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Perched on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal stands out amongst its neighbors as one of the oldest and yet most classic and conservative European civilizations. Visitors can view 22,000 year-old Paleolithic art on the rock faces of Vale do Ca, and human occupation of this region dates 500,000 years back in time! The Celts settled right here about 750 B.C. and were followed by Romans, Visigoths, and Greeks amongst other people. The Moors enjoyed their infamous occupation from the 8th to the 13th Century and left their culture and ornate, whitewashed architecture as an eclectic signature on the Iberian Peninsula. Nowadays, Portugal's homogenous culture and dedication to tradition is largely due to Salazar's oppressive rule throughout the mid-1900s. As a result, guests can appreciate a much more culturally authentic stay in Portugal than any other European nation. The north-south axis of mainland Portugal creates regions of dynamic terrain and unique specialties. The common Douro Valley stretches 125 miles along a winding river and is well-known for the string of port wineries at its edges. Cruises are now presented along the complete length of the Valley, starting in Porto. The resort town of Lagos in the southern Algarve region attracts sun-seekers and history buffs alike. Prepare to be swept away by this hidden gem encircled by 15th Century walls. Travel Portugal in the Atlantic Two groups of islands off the Atlantic Coastline belong to Portugal and are a best and serene escape from the mainland, providing centuries of Portuguese history all their own and a look into the region's all-natural beauty. The Azores Islands archipelago lies 907 miles from the coast and is a haven of turquoise lakes, rolling green hills and sandy beaches. Monasteries, cathedrals, forts and ruins dating back to the 15th Century, when Portuguese navigators encountered the outcropping, are sprinkled about the islands. To the South, the enticing subtropical climate of Madeira Island and the surrounding volcanic archipelago is a bastion for adventure-seekers, resort luxuries, Madeira wine and untouched 15th Century architecture standing significantly on seaside cliffs. Both of these secluded retreats are very easily accessible from key airports on mainland Portugal. Guidelines to the Savvy Traveler Nearly all of Portugal works on Siesta time and 97% of the country is Catholic, for that reason also affecting commercial hours and holidays. Most shops, banks and pharmacies are closed among 1pm and 3pm (yes, even in key cities). Make particular note that museums also close in the middle of the day amongst 12:30pm and 2pm. Practically everything except museums closes by 1pm on Saturdays, and plan on just consuming and resting on Sundays when nothing at all is open. To plan your trip wisely, check the hours of operation of attractions you'd like to see just before arranging your trip or booking your room! Lastly, be aware when traveling by taxi. Fare is metered inside urban limits, but once you leave these boundaries, you will be charged by the kilometer in addition to the value of the driver's return trip to the starting point. When taking a taxi following midnight, negotiate the value with the driver prior to getting in the automobile, especially if you have been indulging in Port! island of madeira