And over the hillside, I climbed. And there she was. Enticing, foreboding and enchanting. Where fairytales came to life. Where romance was born again. A treasure-trove of culture with its cathedrals, the soulful music and the contemporary art. It was time to turn Lisboeta and explore the charm of the first true world city - Lisbon!
Known as one of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon has a rich, colorful history that spans through the ages. It was once the capital of a powerful empire that spread throughout the world. The city lies perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and has a typical climate with nice, cool winters and warm, balmy summers. Because of its proximity to the ocean, weather changes can be quick and rapid; tourists are advised to bring an umbrella or a raincoat when travelling to Lisbon for the better part of the year. The city has a low crime rate but ensure that you avoid travel in dimly-lit areas, especially parks, after sunset. Ensure that you keep your valuables and belongings safe. The official currency is Euro which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Foreign exchange agencies and 24-hour ATMs for easy cash withdrawals are aplenty. Lisbon is known to be travel-friendly; it offers terrific value to travellers, which is why it is known as the least expensive capital city in Western Europe.
Lisbon is just a 2-hour flight from any of the major European destinations. It is well connected by air with flights arriving and departing from Portugal's international airport - Aeroporto da Portela (LIS) (located at about 5 kms from the center of the city) that serves as a major hub for Portugal's flag carrier - TAP Portugal. More than ten different carriers offer convenient flights to major cities. There are scheduled services to virtually every European city as well as to Africa and the Americas. Lisbon is also well connected by road, boats and trains. Major bus operators include Rede Expressos, Mundial Tourismo, Renex and Auto-Res which operate frequent bus services from bus terminals conveniently located at Sete Rios and Gare do Oriente to nearly every other town in Portugal and Spain. Tourists may hire a car from agencies such as Autojardim, Europcar and other major car rental agencies. It is important that you book one after you arrive in Lisbon to avail better rates. Major train stations that offer convenient and frequent services include Santa Apolonia, Gare do Oriente, Sete Rios and Cais do Sodre. Hop aboard the Transtejo ferry line that offer almost instant connectivity to Trafaria, Porto Brandao and Barreiro. For a commute within the city, consider travelling by cab or use the Metro. For accommodation, log on and check out any of the hotel consolidators' websites online. Lisbon has accommodation options to "suit" every taste and every budget. Choose from a hotel that exudes colonial charm or a suite that is sleek and contemporary in taste. Call it truly inspirational if you will!
CT SG is an online travel agency and a part of the global online company Travix, which specializes in cheap international flights tickets and Cheap airfare deals.
0 nhận xét:
Đăng nhận xét