Developing an appetite with strenuous exercise in Lisbon When I hear, “Let’s explore restaurants in Lisbon,” I never worry about gaining an ounce. Lisbon is steep, and not many restaurants are taxi-accessible, so Bolt usually drops you off on an impossibly steep, almost vertical street. Then you get an elliptical workout as you fantasize about the reward—a delicious … [Read more...]
Madeira: Between Luxury, Bohemia, and the Exotic
The Arrival Our smooth landing in Madeira promised a good start. I’d heard about the island’s challenging runway and frequent go-arounds. Thankfully, we had no issues. Four Nights at the Cliff Bay Hotel At the Cliff Bay Hotel, they welcomed us with a generous late-night treat. We melted into a cushy settee with wine, fruit, and sweets. Our suite felt more like a … [Read more...]
From the Douro Vineyards to a Glass of Port
The Journey After Lisbon’s urban scene, we ventured out into the country. We planned to drive through the Douro Valley to Porto, then fly to Madeira. The second week of September was a perfect time to be in the Douro. The colors were beginning to hint at autumn, and the sun was gentle and forgiving. We took the highways from Lisbon to Casa do Rio to save time … [Read more...]
A House and Hotel in Venice Full of Hidden Wonders
Trying to be practical this time, I chose Cinque Teste Luxury Home in Venice mainly for its proximity to the train station. Of course, the celebrated Venetian garden right on the property sealed the deal when I booked a room. Getting to Cinque Teste and getting lost. Supposedly, it would only take ten minutes from the train station to get there, which meant a pleasant … [Read more...]
