Today we will visit Portugal, the European Green Capital due to the efforts to fight climate change, which has led to a 50 percent reduction citywide in carbon emissions. A remarkable country that offers culinary delights, astounding wines, and cultural experiences. Over the last ten years there has been a gourmet awakening which has shaken up the food scene and do not forget they also have a wide variety of wines for such a small country. Portugal is a sea-faring country and offers traditional foods such as the salted codfish, sea bass, grouper and salmon as the fresh catch of the day. Lisbon is the center of the culinary experience with new fusions of the “old world” and the meets the “new world”. For the Love of wine, Portugal’s Douro Valley vineyards have served as the center of the port-wine industry for 400 years. The valley birthed the Port, the most famous wine of Portugal. The region has such culture and historic value, did you know, the Douro Valley is on the list of world Heritage sites? Beyond Portugal’s famous Port you can discover natures wonders it has to offer such as beaches, waterfalls, “lakes of Peneda-Geres National Park, the gorges and peaks of Madeira, and the maze-like Moorish alleys of Lisbon”. One city in particular is an under visited city who is deserving of our attention. Guimarães, a small but beautiful city is also known as the birthplace of the Portuguese nationality, as it was the home of the first Portuguese king. While wandering the narrow streets of the historical quarter and visiting the incredible Ducal Palace and Guimarães Castle, its impossible not to note the richness and power of Guimarães’ history. Portugal is a country full of history that will amaze and delight. Where to stay, how about the sophisticated Belmond Reid`s Palace located in Madeira, which opened its doors in 1891 by a Scots man Mr William Reid. Belmond Reid's Palace is an international luxury travel hot spot for the most savvy travellers. “This living piece of history sprawls over 10 acres of sub-tropical gardens with more than 500 hundred different types of rare plants and flowers. All rooms have balconies, where a simple morning coffee or just a breath of fresh air to start your day, is turned into an unforgettable moment. Dining experiences start early in The Pool Terrace Restaurant for a slow buffet breakfast, a tasty menu à la Carte for lunch and several snacks and drinks throughout the day. Afternoon Tea is an iconic event at Belmond Reid's Palace dating back to when the hotel first opened. You can take your seat on our iconic terrace to indulge in our much-loved tradition of afternoon tea. Sample delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and homemade pastries accompanied by your choice from a selection of 24 teas, or toast the occasion with a glass of chilled champagne. For dinner, Michelin Star William Restaurant led by Executive Chef Luis Pestana is a destination in its own. With a menu celebrating the finest produce from the island, expect seasonal dishes of the highest quality.” The hotel offers three pools plus one tidal pool, two tennis courts, The SPA with five treatment rooms and much more, are at your fingertips ready to be indulged in. The hotel is also perfect for family adventures or relaxing stays with your little ones. They offer children’s amenities such as bathrobes, slippers, toiletries, and a welcome toy. Whether you cruise, tour, unpack at the Belmond Reid`s Palace or choose something off the beaten path Portugal is a splendour of cultural, culinary and a great place to raise your glass at the end of the day. Cheers to getting you the most return on life! Published April 2020 Written by Lori Castelnuovo