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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!


Where to Stay in Lisbon: A District-by-District Guide
Lisbon’s neighborhoods are like different chapters of the same beautiful story - each with its own mood, pace, and personality. Picking the right district will set the tone for your trip, whether you want history outside your window, nightlife at your doorstep, or a leafy, local vibe. Here’s my curated guide to the best stays that will make them unforgettable.
4 min read


From Graça’s Heights: Rooftops, Viewpoints, and Local Charm
Perched high above Lisbon’s busy downtown, Graça is the kind of neighborhood that sneaks up on you—in the best way. It’s where quiet streets open up to jaw-dropping views, red-tiled rooftops stretch toward the river, and locals gather in shady squares like it’s just another easy afternoon. Whether you’re chasing miradouros, spotting street art, or just grabbing a coffee with a view, Graça offers a slower, more scenic side of the city that feels both lived-in and unforgettable
4 min read


Where to Stay in Nantucket: Embrace Island Living
Where to stay in Nantucket: Curated picks for luxury hotels, boutique inns, and vacation rentals—each chosen for style, location, and that signature island charm. Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.
3 min read


Nantucket Revisited: A Weekend to Remember
Discover the best of Nantucket through the eyes of a returning traveler. From hidden beaches to top restaurants, this weekend guide blends nostalgia, insider tips, and modern charm.
4 min read


Top 10 Dining Destinations in Providence
Planning a weekend in Providence? Be sure to set some time aside to explore these culinary hotspots!
3 min read


How the Lobster Roll Became a New England Icon
There are few culinary icons more synonymous with New England summer than the lobster roll. Whether you like it warm and buttery or chilled with a touch of mayo and celery, this humble sandwich captures the briny essence of the Northeast coast in every bite. But how did the lobster roll become such a beloved staple? Let’s dig into its salty, savory origin story.
3 min read
Our features below provide curated travel recommendations,
culinary highlights, cultural immersion, itineraries & walking tours.
INSTAGRAM POSTS

Nantucket Revisited

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Road trips through Coastal New England.
Sharing our favorite Coastal Towns in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island.

Magical Merida
A curated list of authentic Mexican restaurants from our recent visit to Yucatan! Enjoy delicious food while exploring cultural connections!

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.
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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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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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