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!

Maps

Articles

Soulful Sunday | Still Life in Bloom: Rachel Ruysch at the MFA Boston

Sundays are made for slowing down — for taking time to look, listen, and recalibrate. This week, that search for quiet led me to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, where the exhibition “Rachel Ruysch: Artist, Naturalist, and Pioneer” redefines what a still life can say about life itself.

3 min read

The Art of the Getaway | New England’s Coastal & Mountain Escapes

There’s an art to escaping — slipping away just far enough to breathe, explore, and come back changed. Whether it’s a quiet harbor town, a winding mountain road, or a seaside inn with salt on the windows, these short journeys remind us to slow down and savor the rhythm of place.

2 min read

New Hampshire Is for Nature Lovers: Woodstock to Franconia Notch

New Hampshire is built for people who love the outdoors. From mountain peaks to quiet river valleys, the state offers endless ways to explore—whether it’s a morning hike, a drive through backroads, or simply a quiet moment with a view. Every season brings a different experience, but what stays consistent is the balance between natural beauty, approachable adventure, and small-town charm. If you’re chasing trails, fresh snow, or local flavor, New Hampshire delivers it all—auth

9 min read

Lox, Gravlax & Gravadlax: The Subtle Art of Cured Salmon

What's in a Name? Every chef has a few recipes in their back pocket — those that are deceptively simple, can be prepared days ahead, and never fail to impress when they hit the table. Gravlax is mine. It’s one of those dishes that blends artistry and patience: a few quality ingredients, a gentle cure, and time. Whether you call it lox, gravlax, or gravadlax, cured salmon delivers elegance with ease — a dish that feels like a celebration without requiring one. At This Café Lif

5 min read

Autumn in New Hampshire: Foliage Drives, Cozy Inns & Holiday Inspiration in the White Mountains

There’s nothing quite like autumn in New England. The air turns crisp, the maples turn gold and crimson, and the scent of cider and wood smoke drifts through the hills. It’s the perfect time to see the foliage, explore charming towns, grab your pumpkins and squash at local farm stands, and stock up on maple syrup for those cool Sunday mornings. Pull out your sweaters and set the tone for the season with light hikes, cozy drives, and small-town adventures that celebrate the be

6 min read

A Venetian palazzo in the heart of Boston — the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is an intimate world of art, architecture, and mystery. Wander the courtyard, explore the Dutch Room, and discover the story of the woman who redefined beauty itself.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Art, Architecture & Intrigue

A Venetian palazzo in the heart of Boston — the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is an intimate world of art, architecture, and mystery. Wander the courtyard, explore the Dutch Room, and discover the story of the woman who redefined beauty itself.

5 min read

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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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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!