All Travel Blog Posts

Blog posts include travels throughout the United States, France, Italy, Spain and England. We give you our advice and tips on how to make your travels more enjoyable.

We also have tips on how to improve your travel photography.

Portugal John O'Boyle Portugal John O'Boyle

Great day trips from Lisbon

One of the best aspects of visiting Lisbon is the variety of great day trips nearby.

On a recent trip to Portugal, we took numerous day trips, some by train and some by organized tour. We would have had even more options if we had rented a car.

Read More
Portugal John O'Boyle Portugal John O'Boyle

Visiting the Douro Valley, what to see and where to stay

The Douro Valley is a beautiful region about 60 miles from Porto. The terraced hills above the Douro River are the only place in the world that can produce Port wine. 

It’s a very popular day trip from Porto or you can stay a few days to visit more of the area’s Quintas or wine producers. 

Read More
Portugal Debbie O'Boyle Portugal Debbie O'Boyle

Belem: A must see when visiting Lisbon

Belém is a famous riverside district of Lisbon, home to many of Portugal's most notable monuments and museums.

You can see the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, the Monument of Discoveries and Belém Palace, as well as tasting the original recipe for Portugal’s famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Belém.

And it’s all just a quick ride from the heart of Lisbon.

Read More
Portugal Debbie O'Boyle Portugal Debbie O'Boyle

The Art of Portugal’s Stone Pavement

One thing you’ll notice right away when arriving in Lisbon is the charming cobblestone pavements that accentuate the city.

These decorative sidewalks can be seen all over Portugal, but they originated in Lisbon and so the city takes a particular pride in them. They give the streets a unique and artistic touch.

Read More
Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle

Visiting Nazaré: what to see on a day trip

Nazaré is one of the most picturesque seaside villages in Portugal. It’s best known for its giant waves but it offers visitors a lot more. 

It is located near other destinations like Fatima, Obidos, and the Batalha Monastery so many people and tours bundle these sights into a great day trip from Lisbon.

Read More
Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle

What to eat when visiting Portugal

Portugal is a fishing country so it is well known for its delicious array of quality seafood.

But Portuguese cuisine doesn’t end there! A wide variety of unique dishes - from savory pork sandwiches & spicy Piri-piri chicken to sweet Pastéis de Nata - also brighten the palate in this welcoming, beautiful country.

Read More
John O'Boyle John O'Boyle

Traveling by train in France

Traveling by train in France is convenient, quick, safe, and relaxing. Most European countries have an extensive train network and France is no exception. 

Read More
England Debbie O'Boyle England Debbie O'Boyle

What to do in Battersea, South London

Battersea is one of London’s latest trendy destinations.

Visiting Battersea today, it’s almost hard to believe it was once a depressed and forgotten industrial area.

At its heart is the newly renovated Battersea Power Station.

Read More
Debbie O'Boyle Debbie O'Boyle

10 Great Things to do in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley region of New York State has so much to offer - interesting historical sites, beautiful scenery, nature activities, and a growing restaurant scene.

It is also famous as a wine-producing and cider-producing region, has excellent antique shopping and serves up a wide variety of artistic and cultural experiences. All within an hour or so drive from NYC.

Read More
New York area, Northeast, United States Debbie O'Boyle New York area, Northeast, United States Debbie O'Boyle

Visiting FDR’s home and Presidential Library

There is so much to see at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site, including Springwood, FDR’s home throughout his life, as well as the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, and his burial site.

Set in scenic Hyde Park in the Hudson Valley, the 1,000 acre estate is also a beautiful park with gardens and walking trails, and it’s only an easy one-hour drive from NYC.

Read More

Best spots to photograph NYC

Some of our favorite photos

Timelapse of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC