Portugal is on the Iberian Peninsula which it shares with Spain. It's a diverse country that has its own unique culture and a variety of beautiful natural landscapes. In particular, Portugal has the cliff beaches of Algarve, beautiful rural countryside, energetic cities, a traditional culture, beautiful lush green vineyards, and so much more. Portugal has managed to maintain its own unique rich culture while other nearby countries in Europe merge and modernize. It has rural areas that still feel a world away from the nearby cosmopolitan cities. There are parts of Portugal that still feel like you've stepped back in time. Even in the cosmopolitan city of Lisbon you can get lost of the back alleyways and catch a glimpse of a city that once was.

Portugal was once on of the most economically poor countries in Western Europe, but when the dictatorship ended in 1974 and it later joined the European Union, its wealth and modern amenities grew and began to thrive. Over the last few decades it has grown in popularity amongst tourist. International tourists frequently visit this fascinating city, but European tourists flock here, particularly during the cold winter months when they head south to escape the frigid temperatures. Beach towns are now filled with expats who've bought second homes in the area. With the crowds has come a significant rise in costs in Portugal. It is no longer the budget destination it once was, but it is still cheaper than most of Western Europe if you plan ahead and travel to the right places.

To keep your expenses to a minimum during your trip to Portugal, try to avoid the more popular beach towns. Cities like Lisbon also tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Book your hotels and train tickets in advance and travel during the off season when the crowds are less and the prices are lower. One interesting tip is that most museums are free to the public on Sundays, so try to schedule any museums visits on this day. Also be sure and eat at restaurants that are at least a few blocks from popular tourist attractions as these restaurants will be less likely to target out of town visitors. Ask residents where they recommend you go for a good Portuguese meal and you likely won't be disappointed. Also be sure and enjoy dessert at any of the bakeries you'll find around town.

Costa Vincentina National Park: This national park is a stunning cliff that dramatically drops into the water. It's a beautiful place to watch the sunset and a nice place to see the ocean.
Fado Bars in Alfama: This neighborhood is a wonderfully historic area worth exploring in Lisbon. It goes down the hill between the Castle of Lisbon and Tejo River.
Azores: This area offers a dramatic landscape that is filled with charming villages, beautiful valleys, and colorful flowers.

Caldo Verde: Caldo verde is a soup dish made from potatoes, kale, and chourico sausage. It's often served during celebrations such as weddings, but it's also sometimes offered as a main dish for dinner.
Bacalhau: This is a common Portuguese ingredient that is made from dried and salted codfish. It is common in many different popular dishes in Portugal and is most often used in Christmas dishes.
Pastel de Nata: This is a pastry like tart made from eggs. It's similar to small pies that are filled with custard. It's available in bakeries throughout the country and has even spread to Macau and Hong Kong where it is a popular dessert with dim sum.