a travel blog by renata green
Graciosa Island is the second-smallest of the Azores Archipelago and is often overlooked and underrated. Therefore, I think it’s time to show you why you should definitely visit Graciosa, the hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat full of natural beauty and cultural richness.
The Azores islands offer pure nature, and as some people always feel the urge to compare places with each other, the archipelago is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe. As a matter of fact, Sao Miguel, the largest one of the Azores, offers a comprehensive variety of the best things to see and do in a few days in this piece of paradise located about halfway between Europe and North America.
Basically all travelers of the Azores visit São Miguel, and many of them stay exclusively on this most prominent one of the islands. And indeed, you’ll find all the attractions the archipelago has to offer here in one spot: breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Yet, despite its growing popularity, São Miguel remains relatively unspoiled by mass tourism. It maintains an authentic, relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature.
This Way to the Whole Story ->On my railroad trip through Portugal, I experienced how travelling the country by train is easy-peasy, cheap, and fun.
Hence, let me guide you from mesmerizing Porto all the way south to Lisbon – with some amazing whistle stops in between.
Do you hear the whistle blow? Quick – jump on the train and let’s go!
I’m back in Lisbon. It’s been far too long – you know, with the pandemic and all. But now I’m back, and as I take a good look around, I realize how beautiful this city is and how much I’ve missed it: The steep cobblestone alleys, the past glory of the palaces alongside the boulevards, and the shabby charm of the houses in the backstreets. The majestic views from countless outlooks, and of course the lovely ring of the rickety trams.
Come on, follow me down memory lane, and let’s re-discover the best of Lisbon!
Hand luggage – I’m a big fan, a huge supporter, and a passionate user. Where possible, I even try to travel exclusively with hand luggage. Not only because the cheap airlines charge almost the same amount you’ve paid for the ticket for checking luggage.
No, it’s simply much more comfortable and so much faster. Although, since they established the security regulations regarding liquids, it has become a bit tricky.
Once I got even almost arrested at a French airport for carrying cheese.
But mostly it’s really much more handy. The longest I ‘survived’ on hand luggage was four weeks in the ABC-islands and while island-hopping in the Canaries. And neither of these places did I stink up.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Somehow Portugal also seems to be one of the countries overpowered by centralism. Everyone is flocking to the capital Lisbon, which is groaning under the masses of tourists and has to be careful to remain livable for the locals.
Hence, while others are stressed out, Porto pours herself a glass of amber-colored port wine and relaxes as she gazes down the Douro River.
Instead of overwhelming her visitors with innumerable presumably must-see landmarks, Porto invites her guests to take a relaxed stroll down picturesque streets and alleys and offers them a creamy Galão in one of the many charming cafés. The city impresses with cool street art and delights the eye with gorgeous church façades covered in exquisite Azulejos and what is probably the most famous bookstore in the world.
By now, you’ve probably noticed: Porto is one of my favorite cities in Europe and I’m excited to show you the best the city on the Atlantic coast has to offer – also if, just like me, you travel solo.
You know like in all my 24 hours in….-posts I’ve written that there is so much more to see and one day is not enough? Well, when it comes to Zagreb, I don’t.
I’d argue that if you’re not in Zagreb for a conference, convention, or exhibition, a day is enough to cover the most important attractions, do some shopping, and have a meal of Zagorski Štrukli, dough – baked or boiled, sweet or salty – or Ćevapi, a type of traditional kebab.
Technically speaking, Porec, Venice‘s little sister, was the fourth stop on my tour through Croatia.
My trip had begun in Hamburg from where I went by train and busses via Munich, Ljubljana, and Zagreb to the Adriatic coast.
Hence, I was looking forward to going to Poreč.
It has this Italian history and a very cute, atmospheric little town with incredibly beautiful architecture. Most importantly, it’s on the coast and has beaches.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Just an hour from the Croatian mainland, you’ll find unspoiled nature, coastal towns, and clear waters on the island of Cres, a truly magical place in the Adriatic Sea.
I’ve seen a lot of beautiful places in my time – oceans, mountains, jungles, and also lakes. However, the Plitvice National Park is one of the most beautiful sceneries I’ve ever laid eyes on. So come on, let me guide you through the National Park of Plitvice and awe at lakes and pools in their dreamlike colors.
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