EXPERTS

Liz Schaffer is the editor and creative director of Lodestars Anthology. A magazine-meets-journal all about travel, place and exploration. Independently published and dedicated to exploring the globe one country per issue, it gives Liz the excuse to do what she loves - galavant eternally.

Travel is good for the soul. Always has been. Always will be. There is just something about getting away from the everyday, casting off the familiar and embracing the holiday spirit (along with a splash of colour).

While I’ve long been an explorer of all things wild and muddy, last year was spent in and out of the Scottish Highlands, I must admit that I’ve got a soft spot for the luxurious - slightly out of the way destinations that comes complete with accents and inflections that bring a smile to your face, scenery that invigorates, a restaurant scene to savour and streets built for promenading. But such destinations also need to come with a bit of an edge. Something that elevates it and sears it into the traveller’s mind. For me, this city is Lisbon.

Here, in one of Europe’s oldest, tile-adorned cities, Portuguese flair is at its most prominent and flavours and flair abound. Restaurant-wise, A Travessa and Restaurante Eleven are particular standouts. Characterful location you want to dress up for. The former is found within a converted monastery while the latter is deserving of its culinary praise. 

Restaurant A Travessa

Restaurante Eleven

Hotels value hospitality and design in equal measure. Bairro Alto Hotel is ideal for those with a penchant for history while Inspira Santa Marta Hotel is a haven for those who like their luxury to come with a side of eco awareness.

Bairro Alto Hotel

Inspira Santa Marta Hotel

If you need a break from leisurely afternoons ambling along the waterfront of the museum district or shopping up a storm around Praca do Principe Real and Avenida da Liberade, then pack a bag and head out of town. Less than an hour from the vibrant city is Sintra, home to UNESCO listed palaces and ruins – as well as a covetable restaurant scene of its own. Surrounded by flooring natural and architectural beauty, it is sure to satisfy your desire for something wilder.

Oh yes, Lisbon is a city I’d very much like to return to. If only for the promise to trams, blue sky and character aplenty. 

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