Portugal is a dream destination for travelers who love historic charm, stunning coastlines, and delicious food. From the colorful streets of Lisbon to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve, this country is packed with bucket-list experiences. My top picks? The fairytale castles of Sintra, the port wine cellars in Porto, and the golden beaches of Lagos. Whether you’re into history, surfing, or just relaxing with a pastel de nata, Portugal has something for everyone.
As a tourist, your main airports will be:
Smaller airports include Madeira (FNC) and Ponta Delgada (PDL) in the Azores. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the best deals.
Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Portugal
Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe, but like anywhere, it’s smart to stay alert. Petty theft (like pickpocketing) can happen in tourist-heavy areas like Lisbon’s Tram 28 or crowded metro stations.
Overall, Portugal is very traveler-friendly, and locals are generally helpful if you need directions or recommendations.
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, dry summers (June–August) and cool, rainy winters (December–February).
I visited in May, and the weather was perfectly sunny but not overwhelming, ideal for exploring.
Portugal is affordable by Western European standards, though not as cheap as Southeast Asia or Egypt.
Meals:
Transport:
Tip: Eating where locals do (away from tourist squares) saves money!
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small but stunning country is packed with lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches making it one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism. The most famous spots include Manuel Antonio National Park (where jungle meets ocean), the Arenal Volcano (with its hot springs), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest (home to rare wildlife).
Congo is a land of untamed wilderness and raw beauty, offering some of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, while the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) boasts pristine national parks and the mighty Congo River. Top sights include Virunga National Park (the world’s most biodiverse protected area), Nyiragongo Volcano’s lava lake, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park for lowland gorilla trekking.
Comoros is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, offering untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and French cultures. This archipelago may be small, but it’s packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences from hiking the active Mount Karthala volcano to exploring the fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. The capital, Moroni, is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, while the islands of Mohéli and Anjouan provide secluded beaches and incredible marine life.
Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms.
Join thousands of smart travelers who get our best travel secrets, money-saving hacks, and destination guides—before anyone else.