Where the Kids Roam

1.MEAL TIMES ARE LATE

Lunch at 2 PM, dinner at 8 PM or later. Adjust your stomach accordingly. Strangely, when coming from Spain, meal times seem early here. 

2. PORTUGUESE IS NOT SPANISH

Learn a few basic phrases. “Obrigado/a” (thank you) goes a long way. Also, in our experience, people in Portugal would MUCH rather speak to you in English, rather than Spanish, if given the chance. 

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3. COFFEE CULTURE IS SERIOUS

“Um café” will get you a shot of espresso. Specify if you want something larger. Unlike Italy, you can order an afternoon Cappuccino should your heart desire it. 

4. PASTÉIS DE NATA ARE ADDICTIVE

These custard tarts are a national treasure. Try them fresh from the oven. Not for everyone (i.e. me) but for most. 

5. SEAFOOD IS KING

Bacalhau (salted cod) appears in countless dishes. Give it a chance.

Santa House, traditional house, family travel

6. WINE IS CHEAP AND EXCELLENT

Don’t just stick to Port. Try Vinho Verde or a Douro red. In fact, when and why would you drink Port? For a special occasion desert or in Porto, that’s all I can think of. 

7. TIPPING ISN'T MANDATORY

In fact, only in one restaurant did they try to force us into a tip. Remember, no one really tips in Europe. The servers get paid a living wage. Don’t ruin this. 

8. BEACHES HAVE PERSONALITY

From the wild Algarve to the surfing mecca of Nazaré, choose wisely. FYI – all the water is cold, year round. All of it. Just adjust your expectations. 

9. LISBON ISN'T FLAt

Pack comfortable shoes. Those picturesque hills are steeper than they look. You can get a taxi up to the castle (but it’s more fun to walk). 

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10. AZULEJOS ARE EVERYWHERE

These decorative tiles are part of Portugal’s soul. Look up and around. It’s what brings the real beauty to the city in my opinion. 

11. FADO IS HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL

Experience this traditional music in Lisbon or Coimbra. It’s unforgettable.

12. TRAINS ARE A GOOD OPTION

Comfortable and often scenic, especially the Porto to Douro Valley route.

13. SIESTA ISN'T A THING

Unlike Spain, most shops stay open through the afternoon. As someone who lives in Spain, can I get a “hell yeah”? I love this. 

14. BIFANAS ARE THE PERFECT SNACK

These simple pork sandwiches are a local favorite. Great with a cold beer.

15. CORK IS MORE THAN BOTTLE STOPPERS

You’ll find cork products everywhere, from bags to shoes. I honestly don’t know who shops in these places, but more power to you. 

16. THE ALGARVE ISN'T THE ONLY BEACH

Try the less crowded Costa Vicentina or the islands of the Azores.

17. ENGLISH IS WIDELY SPOKEN

But locals appreciate any attempt at Portuguese.

18. SARDINES ARE SEASONAL

Fresh ones are typically available June through October.

19. SINTRA IS MAGICAL BUT CROWDED

 Go early or consider staying overnight to beat the day-trippers. You should also consider hiring a driver as it’s crazy driving up in there. 

20. "SAUDADE" IS UNTRANSLATABLE

This uniquely Portuguese concept of nostalgic longing embodies the culture.

Remember, Portugal is more than just Lisbon and Porto. Explore smaller towns, embrace the relaxed pace of life, and don’t rush your meals. Learn to love seafood in all its forms, from grilled sardines to percebes (goose barnacles). And while the country is relatively small, each region has its own distinct character. Oh, and never confuse Portugal with Spain – it’s a quick way to offend locals. Boa viagem!