All Travel Blog Posts

Blog posts include travels throughout the United States, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal 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, Europe Debbie O'Boyle Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle

Visiting Obidos, Portugal’s Medieval Walled Town

The small village of Óbidos is a popular stop for visitors to Portugal, due to its authentic medieval charm and easy access from Lisbon. It’s good for a solid couple hours visit, especially if combined with other stops in the area.

What we enjoyed most in Óbidos was walking along the fortified walls to take in the views, exploring the quaint cobblestoned Rua Direita, and indulging in some delicious Ginja de Obidos, the traditional cherry liquor of the region served in a little chocolate cup.

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Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle

Visiting Fatima, what you need to know

Fatima is a major Christian pilgrimage site in Portugal, drawing millions of pilgrims annually from around the world.

There are three main points of interest to visit at the pilgrimage site in Fatima: The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary,  The Sanctuary of Fatima, and The Basílica of the Holy Trinity.

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Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle

Our favorite things to do in Porto

Porto is home to incredible city views, stunning architecture, amazing food, and Port wine. 

Porto is absolutely worth a visit

Among our favorite things to do are enjoying the view from the bridge, wine tasting in Gaia, and visiting the blue-tiled buildings.

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Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle Portugal, Europe John O'Boyle

A guide to Lisbon transportation for visitors

Lisbon has an abundance of transportation options. There is a modern metro system, trams (new lines and iconic old ones), affordable cabs, even more affordable Ubers, funiculars, tuk-tuks, and buses. 

While Lisbon is walkable, the city is very hilly so it’s best to use one of the many options to eliminate an uphill hike

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Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle Portugal, Europe Debbie O'Boyle

Visiting São Jorge Castle in Lisbon: Is it worth it?

As the main monument to ancient Lisbon, São Jorge Castle is a very popular tourist attraction. Of course this means it can get crowded - always a bit frustrating when you’re traveling. But we think the castle is worth visiting. You just might need to apply a little strategy. 

In this post, we offer ideas and info for planning a satisfying experience at São Jorge Castle.

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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.

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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.

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France, Europe John O'Boyle France, Europe John O'Boyle

Visiting the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain in Paris

We think the Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter represent the best of Paris; the cafe terraces, narrow streets plus the general vibe of enjoying a slower pace. 

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (the 6 arrondissement) and neighboring Latin Quarter (the 5th arrondissement) have enough attractions to keep you busy for a day or make a great base for your Paris hotel.

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Best spots to photograph NYC

Some of our favorite photos

Timelapse of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC