Near Lisbon there is plenty to visit

As I drove around the greater Lisbon area I came to the conclusion that there are still many places near the Portuguese capital that are of great interest for a visitor. They should be better talked about. Sintra and Cascais are well known. They attract a good number of foreign visitors.  But there are other places, such as Ericeira by the sea or Mafra and its convent and rural landscapes that good be better publicised. Including for their cuisine and the variety of the landscapes.

Tourism is very much about the way you talk about your region. It is also about making sure you offer quality at a reasonable price. And it is nowadays, during the off-season, about being able to catch the attention of the retirees from elsewhere. They are a very important segment of the market during the low season. Things need to be organised to cater for their interests. 

Lisbon and the cruise ships

Lisbon is now a major stop in the itinerary of the cruise ships that navigate this corner of Europe. At this time of the year, it is usual to see two or three big vessels by the tourist harbour. Today they were six, all very large.

This daily influx of visitors is bringing some much need vitality to the centre of the city, lots of people with some euros to spend. It also gives the key monumental areas a strong sense of economic dynamism. And that is deeply appreciated, particularly at a time when many Portuguese try to move out of a morose approach to the crisis and be able to access new sources of income. 

Riga is a good example

For the third time in a row, duty brings me to Riga during the last three weeks of September. And I should immediately add I am always delighted to be in this city. It is a pretty place, very well kept, with many parks, flowers and promenades, little or no traffic in the heart of it, and an atmosphere of peace, calmness, good manners and strong optimism.

I think people from other European cities should be brought here to learn a lesson or two. For instance, as we are about to have municipal elections in Portugal, at the end of the month, it would be good for the Portuguese to have some of their key mayoral candidates to come first to Riga and get some inspiration. Lisbon, Porto and other Portuguese places are beautiful spots with uninspired managers in charge.  

Lisbon stroll

I spent the morning walking in downtown Lisbon. And I enjoyed it. 

The city centre has benefit from some serious renovation and at this time of the year is full of light, colour and tourists. Many young tourists, from many corners of Europe, can be seen in the public places, little terrace cafés and other shops that make the heart of the Portuguese capital. 

As we stroll around, we feel safe, which is a key concern when you are visiting a big city and a foreign place.  And if you are just a visitor, you do not notice the crisis the country has been experiencing. Life looks normal. 

Well, that’s good news.

View from home (Lisbon)

Copyright V.Ângelo

Life with a view, a wider view of life.