Beaches, castles, mountains, and secret tunnels Portugal has it all. Without any forethought, I arrived in Lisbon on Portugal Day, one of the largest celebrations of the year. I spent the warm, summer evening wandering the narrow streets of old town. Streamers and lights were hung between the pastel colored homes while the smell of grilled beef and fish wafted through the air. Everyone was out in the street either eating or dancing.
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Northern Spain
When talking about Spain you’ll hear people mention Barcelona or Madrid, but often overlooked is the entire Northern Region of Spain. Unlike the usual depictions of hot, dry, and sunny all the time, the Northern region is made up of lush, green mountains and a rocky coastline.
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Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia, the Southern region of Spain, is everything that you want Spain to be. Flamenco, Paella, bright blue skies, warm Mediterranean water, and villages with white stucco and red tile roofs. It’s easy to relax in a place where time moves slower.
The region has an intense history. From the Christian Reconquest to conquest of the Americas, the palaces and cathedrals still standing are reminders of the incredible wealth of the Spanish empire. In contrast to Andalusia’s historic past, you’ll find some of the most iconic works of modern architecture including Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences, a fantastic cultural center and museum.
Things to do
La Mezquita - Cordoba - One part mosque, one part cathedral a truly unique blend of cultures
La Alambhra - Granada - Arguably the most important palace-fortress in Spanish history
El Puente Nuevo - Ronda - A massive 17th-century bridge spanning a waterfall that connects the two sides of a city built on top of the cliffs
Ciudad de las Ciencias y las Artes - Valencia - Museum, and an example of modern architecture at it’s finest
Seville Cathedral - The largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the presumed final resting place of Christopher Columbus
Plaza de España - Seville - The monumental site of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929
La Sete - Seville - A modern architecture icon
Barcelona, Spain
An iconic tourist destination, with world-class beaches, soccer, and architecture, Barcelona attracts millions of visitors each year. To be honest it can feel like a tourist trap. But don’t let that deter you from visiting this gem of a city. There is so much to see, eat, and do that you will never be bored.
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Madrid, Spain
The vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid is a fusion of cultural history and modern Spanish living. Located in the geographic center of Spain, people from all over the country as well as from all over the world are drawn to the city creating a unique mix of Spanish and international culture.
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Costa Rica - Pura Vida
Whatever your pace is Costa Rica can match it. Go hard and hike volcanoes, surf famous waves, snorkel/scuba is crystal clear water, river raft through the rapids of the Pacuare, kayak at night through bioluminescent algae, or jump off waterfalls. When you want to take it slower just stop to listen and watch for birds, frogs, iguanas, monkeys, and of course sloths.
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Guatemala and Belize
In Guatemala, you can spend the day relaxing on a black, volcanic sand beach or trek through the jungle following the steps of the ancient Mayan people. On the other hand, Belize is a tourist paradise. Full of beaches, bars, and water recreation.
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