in Rome and the San Bernardino alle Ossa in Milan.

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Spring in Evora Pink Blossom

2011-04-24T14:01:00.001+01:00

This lovely pink blossom was seen in Evora announcing the arrival of spring.

Spring comes to the Alentejo region of Portugal around early to mid-March and it is wonderful to see the various blossoms and fruits appearing on the trees once again.

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Portuguese PM Resigns

2011-03-24T14:02:00.009Z

Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates has resigned his post after the Portuguese parliament refused to back his Socialist Party's austerity budget of increase spending cuts and more tax rises.

The fallout of the impasse is likely to see an EU-mandated rescue package for the country similar to the austerty deals thrashed out for Ireland and Greece in 2010.

Portugal's debt crisis is worrying European markets.

"This political crisis has very grave consequences for the confidence Portugal needs from institutions and the financial markets," Socrates said.

Socrates presented his resignation to Portugal's President Anibal Cavaco da Silva.

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Bonitas de Lisbon

2011-02-24T04:50:00.000Z

BONITAS DE LISBON PORTUGAL

Located in the southwestern region of Europe, 97% of the totalpopulation of Portugal (11,317,192) was born in the country.

Portugal regained its independence for good from Spain in 1668, and became a Republic in 1910. On 1 January 1986 Portugal joined the EU. Porugal has a population density of 114 people/km2 of density and a total area of 92,090 km2.

WEATHER

Portugal yearly ordinary temperature varies from 13°C (in the north) to 18°C farther south. The county has roughly 2500 to 3200 hours of sunshine a year, with 4-6 hours daily in winter about half the extent of sunhine in the summer.
The highest recorded temperature was 47.4°C in Amareleja. To enjoy the best of Portugal's weather Hire Car Portugal.

THE LEGACY OF PORTUGUESE CULTURE

Football is Portugal's lasting sporting passion with top-class international players and celebrated coaches. Popular Portuguese literature could be said to have begun with Portuguese-Galician troubadours in the 14th century.

If you are landing at Lisbon Airport, hire a car from there. Go for Car Rental Lisbon Airport

Faro City

2011-02-23T04:48:00.000Z

FARO

Located in the southern part of Portugal, Faro is the capital of Algarve and is located near the Ria Formosa Lagoon - a natural reserve.

The population of the city is 41,934 however the number of people living in the entire municipal area is 58,305.

Faro's most famous event is the Faro International Motorcycle Rally, which is very popular in Europe. There are other famous places and services include the University of Algarve, a public university, Faro airport, the seaport, railway station and the local bus service.

AIRPORT

Faro airport is around 2.6km from the city of Faro. The Algarve has a very moderate temperature which makes Faro airport a very busy airport throughout the year; however the peak season is from March to October.

According to the data available approximately 5.4 million people boarded their flight from Faro airport in 2008. Ryanair based 7 aircraft in March 2010 at Faro airport. Even though it is a small airport, it handles a huge number of flights from the UK and other countries. There are a lot of food joints, gift shops and coffee shops at the airport. The two other closest airports are in Lisbon (capital of Portugal) and Jerez (in Spain). There are no trains at the airport but there are a lot of taxis and cars to be hired. Check out Hire a Car Faro Airport

HIRING A CAR IN PORTUGAL

Portugal is a beautiful place and exploring the area around Faro can be best done by hiring a car which gives you the liberty and freedom to reach different places that public transport will not be able to take you to. If you hire a car, you can enjoy the exotic beaches in Lagos, Alvor, Luz and Carvoeiro. There are certain things that you should take care of when hiring a car like driving on the right hand side, having a valid driving license, wearing a seat belt all the time and no cell phone usage while driving. Check Hire a Car Portugal

Comboios de Portugal

2011-02-21T04:38:00.000Z

Comboios de Portugal (CP) is Portugal's national railway. CP runs both inter-city and suburban trains.

The first railway in Portugal was built by the original Companhia dos Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses in 1856 from Lisbon to nearby Carregado. This company was nationalized in 1975 to eventually become CP.

There are four suburban lines in Lisbon (Azambuja, Cascais, Sintra & Sado) and four in Porto (Aveiro, Braga, Marco & Guimaraes).

The main intercity route is the 220kmph Alfa Pendular which connects Braga to Oporto, Lisbon and Faro. Lisbon to Porto takes from 2 hours 45 minutes on the quickest trains to just over 3 hours on the slower ones.

Visitors can register on the CP website to book tickets and calculate fares (in English). The present fare from Lisbon to Porto (Lisboa Santa Apolonia to Porto Campanha) on the quicker service is 30 Euros or 21 Euros on the slower services in 2nd class (turistica). First class fares (conforto) are 42 and 31 Euros respectively, which is very good value.

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Lusitanian House Festa

2011-01-07T04:04:00.000Z

Beatrice Bulteau Azulejos

Sorbonne-trained Beatrice moved to Lisbon, Portugal in 1980 where she began a series of watercolor studies with horses and movement. Beatrice has exhibited in galleries worldwide including Paris, San Francisco and Tokyo.

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Portugal Independence Day

2010-12-01T15:28:00.002Z

Today is Independence Day and celebrates Portugal's independence from Spain in 1640 after Spain had ruled the country since 1581.

On this day the Spanish were driven from the country and John of Bragança became King John IV of Portugal. A small group of Portuguese patriots stormed the palace in Lisbon and imprisoned the Duchess of Mantua, the Spanish appointed Governor of Portugal.

Sporadic conflict followed the coup in Lisbon and lasted, on and off, until 1668. Along with a number of border incursions, the fortress town of Elvas was unsuccessfully beseiged by Spanish forces, though nearby Evora was briefly taken by the Spaniards. Spain finally agreed to recognize Portugal's independence on in February 1668.

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All Saints' Day Dia de Todos-os-Santos

2010-11-01T03:19:00.003Z

Today is All Saints' Day, Dia de Todos-os-Santos, a national holiday in Portugal.

The holiday honours all saints, those known and unknown.

All banks, public buildings such as museums and many shops will close on public holidays in Portugal.

The next day following All Saints' Day is All Souls' Day in the Catholic calendar.

Devout Catholics will attend mass in one of Portugal's many churches on this day.

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Praca do Giraldo Evora

2010-10-18T05:50:00.000+01:00

The Praca do Giraldo is the main central square in the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Evora, with many small streets radiating out from the sides of the square.

The town's tourist office is situated here and there are some wonderful pavement cafes here to kick back, have a glass of wine, some fine food and, above all, just relax.

The 16th century renaissance-style church of Santo Antão can be seen in the image above.

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Cabo da Roca Cape Roca

2010-09-22T15:06:00.001+01:00

Cabo da Roca, or Cape Roca, once known as the “Rock of Lisbon,” is about 16km (10 miles) from Sintra, and is a must-see if you are in Sintra.

Cabo da Roca is not only the westernmost point in Portugal, but in Europe. It is the most visited spot in the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, a 14.5 hectare park that includes the village of Azenhas do Mar, spectacularly nestled into a cliff.

Cabo da Roca towers almost 150m above the sea, which is usually very rough. The formidable cape is regularly buffeted by gales. In the sixteenth century it sported a fortress that served for Portugal’s maritime defense. Some inconspicuous ruins remain, but the main building there now is a lighthouse, also quite old, dating from the late 18th century.

The weather conditions are indeed extreme. As you can see in the photo of the crucifix-topped commemorative plinth that I am standing beside in the first photo, the wind will rip off any headgear that isn’t gripped onto tight.

It is a miracle that anything can grow in such extreme weather conditions. However, it is overrun with the very hardy South African sour fig, or ice plant, a succulent creeper introduced to the region several years ago that has completely taken over.

Before going to Cabo da Roca, I had read that a certificate of having visited the cape was available to the equally hardy foreign tourist who braved it, but when I went there there was no such prize in sight.

You may be luckier!

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Public Telephones In Portugal

2010-08-28T08:28:00.001+01:00

Portugal Telecom (PT) operates the majority of the country's landline telephone services.

Public telephones can be found by the roadside, in post offices (correios), stations and cafes. Most public telephones accept both coins and cards.

Phone cards can be purchased in Portugal Telecom shops, post offices and kiosks.

The once state-owned PT is now a private company and has a major presence in Brazil and other countries.

Mobile phones far outnumber landlines in Portugal (over 13 million to 4 million).

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Arriving At Lisbon Airport

2010-07-25T06:46:00.000+01:00

Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is Portugal's main airport and a major hub for flights to the Azores and Madeira.

The airport has car parking facilities (4 car parks), a tourist office, shops, cafes, car hire offices (Avis, Sixt, Hertz, Europcar) and bus connections to central Lisbon - buses #5, #22, #44, #45, #83, #208, #745.

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Holidays in Portugal

2010-06-30T11:27:00.000+01:00

If you’re undecided about your next holiday destination, but want to visit a country full of beautiful beaches, fabulous resorts and a distinctive culture and identity, then look no further than Portugal.

Stunning sunshine beams down daily, which makes the Algarve the perfect area to get away to if you want a holiday that consists of relaxing and unwinding. Cheap Algarve holidays boast a selection of resorts that offer everything you could possibly need. The liveliest resort, Albufeira is home to no less than seven beaches and a nightlife that rivals the very best Europe has to offer.

If you prefer to spend your holiday immersing yourself in historical culture and stunning architecture, why not take a city break to Porto or the capital city of Lisbon? The other side of Portugal is obvious to see in these vibrant cities that offer wine lodges, charming restaurants and fantastic shopping.

History is also apparent in Madeira, a gorgeous island off of the Portuguese coast in the Atlantic Ocean. Offering not only a rich historical past, it also differs from mainland Portugal because the landscape is quite simply beautiful. Here you will find breath taking scenery, unbelievable hiking opportunities and an interesting culture all for you to explore.

The diversity of destinations in Portugal makes it a must for British holidaymakers. Whether you want sightseeing, family holidays, stag or hen parties or even a romantic city break, holidays in Portugal provide.

Experience a variety of new things such as water sports, dolphin watching or its speciality - golf. Portugal is home to 15 world class golf courses, so if you’re looking to improve your handicap, Portugal is the essential destination for you.

With such a variety of destinations and experiences, Portugal is the perfect place for your next holiday.

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Rua da Academia das Ciências, Lisbon

2010-06-25T15:05:00.002+01:00

Rua da Academia das Ciências is a street in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto district. It is very picturesque not only in its ancientness, but – as in many Portuguese cityscapes - in the variety of architectural ages and styles that meld in it.

Rua da Academia das Ciências is worth a visit for three reasons. The first is the institution it is named after: the Academia das Ciências de Lisboa (Sciences Academy of Lisbon). It is housed in the former Convent of Jesus (which still survives in part as the Hospital de Jesus) and was established in 1779. The Convent became home to the academy in 1833. The founding of the Academy was a boon in particular to the study of mathematics in Portugal as its Memoirs were the only journal at that time where mathematicians could publish their research.

The Academy is worth a visit for its huge, awe-inspiring hall and its general atmosphere of scholarly grandeur and noble dedication to fusty causes. It also has the Museu Geológico (Geological Museum), founded in 1857, Portugal’s first geological and archaeological museum. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm.

Down the other end of the Rua da Academia das Ciências is an institution that, in some senses, couldn’t be more diametrically opposed to the stolid, sedentary Academia in its intent: the Escola Superior de Dança, or the Advanced School of Dance. Yet, in a way, it is sister to the Academia in that dance here is studied in such depth that graduates leave with a bachelor’s degree in the subject.

Then, happily, at 1-1A Rua da Academia das Ciências, where it meets Rua O Seculo (see photo above), next door to the dance school, is Consenso, one of Lisbon’s best restaurants. It is said that personages as exalted as the prime minister patronize this establishment, but for all its chic interior, its new age “earth, air, fire, water” theme, and its exquisite, modern cuisine, it nevertheless manages to be surprisingly affordable. Highly recommended.
Restaurant Consenso
Mon-Sun: 7.30pm - 11:30pm
Rua da Academia das Ciencias 1-1A
Bus no. 92, tram no. 28, Baixa-Chiado subway station.
Tel . 21 346 86 11
http://www.restauranteconsenso.com/eng/home.html

Oh, and one more reason to visit Rua da Academia das Ciências: like almost any backstreet in the Bairro Alto, it is delightfully sleepy and eminently wanderable.

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Portugal Holidays

2010-06-25T12:07:00.000+01:00

Portugal isn’t just the base country for brilliant football players and Port. No, in fact it offers a whole lot more than this. One of the main reasons that thousands of Brit holidaymakers choose it as their destination every year, is because of the fabulous weather that shines on Portugal’s beautiful beaches.

The popularity of holidays to the Algarve has grown over the years and it is easy to understand why. Home to every kind of resort you could ever want on a holiday, it offers sun drenched beaches, family-friendly resorts, and a fantastic nightlife – there truly is something for everyone.

If lying in the sun sometimes leaves you feeling restless, why not visit Madeira, Portugal’s small island in the Atlantic Ocean, and explore the other side of the country? Madeira boasts heavenly scenery, a history rich with culture and the opportunity to get active with a range of excellent hiking opportunities. The traditional charm that this tiny yet beautiful island offers will remain with you long after you’ve left.

Alternatively, if you fancy yourself as a golf pro, you will be in the right place. Portugal is home to 15 of Europe’s best courses, built around rural landscapes and ocean views, the perfect setting to hone your skills.

Beach holidays, and golf is not all Portugal has to offer. The country is so diverse, so why not try a city break to Porto or the capital city Lisbon? Both cities fuse culture and history, making them ideal destinations for holidaymakers who desire the thrill of a vibrant city. Eat in amazing restaurants and shop in boutiques whilst being surrounded by stunning architecture that gives Portugal such a distinctive identity.

Whatever you hope to get out of your holiday - be it relaxing beach holidays in the Algarve or culturally fuelled breaks, you’ll find it on your holidays to Portugal.

Indians in Portugal

2010-06-24T14:43:00.000+01:00

The Portuguese people have for hundreds of years formed Europe’s most ethnically and culturally homogenous nation. To be sure, there are various ethnic influences on the population by region, with a Celtic influence in the north, and Arab influence in the south. But these influences are only that, and do not form boundaries.

However, post-colonial Portugal has become more like the rest of Europe in its ethnic composition. Although, even now, compared with neighboring Spain, for example, Portugal’s is a far less complex situation.

The biggest ethnic minority now is African: mainly from the former colony of the Cape Verde Islands. It is estimated to number about 200,000. The majority of Portuguese Africans lives in the greater Lisbon area – mostly in circumstances considerable less comfortable than those in general of the Caucasian population.

Another sizeable ethnic minority in Portugal is Indian. There are estimated to be about 60,000 in Portugal –mainly in greater Lisbon and Porto, but in Algarve, Coimbra, Guarda, and Leiria, too.

Many Gujaratis came from Mozambique once Portuguese rule ended there in 1974. They formed the Gujarati vanguard, Gujaratis from India also immigrating to Portugal from the 1980s. While Mozambique Gujaratis are typically successful in business, it tends to be the Gujaratis from India who are involved in bigger enterprises, mostly trade and commerce, as well as manufacturing and the hospitality industry.

Goa was given independence from Portugal in 1961. Indians in Goa were already at the top of the socio-economic pyramid there and it was they who immigrated to Portugal in considerable numbers. Mozambique also had a sizable population of ethnic Goans, who typically held administrative positions, many of whom immigrated to Portugal in 1974 with the granting of independence.

Nevertheless, while Indians are in evidence in Lisbon (see photo above) and other cities, there is little in the way of obvious Indian businesses, least of all Indian restaurants of which, sadly, there is a dearth.

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Rua Augusta, Lisbon

2010-06-23T15:04:00.002+01:00

Rua Augusta, in the Baixa area of Lisbon, is the city’s main pedestrian and shopping street. Closed to traffic, it runs all the way from the Praça do Comércio up to the Praça de Dom Pedro IV (AKA “Rossio”), a length of 550 meters.

Being a walkway, it is also a route where pedestrians are constantly being offered things – especially round the arch joining it to Praça do Comércio. Craftsmen peddle African wooden carvings or South American leatherwork or Middle Eastern metalwork, scarves, and jewelry; stalls stock souvenir T-shirts, cheap sunglasses, paintings, hot chestnuts, flowers; and street artists, musicians, and anyone else with anything to try and charm you with do their best to attract you and your coins.

At 89 Rua Augusta is the famous Travellers House Lisbon, one of the city’s best hostels with its modernity, cleanliness, spaciousness and sociability.

Just a little further along, at no. 110 Rua Augusta, on the corner of Rua Augusta and Rua de Sao Nicolau, is the Sao Nicolau Cafeteria (see photo) where there are some delicious pastries to be had.

Rua Augusta is the most accessible of Lisbon grand boulevards, and is where you can interact with the people of the city, view a thousand different products from the tawdry to the ritzy, and a lot of splendid architecture – all at your own pace.

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Pena Palace and Gardens

2010-06-20T12:45:00.003+01:00

Pena Palace in the town of Sintra is famous as Europe’s most Romantic-style castle – which is of little surprise, considering that its present state dates from the mid-19th century when Romanticism was at its height.

Pena Palace began in the 14th century as a small chapel built on a hill, dedicated to Our Lady of Pena. Years later, St. Jerome’s monastery was added. In the 18th century the monastery was first struck by lightning, and then, more seriously, by the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake. The chapel, by contrast, survived virtually intact.

The king consort in the mid-19th century, Ferdinand II, was a German by birth. He was charmed and fascinated by this little chapel and the ghostly ruins of the monastery, so acquired the site and set out rebuilding what had been the old monastery as a royal summer residence.

The job of designing the new palace was given to the amateur German architect, Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, and construction took place from 1842 to 1854. King Ferdinand and Queen Maria II also had extensive say in the design. The vault arches, and the Islamic and Medieval aspects of the design are among the features ordered by the royal couple.

Architecturally it is a potpourri of styles spanning many continents and ages from Gothic, to Renaissance, to Moorish.

Pena Park was created around the Palace at the same time. Ferdinand II’s vision for the park was a blend of wild tropical forests and the grand woods of Germany. So, like the Palace, it is an eclectic, but wonderfully integrated, construct of flora from all over the world, including North America, China, Japan, and, for fern and tree ferns, Australia and New Zealand.

It became the property of the Portuguese State in 1889, and a national monument after the 1910 Republican Revolution.

The photos from this visit to Pena Palace and Gardens were taken on a rainy day, which, with the soft mysteriousness of the muted colors and darkened corners, captures the inspiration behind the royal fantasy that gave birth to this magical site in Sintra.

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The Bemposta Monstrance

2010-06-15T14:27:00.000+01:00

A Lisbon museum that anyone with any appreciation of art and crafts must visit is the National Museum of Ancient Art, (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga) on the Rua das Janelas Verdes.

The range of art on display in the museum is very wide, covering not only paintings, but ceramics, textiles, furniture, and metalwork.

One highlight of the metalwork on display is the famous Bemposta Monstrance of Belem. This amazing 97cm high incarnation of opulent ornateness was created in Portugal in the 18th century, about 1775–80, by Adam Gottlieb Pollet from silver-gilt, diamonds, rubies, topazes, emeralds, sapphires, rock crystals and amythests - mostly from the treasure trove that was Brazil.

The unquestioned authority of a Church with as much wealth, power (and time) on its hands to create something as uncompromisingly majestic as this is almost as impressive as the object itself. And of course, viewing it somewhat in isolation as you do in the Musuem you can almost forget that when in use it was just another element in an institution in which that opulence extended in every direction.

Oh come all ye faithless!

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Museo da Marioneta, Lisbon

2010-06-06T13:15:00.000+01:00

The Museo da Marioneta, or Puppet Museum, of Lisbon, is a true labor of puppetry love, launched by the puppeteer group Companhia de Marionetas de São Lourenço in 1987.

The permanent collection of the museum includes a lot more than just Portuguese puppetry, but reaches right back to the roots of puppetry in its retelling of the history of the art from stages around the world, particularly Asia.

The museum’s collection features masks, puppets, techniques, posters, clothing and stage props – again, with a lot more than just Portuguese puppets, but devoted, of course, to their irresistible magic.

The Museum has special exhibitions, advertised on the Puppetry Museum website (unfortunately not regularly updated in English.)

Convento das Bernardas - Rua da Esperança, nº 146
Lisbon, Portugal, 1200-660
Phone:
213942810
Tue - Sun:
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

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Flags on Rossio Railway Station

2010-05-21T08:31:00.005+01:00

Lisbon’s most famous station, Rossio Railway Station, with its splendid Neo-Manueline (i.e. 16th-century-Gothic-inspired) façade, used to be known as Central Station, reflecting its historical importance.

Another feature of the station that continues to proclaim that “centrality” is the display of flags that fly smartly from its apex of its entranceway.

In this photo, you can see four flags being flown above the station. They are, from left, the flag of Europe, the flag of Portugal, a flag that looks like it should be the flag of Portuguese Railways – but isn’t (please leave a comment if you know), and the flag of Lisbon.

The black and white pattern of the flag of Lisbon is known as a gyronny (or gironny) in heraldry parlance – made up of eight alternatively black and white gyrons - indicating city status. This plain version is the civil version. The “full” version includes the city’s coat of arms in the middle.

Interestingly, in spite of Lisbon having existed more or less as “Lisbon” (originally "Olissipo") at least since the time of Julius Caesar, and in spite of it being incontrovertibly the capital city of Portugal, its status as capital city has never been officially enshrined. It is a purely de facto capital. Besides the fact of Lisbon being the seat of government, the city’s flag is therefore one of the most important visible assertions of its historical status.

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Regimento de Lanceiros nº 2

2010-05-19T13:15:00.006+01:00

The Ajuda district is well known for its Palacio Nacional da Ajuda and it accompanying Museum, and for the Jardim Botanico da Ajuda (Ajuda Botanical Garden).

Of course, both are well worth the visit, but if you’re in the area, try and include the base of the Regimento de Lanceiros nº 2 in your route.

The 2nd Lancers Regiment is a Portuguese Army unit with its headquarters on a hill in the Ajuda district of Lisbon. The Regiment runs Portugal’s Army Police (Polícia do Exército).

The Regiment’s headquarters have a light earthy-colored entrance, jaunty red flags, candy-striped sentry box, and colorful crests, with an almost festive atmosphere, offset by the stern retired tank displayed to the left of the entrance (just visible in the photo).

The photo above of the entrance of the Regiment’s headquarters shows its crest at the right with the motto “Murte ou Gloria” (“Death or Glory”) - not really legible in the photo - and the skull-and-crossbone emblazoned shield.

This close-up photo shows the crest in more detail, rendered in brass, but without the motto.

If you tarry long enough, you’ll also experience the thrill of real men in uniform. Careful with your camera!

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Blazons Hall, National Palace, Sintra

2010-05-16T14:38:00.002+01:00

Sintra is a short daytrip out of the city of Lisbon. Of its many wonderful sights, the National Palace is one of the best. After the area was recaptured from the Moors, the Palace became royal property. Embellishments followed from the 13 century onwards.

One part of the Palace of particular note is the Blazons Hall in its western part. Its decorations are overwhelmingly heraldic. The ceiling, with its octagonal dome, is its most spectacular feature, with the royal Portuguese coat of arms, framed by a winged dragon, at its very top.

Below it, around the beautifully tiled walls are scores of other coats of arms of the children of the great Dom Manuel I, and below it, of 72 other noble clans.

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Pork in Portugal

2010-04-23T11:11:00.003+01:00

You can’t go far in Portugal without coming upon somewhere selling pork. It’s as staple to the Portuguese diet as cod. Anyone who knows a little about Portuguese cuisine can tell you, the most famous pork dish in Portugal is the Bairrada suckling pig – Barraida being a region in the middle of Portugal famous both for its pigs and its wine, and a suckling pig being one that is still feeding off its mother’s milk. The city in the Barraida considered the suckling pig capital is the region’s largest, Mealhada.

Pork is sold in Portugal in its many different forms, but usually in a form that, like the way fish are sold, is far from processed. Shown here is a typical sight in any Portuguese butchery: hams, as is, waiting to be carved off for you. This shot was taken in a Lisbon supermarket.

Pork is, of course, also dined on in various forms, but with roast pork, the traditional way to serve it is with acorns and/or truffles.

Read an article about Portuguese cuisine

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The Portuguese menu

2010-04-21T13:42:00.005+01:00

Portugal is a nation facing the Atlantic Ocean, not to mention one with a long and illustrious seafaring history.
It's no surprise then to find that seafood features prominently in Portuguese cuisine. Dining in Lisbon is a safe experience in terms of very rarely being let down, but by no means a boring one. Fresh vegetables, not overly cooked or processed, share the plate with fresh fish that can be anything from the tuna, snapper and the like familiar to English-speakers to more exotic treats like octopus.

Carcois a Portuguesa (Portuguese snails), Bacalhau assado com batatas (boiled salted cod fish with potatoes and roasted peppers), Caldo verde (vegetable soup), Arroz doce com abobora (rice pudding) - are some of the perennials of Portuguese cuisine. And, of course, at prices that won't hurt the pocketbook - and just as well, because you'll want to be back!

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Portugal Pavements - Calçada

2010-04-18T13:25:00.005+01:00

Portugal's distinctive paving, known as Calçada in Portuguese can be seen in most Portuguese towns and cities as well as in the former Portuguese colonies Brazil and Macau.

The traditional paving is found in many of the squares and sidewalks of Lisbon, so keep your eyes to the ground for a treat beneath your feet.

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El Corte Inglés Lisbon

2010-04-15T07:58:00.007+01:00

El Corte Inglés is the largest department store chain in Spain and also has branches in Portugal.

There has been an El Corte Inglés store in Lisbon since 2001 and one opened in Vila Nova de Gaia in Porto in 2006.

The name El Corte Inglés means The English Cut as in a tailor's cut and was the name given to the company by founder Ramón Areces, who began his business ascent by purchasing a small tailor's shop in Madrid in the 1930s.

The Lisbon store is one of the company's largest and its nine floors include a supermarket, a 14-screen cinema, cafes, restaurants including an an outdoor terrace on the top storey as well as electronics, books, CDs, clothing and household goods.

El Corte Ingles
Av. Antonio Augusto Aguiar, 31
Marquês da Fronteira e Sidónio Pais
Tel: 213 711 700

Nearest Metro station: São Sebastião

The supermarket Supercor is also owned by the chain and there is a huge Supercor branch at Parque das Nações, Avenida dos Oceanos, 29 (Tel: 218 985 160)

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University of Lisbon

2010-04-14T05:09:00.005+01:00

The University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa) was founded in 1911 but its roots go much further back in Portuguese history to the Estudo Geral of the late 13th century.

The state-run University of Lisbon has eight faculties: the faculties of Fine Arts, Sciences, Law, Medicine, Dental Medicine, Psychology, Pharmacy, and Letters.

The University of Lisbon maintains four museums: the Astronomy Observatory of Lisbon (Tel: +351 21 361 6730), the Museum of Medicine (Tel: +351 21 798 5153), the National Museum of Natural History (Tel +351 21 392 1879) and the Science Museum of the University of Lisbon (Tel: +351 21 392 1808).

University of Lisbon
Alameda da Universidade
Cidade Universitária
1649 - 004
Lisboa
Tel: 351 21 796 7624

The nearest metro station is Cidade Universitária Station (on the Yellow Line); the following buses stop at UL, #31, #35, #738, #768.

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Pensao Residencial Ninho das Aguis, Lisbon hotel

2010-04-04T12:04:00.005+01:00

I recently stayed at the Pensao Residencial Ninho das Aguis (i.e., “Eagle’s Nest”) in Lisbon’s Alfama district, not far from the Castle of São Jorge. It is in a very convenient location, perched just above the city center, and offers wonderful views of Lisbon.

The Ninho das Aguis is up a very steep hill, so is probably not the first choice for those not in great physical shape, but, on the other hand, it is easily accessible by tram (no. 16) or bus (no.37), from which stops it is only a short walk.

Equally challenging is the huge spiral staircase that has to be scaled immediately upon entering from the street, but once you’ve climbed them you are in a cozy little accommodation, below which the city lies spread out, making it very much an “eagle’s nest” of a place to stay.

The amenities are limited, just a bed and wash facilities (no toilet in the room), but it is fairly cheap at about 50 euros per night, and clean enough.

The Pensao Residencial Ninho das Aguis is recommended for those who want somewhere close to where it’s happening, don’t mind using their legs, are happy with a taste of Lisbon “as she is” as opposed to being pampered.

Pensao Residencial Ninho das Aguias
74 Costa do Castelo, Lisbon 1100, Portugal

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Lisbon Holiday Inn

2010-03-07T15:07:00.011Z

The Lisbon Holiday Inn is ideally located for a visit to Lisbon. Only 2 km north of downtown Lisbon, it is walking distance from no less than four subway stations: Saldanha, Campo Pequeno, Areeiro, Alameda. You can also walk westwards to the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian – with its exquisite, world class collection of art from around the world - and in even less time to the nearby Campo Pequeno Bullfighting Arena, just a little northwards.

The Holiday Inn is located on a roundabout on Av. António José de Almeida, named after the sixth President of Portugal from 1919 until 1923, and whose imposing memorial statue stands in front of the hotel.

The Lisbon Holiday Inn is a good, solid standard bearer for the Holiday Inn hotel chain, with friendly, efficient, full English-speaking service, comfortable and spacious rooms, a (very) small gym, and a pool. Perhaps the best feature of all is the sumptuous breakfast buffet for only 5 Euros extra.

As a place to enjoy Portuguese hospitality in a modern, comfortable internationally standard hotel – but still small enough for that warm, charming personal touch, the Lisbon Holiday Inn is well recommended for the tourist to Lisbon.

Make a booking at the Lisbon Holiday Inn

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Amália Rodrigues - Queen of Fado

2010-03-05T14:14:00.002Z

This picture was taken in Lisbon’s Pena district where, in 1920, Amália da Piedade Rodrigues, who was to become one of Portugal’s most beloved fado singers and actresses.

Such was Rodrigues’ success that she was known as the Queen of Fado (Rainha do Fado) and during her 40 years on the fado stage she was able to popularize the genre internationally. This she did by breaking fado out of its traditional mold and rewriting the rules according to her own unforgettable way of singing. One way she did this was via an encounter with the composer Frederico Valério, who helped her put her singing to an orchestral accompaniment – a first in fado singing.

In spite of fado being a quintessentially Portuguese form, she found a partner throughout the 1960s in the French composer Alain Oulman, who wrote most of her songs – many of which deviated from the typical fado sound.

By the 1980s, Rogrigues had established herself as a living legend, and continued recording right through the decade. She died in 1999 – on a day that was declared a day of national mourning. She is buried in the National Pantheon.

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Beatrice Bulteau Horses

2010-02-24T15:25:00.003Z

Beautiful paintings of horses from Portugal resident, French artist Beatrice Bulteau.

Sorbonne-trained Beatrice moved to Lisbon, Portugal in 1980 where she began a series of watercolor studies with horses and movement. Beatrice has exhibited in galleries worldwide including Paris, San Francisco and Tokyo.

As well as her equestrian art, Beatrice works in ceramics with vases and traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos).

Beatrice Bulteau Azulejos

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Lisbon fire hydrants

2010-02-20T14:36:00.004Z

Lisbon is a city steeped in history - steeped in the sense of that history still being conspicuously visible in its textures, colors, architecture, state of repair, and amenities.

One amenity that is particularly conspicuous - mainly by its color than its number - is the street fire hydrant. Fire hydrants in Portugal are painted the standard vivid red, and are of a classic design that seems to have changed little in at least the past 60 years.

What makes the fire hydrants of Lisbon interesting is not just their retro design and bright color, but their backdrops. The standard shape and brilliant hue of the hydrant accentuates the atmosphere of whatever they happen to be placed in front of, whether a whitewashed old wall, a set of tiles, stonework, or other masonry.

See pictures of 10 randomly photographed fire hydrants in Lisbon and see how they showcase miniature beauty spots of this very aesthetic city.

Click here to see the first picture, then click "Next Lisbon image" at the bottom of each following picture.

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Museo Nacional do Azulejo

2010-01-26T13:37:00.005Z

Portugal’s Museo Nacional do Azulejo, or National Tile Museum, is in Lisbon. One legacy of Portugal’s Moorish past is its tiles. Not only decorative, they also keep dwellings warm and dry, so have maintained their relevance in what is still a very old-style city.

The National Tile Museum is housed in an old convent, so is worth visiting for the building as well as the tile exhibits. The breadth of the tile exhibit is stunning, covering every period of tile making and every style of tile, from traditional to modern.

The tile murals are particularly memorable, not only for their size and scope, but also for the characteristically naïve but still otherworldly portrayals of the human figure that Portuguese tiles exhibit. One room is dedicated to a massively long panorama of Lisbon in tiles. Whole stairways and rooms are covered in tiled creations. There are also historical artistic objets that are unconnected to tiles, but offer a fascinating diversion.

Another highlight of the National Tile Museum is its sumptuous rococo chapel – not notable for tiles, but a feast for the eyes all the same.

The Museo Nacional do Azulejo is in Rua Madre de Deus 4, Lisbon, Portugal.
Tel: 218 100 340

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Roasted chestnut cart in Lisbon

2010-01-19T10:16:00.004Z

The streets of Lisbon are alive with commerce, much of it tourist-oriented. This man is one of the many hawking roasted chestnuts.

At two Euros per bag, they can't be called cheap (very little in Portugal can, in fact). However, once you have cracked open one of the pleasantly warm nuts and put it in your mouth, any misgivings you had take leave.

The savory, almost smoky, flavor of roasted chestnuts is delightful, inspiring a multitude of memories, and with a friendly smile from the hawker, you are on your way with your bulging paper bag.

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Lisbon Castle Cannon

2010-01-09T09:21:00.005Z

Yet more cannon from Lisbon, this time at Lisbon Castle.

The Castelo de São Jorge dates from medieval times but its guns have rarely been fired in anger. The former Moorish fort on Lisbon's highest hill was taken by Crusaders in the 12th century thanks to the legendary bravery of Martim Moniz, but since that time the castle has rarely been beseiged. Only twice in the 14th century did the castle come under attack by an invading army - the Castilians attempted to take the city in 1373 and again in 1383-4.

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Roman Bath At Evora

2010-01-04T11:42:00.000Z

Roman remains in Evora include not only the impressive Templo Romano but also the circular Roman bath with the City Hall building.

The bath is probably the remains of a much larger bath complex and was discovered during renovations to the Town Hall in 1987.

Archeologists believe the bath is a Laconicum - or hot bath.

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Cathedral of Évora

2010-01-03T11:30:00.004Z

The Cathedral of Evora is one of the UNESCO World Heritage city's main attractions.

Building began in the early 13th century after the reconquest of the city from the Moors.

Additions and improvements continued over the centuries including the superbly ornate 18th century chapel by German architect João Frederico Ludovice, who was also responsible for the Monastery at Mafra.

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Feliz Ano Novo

2010-01-01T12:59:00.000Z

Feliz Ano Novo

Happy New Year to all our readers!

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Cabo da Roca

2009-12-29T15:31:00.005Z

Cabo da Roca, in the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, is the westernmost point of the European continent. I was there in October. There is a picturesque red lighthouse, a stone pillar with a plaque about Cabo da Roca on its side and a crucifix on top, and a stunning view of the rocky coast.

However, the most memorable feature of Cabo da Roca is probably its winds. The hour and a half I spent there was a battle against the blustery cold wind that blasted this very exposed outcrop of land. In the photo of me by the Cabo da Roca monument, what looks like a salute is a desperate attempt to keep my cap on.

Another more pleasantly memorable feature is the succulent Carpobrotus edulis plant that, besides grass, grow all over the sandy soil, tenaciously maintaining a hold.

Cabo da Roca is about 40 km west of Lisbon and 20 km west of Sintra, making it a very easy day trip by bus out of either place.

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Torre de Belem Cannon

2009-12-20T08:50:00.004Z

Belem Tower was originally built as a fortification to protect the Lisbon reaches of the River Tagus, though there is no evidence that its cannon were ever fired in anger.

The early 16th century tower served more as a prison than a naval gun emplacement and held over 100 political prisoners during the time of Spain's rule over Portugal.

Belem Tower's other non-military uses included seving as a customs post, telegraph station, a lighthouse and a clinic.

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Altis Belem

2009-11-24T13:38:00.003Z

Altis Belém Hotel & Spa is a five-star accommodation on the River Tagus in Belem, located within walking distance from the Belem Tower and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos.

The minimalist, modernist hotel has 50 rooms (including 5 suites) all with LCD full High Definition TV, Nespresso machines, electric curtains and WIFI Internet.

The Altis' spa includes a swimming pool, sauna and a hammam (Turkish Bath).

There are a number of fine restaurants and cafes within the hotel for visitors and guests alike.

A shuttle bus takes visitors to and from Lisbon Airport.

Altis Belém Hotel & Spa
Doca do Bom Sucesso
1400-038 Lisboa
Tel: + 351 210 400 200

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Portuguese Numbers

2009-11-10T14:50:00.003Z

One of the first and most useful things to learn in any new language is the numbers.

Listen to the numbers in Portuguese.

Portuguese may be a difficult language for many people to learn due to its pronunciation - but the numbers are easily learnt.

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Socialists Win Second Term

2009-10-28T16:20:00.003Z

The results of Sunday's general election in Portugal saw the Socialist Prime Minister Jose Socrates win a second term, though his centre-left party lost its absolute majority in the Portuguese parliament.

The Socialists won roughly 37% of the vote, compared with 45% in the 2005 poll. Turnout was low as the Socialists held on to 96 seats, down from 121 in the previous general election.

Unemployment and debt are both high in Portugal with 9.1% of the workforce out of a job and the national debt at around 5.9% of gross domestic product.

Leftists had strong gains, rising to around 10% of the vote.

Socrates has proposed a number of big-spending infrastructure projects, including a high-speed rail link to Spain and a new Lisbon airport to stimulate the moribund Portuguese economy.

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Zambujeira do Mar

2009-10-11T13:46:00.005+01:00

Zambujeira do Mar in Alentejo is located on the Atlantic Coast south of Lisbon. The small fishing village, with a population of less than 1000, hosts the annual 4-day rock Festival Sudoeste in early August.

Zambujeira do Mar is known for its mild winters and natural setting as it is situated in a national park known for its birds. The wild deserted beaches are excellent for surfing.

There's a turismo on the main street (Tel: 283 961 144). There are bus connections to Lisbon (just less than 4 hours), Vila Nova (45 mins), Beja (3 hours) and Odemira (40 minutes).

Book accommodation in Zambujeira do Mar.

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Portuguese Language Map

2009-10-08T03:04:00.004+01:00

The Portuguese language is spoken by around 188 million people in 31 countries and territories around the world. Click on the map to expand it.

The wide geographical spread of Portuguese reflects the colonial expansion of Portugal in the 15th-18th centuries.

Brazil, a Portuguese colony until 1822, has the largest number of Portuguese speakers followed by Portugal itself. Portuguese is also the official language of Mozambique, however only around 8% of the population, use Portuguese as their first language. Portuguese is also used in India, Canada, France, Paraguay, South Africa, and the United States.

© Copyright 2009 SASI Group (University of Sheffield)

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Portugal Population Map

2009-10-03T04:09:00.001+01:00

These new maps from Worldmapper graphically show the population density of Portugal.

The largest bulge is around the capital Lisbon and the second city, Porto, to the north. The gray areas represent areas of low population density.

The total population of Portugal was estimated in 2008 at 10,676,910.

Click on the map to enlarge it.

© Copyright 2009 SASI Group (University of Sheffield)

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Estremoz Hotels

2009-09-06T13:11:00.005+01:00

There are some excellent hotels and places to stay in Estremoz. The beautiful Pousada de Santa Rainha has 33 well-furnished rooms, a swimming pool & garden and some beautiful views from the Upper Town.

The Albergaria Monte Da Rosada Hotel has good rooms and a spacious garden with pool.

The Pateo Dos Solares Hotel is a fine, upmarket hotel in a converted Portuguese manor house.

© PortugalVisitor

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Porto Weather

2009-09-02T15:51:00.001+01:00

The weather in Porto is generally cooler than that in Lisbon and the Algarve region to the south.

You must have a browser that supports iframes to view the BBC weather observations

Porto is 2 or 3 degrees cooler than both Faro and Lisbon in summer and has considerably much more rain throughout the year.

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Rossio Square By Night

2009-08-29T15:31:00.004+01:00

Adjacent to Restauradores Square is Rossio. Rossio is one of the liveliest public spaces in the capital and surrounded by cafes and places to dine al fresco. Café Nicola, is an historic spot, where the poet Manuel Maria Barbosa du Bocage would hold court. The Pastelaria Suíça and the Ginjinha are two more places to linger with bags of tradition.

Rossio or to give it its full name - Praça de D. Pedro IV - is an historic square which was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. The square is paved with a traditional Portuguese wave pattern of stones and hosts two fountains. The statue of King Pedro IV on a column dates from 1874.

The 19th century Rossio Station remains an important transport hub to this day.

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Restauradores Square By Night

2009-08-07T12:17:00.000+01:00

Restauradores Square (Praça dos Restauradores) in central Lisbon is an impressive sight by day or night.

The square was laid out in the 19th century and celebrates the "restoration" of Portuguese sovereignty from 60 years of Spanish occupation in 1640.

The obelisk in the plaza has two bronze figures on a pedestal representing Victory and Freedom and was built in 1886.

The old Éden Cinema by architect Cassiano Branco is now a hotel with a distinctive Art Deco façade dating from the 1930s.

Nearby is the Elevador da Gloria.

The nearest Metro station is Restauradores Station.

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Portugal Embassy Tokyo

2009-08-01T18:07:00.000+01:00

Portugal is the European country with the longest relationship with Japan as Portuguese explorers were the first western visitors to arrive on Japanese shores in the late 16th century.

Portugal Embassy Tokyo

5F, Kamiura Kojimachi Bldg.
3-10-3 Kojimachi
Chiyoda-ku,
Tokyo 102-0083
Tel: 03 5226 0614
Fax: 03 5226 0616

Access

Exit 3, Kojimachi Stn, Yurakucho Subway Line.
Exit 4, Hanzomon Stn, Hanzomon Subway Line.
Map to Portugal Embassy Tokyo

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Portuguese Number Plates

2009-07-27T18:15:00.004+01:00

The Portuguese car number plate system for automobiles and motorcycles is sequential. There is no reference to geographical locations in Portugal. The Portuguese car numbering system is an incremental system consisting of three groups of two characters, separated by dashes.

The system began in 1937 with AA-10-00, then went on to 00-00-AA and recently changed over to 00-AA-00. When this sequence comes to an end, it will be replaced by the sequence AA-00-AA.

A list of the first registration numbers issued each month since March 1992 (starting with 00-01-AA) is available at the Automobile Association of Portugal.

The "P" denominates Portugal and was added in 1992 with the EU flag on the left of the plate. In 1998, a yellow (previously pink on some vehicles) band on the right side was added with the month and year in which the car was first registered.

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SOLAR DOS MOUROS

2009-07-13T16:46:00.001+01:00

SOLAR DOS MOUROS

Rooms with a view

Suite with panoramic view

Personalized limousine service
- transfer from airport to hotel and return
- 4h tour in Caiscais, Estoril, Sintra and around

solardosmouros.com

Breakfast, services and taxes are included in the price previously mentioned.

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Fado Music in Madeira

2009-07-12T16:17:00.002+01:00

Fado Music at Dinner Time

Restaurante Juliu's
Street D.Carlos I, nº2 ( in front of the Electricity Museum )
Funchal - Old Town
Madeira Island
Portugal

8 p.m to 10 p.m
On Wednesdays, Thusdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Restaurant Menu A la Carte / Buffet ( Group Reservations )

restaurantejulius.blogspot.com

Contact us to advertise your event in Portugal

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Portuguese Communist Party PCP

2009-07-10T04:34:00.006+01:00

An American friend of mine was surprised to see the hammer and sickle displayed in Portugal and took the image below.

Rewording Barack Obama's famous catchphrase, the slogan reads "Yes, it's possible."

The Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) was founded in 1921 and is Marxist-Leninist in its political outlook. Heavily suppressed under Salazar, the party rebounded after the fall of the dictator and is popular in the Alentejo (where this photograph was taken) the Ribatejo, Lisbon and Setúbal.

The PCP's main organ is Avante! with print and now online editions. The party has the support of around 7-8% of Portugal's electorate. Jose Saramago, the Nobel Prize-winning writer, is a prominent member.

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Faro Weather Forecast

2009-07-07T17:51:00.002+01:00

The weather is absolutely set fair on the Algave at the moment.

You must have a browser that supports iframes to view the BBC weather forecast

The forecast for Faro is sun, sun and more sun. Enjoy before it really starts to heat up later this month and in August.

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Sana Lisboa Hotel

2009-06-27T15:32:00.006+01:00

The Sana Lisboa Hotel near Marquis de Pombal in Lisbon is one of a number of Sana Metropolitan Hotels in the Portuguese capital including the 4-star, 306-room Sana Metropolitan Park Hotel in Entrecampos, the small Sana Capitol Hotel, the Sana Rex Hotel, the Sana Reno Hotel and the Sana Executive Hotel.

Aimed at the upmarket business traveler, the Sana suite of Lisbon hotels have a range of facilities. The Sana Metropolitan Park Hotel is a major conference center and offers high-speed internet in all its rooms.

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Arqueduto da Amoreira

2009-06-22T11:43:00.005+01:00

Like the Aqueducto da Agua de Prata in nearby Evora, the Aqueduto da Amoreira in Elvas is another masterpiece by master architect Francisco de Arruda, who also built the Belem Tower in Lisbon.

Best seen from outside Elvas' city walls on the road back to Lisbon, this multi-tiered acqueduct is 7km long, was completed in 1622 and brought water to a marble fountain in Largo da Misericordia in central Elvas.

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Aqueduto da Agua de Prata

2009-06-21T04:38:00.002+01:00

The Aqueduto da Agua de Prata (Aqueduct of Silver Water) is best seen outside the city walls of Evora.

The building of the aqueduct is described in the poem Os Lusíadas by Portuguese poet Luís Vaz de Camões (1524-1580) and was one of the wonders of its time.

The aqueduct reaches Evora in the peaceful district of Rua do Cano, where houses and shops are built into the arches.

© PortugalVisitor.com

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Igreja da Nossa Senhora da Graca

2009-06-20T16:06:00.004+01:00

The church of Nossa Senhora da Graça (Church of our Lady of Grace) in Evora is noted for its 16th century facade.

Four huge stone figues of Atlas adorn the building, which is only viewable from outside. In Greek mythology Atlas was a Titan who supported the heavens.

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Evora Photo Slideshow

2009-06-19T12:24:00.002+01:00

Evora is one of Portugal's loveliest towns. See a slideshow of images of Evora.

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Lisbon Slideshow

2009-06-11T16:41:00.003+01:00

View a slideshow of photographs of Lisbon.

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Portugal Telecom

2009-06-05T08:50:00.003+01:00

Portugal Telecom is the main provider of land lines and telecommunication services in Portugal.

PT also provides internet services including ADSL.

Portugal Telecom also operates in Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, China, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe and Timor-Leste.

Portugal Telecom is a publicly owned company and one of the largest businesses in the country.

Portugal Telecom
Customer Care Tel: 16 200
Customer Care for Businesses Tel: 800 20 20 22
Technical Support Tel: 16 208

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Smoking in Portugal

2009-06-01T01:51:00.001+01:00

Portugal has a typically flexible approach to smoking in its cafes and bars.

As in many other countries in the EU, Portugal introduced a smoking ban in public places on January 1 2008.

However bars and cafes can opt to be classified as "smoking bars" if they follow a set of strict guidelines and install adequate ventilation. Portuguese bars smaller than 100 square meters (1,076 square feet) cannot allow smoking.

Look out for the signs on the door of the cafe: blue smoking; red no-smoking

Smokers who break the law face fines of up to €1000 and businesses that flout the legislation will face a fine of up to €2500.

Interestingly, Antonio Nunes, the president of Portugal's food standards agency, which enforces the anti-smoking legislation, was photographed smoking a cigar in a Lisbon casino, the very day the law came in to effect. In May of 2008, Portugal's Prime Minister José Sócrates lit up in the first class section of a flight to Caracas, unaware he was also breaking the law.

Yesterday was "World No Smoking Day."

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Portuguese Simple Life

2009-05-31T15:33:00.003+01:00

Dining alfresco, fine wine, great bread, cheese and fresh olives.

Bliss.

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International Whaling Commission Meeting Madeira

2009-05-15T16:15:00.003+01:00

The 61st International Whaling Commission Meeting will take place in Funchal, Madeira at the five-star The Pestana Casino Park Hotel (Tel: 351 291 20 91 00) from Sunday 31 May to Friday 12 June.

Hot on the agenda will be the continued "scientific whaling" carried out by the government of Japan, which is vehemently opposed by environmental action groups such as Greenpeace. Japanese whalers killed over 680 whales in the last "research" hunt in Antarctica, held this year.

Madeira, situated off the coast of Portugal, in the Atlantic, was once a vibrant center of whaling. The industry is remembered in Madeira's Whale Museum, the Museu da Baleia, located in the former whaling village of Caniçal. Crustaceans have been legally protected in the waters off Madeira since the 1980s and whale and dolphin watching is now an important tourist activity.

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was established under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling in Washington DC in 1946.

The Pestana Casino Park Hotel
Rua Imperatriz D. Amélia
9004-513 Funchal
Madeira

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Lisbon Urinol

2009-05-11T17:06:00.003+01:00

One of the very last public urinals (urinol) in Lisbon is outside the main gate to Lisbon Castle.

Once widespread these public pissoirs are all but finished, replaced by modern public toilets.

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Friends of the British Cemetery Elvas

2009-05-10T10:34:00.005+01:00

The British Cemetery at Elvas is one of the oldest British Military Cemeteries in existence. It holds only five known graves but two of these are the only marked graves of the thousands of British soldiers who fell at the battle of Albuera and another is the sole marked grave of the thousands who fell in the three sieges of Badajoz.

The Association of the Friends of the British Cemetery was founded to undertake the maintenance of the British Cemetery, which contains memorials plaques to all the regiments that fought at Albuera and Badajoz.

The Friends of the British Cemetery provides for a caretaker and the Cemetery is open to the public. Their long-term aim is to produce a fund that will ensure the Cemetery's maintenance and protection in the future.
The Association is a UK registered charity, no.1109395.

For more information: british-cemetery-elvas.org

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Santa Justa Elevador Lisbon

2009-05-10T05:12:00.005+01:00

The Elevador de Santa Justa ((Elevador do Carmo) is a pictuesque lift in the centre of Lisbon just off Rossio.

Originally powered by steam, the lift took two years to construct and opened in 1902.

45 meters in height, the Neo-gothic style lift was converted to electric power in 1907. There are great views of Rossio, Lisbon Castle and the Baixa. Each of the two wooden compartments holds 24 people.

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Portugal Road Signs

2009-04-29T13:29:00.003+01:00

Another piece of beautiful street architecture in Portugal besides its directional road signs are the signs on each street showing the name of each particular road, street or alley.

Some of them are made in beautiful azulejos ceramic tiles.

Others are more minimalist and functional in plain stone.

Keep your eyes open for some beautiful street signs during your stay in Portugal.

Rua is translated as street, travessa is lane or alley, beco is also alley.

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Portugal Street Signs

2009-04-25T16:19:00.003+01:00

Portugal's road signs and street signs are clear to read and, in general, well situated.

In Lisbon, the brown signs point to attractions and places of interest. Icons are used for museums and churches.

Portugal's public toilets are also sign-posted - look out for the WC icon and the Portuguese word for toilet - sanitarios.

Destinations are usually shown with black text on a white background.

© Portugal Visitor.com

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Washing Lines in Portugal

2009-04-24T03:58:00.005+01:00

Portugal's historic city centers are full of very interesting washing lines!

With small or no gardens in many old town centers, washing is left out to dry from windows, balconies and fire escapes.

You can see an amazing variety of clothing hanging out to dry, from a full team's football kit, to skimpy underwear to even a voluminous bra in Elvas!

I have yet to be dripped on, thanks to Portugal's dry climate so keep your eyes open for one of Portugal's greatest thrills - its laundry lines.

© PortugalVisitor.com

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English Cemetery Elvas

2009-04-19T10:21:00.001+01:00

The English Cemetery (Cemiterio dos Ingleses) in Elvas, not far from the Castelo, is the final resting place of many of the men killed in the bloody campaigns of the Peninsular War (1807-1814), especially the horrific storming of the fortress of Badajoz over the border in Spain, where over 4,800 British soldiers lost their lives or were wounded and the equally deadly Battle of Albuera, where another 4,000 soldiers perished.

Many of the wounded were brought back to Elvas, where many subsequently died and were buried.

After so much blood and carnage at the storming of Badajoz, the English soldiers went on the rampage killing over 4,000 of the inhabitants of the town they were fighting to relieve in an orgy of revenge.

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Portugal's Post Office

2009-04-18T02:37:00.004+01:00

Portugal's Post Office is largely reliable. The Portuguese postal service is run by CCT.

Post office is correios in Portuguese; selo is stamp

Correio normal (ordinary mail) is sent in the red post boxes; correio azul (airmail) is posted in the blue boxes.

Post offices in Portugal are open from Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6pm and each major town should have a general post office with Saturday opening hours (usually in the morning). Smaller branches may close for lunch. There is a post office at Lisbon Airport.

Packages are often delivered to a post office rather than an address, so to pick up a parcel go to the counter marked Encomedas, similarly for poste restante.

In general allow 5 days for delivery in mainland Portugal for normal mail and longer for Madeira and the Azores. For next day delivery choose correio azul.

Stamps can be purchased from post offices or from shops and kiosks displaying the red and white correio symbol with the horse and bugle.

The main post office in Lisbon is at Praça dos Restauradores 58.

CTT
Tel: 707 26 26 26

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Porto v Manchester United

2009-04-15T04:52:00.003+01:00

The Portuguese league leaders FC Porto face Premier League leaders and Champions League holders Manchester United in a crucial quarter final clash tonight.

Porto hold the advantage after securing a hard-fought 2-2 draw in the away leg at Old Trafford.

Porto have never lost to British opposition at home in 21 matches going back to 1967.

The big game takes place in the 50,000 capacity Estádio das Dragão.

Estádio das Dragão is north-east of Porto city centre. Match day special STCP buses run to the stadium from the Rotunda da Boavista (Praça Mouzinho de Albuquerque) or Praça da Liberdade.
Buses 21 and 78 run from the Rotunda or Avenida dos Aliados.

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Police in Lisbon

2009-04-12T14:59:00.000+01:00

The police maintain a fairly visible presence in Lisbon, with officers present at many local events and patroling in cars. The Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) is Portugal's main urban police force.

Drug-related petty crime maybe a problem after dark in some areas of the city and the Intendente area of the capital is often cited as a place to be wary. On the whole, Lisbon is very safe compared with other European capitals.

Some of the Portuguese police patrol cars could do with an update as the rust bucket above demonstrates.

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Portugal Manhole Covers

2009-04-11T14:48:00.003+01:00

Portugal's manhole covers may not be as picturesque as the manhole covers in Japan, but they are worthy of attention nonetheless for committed drainspotters.

CML refers to Camara Municipal de Lisboa - the city council of Lisbon.

The manhole cover below is in Parque das Nações in eastern Lisbon and commemorates the 1998 Expo.

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The Subway in Lisbon

2009-04-10T15:56:00.003+01:00

Lisbon's metro is a quick and easy way to get around the city.

The basic fare is 1.40 Euros or use a one day pass or Lisboa card. The older lines, which were begun in the 1950s, are showing their age, but the new line out to Gare do Oriente is clean and bright and much less grimy.

The recently built stations at Cais do Sodré and Santa Apolónia are also very modern and pleasant.

The subway stations seem very close together in terms of the time taken between them.

The Lisbon subway system integrates well with Lisbon's buses and trams.

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St George Anglican Church Lisbon

2009-04-09T16:52:00.000+01:00

The St George Anglican Church in Lisbon is set in the beautiful grounds of what is known as the English Cemetery, which includes the grave of the English novelist Henry Fielding.

The Anglican church for Lisbon in the Diocese in Europe, the church attracts a steady number of expat worshippers and Portuguese Anglicans.

St George Anglican Church is situated in the Estrela district of Lisbon within easy walking distance of Jardim Estrela.

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English Cemetery Lisbon

2009-04-08T15:51:00.005+01:00

The English Cemetery (Cemiterio dos Ingleses) in the Estrela district of Lisbon is just outside the Jardim Estrela, which is across the street from the Basilica da Estrela in western Lisbon.

The peaceful grounds of the cemetery, which was founded in 1717, include the tomb of the English novelist and magistrate, Henry Fielding.

Fielding, already suffering from numerous ailments, traveled to Lisbon in 1754 in search of a cure. The author recounted his sea voyage in the book The Journal of a Voyage to Lisbon

Fielding's grave is signposted upon entry. The grounds also include the remains of Lisbon's ancient Jewish cemetery and the Victorian St. George Church, which holds Anglican services in English every Sunday.

Access

Take buses #9, #20, #27 or #38 to the gate of the cemetery.

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Lisbon Streetcars

2009-04-05T09:04:00.000+01:00

Enjoy a ride through the steep gradients of the historic Alfama district of Lisbon on a tram (electrico).

Don't leave the Portuguese capital without at least one ride on these beautiful trams with wooden interiors.

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Estoril Open Golf

2009-04-04T09:37:00.003+01:00

The 2009 Estoril Open Golf Tournament is underway in Cascais, just outside Lisbon.

The first round leader was Ross McGowan, who shot 64. The Englishman stayed in the lead after the second day shooting 73 to lead by one shot on a five-under par 137 from Scotland’s Chris Doak (70) and Spain’s Carols Del Moral (71).

The tournament is being played at the Oitavos Dunes Golf Course. The beautiful links type, par 71 golf course was designed by Arthur Hills.

OITAVOS DUNES
Quinta da Marinha, Casa da Quinta nº 25
2750-004, Cascais, Portugal.
Tel: +351 21 486 0600

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Lisbon Weather

2009-04-04T08:37:00.005+01:00

Lisbon and the Algarve have been enjoying some glorious weather over the last few weeks.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Portugal with the orange and lemon trees bearing fruit and the temperatures not too hot. The warm temperatures are perfect for sitting in outdoor cafes and dining alfresco.

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Lisbon Bus Stops

2009-04-02T14:56:00.004+01:00

Lisbon's bus service includes excellent electronic bus stops in the characteristic Carris yellow livery. The bus stops display the number of the approaching buses and the minutes to their expected arrival.

Very handy. This bus stop is outside the English Cemetery near the Jardim Estrela.

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Residencial Princesa Lisbon

2009-03-30T15:52:00.005+01:00

The Residencial Princesa Hotel on Rua Gomes Freira is a low-budget accommodation option not far from the center of Lisbon.

The Residencial Princesa is something of a mixed bag: helpful staff, a clean and pleasant breakfast area and certainly cheap. On the downside the rooms have seen better days, the doors may not fully open, the fire escape door might not have a key (climb out the window) and you could, if very unlucky, be sharing your 4th floor corridor with noisy, nay downright demented, Italian students.

Still there's wireless internet - intermittent at best - you are right on the #790 bus route to Rossio and Cais do Sodre and only 10 minutes walk from Anjos subway station.

Not a place to bring the wife and kids but more than adequate for cheap digs in Lisbon.

Residencial Princesa
130 Rua Gomes Freira
1150-180
Lisbon

Tel: 21 319 30 70

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Hotel Dom Fernando Evora

2009-03-29T13:07:00.003+01:00

The Hotel Dom Fernando located just to the south of the city walls of Evora is an excellent place to enjoy this historic city's many charms.

Friendly staff, spacious, fully-equipped rooms arranged around a central swimming pool with a patio to enjoy the evenings. The bar and spacious lounge are ideal for relaxing. Recommended.

Hotel Dom Fernando
Avenida Dr. Barahona #2
7000-756
Evora

Tel: 266 737 990

In the words of the Abba song:

There was something in the air that night
The stars were bright, Fernando
They were shining there for you and me
For liberty, Fernando

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Lisbon Graffiti

2009-03-28T11:59:00.005Z

Much of downtown Lisbon is daubed in graffiti, especially the nightlife and bar area of Bairro Alto.

More upscale areas such as Belem or Marques de Pombal escape fairly unscathed but Rossio, Alfama, Graca and Cais do Sodre are pretty much covered by the tag artist with his aerosol.

Street art or a bloody mess, we'd like to hear your comments.

There is an interesting discussion of Lisbon's graffiti here.

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Pousada Santa Luzia Elvas

2009-03-11T03:45:00.005Z

The 25-room Pousada Santa Luzia in the historic town of Elvas is a delightful place to stay.

Opened in 1942, this pousada has an outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts.

Pousada Santa Luzia Elvas
Tel: 268 637 470

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Lisbon Iowa

2009-02-03T01:55:00.003Z

Lisbon, Iowa is even smaller than Lisbon Ohio with a population of 2,000. The town is very near tothe town of Mount Vernon.

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 License.

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