Unlocking the Charms of Sintra: Portugal’s Fairytale Escape | Art of Saudade

Welcome to Sintra, a place where reality is intertwined with fairytales, and every step leads you deeper into a realm of enchantment. Located amidst the mystical Serra de Sintra, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of captivating stories and historical wonders. Join me on a journey as we delve into the secrets that make Sintra a truly magical destination. Legend has it … Continue reading Unlocking the Charms of Sintra: Portugal’s Fairytale Escape | Art of Saudade

Lisbon’s Vintage Charm: A Photo Essay of the City’s Old Flea Market, Feira da Ladra | Art of Saudade

Are you a treasure hunter, a foodie, or just an avid traveler looking for unique experiences? Look no further than Lisbon’s Feira da Ladra, a bustling flea market held every Saturday for years and one of the most legendary flea markets in Europe.  Here, you can find absolutely everything, from vintage azulejos and old books to funky clothes and handmade crafts. Upon arrival, I was … Continue reading Lisbon’s Vintage Charm: A Photo Essay of the City’s Old Flea Market, Feira da Ladra | Art of Saudade

Lost in Lisbon’s Words: A Journey Inspired by Fernando Pessoa | Art of Saudade

The enigmatic presence of Fernando Pessoa continues to guide us through Lisbon’s labyrinthine and poetic streets. Before embarking on my journey to the magnificent Portuguese capital, I made sure to read this poet’s masterpiece, a guidebook called “Lisbon – What the Tourist Should See”. By following his footsteps, I could delve deeper into the very same streets that inspired his exquisite verses, and experience the … Continue reading Lost in Lisbon’s Words: A Journey Inspired by Fernando Pessoa | Art of Saudade

Carnaval Around the World: From Portugal to Rio and Beyond | Art of Saudade

Carnaval, a time of lively celebrations and colorful parades, has become a worldwide event, celebrated by people of all ages and cultures. But where did this festive occasion originate, and how has it evolved over time?  From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the charming towns of Portugal, Carnaval brings people together. So, what does the word “Carnival” mean? Carnival, or “Carnaval” is … Continue reading Carnaval Around the World: From Portugal to Rio and Beyond | Art of Saudade

A Journey Through Time: Exploring Coimbra’s Rich History and Culture | Art of Saudade

From the picturesque streets lined with traditional Portuguese architecture to the rich history embedded within its walls, Coimbra is a city filled with charm and unique culture. With its large student population, this city located in the north of Portugal is a lively and youthful place, with a thriving nightlife and a diverse cultural scene. According to locals though, Coimbra gets quite empty in August, … Continue reading A Journey Through Time: Exploring Coimbra’s Rich History and Culture | Art of Saudade

Best Of – Fernando Pessoa’s Thoughts on Life, Dreams, and Love | Art of Saudade

During those hours when the landscape forms a halo around Life, and dream is simply a matter of dreaming oneself, I created, O my love, in the silence of my disquiet, this strange book like a series of arches opening up at the end of some abandoned avenue. Fernando Pessoa, The Book of Disquiet To write is to live. To dream is to find yourself. … Continue reading Best Of – Fernando Pessoa’s Thoughts on Life, Dreams, and Love | Art of Saudade

When Dystopia Makes You Cherish Your Life | Blindness by José Saramago | Art of Saudade

They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see. They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound in their throat. Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them. Psalm 115:5-8  Dystopia is one … Continue reading When Dystopia Makes You Cherish Your Life | Blindness by José Saramago | Art of Saudade

The Most Authentic Cultural Experience In Portugal | Art of Saudade

Portugal is more than Lisbon and Porto. It is more than Azores and Madeira. All of these cities are, of course, wonderful and worth visiting for many reasons. But, Portugal has something more to offer… Check out my Porto Travel Itinerary I went to Fornos de Algodres, a small municipality far from the big cities, and this is why I believe that the most genuine … Continue reading The Most Authentic Cultural Experience In Portugal | Art of Saudade

Inside one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world | Livraria Lello | Art of Saudade

Can a bookstore inspire you? Legend has it that a bookstore in Portugal inspired J.K. Rowling to write Harry Potter. How true is it? Let’s find out! The Lello Bookstore in Porto, Portugal Founded in 1869, Lello is one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal and it still keeps its neo-gothic elements. The staircase, the shelves, and the vivid colors attract thousands of tourists to … Continue reading Inside one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world | Livraria Lello | Art of Saudade

Epic Porto Travel Itinerary | Art of Saudade

Are you ready for a colorful summer? Porto is waiting for you with its deep blue ocean and azulejo art (a traditional form of painted tin-glazed ceramic tilework). The second-largest Portuguese city can actually be visited in a few days. Arrival You can arrive in Porto by plane, train, bus, bike… the choice is yours! The public transport in Porto is also very well organized. … Continue reading Epic Porto Travel Itinerary | Art of Saudade