PORTUGAL

Portugal

Lisbon must be one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities, cascading down many hills to the River Tagus, which often takes on a golden hue. The monarchy was ousted in 1910 and alazar became prime minister in 1932 and soon assumed dictatorial powers. The restoration of democracy in 1974 is at last bearing fruit and Portugal has been a member of the EU/EC since 1985.

Cascais is some 18 miles from Lisbon and is a fishing port and flourishing resort with an abundance of typical scenes for photographers and sightseers alike.

Sintra. (17 miles from Lisbon). The Portuguese have a proverb, “To leave out Sintra in seeing the world is no better than travelling blindfold” The town is worthy of this praise because of the lush greenery and densely wooded hills which lend such a timeless quality to the place. The Royal Palace with beautiful azuelejos, interesting ceilings and twin oasthouse style chimneys.