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7th June 2019
Portugal will transPort(ugal) you into the world of sangria, pristine beaches and of course, Portuguese tarts. The country is the perfect mix of culture, architecture and art, combined with a laid-back way of life that can only be found on that side of the world.
The basics
Language: Portuguese is the primary language; however, the Portuguese have adopted many different languages, namely Spanish, English and French. Luckily this means you won’t have any trouble ordering food or hitting that sangria.
Money: The official currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend taking a 50/50 split between cash and a Travel Money Nz Cash Passport. This way you can use your cash for the little things such as buying a Cristiano Ronaldo bobble-head (the guy was born in Portugal) and tap your card when buying your meals.
For all of you ATM fans out there, Portugal’s ATM system - the Multibanco - is one of the most advanced in the world. There are over 60 operations available on Portugese ATMs, including buying concert tickets, donating to charities and topping up your phone credit. ATMs are very easy to find in cities but can be a bit trickier in smaller towns. For this reason, we recommend stocking up on some euros at your nearest store before you leave.
If Portugal hasn’t yet made the shortlist for your dream destinations, the prices might convince you. See example A:
- Water - $0.91
- Local Beer - $1.50
- Meal inexpensive - $13
- Coffee - $2.10
- One way public transport ticket- $2.50
If that isn’t enough, see Example B:
I travelled there as a student and can confirm I came out the other end very plump from eating and drinking far too much in Portugal.
Must do in Portugal
The Algarve
Portugal’s southernmost region is known for its golden beaches, laid-back villages and sandy coves, making it the perfect location to relax and have a sandy siesta all day long. We also recommend you hire a car and drive along the coastline to take in the full stretch of this beauty.
Jeronimo’s Monastery, Lisbon
Jeronimo’s Monsastery is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is one of the most prominent examples of the Portuguese Late Gothic style of architecture and is definitely worth the visit.
Pasteis de Belem, Lisbon
We have it on good authority that you’ll find the best Portuguese tarts here in Lisbon. So while you’re in the capital city make sure you stop in and buy a tart or six. On your way to your tarts, make sure you stop into Jeronimo’s Monastery.
Lisbon’s Graffiti:
Lisbon is tattooed in beautiful graffiti that reflects this unique city. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for this art, a beautiful example of which is Miradouro Graffiti Fado.
Livraria Lello, Porto
This magical bookstore is said to have inspired the design of Hogwarts in the famous Harry Potter series written by J.K. Rowling. Rowling would frequent this bookstore when she lived in Porto from 1991 to 1993. The staircase in particular screams magic, and shares a lot of similarities to the famous staircase we have seen on the big screen.
If you’re ready to transport yourself to Portugal, be sure to visit the experts at Travel Money Nz. With over 150 stores across New Zealand and Australia, we are ready to give send you off with the travel tips and the currency you’ll need.
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