🦩 The New Post-Pandemic Eldorado 🌟

To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the most pleasant sensations in the world. – Freya Stark

Hello there,

Forget the overhyped tourist traps and picture this: Portugal, a sun-drenched paradise where ancient history whispers around every corner and the charm factor is off the charts. This Atlantic gem is experiencing a tourist boom unlike anything it's ever seen, attracting a record-breaking number of visitors and leaving locals with a mix of excitement and, well, some growing pains. So, is Portugal the next must-visit destination? We're diving deep to explore the reasons behind this tourism surge, what it means for the future of this captivating country, and most importantly, how YOU can be a part of its incredible story – responsibly, of course! Let's get this Portugal adventure started!

PORTUGAL: HOT DESTINATION OR OVERHEATED?

Imagine a sun-drenched paradise, steeped in history and charm, where tourist numbers are booming. Welcome to Portugal, the Atlantic gem attracting more visitors than ever! But with success comes growing pains, so buckle up as we explore the reasons behind Portugal's tourism surge and what it means for the future.

Tourist Tsunami

Forget small villages and hidden gems – Portugal is now a full-blown tourist magnet. With a record-breaking 18 million visitors in 2023, almost twice the population itself, the country is basking in the economic benefits of tourism. Brits lead the pack, followed by Germans, Spaniards, French, and North Americans, all eager for a taste of Portuguese sunshine. 

Reasons for the Rave

What's the secret sauce? Well, Portugal offers a delicious blend: historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, stunning coastlines like the Algarve and the Azores, charming towns, and delicious food – all at a relatively affordable price compared to other European hotspots. It's no wonder travelers are flocking!

But Hold on, There's a Catch

Before you pack your bags, consider the downside. The surge in tourists has pushed prices up, making it harder for locals to find affordable housing. Overcrowding, especially in Lisbon, raises concerns about infrastructure and sustainability. And that new airport proposal? It's facing serious opposition due to environmental and economic worries.

 So, What's the Verdict?

Portugal's tourism success is undeniable, but it's a double-edged sword. The country needs to strike a delicate balance between welcoming visitors and preserving its local charm and affordability. Finding sustainable solutions for infrastructure, housing, and the environment will be crucial for Portugal to ensure its tourism boom doesn't turn into a bust.

So, should you visit? Absolutely! Just be mindful and choose responsible, local tourism options to help Portugal grow its tourism pie in a sustainable way.

TRAVEL DIARIES

Stinky bus trip.

Source: Michael Holden on www.quora.com

“Well, I would have to say that was when we took a bus from Oaxaca through the mountains to get to the Pacific Ocean. The bus was overfilled with mostly younger women who based on their appearance had never been in a large motorized vehicle before, certainly not for 8 hours at a stretch, and never on mountain roads that were by any measure, absurdly twisted, curvey, narrow, potholed, washed out and filled with maniac drivers. So, you might say, welcome to bus travel outside of the USA, gringo, get over it.

Fifteen minutes after we got going, the vomiting started. And spread. And spread. Until every one of the young, women, very rural type people on the bus, maybe 50 or more, were vomitng into those plastic bags they usually put soda into. And not quietly. They puked, hurled, chundered, threw up and barfed loudly, with abandon, helpless to stop, powerless to do anything but to try to keep it in the bag.

The smell. Did I mention that it was hot? And there was no air conditioning. It would hit you like a punch to the neck. I closed my eyes and me mumbled the phrase "intestinal fortitude, intestinal fortitude" for hours.

We eventually stopped for dinner. The only food was, of course, blood tacos. Which made it my turn to puke my guts out.

I was not myself for days after.”

MINGO-MEMES

VASCO-SNAP OF THE DAY

Lago di Braies, Italy