Travel Portugal Land faithful to its past

Travel Portugal Land faithful to its past Perched at the weste tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal stands out among its neighbors as one of the oldest and yet most traditional and conservative European civilizations. Visitors can see 22,000 years Palaeolithic rock art on the walls of the valley of the C? A, and human in this region date back 500,000 years! The Celts settled here around 750 BC and were followed by Romans, Visigoths, and Greeks, among others. The Moors enjoyed their infamous occupation from the 8th to the 13th century and left their culture and oate, white signature eclectic architecture of the Iberian Peninsula. Today, Portugal homogenous culture and dedication to tradition is largely due to the oppressive rule Salazar during the mid-1900. As a result, visitors can enjoy a more culturally authentic stay in Portugal, than any other European nation. The north-south axis of Portugal creates regions of dynamic terrain and unique specialties. Douro Valley, famous stretches 125 miles along a winding river and is famous for the chain of port wineries at its edges. Cruises are now offered throughout the length of the valley, from Porto. The city of Lagos, in Algarve, the southe region attracts sun-seekers and lovers of history alike. Prepare to be swept away by this hidden gem of 15th century, surrounded by walls. Trip to Portugal in the Atlantic, two groups of islands off the Atlantic coast of Portugal are the property and serenity and a perfect escape to the coast, with centuries of Portuguese history of them, a coup d 'eye in the area of natural beauty . The Azores archipelago is located 907 miles from the coast and is a haven of turquoise lakes, rolling green hills and sandy beaches. Monasteries, cathedrals, forts and ruins dating from the 15th century when Portuguese navigators encountered the outcropping, are sprinkled on the islands. To the south, attractive subtropical climate of Madeira Island and around the volcanic archipelago is a bastion in search of adventure, a luxury resort, Madeira wine and untouched 15th Century architecture standing dramatically on seaside cliffs. Both retreats are removed easily accessible from major airports in Portugal. Tips for travelers waed Nearly all of Portugal works on Siesta time and 97% of the country is Catholic, therefore affecting commercial hours and holidays. Most shops, banks and pharmacies are closed between 1 and 3 (yes, even in big cities). Take note that museums also close in the middle of the day between 12.30 and 2. Almost everything, but the museum closes from 1 to Saturday, and plan only to eat and rest on Sunday, when it is not open. To plan your trip wisely, check the opening hours of attractions that you want to see your first trip or planning to book a room! Finally, be aware when you travel by taxi. Price is measured in the city limits, but once you leave these limits, you will be charged for each km in excess of the cost of a retu jouey the driver to the point of departure. When you take a taxi after midnight, negotiate the price with the driver before getting in the car, especially if you are involved in port!