The Ultimate Hotel Tipping Guide

BY  Sibashree May 26, 2025

Welcome to Lisbon, where Fado music fills the air, and places such as Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, and the Belém Tower tell stories from the past.  Further, at the recently held ExpoVacaciones 2025, Lisbon stood tall with this tourism message. The focus was on the city's rich culture, heritage, sustainability, and gastronomy.  Also, with a handsome tourist inflow from various European countries, Lisbon is now ready to explore Asian and other international markets.  Vera da Cunha Serrão, the representative of the Touristic Promotion of Lisbon at ExpoVacaciones, said,  “We’re proud to show what others saw in us. This is vital in understanding the global Portugal story.” However, around 314 km from Lisbon, Porto is another important location in the tourism landscape of Portugal.  The historic center of Porto, along with the Monastery of Serra do Pilar and the Dom Luís I Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Moreover, the Lisbon to Porto journey, especially by train, is the most beautiful experience you can have. However, you can also enjoy a bus or car ride and take a flight to travel the distance.  In this Tour and Travel Guide, we will discuss the various modes of transportation from Lisbon to Porto, the journey, food, accommodation, and more!  What Is Porto Famous For? The “Rival” Of Lisbon Porto, with a touch of humor, is often called the “Rival of Lisbon.” And this comparison is beyond the origin of “Murder in Porto,” a craft beer that can blow your mind. If you still have doubts about “Is Porto Portugal worth seeing?” here are the reasons why it’s a must-visit destination in Portugal.  1. Port Wine Isn’t Porto famous for its port wine? Oh, Yes! The porthouses by River Douro sell the best wine and they also tell tales that go back to 1200s.  Local traders built these port houses or impressive buildings in the 1200s when the bishop of Porto introduced unfair taxes.  2. Historical Attractions Furthermore, if you are a history buff, you will get lost in the historic center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Palácio da Bolsa, or the Stock Exchange Palace, is a prominent landmark in the historical center.  3. The Most Beautiful Book Store In The World Porto also has Livraria Lello, which was built in 1906. Housed in a neo-Gothic architecture building, the bookstore has wooden staircases and red velvet carpets spread on the floor.  Once you reach here, you will know why it introduces itself as “The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World.”  And the “Little Birdie” here says that J.K.Rowling took inspiration from the interior of the bookstore.  4. Cruising Along The River Douro You can enjoy a cruise ride in Rabelo or the traditional boats in Porto to enjoy a different perspective of the city.  These traditional vessels were earlier used to transport port wines from the Douro Valley to Porto. 5. A Trip To The Douro Valley The Douro Valley is home to historical Fonseca and Crofts vineyards. You can have there the most amazing white port wine.  For a  more serene experience, you can visit the small town of Pinhao and enjoy a ride in the Rabelo boat for two hours.  What Is Lisbon Famous For? What Are The Best Attractions In Lisbon? Food, history, cultural heritage, and the love for Fado music come together in Lisbon. The Portuguese capital is now looking to achieve the perfect blend of heritage charm with modern amenities.  Furthermore, the city is now aiming to grow as a people-focused destination with a dynamic ambiance for local travelers.  Nevertheless, these are the top tourist attractions in the city. The Best Attractions in LisbonDetailsBelém TowerIt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this medieval fortress overlooks the Tagus River. Jerónimos MonasteryJerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lisbon. It stands out with its rich history and grand architecture. Alfama DistrictDo you want to listen to Fado Music and take a leisurely stroll along narrow alleys?The Alfama District, the oldest in Lisbon, will offer you all these opportunities. Oceanário de LisboaVisit Oceanário de Lisboa, an aquarium with diverse marine animals.  Furthermore, when you are in Lisbon, you must not miss a ride on Tram 28 from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique. Tram services are available from 6 AM to 10:30 PM, and the ticket charge is 3.10 euros. What Is The Lisbon To Porto Distance? The distance from Lisbon to Porto by road is 314 km. The journey by bus or train takes less than 3 hours.  What Is The Best Way To Go From Lisbon To Porto? Know The Modes Of Transportation You can take a train ride from Lisbon to Porto for the most beautiful journey. However, you can also take a bus ride or a flight to travel the distance.  Travel By Train From Lisbon To Porto  Twenty eight trains run between Lisbon to Porto on a daily basis. The train departs from the Gare do Oriente station in Lisbon and arrives at the Campanha Station in Porto.  The distance between these two places by train is 274 km and the journey takes between 2 hours 49 minutes and 3 hours 14 minutes based on the type of train you have boarded.  The Alfa Pendular trains are the fastest, and the regular intercity trains take a little longer to cover the distance.  You can book the train tickets online or by visiting the railway station. The ticket prices start from $30.  Also, the earliest train departs from Lisbon at 6:39 AM, and the last train departs at 10:09 PM.  Is It Worth Taking The Train From Lisbon To Porto? Yes, it is absolutely worth taking the train from Lisbon to Porto. The journey gives you the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Coast to the fullest.  Further, trains are frequently available between these two cities, and they are more reliable and comfortable as a mode of transportation.  Moreover, they consume less time than the buses, and the railway stations in Lisbon and Porto offer easy access to city centers and all important locations.  Can You Go To Porto For The Day From Lisbon By Bus? Yes, you can travel from Lisbon to Porto by bus. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, and you can book the bus tickets online on platforms such as redBus.  RedBus daily runs 112 buses from Lisbon to Porto, and the buses take 3 hours and 36 minutes to cover the journey.  Traveling from Lisbon to Porto is a budget-friendly option as the ticket price on redBus starts from only EUR 4.99. Buses depart from the Lisboa Oriente Terminal in Lisbon and reach Porto Garagem Atlantico in Porto.  Moreover, the earliest departure time of the bus is 12:15 AM and the last bus from Lisbon departs at 11 PM.  Traveling From Lisbon To Porto By Car If you are traveling from Lisbon to Porto by car, the journey of 314 km will take around 3 hours.  You can take the main motorway A1 for the journey. However, if you want a more scenic road trip experience, you can choose routes such as A29, A17, or A8.  All the roads have tolls, and they offer excellent driving conditions.  Furthermore, during the road trip, you can stop by beautiful towns such as Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Alcobaça, Pombal, and Nazaré.  Travel From Lisbon To Porto By Plane If you want to save more time and you are willing to spend some extra Euros during your travel, you can take a flight from Lisbon to Porto.  The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range from €30 - €120.  Flights depart from the Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon and reach the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon And Porto? April to May or the spring season and September to October or the fall season are the best times to visit Lisbon and Porto. Spring is the season of flowers. Further, the average temperature of 60-70 degree F make it ideal for exploring the outdoors.  Moreover, the Liberation Day Celebration on 25th April is one of the major reasons to visit Lisbon and Porto during the spring season.  On the other hand, the fall season, especially October, is the time of grape harvesting near the Douro Valley. You will also love birdwatching in October.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gemma Hadley | Wine Writer & Communicator (@gemmakatehadley) What Are The Accommodation Options In Porto And Lisbon? The accommodations, especially the boutique hotels in Lisbon, match the quintessential European vibe of the city. You will also get Airbnbs in Lisbon. While these Airbnbs are great for budget travelers and larger groups, they fail to replicate the charm of boutique hotels.  Nevertheless, these are some well-known boutique hotels in Lisbon.  The Vintage Lisbon Lisbon Wine Hotel Memmo Alfama — Design Hotels On the other hand, the accommodations in Porto offer a cozier vibe, and there is something very quaint about the hotels and townhouses in this port city.  However, if you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Porto, you must explore options such as Wine & Books Porto Hotel, Bloom House By Sweet Porto, and PortoBay Teatro. What Is Porto Famous Food? If you love seafood and stew, Porto is the best location in Portugal for the ultimate gastronomic delight.  Tripas à Moda do Porto, or the triple stew, is hearty here, while the fresh seafood, especially cod, will allow you to indulge in coastal delight.  You can even try Francesinha or the sandwich here with melted cheese and layers of meat. However, the kick of this sandwich is the spicy beer-based sauce.  Moreover, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to try Tarte de Amendoa or almond tart in Porto.  Also, don’t forget to try Cachorrinhos, Porto’s answer to an American hot dog, Bifana sandwich, Alheira sausage, and pastéis de bacalhau, a type of croquette.  Why Do People Like Porto More Than Lisbon? Which Is Prettier, Porto Or Lisbon? Lisbon is the most popular city in Portugal, and it should be the national capital. Also, the city's sunny vibe and quintessential European charm make it stand out.  However, if you want a cozier experience and you want to experience the old Portuguese vibe, Porto will be the go-to place.  Also, the port wine, wineries, and port houses around the Douro River have built a way of life that is unmatched, and the only reference here can be the history books or the stories you have heard.  Moreover, Porto has a unique visual appeal with well-preserved historic buildings and buildings adorned with azulejo or tile work. So, I find Porto prettier than Lisbon, and Porto would be my silent favorite if I had to choose between these two cities.  However, the choice will depend on your sense of aesthetics and the kind of experience you want to have in Portugal. Lisbon To Porto Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Lisbon to Porto distance and journey. 1. Is Porto Worth A Day Trip From Lisbon? Yes, Porto is worth a day trip from Lisbon. The journey by train, bus, or car allows you to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Coast. Further, if you are traveling by car, you can stop by towns such as Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Alcobaça, Pombal, and Nazaré. 2. How Many Days In Porto Is Enough? Three to five days are enough if you want to explore the best of Porto. You can see the Douro River, visit the Ribeira district, and Livraria Lello during your stay. Further, you must not miss exploring nearby attractions such as Guimarães and Braga 3. Is Porto An Expensive City? No, Porto is not an expensive city. The prices of hotels and other accommodations during the peak summer season can be higher. However, the hotel charges, transportation costs and overall standard of living here are less costlier than many other European cities, including Lisbon. 4. Should You Spend More Time In Porto Or Lisbon? The choice depends on your choice. If you want to experience the vibe of a cosmopolitan European City, Lisbon will be your ideal destination in Europe. However, Porto, by the Douro River, offers you a more laid-back vibe, and it has the best port wine in the world. 5. How Long Is The Train Ride From Lisbon To Porto? The duration of your train ride from Lisbon to Porto will depend on the kind of train you take. The Alfa Pendular trains are the fastest, and they cover the distance within 2 hours and 49 minutes. On the other hand, the regular intercity trains take a little longer to cover the distance and take 3 hours and 14 minutes.  Up Next... Best Mediterranean Cruises 2025 Destinations Right Here! Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready! Easiest Countries To Get Citizenship In 2025: Let’s Know The Names

BY  sagnika May 15, 2024

Did you know that the world's first "selfie" was invented in Australia? Did you know thatthat Australia has the world's longest fence? There are so many interesting and surprising things about Australia that will shock and surprise you. In this blog, I will share some interesting facts about Australia. You will be inspired to visit the country, especially because you will create symbiotic relationships. You can perform several adventurous activities along with beautiful landscapes. Furthermore, these are interesting facts about several states in Australia! The blog will teach you a lot about planning your itinerary to visit these interesting places. I will share several things to do in Australia related to these facts! I am sure you will be inspired to visit these places and enjoy yourself. You will also learn about various unique places in Australia! Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you! If you have heard a lot about Australia, what will you do when you go there? This huge country has so much to offer, from beautiful views to unique animals. It is a secure place to travel, and the beautiful locales around it are a delight. It is an interesting place because it includes several aspects that combine to create a beautiful lifestyle. There are multicultural communities, and the natural environment adds a beautiful flavour to the country, along with the diverse people, excellent food, and delicious wine. Did you know that Australia has about 60 regions that produce wine? Imagine the diverse flavors and the production process. Therefore, you cannot miss the restaurants in Australia! Let me share with you some of the interesting facts about Australia that will bring together the place's beauty and vibrancy. World's Most Unique Wildlife What do I even say when it comes to the diverse wildlife in Australia? It has the most unique animals on the global scale, as 80% of the wildlife is endemic to Australia. Can you imagine the significance of these animals, as we need to protect them? A report claims that about 87% of mammals, 94% of frogs, 45% of birds, and 93% of reptiles in Australia only exist there. From Koalas to iconic Kangaroos, wombats, and elusive echidnas, you can see various wildlife. Echidnas and Platypus are the only mammals that lay eggs, but did you know they are only found in Australia? The place is so filled with wildlife that, apart from zoos and national parks, you might encounter them in the open. The country has one of the oldest Island cultures, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, who experienced oppression and displacement at the hands of European colonization! A Country and A Continent   Did you know that Australia is both a continent and a country? Australia is the 6th largest country on the global scale. Geographically, Australia is a part of Oceania, which is inclusive of Melanesia, Polynesia, Australasia, and Micronesia. Oceania's subregions include New Zealand, New Guinea, and Australia. It is one of the smallest continents in the world, lying between the Indian and Pacific Oceans in the Southern Hemisphere. Hemisphere. If you are traveling to Australia, you also need to check out the beaches in Australia! The Majority of Uluru is Underground Uluru in Australia is known for its beautiful sunset, which is framed by a huge rock! It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it can be identified as a natural and cultural element of Australia. The place is quite sacred for the Aboriginal tribes as it is surrounded by scrubland! The rock is 2.5km underground and is believed to be related to Olgas. You will then see it emerge 16 miles away. You can also visit Uluru by railway between Adelaide and Darwin or by plane! The stark beauty of the rock against the beautiful sky with the best sunset offers an amazing view. You can also enjoy the pitch-black skies along with the several sparkling stars. If you are going from Alice Springs, you can enjoy it a lot, especially when you plan to visit Uluru. The Longest Straight Section of Train Track Did you know that Australia has the longest straight section of train tracks? Let me tell you, the rail journey between Perth and Sydney, known as the Indian Pacific, is the longest straight section! The tracks snake around the country, where you can check out the beautiful blue mountains! The train moves towards the mountainous Flinders Ranges, giving you some spectacular views! I would also suggest you stop in Adelaide. Of course, you cannot miss the gourmet food, the wide-open spaces of the city, and the art museums. Further, the train takes you across the fertile Avon Valley and into Sydney. You will receive luxury services on the train! The Largest Sand Island in the World Australia has the largest sand Island, which you can explore by hopping on a boat! Why don't you plan a trip to Queensland? The highlight of this trip will be the sandy shores of Fraser Island. There are some jumping-off points, and Hervey Bay is one of them. You must take a boat to discover this delightful place, an island paradise with white sands. Lake MacKenzie, surrounded by a white sand shore where you can swim, awaits you! You can also take a dip into the Champagne Pools, which have shallow water, and swim across the edge of the ocean. There are about 150 dingos on this island, so you can check out these wild dogs. However, keep your distance because they are wild and aggressive. Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! If you love the beach, check out the beaches in Perth! No Active Volcano in Australia Can you imagine that with so many volcanoes worldwide, Australia is the only continent without any active volcanoes? If you are planning to travel to Australia, it is one of the safest countries in the world. With the wildlife which is quite notorious even though it is not deadly all the time! Of course, there is a location in Southeast Australia, also called Newer Volcanic Province, where there is a collection of about 400 volcanoes spread across 15000 square kilometers (about the area of Connecticut). The Largest Eco-System in the World Can you imagine that Australia has the largest ecosystem in the world? The Great Barrier Reef is the joy and pride of Australia, with about 2500 individual reefs. Did you know that these reefs are visible from space? Apparently, halfway down the eastern coast of the country, it is covered in it! There are several jumping-off points where you can go down into the water and check out the kaleidoscopic coral. The cities closer to these reefs are Cairns, Townsville, Airlie Beach, and Port Douglas. Several activities, namely deep-sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surfing can be attempted and done. Marines, like sea turtles and colorful fish, live in these reefs. The Australian Alps Receive More Snow Compared to Swiss Alps Did you know that the Australian Alps have heavy snowfall between June and September? It is shocking that it is heavier than the Swiss Alps. The Alps are across Victoria and New South Wales and are a perfect place for skiing! During the northern hemisphere summer, you can enjoy the environment, so you can go skiing. Apart from that, you can also enjoy the beautiful environment. There are two large resorts, namely Perisher and Thredbo, near Canberra. Finishing Off In short, the interesting facts about Australia will not only surprise you but also shock you! After reading the blog, you will learn how the continent has worked hard to create a sustainable and diverse ecosystem. There are many other interesting facts, but the ones mentioned are quite significant. The diverse aspects of Australia will not only interest you but also teach you a lot of things. Comment on which part of Australia you want to visit and why. Learn More About: How To Enjoy Your Night In Sydney? 6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia 8 Best Places To Live In Australia For You If You Have A Family Do You Know The Best Time To Visit Australia? Read All About It! 

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 24, 2023

The Canary Islands, including Tenerife, are genuinely exceptional places on earth. Because of the island's volcanic and windy nature, volcano hikers and daring beach and watersports enthusiasts flock to it. Tenerife, which boasts a varied landscape and a warm winter climate, attracts millions of adventure seekers each year. March to May or September to November are the ideal times to visit Tenerife. Nonetheless, Tenerife is a fantastic destination all year round due to its subtropical climate, providing sunshine all year round. This Tenerife travel guide will walk you through all the hidden gems and unique locations while driving and hiking the island. Additionally, it will provide you with plenty of helpful advice on transportation for the best travel experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Tenerife. Let’s GO! Overview timeout.com Tenerife is an island that was once part of the Spanish-ruled Canary Islands. It is home to the archipelago's principal economic hub. It is situated 300 kilometers in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. The flight from Dublin or London takes about four hours. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands Archipelago. On the island, there are two international airports: South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS), Los Rodeos in the North – Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte-Ciudad de La Laguna (TFN). The island's moderate tropical climate draws tourists all year long. The year-round average temperature is 26–27 centigrade during summers and 19–20 centigrade during winters. Two nearby islands, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, are thought to be the windiest Canary Islands. However, Tenerife is a haven for surfers and wave lovers due to its relatively windy climate. Tenerife is home to some amazing sights and exhilarating adventures in addition to its vibrant nightlife and gorgeous girls. Here are some activities, sights, and things to do in Tenerife that you should definitely include on your itinerary. Things To Do In Tenerife production.imgix.net Teide National Park: Don't forget to see Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain. Experience breathtaking panoramic views by riding the cable car to the summit. Masca: Take in the quaint village of Masca, which is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Take a boat ride from Los Gigantes to see the ravine's beauty from the water, or hike through its picturesque ravine. Watching whales and dolphins in their natural habitat: Take a boat tour to witness these amazing animals. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will bring some magic to your guys' vacation. Water Sports: Exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and even scuba diving will make your heart race. The pristine waters of Tenerife are your playground. Quad Biking: Take a daring quad biking adventure through Tenerife's rough terrain to unleash your inner explorer. Explore off the beaten track and unearth hidden treasures. Things To Do In Tenerife: Beaches Like all the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a volcano. Tenerife has a small number of stunning black-sand beaches, one of which you should definitely visit! These three stunning beaches in Tenerife have golden sand: La Tejita Beach is a magical beach that's close to La Tejita town and South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS) on the southern part of the island. Las Teresitas (on the left photo) is a town on the eastern side of Tenerife, about 12 km from the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 20 km from the northern airport. A lovely beach with lots of tourists. Southwest of the island, at Las Vistas Amazing beaches with black sand in Tenerife: The photo on the right depicts Los Gigantes Benijo Playa del Castillo Playa El Bullullo; scroll down to see Restaurante Bollullo Beach! Things To Do In Tenerife: Nightlife pinimg.com Let's talk about the vibrant nightlife and delectable food scene, which are the lifeblood of any lad's vacation. There are plenty of hotspots in Tenerife that can keep the party going and satisfy your palate. Take a look at these dining and entertainment options: Veronicas Strip: For guys looking for a wild night out, this storied party area in Playa de las Americas is a must-visit. It's the place to be for an amazing evening, full of clubs, bars, and gorgeous people. Papagayo Beach Club: One of the finest parties on the island is held at this beachside club, where you can dance the night away. Papagayo is a surefire hit thanks to its amazing ocean views and stellar DJ lineup. Monkey Beach Club: This vibrant location offers a variety of live music events, DJ sets, and themed parties. Drink cool cocktails and socialize with visitors and locals alike. Things To Do In Tenerife: Food tenerifewhattodo.com Taste a range of authentic Spanish tapas dishes at Tapas Alley in La Laguna. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure there. It's a fantastic way to refuel before going out. San Telmo Night Market: Visit Puerto de la Cruz every Tuesday and Sunday to take in the lively San Telmo Night Market. Numerous street food vendors will be present, serving up delectable delicacies from all over the world. Seafood Feast At Los Abrigos: Indulge in a delectable seafood feast at Los Abrigos, a charming fishing village. Savor local specialties like grilled octopus and fresh fish while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean. You'll need a cozy spot to unwind and refuel after an exciting day and evening of partying. There are several lodging options in Tenerife to fit every taste and budget. Look at these recommendations: Things To Do In Tenerife: Luxury Hotels Experience the ultimate in luxury at the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, a legendary establishment renowned for its opulent amenities, breathtaking ocean views, and rock 'n' roll atmosphere. Tenerife has good lodging options. This means it won't be difficult for you to enjoy a little luxury while visiting. Situated slightly outside of a popular tourist area, La Casa Nova Hotel & Restaurant is a special location. It costs between $60 and $70 per night, which includes a full breakfast. The hotel had a very lovely pool with baldachin beds; it was a very appealing location. Bahía del Duque: This five-star resort offers a range of opulent amenities and top-notch service, combining elegance and natural beauty. Things To Do In Tenerife: Budget-Friendly Hotels bstatic.com Los Amigos Hotel: Perfect for lads on a budget, this friendly hostel in Playa de las Americas offers affordable accommodation, a sociable atmosphere, and a central location. Tenerife Ving: Situated in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife Ving provides comfortable and budget-friendly apartments, ideal for lads looking for a cozy base. Booking.com: Check out Booking.com's extensive selection of apartment rentals. You'll find a wide range of options to fit your needs and budget, from chic city apartments to contemporary beachfront apartments. Wrapping Up Tenerife's breathtaking scenery, exhilarating experiences, exciting nightlife, and delectable cuisine are waiting for you. This sun-drenched paradise has it all, whether you're exploring the island's natural wonders or going out for an incredible night on the town. Gather your friends, prepare your belongings, and get set up for the trip of a lifetime for the guys. Now that you know all the things to do in Tenerife, it's time to pack your bags. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire