Discovering Lisbon: Vintage Markets, Scenic Views & Unforgettable Food We recently spent a couple of days in Lisbon, Portugal, and it completely captured our hearts. This city is full of contrasts—historic charm meets urban edge, where crumbling tiled buildings stand proudly alongside trendy cafes and creative restaurants. Even with only a Monday and Tuesday to explore, we found so much to love. Beauty on Every Hilltop Lisbon is famously hilly, but the climbs are rewarded with jaw-dropping views. Two of our favorite spots were: Miradouro de Santa Luzia – A peaceful terrace with flowering bougainvillea and panoramic views of Alfama and the river. Miradouro das Portas do Sol – Ideal for photos, sunsets, and soaking up the classic Lisbon skyline. Mercado de Santa Clara: Vintage Finds & Antiques If you love a good flea market, don’t miss the Mercado de Santa Clara. Held every Tuesday and Saturday, it reminded us of a bustling London market, with racks of vintage clothing, affordable prices, and quirky antiques you’ll want to ship home. It’s one of the best local experiences we had. Where to Eat in Lisbon: Our Favorite Restaurants Lisbon’s food scene is thriving. Two standout meals for us: Uma Marisqueira – A no-frills local spot known for its flavorful seafood rice. Gunpowder Lisboa – Creative Indian fusion in a chic setting. We loved the softshell crab and mustard broccoli—elevated flavors with bold personality. Live Music & Culture: Teatro da Trindade We also had the chance to see Maria João, a renowned Portuguese jazz singer, at the beautiful Teatro da Trindade. The venue was intimate and full of history, and the show was outstanding—proof of Lisbon’s vibrant cultural scene even on a quieter weekday night. Even though we only scratched the surface, Lisbon left a lasting impression. It’s a place where art, food, music, and history come alive in every neighborhood. We can’t wait to return—next time for more nightlife, longer days at the markets, and plenty of new discoveries. Hands Mural Lisbon Lisbon Cathedral Seafood Stew Lisbon at Uma Marisqueira Lisbon Mural Majong Lisbon Lisbon Mural Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon, Portugal Miradouro de Santa Luzia Miradouro de Santa Luzia Lisbon Mural Lisbon, Portugal Mercado de Santa Clara Mercado de Santa Clara Mercado de Santa Clara Mercado de Santa Clara Lisbon Fado Mural Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon Cathedral Tram 28 Lisbon Lisbon Mural and Tram 28 Lisbon, Portugal Gunpowder Lisboa Teatro da Trindade

Riding Out the Rain in Central Portugal Our latest housesitting adventure (TrustedHousesitters) took us to a tranquil hillside retreat just outside Oliveira do Hospital in Central Portugal. Surrounded by green valleys and rolling mountains, the home was beautiful—even in less-than-ideal spring weather. A Scenic Hideaway with Mountain Views Perched on a hilltop with panoramic views, the house offered a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life. A hot tub on the terrace looked out over distant wind turbines, occasionally visible when the clouds parted. Citrus trees dotted the landscape—oranges, grapefruits, and kumquats bursting with color—offering cheerful reminders of the season despite the frequent rain. Caring for Three Dogs… and Practicing Patience This sit involved looking after three spirited pups. While they were each sweet in their own way, the rain made things more challenging. Cooped up indoors, they barked often and were hard to settle—a test of patience for everyone. The week reaffirmed something we started to learn during our time in Mexico: two dogs is our ideal, and one might is even better. Three, especially during a rainy week, stretched us—but it also reminded us how well we support each other. Through it all, Joe and I stayed grounded and connected, handling the bumps as a team. Exploring Central Portugal Between the Rainstorms When the skies cleared, we took full advantage of the breaks in weather to explore the beauty of Central Portugal: 🌲 Bucaco Forest and the Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Nestled in the Bucaco Forest, this historic convent felt like something out of a fairy tale, especially shrouded in mist. We couldn’t hike deeply into the woods due to soggy conditions, but the atmosphere alone made it worthwhile.🔗 Learn more about Bucaco Forest🔗 Visit the Convent 💧 Açude da Ribeira We found this lovely riverside dam area on a whim. Though recent rain had flooded parts of the trail, it was a serene and scenic stop worth the visit.🔗 See the trail on AllTrails 🥾 Trilho dos Gaios Trail Our favorite hike of the week. This vibrant trail winds along the Mondego River, with colorful bridges, wooden walkways, moss-covered boulders, and sweeping views. We even spotted a herd of goats high on a ridge, perfectly content in their mountain perch.🔗 Explore the trail Final Thoughts: Lessons from a Rainy Week in Portugal While this sit didn’t quite turn out to be the countryside escape we envisioned, it still offered quiet reflection, misty magic, and a deeper understanding of what works best for us on these housesitting adventures. And on the clear days, when the valley stretched out below us in all its green glory, it was easy to remember why we keep saying yes to the journey. Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Bucaco Forest Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Convento de Santa Cruz do Buçaco Trilho dos Gaios Trail, Trilho dos Gaios Trail, Trilho dos Gaios Trail, Trilho dos Gaios Trail, Trilho dos Gaios Trail, Açude da Ribeira Açude da Ribeira

Exploring Coimbra: A Step Back in Time at the University Palace While housesitting in Central Portugal, we made a day trip to Coimbra, a city known for its deep cultural roots and academic prestige. One of the highlights of our visit was a guided tour of the University Palace, located at the heart of the University of Coimbra campus. The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and the oldest in the Portuguese-speaking world. In 2013, the university’s historic buildings—including the Royal Palace—were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. A Journey Through Centuries of History The tour included access to several of the most iconic spaces on campus: the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel of St. Michael, and the legendary Joanine Library. The Royal Palace, once the residence of Portuguese monarchs, was transformed into part of the university in the 16th century. Today, it’s used for academic ceremonies but still retains a regal atmosphere that reflects its royal past. Inside the Joanine Library: A Living Work of Art The real showstopper was the Joanine Library, often cited as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. With its towering bookshelves, gold leaf accents, and ornately carved woodwork, the space feels like stepping into a storybook—or a Harry Potter film set. A fascinating feature of the library is its colony of bats, which help protect the ancient books from insect damage. While photos aren’t allowed inside, I’ve included an image I found online to offer a glimpse of its stunning interior. The Baroque Beauty of the Royal Chapel We also explored the Royal Chapel of St. Michael, a jewel of Portuguese baroque design. The chapel features intricate azulejo tilework and an impressive pipe organ, adding to the grandeur of the space. Why You Should Visit This tour is a must for anyone visiting Coimbra. The University Palace offers a rare combination of architectural beauty, historical significance, and academic tradition. Our guide was informative, friendly, and brought the stories of the place to life. You can find current tour information, including schedules and ticketing, on the university’s official site:Visit University of Coimbra – Tour Details   University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Palace University of Coimbra Joanine Library University of Coimbra Joanine Library University of Coimbra Royal Chapel of St. Michael University of Coimbra Royal Chapel of St. Michael University of Coimbra Royal Chapel of St. Michael Coimbra, Portugal Coimbra, Portugal Coimbra, Portugal Fado Sculpture

Piódão: A Walk Through Time in Portugal’s Fairytale Village Tucked deep within the Serra do Açor mountains in central Portugal is a village that feels like it belongs in a fairytale. Piódão, known for its slate-stone houses, blue-trimmed windows, and winding cobbled streets, is one of Portugal’s most picturesque and historic mountain villages—where time seems to pause and the everyday gives way to something a bit more magical. The Road to Piódão: Not for the Faint of Heart Getting to Piódão is part of the adventure. The drive winds tightly through the mountains, with hairpin turns revealing stunning views of valleys bursting with wildflowers. It’s breathtaking—but also a bit nerve-wracking if you’re not used to mountain roads. Luckily, Joe was cool and confident behind the wheel, taking each curve like a seasoned road tripper. I, on the other hand, was gripping the door handle, practicing deep breathing, and trying not to envision our car tumbling off a cliff. (Spoiler alert: we made it just fine.) Hiking from Piódão to Foz d’Égua: A Path Through Enchantment Once we arrived, any lingering nerves dissolved into pure awe. The highlight of our visit was a 3.7-mile hike that begins in the heart of the village, just in front of the Igreja Matriz and Museo de Piódão. The route, known as the PR2 AGN Piódão – Foz d’Égua Trail, winds through quiet forests, past panoramic mountain views, and over ancient stone paths. We barely saw another soul, which made the whole experience feel even more dreamlike—like we’d stumbled into a secret, storybook world. From moss-covered rocks to perfectly preserved schist houses clinging to the hillsides, the trail was filled with moments that sparked the imagination. At times, it felt like we might spot a fairy ducking behind a tree or a hobbit wandering by with a basket of herbs. You can find trail details and maps here:PR2 AGN Piódão – Foz d’Égua Trail on AllTrails A Timeless Escape Piódão isn’t just beautiful—it’s transportive. From the architecture to the natural surroundings, everything about it feels infused with history and wonder. This village offers more than a scenic hike—it offers a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and step into another time. If you’re planning a trip through central Portugal and want something truly special, don’t miss Piódão. And if winding mountain roads aren’t your thing, consider handing the keys to someone like Joe. Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Piódão, Portugal Cats in Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal Piódão, Portugal Black Slug Piódão, Portugal Piódão, Portugal Cat in Piódão, Portugal Cat in Piódão, Portugal Cat in Piódão, Portugal Foz d’Égua Piódão, Portugal

A Quick Stop in Aveiro: Color, Canals, and Coastal Flavor On our way to a housesit in Oliveira do Hospital, we took a quick detour to Aveiro, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal.” With its charming canals, brightly painted boats, and unique blend of architectural styles, it turned out to be a memorable and worthwhile stop. Located along the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, this coastal city was once an important seaport. Today, it’s a vibrant town where tradition meets creativity. We spent the morning strolling along the canals, taking in the colorful facades and tiled buildings. Each house seemed to have its own personality, and street art added a playful, artistic touch around nearly every corner. One of the day’s highlights was lunch—rich and flavorful arroz de marisco (seafood rice) at a cozy local restaurant. We couldn’t leave without trying ovos moles, Aveiro’s signature dessert made with egg yolks and sugar, shaped like little seashells. They were as delicious as they were unique. Aveiro gave us a vivid, bite-sized experience of Portugal’s coastal culture before we headed inland. It’s an ideal stop for anyone exploring the central region and looking to add a bit of color, flavor, and history to their journey. Learn more about visiting Aveiro here:https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/visit-aveiro Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal Aveiro Portugal

Porto, Portugal Moments: Food, Fado, and the Flow of the Douro Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is a city of layered charm—vibrant buildings, iconic bridges, and the lingering aroma of port wine winding through its ancient stone streets. In just a few days, we soaked up postcard-worthy views, incredible meals, and unforgettable moments. Here’s a glimpse into what made our time in Porto so special: Food, Glorious Food It’s tough to pick favorites, but one bite into the legendary francesinha at Gazela was all it took—we were hooked. This indulgent, sauce-covered, meat-filled sandwich exceeded every expectation. For a lighter and refreshing start to the day, Honest Greens Santa Catarina was a dream. Their chai, fresh juices, and mushroom toast were wholesome and beautifully presented. Lunch at Sandeira do Porto offered simple but delicious dishes—our salmon salad and sandwich were packed with fresh flavor. We couldn’t resist the pastéis de nata at Fábrica da Nata. These golden custard tarts—flaky on the outside, creamy on the inside—lived up to their reputation.  One of our most heartfelt meals was at Ribeira Square Restaurante, where we dined al fresco on creamy cod gratin with spinach and mozzarella. The warmth of the owner made the evening even more memorable. Wandering the City’s Soul No visit to Porto is complete without exploring the Mercado do Bolhão—a lively market filled with colors, aromas, and the hum of locals and travelers. Picture sipping wine while browsing cheese plates and sushi counters. Genius. Crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset gave us one of our favorite memories. On the other side, Jardim do Morro came alive with concerts, karaoke, and vendors serving up cold drinks. The energy was infectious. We took in a bit of culture—and wine—at the Caves Cálem Port Wine Tour, which ended with a stirring Fado concert. The soulful music, rich and melancholic, perfectly captured the spirit of Porto. A stroll through the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal offered quiet beauty and sweeping views of the Douro River, with peacocks crossing our path and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Even crowded, Livraria Lello felt magical with its iconic staircase and stained glass ceiling, transporting us to a storybook world. And then there’s Porto’s famous tilework. From the Chapel of Souls and São Bento Station to countless facades, the city is adorned in mesmerizing blue-and-white azulejos—art in every direction. Ocean Breezes and Big Waves To end our trip, we ventured to Foz do Douro, where the Douro River flows into the Atlantic. Waves crashed against the rocks as we enjoyed fresh seafood with a view. The sea air and crashing surf provided the perfect, peaceful close to our Porto experience. Porto is soulful, flavorful, and alive with color! Porto Portugal Mural Blue Tiles in Porto Portugal Street Art in Porto Portugal Dom Luís I Bridge Dom Luís I Bridge Porto Portugal Dom Luís I Bridge Porto Portugal Dom Luís I Bridge Porto Portugal Jardim do Morro francesinha sandwich at Gazela Chapel of Souls Porto Portugal Chapel of Souls Porto Portugal Livraria Lello Porto Portugal Livraria Lello Porto Portugal Street Art Porto Portugal Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Peacock at Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Peacock at Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Street Art Porto Portugal São Bento Station Bird Man Porto Portugal Foz do Douro Foz do Douro Foz do Douro Foz do Douro Foz do Douro Caves Cálem Port Wine Tour Fado at Caves Cálem Port Wine Tour Porto Portugal https://youtube.com/shorts/sLeBKYiSPNshttps://youtube.com/shorts/jDS4uNU5QWQhttps://youtube.com/shorts/fISE6nonZU4?feature=share

Montpellier: Sunshine, Students & Street Vibes We absolutely loved our time in Montpellier! The train brings you straight into the heart of the city, and from there, it’s incredibly easy to explore thanks to the efficient tram system and pedestrian-friendly streets. After the cold, windy days in Carcassonne, the warm weather felt like a gift. It’s no wonder the city boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year—cue the palm trees and packed outdoor cafés! Montpellier buzzes with youthful energy, fueled by its large student population and an unmistakable spirit of activism. During our visit, we stumbled upon a lively “free party” protest—techno music pumping from trucks, crowds dancing through the streets, and a contagious sense of joy. That same day, a small anti-Trump rally took place nearby, echoing global voices and highlighting the city’s engaged vibe. We took time to unwind at the beautiful Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France. Peaceful and lush, it was the perfect escape within the city. From there, we wandered past the Arc de Triomphe and strolled the scenic Promenade du Peyrou, soaking in the views and the layered history all around us. Between the sunshine, architecture, and vibrant street life, Montpellier had an irresistible charm. We’re so glad we made it part of our journey. Montpellier France Montpellier France Montpellier France Montpellier France Free Party Protest Promenade du Peyrou Promenade du Peyrou Arc de Triomphe Montpellier France Montpellier France Montpellier France Montpellier France Trump Protest Montpellier France Trump Protest Montpellier France Carousel Montpellier France Truffle Pizza

Eleven Nights in Carcassonne: Housesitting, Vineyards, and Hidden Gems We spent nearly two wonderful weeks housesitting (TrustedHousesitters) in Carcassonne, caring for Guinness, a lively and lovable Standard Poodle. Our stay offered the perfect blend of scenic walks, rich local cuisine, and day trips to some of southern France’s most captivating sites. Vineyard Walks, Lakeside Views, and an Underground Marvel Each day began with peaceful strolls through the vineyards, where Guinness delighted in chasing pine cones along quiet country paths. One afternoon took us to the serene Lac de la Taure, a peaceful lakeside spot with crystal-clear waters and panoramic views—ideal for a relaxed outing. For something entirely different, we ventured deep underground to the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, one of the largest caves in Europe. The towering stalactites, cavernous chambers, and dramatic lighting made for an awe-inspiring experience, revealing a whole new side of the region’s natural beauty. French Flavors: From Boulangeries to Cassoulet Food was a constant source of joy. Mornings started with warm croissants and pastries from the local boulangerie, while evenings often featured cribbage games paired with wine, cheese, and charcuterie. A standout culinary moment was dinner at Floricablanca, where we enjoyed a delicately grilled blue shark steak and a hearty cassoulet—a rich, slow-cooked dish of duck, sausage, and white beans that embodies the soul of southwestern France. Exploring Mirepoix, Caunes-Minervois, and the Minervois Wine Route We took advantage of our location to visit several historic towns and scenic spots. In Mirepoix, we reunited with an old high school friend and strolled beneath the medieval arcades of its postcard-perfect town square, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses. Another favorite was Caunes-Minervois, a quaint village known for its pink marble, charming architecture, and intricately designed door knockers that line the cobbled streets. Wine lovers will appreciate our visit to Château La Villatade, where we enjoyed a guided tour and tastings that deepened our appreciation of the Minervois wine region. To top off our cultural adventures, we attended La Symphonie du Cinéma: John Williams at Théâtre Jean-Alary—a magical performance that brought iconic film scores from Star Wars to Jaws to life. Final Thoughts From vineyard paths to ancient towns, our stay in Carcassonne was a richly layered experience. With Guinness by our side, we embraced the joys of slow travel—great food, authentic encounters, and a deepening connection with France’s southern charm. We can’t wait to see where the next adventure leads! Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Boulangerie Carcassonne France Floricablanca Carcassone France Mirepoix France Mirepoix France Cassoulet France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Carcassonne France Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France Caunes-Minervois France