Travel Archives - A Side of Sweet

What to Do in Monterey – FULL TRAVEL GUIDE

Pat and I are fully vaccinated, so now is the moment to get back out there and travel again! We decided for our first trip we would explore a region close to home but still far enough away that it felt like a vacation. We love Monterey County so it was a natural choice. It’s just an easy drive from San Francisco but feels like you have truly escaped from the hustle and bustle of the city.

I’m happy to report we felt very safe during our trip. Most people in the area wear masks consistently, even outdoors. There is plenty of outdoor seating and all cleaning COVID protocols seem to be meticulously followed.

You can tell tourism is starting to pick back up in the region, so I definitely recommend making reservations ahead of time and booking in advance when you can.

Read on for my guide to Monterey, in partnership with the Monterey County CVB…
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9 Places to Go in Portugal – Travel Guide

Your trip to Portugal should include time off the beaten path exploring smaller towns. Here is where to go in Portugal beyond Lisbon and Porto.

Although the cities of Lisbon and Porto are stunning, I encourage you to spend some time out exploring the smaller towns and villages in Portugal. Portugal is a small country and it’s very safe and easy to drive in. In these towns, you will find yourself walking through over 800 years of history. They are charming and peaceful, with a slower pace of life. There is beauty everywhere.

Read on for what to do in Portugal outside of Lisbon and Porto…

11 Things to Do in Coimbra, Portugal

Traveling to Portugal? Here’s what to do in Coimbra, Portugal including the famous ‘Harry Potter’ library, where to stay and what to eat!

Coimbra is rightfully one of the top tourist destinations in Portugal. One of the top draws is the amazing library at the University of Coimbra. It was actually one of the inspirations for the Harry Potter movies. Beyond the university, Coimbra has an amazing food scene, beautiful hotels and overall is just a nice place to relax and spend time.

Read on for what to do in Coimbra, Portugal!
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What to Do in Tomar, Portugal

Visiting the charming town of Tomar, Portugal and Knights Templar Castle? Here’s what to do, where to stay, and what to eat in this travel guide!

Tomar is a charming town in the Center of Portugal region. It’s the previous home of the Knights of Templar. They might sound familiar if you’ve read the book The DaVinci Code. The Knights were a Catholic military order known for their discipline and skill. The reason most people visit Tomar is to see the famous Templar Castle, but the town of Tomar also can’t be missed!

Read on for what to do in Tomar…… Read More »

Aveiro & Costa Nova – Top Places in Portugal for Photography

Are Costa Nova and Aveiro the two most photogenic places in Portugal? Here’s what you need to know including what to do and where to eat!

The brightest spot during an amazing trip through the center of Portugal was our time in the charming Aveiro and Costa Nova. Located a short drive from each other, both are special in their own way. They offer a relaxed pace that is away from the tourist hustle of Porto or Lisbon with friendly people, beautiful sights and amazing food.

Read on for tips for visiting Aveiro and Costa Nova, Portugal…

Lisbon, Portugal in 48 Hours – Travel Guide

Official guide to Lisbon, Portugal. Everything you need to know about shopping, the best views, what to do, where to eat, where to stay in Lisbon!

We fell in love with Lisbon from the moment we arrived.

In so many ways, Lisbon reminds me of San Francisco. It has the charm, the cosmopolitan flair, the walkability, the charming houses, and the amazing food scene. Oh and the scenic views, a famous bridge, mild weather, cable-cars… I could go on! It was so fun to explore this historic European town while still somehow feeling…at home.

Read on for my guide to Lisbon, Portugal…