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THIS CAFE LIFE
Travel Ideas
Need a trip idea? Whether you're a beach bum, adventure junkie, or fan of the weekend getaway:
yes, we have some ideas & itineraries for you!


Alfama. Old World. New Feel.
Alfama is Lisbon's oldest district—but don’t let the age fool you. This neighborhood isn’t stuck in time. Alfama pulses with a creative energy that blends tradition with reinvention. From hidden street art and rooftop aperitifs to tiny concept shops and slow dinners., this is where old-world soul meets new-school cool.
6 min read


Street Art: Exploring Lisbon's Urban Canvases
Lisbon ranks among Europe’s street art capitals, with its walls, alleys, studios, and deserted buildings transformed into open-air galleries. What distinguishes the city's street art is its fusion of political commentary, cultural pride, and visual storytelling, layered over Lisbon’s already vibrant and textured architecture. Deteriorating walls, staircases, and abandoned buildings have become a canvas for both local and international artists.
6 min read


Lisbon’s Beautiful Churches
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, Lisbon has remarkable churches blending history, architecture and neighborhoods across the city.
The churches in Lisbon narrate the tale of a city that has endured much. Before the massive 1755 earthquake, many of the city’s churches were built in Mannerist and Baroque styles, with elegant lines, dramatic altarpieces, and gold-covered interiors that reflected Portugal’s wealth and faith during th
8 min read


Mérida: The Heart of Yucatán’s Culture, Cuisine, & History.
Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, is a vibrant colonial city that blends rich Mayan heritage with Spanish architecture and modern culture. Known as the "White City" for its white limestone buildings, Mérida is both a cultural hub and a gateway to nearby ancient ruins, cenotes, and beaches.
5 min read


Oslo Museums: From Vikings to Modern Art
Oslo is a vibrant city brimming with cultural treasures, from awe-inspiring art galleries to immersive historical museums. Whether you're traveling solo or exploring in a small group, Oslo promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
3 min read


Visiting Providence: What Not to Miss
Providence is known for its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and attractions.
7 min read
Our features below provide curated travel recommendations,
culinary highlights, cultural immersion, itineraries & walking tours.
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72 Hours in Lisbon
There’s something undeniably magnetic about Lisbon. It has a way of making you feel both at home and transported all at once. What makes Lisbon special isn't just the sights - it’s the pace. Life moves a little slower here. People linger. Strangers smile. The city is approachable, affordable, and endlessly photogenic. Even getting a bit lost becomes part of the adventure.
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Lisbon spans seven hills, and where there's a hill, there's a view! It is a city built from a mosaic of unique neighborhoods & districts, each with its own distinct personality, history, and vibe. Instead of feeling like one big uniform city, Lisbon’s charm comes from how these diverse areas weave together to create a rich, layered experience.
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Lisbon isn’t a place to rush through -it’s a city to feel. It’s for long walks, lingering dinners, spontaneous music, and unexpected views. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, the people, or the mood, Lisbon invites you to slow down and stay a while.
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Lisbon spans seven hills, and where there's a hill, there's a view! It is a city built from a mosaic of unique neighborhoods & districts, each with its own distinct personality, history, and vibe. Instead of feeling like one big uniform city, Lisbon’s charm comes from how these diverse areas weave together to create a rich, layered experience.
.
Lisbon isn’t a place to rush through -it’s a city to feel. It’s for long walks, lingering dinners, spontaneous music, and unexpected views. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, the people, or the mood, Lisbon invites you to slow down and stay a while.
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Chiado Calling
Culture, Coffee & Cobbled Streets - Chiado is where Lisbon’s charm comes alive - an elegant neighborhood that hums with creativity, history, and style. From iconic cafés like A Brasileira to tucked-away bookstores, avant-garde galleries, and the faded grandeur of old theaters, Chiado blends old-world sophistication with a modern, artistic edge. Chiado calls to both the curious and the nostalgic.

Azuléjos Tiles
A significant aspect of Portuguese culture and artistry, these traditional ceramic tiles have a rich history dating back centuries, and they've become emblematic of Portugal's art & architectural landscape. The word "azulejo" comes from the Arabic word "az-zulayj," which means "polished stone." Introduced to Portugal by the Moors in the 15th century, azulejos quickly became a popular form of decoration. Initially, they were mainly used to adorn the walls of churches, palaces, and noble houses.
Azulejos aren't just decorative; they also serve functional purposes, like regulating temperature and providing insulation. Over time, Portuguese artisans developed distinctive styles and techniques, blending Moorish influences with indigenous designs, as well as incorporating elements from other cultures encountered through Portugal's extensive maritime explorations.
Look for them next time you're in Portugal!
Azulejos aren't just decorative; they also serve functional purposes, like regulating temperature and providing insulation. Over time, Portuguese artisans developed distinctive styles and techniques, blending Moorish influences with indigenous designs, as well as incorporating elements from other cultures encountered through Portugal's extensive maritime explorations.
Look for them next time you're in Portugal!

From Vikings to Modern Art
A magical museum tour!
Oslo has an abundance of museums celebrating their Nordic culture, art and history. All easily accessible and thoughtfully curated. Visit www.thiscafelife.com for more.
Happy Travels!
Oslo has an abundance of museums celebrating their Nordic culture, art and history. All easily accessible and thoughtfully curated. Visit www.thiscafelife.com for more.
Happy Travels!

Santa Fe Weekend: Adobe Dreams & Red Chile Scenes.
Bringing our favorites your way; restaurants, museums, galleries, shopping.

Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is known for its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and attractions.
Unique attractions, food & beverage favorites, shopping, day trips, and more.
Unique attractions, food & beverage favorites, shopping, day trips, and more.
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