Travelers Best

Lisbon is an easy going city filled with friendly people that take the time to stop for a chat, but over time the city has fallen victim to decay and renovating it had become a main priority.

Over the last couple of years Lisbon has been cleaning up the city and the European Football Championships that were held there in 2004 gave those renovations a large and much needed boost. The event brought back the former glory of Lisbon and now the city has begun a new age.

In the past Lisbon was known as the calling port to Europe but years of decay and construction sites left the city and its residents anxiously awaiting better days when it could reclaim its past glory.

Central Lisbon was like going back in time with cobbled streets and alleys that gave the impression of being warped into the eighteenth century far away from modern Europe.

These days Lisbon has been fully restored to its former glory and is eager to promote itself as such in order to attract tourism and bring about a brand new era.

In 1755 the whole town had to be restructured due to a large earthquake. Reconstructions were necessary just to keep the capital city of Portugal running. The infrastructure that was put in place at that time still is the basis of today’s infrastructure in modern Lisbon.

By a waterfront is a gorgeous square that is called The Praca do Comercio. Looking out to a beautiful archway on one side, the waterfront on the other, it is a square that attracts pigeons while around it stores are keeping shoppers busy with plenty of bargains to be had.

This square functions as the central point of focus for a large part of the local population where they gather to engage in conversation while their children play. It all adds to the unique atmosphere giving an excellent impression of the city. Restaurants in the area provide an enticing smell of cooking, and the native food they serve will certainly appeal to your appetite.

Another must see in Lisbon is the Elevador de Santa Justa, which is an outdoor lift providing those without the fear of heights with spectacular views of the streets below. The sight of tiny figures moving through what looks like mere alleys is truly a remarkable sight. The Elevador de Santa Justa dates from 1901.

To the east many influences of ancient Moorish culture still remain and remnants of Christian influences, after their victories during the wars. The cathedral that still exists there was built on top of a mosque back in 1147.

M.A.H.

There can be no doubt about the historical validity of the city of Rome, filled with historical riches and lots of places of interest. The Roman civilization on its own is breath taking. Many major occurrences of the past that left a mark on European history still show in the city which still looks like a replica from the time of the Roman Empire. Everywhere you turn, monuments of a time long gone, remind us of the cities might at the height of the Roman Empire. A walk through it is like a trip through history, with evidence of those golden years of glory still visible at every corner.

Besides the old Rome, there is also modern Rome which is a modern world city in every sense of the word, containing all the comforts a modern city should have and geared towards tourism, with many hotels, clubs and restaurants of all tastes and an exciting nightlife filled with bars and clubs that will keep you entertained during the evenings.

When travelling to Rome the first places to visit would be the Forum and the magnificent Colosseum which are world famous places from Roman history. Next on the agenda would be without a doubt a visit to the Vatican to gaze in wonder at the beautiful Vatican City. The Vatican is officially the smallest country in the world that is still independent.

Another stop on any visit to Rome must be the Cistine Chapel where one can view the works of the most famous artists of all times, like Michelangelo, Rubens, Bernini and Caravaggio. After the chapel make a stop at the beautiful piazzas and fountains and be sure to visit the Fountain of Trevi which is the most famous one of all. After visiting all these amazing historical places you can shop at the many boutiques and have dinner in a traditional Italian restaurant to get a taste of the modern Rome of today. The Italian kitchen belongs to the finest in the world (If not the finest) and offers much more than pastas and pizzas. There is a wide variety to choose from and whatever choice you make there is always a good Italian wine that will go well with it.

Near the famous places of Rome there are always plenty of cafes and restaurants which makes getting a quick bite or drink easy and convenient and at very affordable prices. In case of any problems, or should you need directions, hotel staff is the best source to ask. You will be amazed at the service you receive from them.

No matter your taste, or reason to visit Rome, as a tourist you will never be disappointed by it because it simply has everything you could want, a rich culture and lots of historical places to explore, a modern city filled with clubs, bars and more to keep you entertained while participating in Rome’s exciting night life, and a unique atmosphere that still breaths the presence of the Roman Empire from long ago.

M.A.H.