Portugal captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, colourful cities, and relaxed pace of life that creates an immediate sense of welcome. We explore this diverse country with Julie Fox, a British writer who has lived in central Portugal since 2007 and helps travellers discover authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.

• Portugal offers remarkable geographical diversity, from the green, tradition-rich north to the sun-drenched Alentejo and the dramatic coastlines of the Algarve
• While no longer a “cheap” destination, Portugal continues to offer excellent value, especially for food and wine
• First-time visitors should resist trying to cover too much ground – 7 to 10 days split between Lisbon and Porto provides a perfect introduction
• Lesser-known alternatives often provide better experiences than overcrowded “must-see” attractions such as Pena Palace
• Portugal’s culinary highlights include pastéis de nata, Serra da Estrela cheese, octopus dishes, and unique liqueurs such as ginjinha and Licor Beirão
• Bring comfortable, non-slip shoes, as Portuguese cobblestones are notoriously slippery even in dry weather
• The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (March–April, October–November) when crowds are smaller and temperatures more comfortable

For more Portugal travel tips and itinerary ideas, visit Julie’s website at JulieDawnFox.com

Guest - Julie Dawn Fox from JulieDawnFox.com
Show notes - Episode 79

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 42– Discover Italy: Essential tips for first-time visitors 
• Episode 45 – Germany Travel Guide: Expert Tips for first-time visitors
• Episode 57 – 15 Essential Europe Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

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