Remember our recent post on how to get the most out of your trips without breaking the bank?
Well, a recent trip to Portugal is a proven fact that tip #1 was essential to achieving that out-of-the-box travel experience that we couldn’t find anywhere else.
Upon arriving in Lisbon, one Culturite and her hubby had a blank slate on their hands—no plans, no research, no suggestions. Equipped with the travel tips that we live by, all it took was one email to set things off in the right direction. Here's her account:
A friend from Holland recommended we eat at the local hot spot Olivier. Considering it was a block away from our hotel, Alto Bairro, it sounded perfect for our jet-lagged first night in the city. Mid-way through the meal, the lovely owner Nathalie (sister to Olivier) approached our table to introduce herself. We chatted about the city, why we were there and asked for her list of favourite Lisbon jaunts.
Before we new it, Nathalie was nestled into our booth giving us the non-tourist side to Lisbon and the Portugal coast. And to sweeten the pot, this little gem of a gal was at our door the next morning to pack us up and take us to the beach…the one that only the locals know about!
Side note: For those planning a dinner in Lisbon anytime soon, make Olivier’s your first stop! Nathalie and her brother are the best in the bunch.
Here are Nathalie’s suggestions for an unforgettable tour of Lisbon:
Shop: Walk the streets of Alto Bairro for boutique after boutique of local designers and high end fashion. Almo Lusa is one of her favourites (Rua de São Bento 363, Baixa-Chiado B–C; +351 21 388 4094).
Eat: Olivier, of course! Also roam the streets in Alto Bairro to dine at the many local cafés and BBQ chicken/fish joints.
Drink: Silk Bar (R. da Misericórdia 14 1100). A Private night club boasting a 360º view of Lisbon from its 6th floor penthouse location in Chaido. This is where the well heeled and Lisbon’s jet-set let their hair down! It’s a private club so ask your hotel concierge to make arrangements for you.
For a more rustic night out, the streets of Alto Bairro have many bars. People spill out onto the cobblestone road with drinks in hand. Basically a glorified version of a street party every night (photo below).
Beaches: Most tourists will hit Cascais but Nathalie took us to Castello where the locals hang every weekend. We camped out at Mistage—a chic beach club where we happily sipped sangria and caught some rays for the afternoon. Before you leave, make sure to stop and indulge in some local sardines on the beach.
4-Hour Getaway: Rent a car and hit the Algarve Coast. It’s approximately 4.5 hours to the southern tip but with so many beach towns along the way, take your time and soak it all in. We had pit stops in Troia, Comporta and Faro before hitting a nature resort in the charming surf town of Carrapateira. This is the home to some of the best surfing in the country. Sun streaked and honey bronzed beach bums camp out for the summer in their camper vans trying to catch the best waves. Those without vans (like us), settle into the rustic and charming ranch of Monte Vhello Nature Resort.
The owner is a former TV personality from Lisbon who cashed in the high life for one rich in the outdoors, placing emphasis on life’s simple pleasures over material riches. He and his adorable family charge 100 Euros a night for a basic room/bathroom but with the love and cosyness of the place, you are instantly comforted by the feeling of staying in a close friend’s cottage.
Any Lisbon travel tips of your own? Log in below and share your own unique travel experiences!
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