Adventure Travel in Portugal

Adventure Travel in Portugal

With its varied and dramatic landscapes, Portugal is perfect for those who are seeking adventure in the great outdoors. There are many exciting spots to choose from, but here are some of the best regions of the country which are the perfect natural playground for any would-be adventurer or adrenaline seeker:

Serra da Estrella:

Its mountain and National Park of the Serra da Estrella is a haven for skiers and boarders in winter and hikers in summer. This is Portugal's only ski resort and is a little resort, perfect for beginners. In summer, Serra da Estrella is the perfect place for mountaineers and walkers, who enjoy scaling the craggy peak and exploring the 357km of trails throughout the Serra da Estrella Nature Park. Rock climbing is also a popular pastime here. The ski areas become a downhill mountain biking resort in the summer months. Within the nature park you can also enjoy kayaking on spectacular rivers and lakes, go river rafting on a raft you can build yourself, or enjoy a spot of wild swimming.

Alentejo:

This vast region of Portugal contains not one but three nature parks. Its unspoiled farmland, vineyards and villages are little visited by tourists. Little do the masses know they are missing out on a delightful adventure off the beaten track. Why not hike or bike across this area, on the coast and inland. You can make your own way or join a tour. For a different perspective and a bit of an overview, why not take a hot air balloon ride? Another way to get around is on horseback, on a riding holiday. Alternatively, you could take to the water of the rivers or coast for a rafting or kayaking adventure. On the coast, discover why this region is so beloved of surfers.

Arrabida Nature Park, Near Lisbon:

This coastal nature park is situated just an hour south of Lisbon on a rugged stretch of coastline where the Sado river meets the wild Atlantic. There are breathtaking cliffs of over 300m, caves and a landscape dominated by unspoiled limestone hills rising high above the coast which are covered with a patchwork of farm fields, vineyards and ancient scrub land. Here you can hike through this unspoiled landscape, or try something a little more adventurous like mountain biking, for which this hilly region is perfectly suited. Many adventurers will enjoy rock climbing and abseiling on the dramatic cliffs. You can also take a kayak tour to explore the remote beaches of the coast, and explore caves filled with bats. Go paragliding on the coast or up in the hills, or explore the under-sea world just off the coast with a diving expedition.

Algarve:

This region is package holiday personified. The beautiful beaches are mostly somewhat marred by the over-development and the crowds in summer. You will find many people in this region who come only for the sun, sand and surf and have no interest in actually doing or seeing anything whilst on holiday. On the other hand, you will also find people who are drawn here to try out a range of activities and active adventures in this balmy and sun-blessed area. Here you can participate in just about every type of outdoor sport and adrenaline activity imaginable.

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Travel to Portugal

Travel to Portugal

Portugal is a European country situated on the Iberian Peninsula in the southwest corner of Europe. The west and south of Portugal are cornered by the Atlantic Ocean, giving it some of the most dramatic coastline in Europe.

Portugal borders only one country, Spain, which makes up the rest of the Iberian Peninsula.

With a coastline running over 500 miles Portugal is bursting with scenic sandy coves and rocky cliffs with a dramatic inland landscape.

Portugal is a very pleasant country to visit - especially for any person in love with seafood. All along the coast are amazing restaurants dedicated to cooking fresh fish. Most restaurants are reasonable priced with generous portions. When you are having food in Portugal don't forget to sample the excellent local wine. While Portugal is noted for Port, excellent wines are home grown in regions north of Porto and Lisbon.

If you are in some of the more popular tourist spots it's wise to make a reservation. It's also standard practice in Portugal to add a 5 - 10 percent tip for waiters who are poorly paid.

English is widely spoken throughout Portugal and the locals are extremely friendly. A large selection of English-written newspapers can be bought in most of the larger newsagents.

Portugal is a country rich in arts and history. The architecture of Portugal differs from region to region. The Romans were the first to leave behind their enhanced structural design. Muslim invaders from North Africa during the eight-century have also enriched the architecture in southern Portugal. Portugal is littered with incredible Churches, temples and old buildings. Some old buildings are restored and turned into great hotels.

Hotels in Portugal are plentiful in tourist areas and cities, but in the countryside they can be rare. If you are travelling through the Portuguese countryside plan your journey well in advance.


Sporting holidays can be had at any time of year. While the Portuguese are mainly into football, most marina sports can be sought along the entire coastline. If you are looking for a golfing holiday Portugal should be top of the list. Most of the best golf courses in Portugal are found in the Algarve region, which has a reputation as one of Europe's top golfing destinations.

The Algarve region of Portugal, situated in the south of the country, is the perfect spot to visit at any time of year. Its climate stays warm all year round and the scenic coastline offers a large variety of marine activity.

Fishing is a valuable way of life for many in Portugal. Each year during the month of August a massive seafood festival is hosted by one of the ports in the Algarve.

If you are looking for a really special place to visit - try some of the Islands along the Portuguese coast. The Azores lie 800 miles west of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for the peaceful way of life, the Azores volcanic history has left a truly magical landscape. With easy access from mainland Portugal, the Azores are well worth a visit.

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Travel Guide - England

Travel Guide - England

England is the heartland of Great Britain, one of the great empires throughout history. London itself is a truly modern, cosmopolitan city whose roots are firmly grounded in many centuries of history. Places like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace (formerly the residence of Princess Diana), Trafalgar Square, Picadilly Circus and Hyde Park ring a bell everywhere.

Visit one of the many museums in London or simply enjoy a cup of afternoon tea in one of the salons and lounges throughout London. Check out Madame Tussaud's Waxworks, Westminster Abbey, or St. Paul's Cathedral.

Outside of London check out Windsor Castle. Overall, England is a veritable treasure chest for castle-lovers. One of the typical ways to travel in England is to enjoy the fabulous hospitality of a private bed & breakfast. The Cotswolds are a beautiful area with rolling hills, featuring stone houses just the way you always ipictured a truly English landscape. Stratford-Upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare which is must see for every Shakespeare fan. Performances by the Royal Shakespeare Company will delight theatre buffs.

If you like bigger cities, check out Bristol, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and Liverpool, home of the Beatles. Britain's Roman history is apparent in many places, including Hadrian's Wall near Newcastle. And a visit to Stonehenge will bring you up close to one of history's mysteries.

England's lovely coastline can be enjoyed in one of many resort towns. Southend-on-Sea officially offers some of the best beaches of Europe and is well known for its pier, its theatre and music events. In the south east of England, Canterbury's cathedral is a splendid example of medieval British architecture. In Dover you can catch ferries to the European continent.

As one of the world's most famous university towns, Oxford has a scenic riverside setting with museums, shops, restaurants and a vibrant entertainment scene. Cambridge, its rival city, has winding streets and splendid architecture and is perfect for a daytrip from London.

Brighton is a beautiful seaside city with gorgeous architecture. The Isle of Wight offers a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Bournemouth is a holiday resort town on the South East coast of England with award-winning beaches, parks and gardens. A visit to England can be the perfect combination of culture, history and relaxation.

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Travel in Belgium

Travel in Belgium

The smaller the country, the prettier it is; European countries are almost same whether it is landlocked paradise Hungary or little Belgian abode. Belgium is a veiled appeal of Europe that is quietly sitting amid the most alluring cities of the continent London, Paris and Amsterdam. Belgium is an assortment of passé European grandeur.

The tiny country is a melting pot of cultures, which is made of medieval cities, traditional towns, striking town halls, mesmeric castles. List is not enough to keep you busy entire day, as USP of the tour is still not disclosed. Come here and check out, an array of pubs, nightlife enchantment and natural gleams are ready to snatch compliments from you.

The country boasts of many cultures and number of languages. Nevertheless, Dutch is the official language but French and German have similar impacts. What will you like to explore first in Belgium, architectural heritage, tranquil waterways or captivating canals... A trip to Belgium is a delight for lifetime.

Capital city 'Brussels' is a treasure trove of gothic culture and unhurried lifestyle, which becomes more spectacular with medieval tints. It is a cosmopolitan city, which is known for its joyous ambiance. Set almost 180 years back, the country is becoming gorgeous with advent of its youth.

En route Belgium
If you are looking forward to plan a trip to Belgium, let us show you all the itineraries, which will offer the best deal of Belgium Travel. Enjoy your expedition.

Brussels airport is main airport at Belgium. This is well connected with almost every big city of the world. You can reach to the beautiful land via train or taxi. Normal taxi fare rolls around 95Euro.

Check it Out-
Though the Belgian country is too small and you can explore it just in a day, as the maximum distance is measured almost 300 kilometers, it boasts best public transport with a minor expense. If you want to board a train, you can gladly opt for that, Belgium railway offers train facility for every European destination. You will find a train after every thirty minute. These facilities make 'Belgium Tourism' a rewarding experience.

Hotels in Belgium
There is abundance of hotels in Belgium. These hotels are wonderfully designed offer almost every facility that will tempt you. Belgium hotels are famous for its flawless service and grandeur. You will be getting a fabulous room to accommodate yourself, which is blended with many more facilities such as gym, sports club, med spa and scrumptious food items.

Apart from hotels, if you want to enjoy tour to Belgium in real nomadic style, opt for bunkers instead of lavishness of Belgium Hotels. Hey don't worry, bunkers are also full equipped.

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Travel Guide - Los Angeles

Travel Guide - Los Angeles

Los Angeles is located in the Southern California on the West Coast of United States. Los Angeles is one of the most significant places to visit, in every corner you can experience a different culture.

In this guide, I've included the 17 things you don't want to miss, and will take your experience to the next Level!!

1. Down Town

Down Town is the central business district of Los Angeles and home to some of the most outstanding examples of American's civic architecture.

2. Olvera Street

Is the oldest part of Down Town in Los Angeles and also known as the Mexico town.

3. Union Station
One of the World's greatest railway stations and the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. What makes this station famous, is that it has been featured in around 30 movies.

4. The Little Tokyo

The Little Tokyo or J-Town as the locals know it, - is the ultimate destination for some of the city's best Japanese Restaurants. Also, home to Buda's temples, galleries, and historical museums.

5. Walt Disney Concert Hall

This incredible piece of architecture was designed by Frank Gehry and opened back in 2003. Is the fourth hall of the Los Angeles Music Center and home to LA Phil Harmonic Orchestra.

6. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The art museum is located on Wilshire Boulevard in the Miracle Mile vicinity of Los Angeles. LACMA is on Museum Row, adjacent to the La Brea Tar Pits.

LACMA's collections encompass the geographic world and virtually the entire history of art with more than 100, 000 objects dating from ancient times.

7. La Brea Tar Pits

At La Brea Tar Pits and George c page museum, you can explore mammals and insects dating thousands of centuries back in time. The museum has re-created a prehistoric garden.

8. Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive, - in the heart of Beverly Hills - The world's most expensive and exclusive shopping area.

9. Hollywood

The world's famous center - "The entertainment Industry". Track down your favourite star at the Walk of Fames.

10. Griffith Park

Is one the largest and wildest urban parks in North America. Here you can enjoy panoramic views of LA. Visit the Griffith Observatory to enjoy some astonishing views. (Is steel FREE of charge).

11. Universal Studios

It is the oldest, continually running movie studio in America. It features a Theme Park based on its blockbusters movies and popular TV Shows.

The famous attraction here is the studio tour - You may have a Deja Vu here, as lots of the themes that you will see have been used on popular TV shows and movies. The theme-park is also a family-friendly, and one of the favourites parks for families!

12. Disneyland Park

This Disneyland Park It is the only theme park designed and built under the direct supervision of Walt Disney. And, since its opening, 1955, has received 630 million guests who have enjoyed in seeing the most loved Disney's character come back to live!

13. The Port Of Los Angeles

Is the Biggest container port in the USA, and here you can find the USS Iowa Museum. The USS Iowa is a World War 2 battleship. Enjoy the experience!

14. The Aquarium Of The Pacific

At this magnificent Aquarium, you can find 500 marine species. Touch tanks & behind-the-scenes tours are available.

15. Long Beach

Was ones the birthplace of the California surfing scene. However, nowadays is ideal for families too!

16. Santa Catalina Island

Take the boat to explore the magnificent Island of Catalina. You will find thousands of visitors who want to escape the mainland for a while, and relax.

17. Santa Monica

One of the most popular resort Towns in the US. Here is the ultimate Sun, sandy beaches, and the Las Vegas Lifestyle. Get Ready for an amazing ride!

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8 Facts Everyone Should Know Before Moving to Seattle

8 Facts Everyone Should Know Before Moving to Seattle

The Pacific Northwest has become a popular destination for many Americans. The natural beauty and the unique culture that make up Seattle might be why the city is a popular travel and relocation destination. Or could it be because its home to the largest houseboat population in the world and everyone wants to feel like a pirate? Just kidding about the pirate part! But the fact remains that it is now the 3rd fastest growing city in the USA with a steady incline of 15,000 new residents moving here each year (for the past 4 consecutive years)

Here are a few fun facts that everyone should know before moving to Seattle.

1. Seattle gets a bad rap as a city that is constantly rained out. This isn't actually true, as New York City and Boston get more actual rainfall per year by quite a lot.

2. The grey is a real thing. Its been said the misty/fog that is so often in the air makes it constantly like a noir film. So although it might not actually be raining, it is a rather wet city.

3. It's the Fourth Safest City in America. That's right, crime is so low that locals will tell you that if you jaywalk you WILL get a ticket and a fine because the police have less to do in terms of crime than other cities.

4. Honking is considered a form of noise pollution. Seattle dwellers really won't honk unless it's actually to prevent real danger or an accident. Other than that locals will be able to point out a tourist if they are honking their horns constantly.

5. Fashion is very relaxed but everyone is kind of judging your jacket. Because of the tech industry and the constant mist, most people in Seattle don't mind dressing a little more casual. The one thing that most people will comment or compliment you on is your taste in outdoor wear. Treat REI, Northface and Moncler as the Channel of Seattle and Pacific Northwest couture.

6. Most people will say they don't like Starbucks and prefer local coffee, but being where Starbucks was 'born' there are more of them per capita than any other city. So someone must be going to them...

7. Seattle has been called dog Disneyland as they boast so many off leash parks and it seems like almost everyone has a dog. Seattle has so many beautiful outdoor adventure hikes and parks both in and just outside the city it's a perfect place for a 4-legged friend.

8. The space needle may have attracted attention from locals when it was built in just 400 days for the 1962 Worlds Fair but these days only tourists stop to stare... so if you want to fit in your new home don't be caught gazing up for too long.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9424834

7 Reasons Austin, Texas Is A Great Place To Live

7 Reasons Austin, Texas Is A Great Place To Live

Austin, Texas is a city that has been creating a lot of buzz lately. Once upon a time it was under the shadow of the lone star states bigger cities like Houston and Dallas, but Austin has really made a name for itself with its quirky and unique personality. Weather it's the vintage stores, extremely sunny weather, amazing Tex-Mex food or perhaps its pulsating music scene there are so many reason to fall in love with Austin, Texas. Here are a few reasons why you should consider moving to Austin!

1. In Austin tacos will become on of your basic food groups. Literally everything from your morning eggs to your strawberry dessert is going to now be coming to you in a small soft corn delivery system.

2. It is the live music capitol of the world. On a random Monday night Austin boasts that they have at least 30 live concerts and come the weekend it seems like you would have to stay alone in your apartment with a pillow over your head to not hear some live jams. Music events like SXSW have made a yearly pilgrimage to this city a must do for music enthusiasts everywhere.

3. This is a bike friendly city so get ready to explore downtown on one of Austin's every expanding bikes lanes. Think of how much you will be saving each year on gas! Also this will help you to burn off all those tacos and queso you will surely be eating!

4. You will be living in an entrepreneur's paradise. Austin is a city that really promotes the American spirits of being your own boss. Unlike other cities, it is a lot easier to get a business license and there is no personal state income tax.

5. Affordable housing means you can live like a king, well sort of. Austin has a considerably lower cost of living than most other metropolitan cities that are this jam-packed with art and culture.

6. They are completely batty here in Austin. I am not referring only to the slogan "Keep Austin Weird" but to the fact that it is home to a shocking amount of bats. The Congress Avenue Bridge is home to 1.5 million bats during March-November. This is the largest urban bat population in the world and in Austin it is definitely a 'thing' to watch them fly off into the night to eat an estimated 20,000 pounds of insects every night!

7. If all these other fun facts didn't excite you and make you want to move to Austin, Forbes magazine listed it as the 4th most secure city to live in America. This takes into account crime, job opportunities, housing prices and life expectancy!

If you want to call Austin home, put on your best boots that are made for walking and get moving to this lovely little jewel in the heart of Texas.

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