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

Simply French by Patricia Wells: A Classic Cookbook Every Kitchen Needs

Patricia Wells’ Simply French is more than a cookbook—it’s a culinary journey. From refined French techniques to approachable home cooking, this signed copy holds a special place in my collection. Whether you’re drawn to timeless recipes or the artistry of French dining, this book is an inspiration for chefs and home cooks alike. Perfect for anyone who loves flavor, history, and a touch of elegance in their kitchen.

2 min read

New England Clams: Quahogs, Steamers, Chowder & More

New England’s coastline tells its story in shells. From Rhode Island quahogs to Maine steamers, clams shape local kitchens, summer rituals, and seaside nostalgia. This guide cuts through the myths and menu-speak—explaining sizes and species, wild versus farmed practices, immigrant influences, regional styles (yes, the chowder debate), and the recipes and pairings that bring it all to the table. Think of it as your field manual to an edible heritage.

10 min read

Newport in Autumn: Guide to Mansions, Markets & Coastal Beauty

From raw bars and chowder to vineyard harvests and the Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival, Newport’s culinary scene shines in autumn. Pair it with live music, regattas, and community fairs.

15 min read

Port Wine: History, Tastes & Techniques

The world of Port wine and their flavor profiles opens up possibilities for cooking, tasting, and travel!

11 min read

Oysters 101: Wild, Farmed, & the Flavor of Place

From Gulf Coast memories to New England raw bars, explore species, sustainability, merroir, and how to enjoy oysters across the U.S. and Canada.

6 min read

Cape Cod Lodging Guide: Best Inns, Resorts & Hotels by Town

Cape Cod offers more than just sun-soaked beaches and salty breezes — it’s a ramble of seaside villages, historic inns, boutique hotels, and family-friendly resorts, each with its own distinct character. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family vacation, or a quick weekend getaway, the Cape’s variety of lodging ensures you’ll find a perfect fit.

5 min read

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Our features below provide curated travel recommendations,

culinary highlights, cultural immersion, itineraries & walking tours.

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Nantucket Revisited

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!