Why “Is Guadalajara Safe?” Is an Odd Question.

Is Guadalajara Safe? How the Pearl of the West Can Bewilder Your Sense of Violence Statistics

Guadalajara is the capital of the western Mexican state of Jalisco. With a population of 1.5 million people, it is one of the country’s largest cities. It also gave birth to two of Mexico’s most well-known traditions: the Mariachi and the Tequila.

But there is also something curious about Guadalajara. Something people discover when they ask the question:

Is Guadalajara Safe?

If you want a quick answer to this question, here it is: Guadalajara is relatively safe by Mexican standards (have that in mind, I will explain more about it later), with an annual homicide rate of 21.5/100,000 inhabitants.

The map below depicts the most dangerous areas in Mexico based on the most recent homicide data. The more violent the region, the brighter it is. Guadalajara is in the red circle. As can be seen, the city is far from being one of the worst in the country.

Violence in Mexico. Chart for an article to answer the question if is Guadalajara Safe. — Source: Portal El Crimen.

The problem is that when we mention Mexican Standards, we are talking about one of the most violent countries in the world. With 29 murders per 100 thousand habitants per year, Mexico is more violent than Brazil or Colombia.

But there is another curious thing about Mexico.

Often, the largest city in a country is far more violent than the national average. This is true for London in the UK, Paris in France, Buenos Aires in Argentina (analyzed in this article), and so on…

Not so in Mexico, where Guadalajara, despite being one of the country’s largest cities, has better violence indicators than the national average and is only slightly more dangerous than (surprise!)…

Mexico City.

Is Guadalajara Safer Than Mexico City?

Despite being safer than most large cities in Mexico, Guadalajara (21.5 murders per 100k residents) is more violent than Mexico City (14 homicides per 100k residents).

This occurs for a variety of reasons, including the fact that Mexico City, despite being the largest city in the country and one of the largest cities in the world, is far from major gang conflicts.

Even the most violent districts in Mexico City, like Cuauhtémoc, still will have a homicide rate (16.6 per 100k residents) below the national average.

This is similar to what I discovered when examining São Paulo, which, despite its enormous size, has better safety indicators than Brazil.

So…

Is Guadalajara Safe to Live?

Although often people believe that Guadalajara is a dangerous place to live, it is relatively safe, especially if you reside in a low-crime, low-violence region.

It’s necessary to be aware of your surroundings and cautious of where you go after dark, as it is in other large cities in Mexico or anywhere else in Latin America.

Also, keep a low profile on the street and avoid displaying valuable jewelry or electronic devices. This is the same advice we gave to anyone visiting Rio de Janeiro in Brazil (by the way, the reality about safety in Rio is not what you imagine).

How safe you will be in Guadalajara depends on where you go and when you go, just like in any big city in Europe. Yes, you should be more cautious than you would be in a city in a developed country with lower conventional crime rates.

If you are concerned about cartel conflicts and bad news from international media outlets, Guadalajara is not a city where large acts of violence or public armed displays by cartels occur frequently, as they do in other cities in Mexico.

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Best Area to Stay in Guadalajara

Best areas of Guadalajara in terms of safety. — You should be safe staying nearly anywhere else inside the area marked on this map.

The northwestern region of Guadalajara is not only the most affluent part of the city but also considered the safest. It is also not far from the city center so one can access major attractions like museums, restaurants, and plazas.

This region boasts numerous secure, green, and cool districts in affluent regions such as Providencia, Chapalita, Zapopan, and Chapultepec. It is an ideal are ideal for strolling through the neighborhoods you’re interested in.

PS: Zapopan is technically NOT Guadalajara, but a city by itself (and safer than Guadalajara, with 15 homicides per 100000 residents per year). However, for practical terms, we included it in this list of districts.

These nice neighborhoods frequently have a good selection of places to stay, both hotels and short-term rentals (Airbnb).

Best Neighborhoods in Guadalajara

Downtown has the most to offer visitors. It is located in the city’s heart, and you can easily stroll to the cathedral, the central fountain, museums, shops, restaurants, and pubs. It is not very safe, but with a few precautions, you should be fine.
Colonia Americana is Guadalajara’s most fashionable district, with Avenida Chapultepec at its heart. Staying in Colonia Americana, particularly near Av Chapultepec, provides easy access to museums, galleries, shopping, and other attractions.
Zapopan is located northwest of the city center. The Basilica de Zapopan, which dates from 1730, is the area’s most well-known attraction. This is where you’ll discover Nuestra Señora de Zapopan, a famous virgin statue. By staying in the Zapopan area, you’ll be in a place relatively close to central Guadalajara, and a trip into the city center is only a half-hour away.
Providencia is not too close to downtown, but it is also not too far away. Casa Jalisco, the official residence of the Governor of the State, is located in this section of the city, which has traditionally been regarded as a great spot to live. In recent years, the area’s main thoroughfares have been filled with new expensive and stylish restaurants and stores, hotels, cafés, and bars, bringing fresh vitality to this vast neighborhood.

Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting?

Mexico City, Acapulco, and Cancún are well-known, but there are other cities in Mexico worth visiting as well. Guadalajara is one of those cities that should be on your travel bucket list.

The city has built a solid tourist infrastructure. The main reason is its historic core, which is full of well-preserved churches and cathedrals, as well as streets where you can still see signs of its former active role as a textile manufacturing center.

It’s a pleasant spot to walk because of the warm weather and pleasant surroundings.

I still haven’t mentioned the food or the tequila! Guadalajara is the birthplace of the famous Jose Cuervo tequila, and one of the most famous attractions of the city is the tour to the distillery using the Jose Cuervo Express Train.

Best Places to Visit in Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadalajara Cathedral

While encompassing much of the picturesque Plaza de Armas, the magnificent Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara) stands with its façade facing the neighboring Plaza de Los Laureles, a smaller plaza with an amazing fountain.

Built between 1558 and 1616, the cathedral, while primarily Baroque in appearance, demonstrates a remarkable mixing of diverse styles, notably in its superb predominantly Gothic interior.

Highlights include its several chapels with paintings by Cristóbal de Villalpando, Miguel Cabrera, and Murillo, three of Mexico’s best artists.

Teatro Degollado

The neoclassical Teatro Degollado, located opposite the cathedral, is the city’s most prominent — and majestic— performing arts theater. This magnificent theater, completed in 1866, is worth seeing for its superb architectural elements and opulent interior design. The façade is characterized by 16 Corinthian columns and a marble depiction of Apollo flanked by the nine muses.

Parque Agua Azul & Bosque Colomos

The lovely Parque Agua Azul, roughly translated as the Blue Water Park, is Guadalajara’s most popular public park. The park, which opened in 1952, has an area of approximately 168,000 square meters and is a beautiful spot to wander amid the sculpted gardens and trees.

Highlights include a tropical orchid house, a Butterfly House, and an aviary, which are both home to a diverse range of indigenous species. There is also a paleontology museum, an open-air theater, and a flower market, all well worth a visit.

Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento

Although it is one of Guadalajara’s younger cathedrals (the building began in 1897 and was completed in 1972), the Templo Expiatorio del Santsimo Sacramento is unquestionably one of the city’s greatest religious constructions.

The church, which was built in neo-Gothic style, is noted for its elaborately adorned façade and various European-made components. Its elaborately carved doors decorated with bronze reliefs, gorgeous mosaics from Italy, a one-of-a-kind German clock, and a wonderful carillon that can play multiple melodies are highlights.

Guachimontones Archaeological Site

From 300 BC to AD 900, the Teuchitlan people resided in what is now known as the Tequila Valley west of Guadalajara, and they left behind massive constructions that make for a fantastic day excursion from Guadalajara.

The archaeological site of Guachimontones consists of remarkable circular step pyramid constructions that resemble beehives and appear to spring out of the green valley bottom. This is one of Mexico’s unique instances of rounded pyramids, while discoveries at other Teuchitlan sites indicate that similar structures may exist.

There is a recommended tour from Guadalajara to Guachimontes for less than 60 dollars!

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Tips to Stay Safe in Guadalajara

1st — If you are visiting the city, there are plenty of options in terms of luggage storage, so you don’t need to walk around with your carry-on bags. Reliable, convenient, and inexpensive luggage storage services you can find at Radical Storage.

2nd — Book a transfer in advance if you are coming from the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport to your final destination. You can use Get Transfer for that.

3rd — If you are visiting some more isolated places, hire a guide. You can find some amazing guides and tours at Viator. Not only they will give you insider information about historical and natural curiosities, but they will also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive a special gift. Second, if you enjoy this article, please consider becoming a Medium member by using this link (you also support me by doing that) and enjoy access to premium, unbiased content.

If you enjoyed this article, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The Most Dangerous City in Each European Country

The Most Stupid Thing You Can Do in 5 European Capitals

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and a best-selling author. Some of the links of this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

Travelling

5 Unusual Travel Tips for Europe

The Most Stupid Thing You Can Do in 5 European Capitals

Some of these foolish acts forced me to spend a night in a police station, while others resulted in a few days in a hospital. One of them even resulted in the authorities refusing me entry into Qatar (it is a long story… subscribe to my profile and maybe I will tell it in another article in the future).

In my defense, most of my mistakes were due to ignorance— remember what they say, that pain is often the best teacher.

It might be fun to tell those stories years later after they’ve happened. However, they are not always made up of pleasant experiences.

Some of the events described in this article occurred to me, while others occurred to friends; hopefully, however, none of them will occur to you.

Listen to “NEVER do these things in Paris, Rome, Warsaw, Prague and Barcelona🗺” on Spreaker.

1 — To Exchange Money at THIS place in Prague, Czech Republic

The Region of the old square. Don’t change your money there.

This is not the first time that I write about why Prague disappointed me. But some things must be said more than once.

Never (and I mean never) change money on the street, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as the Old Clock’s environs. You can be certain that you will be scammed if someone approaches you in front of an exchange office and offers you a better rate. Most of the time, you will be unable to obtain Czech money. You’ll wind up with some east-European currency that won’t help you much in this country!

If you need Czech money (and you will, given the Euro is not legal cash here), use an ATM.

Always inquire how much you’ll get for your money if you come across an exchange office (and there are many of them everywhere). Many exchange offices deceive you into thinking you’re receiving a good deal. After you sign the bill and receive half of what you expected, you could be astonished. Please keep in mind that once you sign the bill, you cannot get your money back because your signature indicates that you have accepted the offer.

2— To Buy THIS THING in Poland to Use as Decoration

Source: Wikimedia Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Poland.

If you visit Poland in the autumn and enter a supermarket, you will notice that entire shelves are covered with red, yellow, and transparent glass lamps crafted in a variety of motives.

One might even believe that Poles have a special fondness for romantic dinners under candlelight with all of these sophisticated lanterns, and you might be tempted to buy one for your living room.

Don’t do it. These are known as znicz nagrobny, and they are placed on cemeteries during All Saints Day (and other celebrations, like Christmas). It is a way to remember those who have passed away.

On a side note, the ballet of thousands of lantern lights is a very interesting spectacle to see for those who visit cemeteries in Poland during the all saints holiday.

3 — To take pictures with the Legionaries in Rome

That one didn’t happen to me — I always thought it was kitsch to take pictures with a guy dressed up in a costume if you were already an adult.

But often kids (and some not-so-young fellows) are frequently tempted to pose for photos with these men dressed as Roman legionary soldiers who stand in Rome’s busiest tourist areas.

They will initially be friendly and even smile for your photograph. After that, they will charge you a fee, and if you do not pay, things may quickly turn violent. If you call the cops, likely the police will take the side of the street artists in this case — after all, you asked to take a picture with them.

4 — Have a Deep Breath at Paris Metro Tunnels.

Paris metro STINKS. It is among the most disgusting, distasteful, filthy, and disturbing senses that a city outside of a war zone can offer you.

The scents of the Parisian subway will vary between rotten eggs, urine fumes, and human excrement. Some homeless people who spend their days in Metro stations use the passageways and platforms as restrooms.

If you need to use the Paris underground public transport, it may be a good occasion to check for how long you can hold your breath.

5 — Walk around La Rambla in Barcelona without paying attention to your surroundings (and valuable stuff).

The place itself has its charm. La Rambla is a 1.2-kilometer-long tree-lined pedestrian boulevard in the center of Barcelona. This street is close to some of Barcelona’s most notable attractions, such as the La Boqueria market and the Palau de la Virreina.

According to this, the hordes of visitors attracted pickpockets, scam artists, and individuals harassing you to buy useless things. It’s doubtful that you’ll be able to fully appreciate this street’s architectural gems while zigzagging among unwelcome street vendors.

There’s also a risk that, as it happened to me, some nimble petty thief may grab your sunglasses from your head or the wallet from your pocket.

If you enjoyed this article about travel tips for Europe, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 10 Most Beautiful and Captivating Gardens in Europe!

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

International Flight Tickets: 4 Tips to Pay Less

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and a best-selling author.

Expats

5 Benefits of using Taxi Centrale Amsterdam

Taxis are the trending mode of travel nowadays. Gone are the times when using your own personal vehicle was thought to be the best approach for a perfect traveling experience.

The incentives of using a good taxi service like Taxi Centrale Amsterdam far outweigh the benefits of driving your own car currently. Booking online and through mobile phones has promoted this industry immensely.

The importance of taxi services globally can be observed through a research report about the taxi market, where the global taxi market for 2019 was calculated to be $69.18 billion. It’s projected to achieve a target of $120.89 billion by 2027, with a growth rate of 12.3 percent (from 2020 to 2027).

Whether looking for Taxi Amstelveen or Taxi Uber Amsterdam, you can get multiple benefits from using their premium taxi services. The principal is a memorable travel experience that will make you their long-term user.

Coming or going to Schiphol or just needing an honest taxi service from Amsterdam to any city in the Netherlands, they have got you covered with their matchless travel experience. By using their services, you can enjoy five major pros:

Flexibility

Their taxi service provides you with the flexibility to pick you up from wherever you wish and drop you off at whatever destination you have in mind in the Netherlands. In comparison, public transport has fixed time arrangements for traveling; if you miss them, you lose your ride.

Work according to your schedule.

They cater to your instant travel needs by providing quick service because your timely arrival or departure matters to us. Taxis in Amsterdam are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Their high-quality taxi service will be there whenever they wish for those who need transportation regularly.

Economical service

You get a fixed price quote by booking their taxis, with significantly lower rates than other transport services in the Netherlands. There are no hidden costs included in the pricing feature.

Well-maintained vehicles

They make your journey pleasant with their fleet of well-maintained cars, available in different sizes and models as per your needs. You can forget slow or poorly-cared-for transport vehicles with their taxis.

Professional attitude

Their drivers are true professionals who are discreet about your privacy while driving and help you with your luggage handling. They are selected with care. They have a huge network of experienced drivers and the most up-to-date cars, so they can make sure you have a great taxi ride.

Parting Thought

Best Countries Ranking

The 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe (2022)

The Best Gardens in Europe, from East to West

In this article, I will provide you with a list of the most beautiful gardens in Europe IMHO. They are NOT by order of preference but by alphabetic order.

Why?

Because gardens have a certain beauty to them that draws me in. But I’m not the type of person who goes to a park and just sits on the first bench.I enjoy walking around them, exploring their nuances, touching the leaves of their trees (when permitted, of course), and inhaling deeply to discover their scents.

It gives me an inexplicable calmness (and according to Cal Newport, it is also very beneficial to our brain).

That is why, whenever possible, I try to visit iconic gardens during my travels around the world.

And, with all due respect to other cultures, the Europeans excelled at creating scenic, aesthetically pleasing green spaces.

I hope you enjoy it, and any comments or suggestions are welcome!

Listen to “The 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe🌻” on Spreaker.

Boboli Gardens (Florence, Italy)

Boboli Gardens Florence, one of the most beautiful gardens in europe — Image by Fabio Zanchetta for Pixabay

Florence is a popular tourist destination, but it also boasts some beautiful gardens. The Boboli Gardens, part of the Pitti Palace complex in Florence, are well worth a visit.

Visit the website for hours and rates, and use Google Maps to get a glimpse of its splendor. In the high season, admission to the gardens costs EUR10, while in the off-season, it costs less. The ticket includes admission to the Porcelain Museum.

The Boboli Gardens in Florence are more akin to an outdoor museum than a garden, and they serve as inspiration for several well-known European gardens.

The Medici family bought the property and commissioned Niccolo Pericoli to develop the region in the early sixteenth century. Pericoli worked on it until his death, and his work was finished by Bartolomeo Ammannati. Later, still in the sixteenth century, Cosimo I de Medici bought the gardens and decided to establish their new ducal residence in the Pitti Palace (an impressive nearby edifice).

An inexpensive and interesting guided tour of the Casa Medici can be purchased here.

Keukenhof Gardens (Netherlands)

Keukenhof Gardens is a must-see attraction in the Netherlands for anyone who enjoys flowers. The gardens are 32 hectares in size and feature 7 million tulip bulbs. They also have a castle, a clog museum, a maze, and four separate pavilions for flower exhibits and expositions.

Oh, and there’s a windmill as well! If you have the time, you can climb it and enjoy a view of the Lisse tulip fields.

Of course, this is not a winter attraction. The garden is most beautiful in late April or early May and can be reached from both Amsterdam and Leiden.

The flowerbeds are timed to correspond with the various bulb flowerings to ensure blooms throughout the park’s eight-week season. Three bulbs are planted in each location to ensure consistent bloom. For the first three weeks, the shallowest bulb will bloom, followed by the subsequent layers.

Many consider these gardens to be the most spectacular in the world, and nearly 1.5 million tourists visit each year, with foreigners accounting for 80 percent of the visitors.

You can purchase a spring cruise across the Keukenhof gardens and skip the lines here.

Parc de la Ciutadella (Barcelona, Spain)

Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s greenest park, provides a peaceful respite amid the city’s bustle (a metropolis that is also one of the cheapest destinations to fly to in Europe).

The ideal location for those looking to unwind for the afternoon, refuel their batteries and take a deep breath. This lovely park, which includes the Catalan Parliament and the Museum of Natural Science and Geology, is a popular spot for picnics and long walks.

Many native Mediterranean plants and trees thrive in the five-hectare green space. Several structures in the park are designed to promote biodiversity. Ping-pong tables and playgrounds are also available for children’s enjoyment. There is also a zoo and several museums in the garden.

One could argue that I should have included Barcelona’s more well-known Parc Güell instead of Parc de la Ciutadella. I agree that Parc Güell is one of the most architecturally appealing parks in the world, but we all know that its fame stems from the magnific masterworks of Antoni Gaudí displayed there, not from the green area itself.

Check this guide for backpackers in Barcelona on how to spend 24 hours.

Saxon Gardens (Warsaw, Poland)

The Saxon Gardens in Warsaw were once a sprawling complex that included a church, a palace, and other structures. It is one of the nicest places in the Polish capital.

Until World War II, when everything — or nearly everything — was destroyed.

The garden’s oldest section was built in the 16th century and opened to the public in 1727. It was originally a Baroque French-style park, but it was restored in the nineteenth century and transformed into a Romantic English-style landscape park.

The Marconi Fountain, one of the most beautiful attractions in the gardens, is near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, one of the few pre-war structures still standing. The fountain can be seen from almost anywhere in the gardens, including the main square. The Marconi Fountain and the Saxon Gardens are also on the 2.5-mile “Road of Kings” (Trakt Królewski), which connects the Wilanow Palace and the Royal Castle.

Talking about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it is one of the most moving sights in the Saxon Gardens. This tomb was built in memory of the unknown soldiers who died while fighting for Poland. It is regarded as one of the most important symbols of the country, and presidents and kings from other countries who visit Poland frequently pay their respects.

Stanislaw Ostrowski designed the Tomb, which is the only surviving part of the Saxon Palace colonnade. The monument’s guard changes every hour, which is an attraction in and of itself.

Schonbrunn Gardens (Vienna, Austria)

schonbrunn one of the most beautiful gardens in europe — Image by Meatle for Pixabay

The Schonbrunn Palace was the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, the family that once ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire, Europe’s second-largest state (just after Russia). The gardens, which feature long, tree-lined passageways, are among the most beautiful in Europe. A large palm house was built in the gardens in 1882, creating a tropical environment for visitors.

The park is massive, with various sections reflecting the various concepts and styles of the Baroque era. The Great Parterre leads from the palace and is divided into eight sections, including the Crown Prince Garden, the Orangery Garden, and the Botanical Garden. Aside from the Neptune Fountain, the park also has a zoo.

You can also explore the “Gloriette,” a structure with a sculpture that overlooks the garden, during your visit. Empress Maria Theresa decided that the Gloriette should glorify Habsburg power and the Just War (a war carried out out of “necessity” and leading to peace). It was destroyed during WWII, but it had already been restored by 1947.

You can purchase tickets that will allow you to skip the (often enormous) lines to Schonbrunn here.

Versailles Gardens (Versailles, France)

The lawns, parterres, and statues in this 17th-century garden are meticulously kept. In addition to the sophisticated fountains (more on that below), there are five greenhouses filled with orchids and other plants around the area.

It took almost 40 years to build and is now one of the world’s largest open-air sculpture museums. The gardens were designed by Andre Le Notre, a notable landscape designer who was a favorite of King Louis XIV. They were devoted to the king’s wish to display his magnificent residence.

Due to the limited amount of rooms that may be seen in the palace, the gardens are frequently regarded as Versailles’ main attraction.

Many consider this to be one of Europe’s most beautiful gardens, with the brilliant hues of spring bringing out the best in the blossoming plants.
The fountains, which date back to the reign of Louis XIV and still utilize much of the same hydraulic network as during the Ancien Régime, help to distinguish these Royal gardens.

You can purchase tickets that will allow you to skip the (often enormous) lines to Versailles here.

Villa d’Este Gardens (Tivoli, Italy)

The Villa d’Este Gardens are a must-see destination located near Rome.

The gardens are currently a state monument and a UNESCO World Heritage They are known for their Italian Renaissance style and numerous fountains. From the top of a hill, you may get a panoramic view of Rome and Tivoli.

The gardens’ mystical and romantic beauty is accentuated by a plethora of fountains. Water features, which have played a part in the design and arrangement of the garden, are one of the gardens’ jewels.

The Owlet Fountain, which plays organ music, is possibly the most well-known water feature. Canals and waterfalls abound at the Hundred Fountains. All of these distinctive elements add to the allure of visiting the Villa d’Este Gardens.

Cardinal Ippolito, a favorite among his contemporaries, developed the gardens. Ancient Greek mythology, notably Hercules’ Labors, served as an inspiration to him.

Ippolito’s conception of the Villa D’Este was aided by the Hesperides’ narrative: three dusk nymphs are known as the Hesperides who care for a beautiful garden. They provide immortality to the residents in exchange. This image may be seen in the gardens of Villa d’Este.

Château de Villandry Gardens (Villandry, France)

The Loire Valley is regarded as “France’s Garden,” and the Chateau de Villandry is the most spectacular of them.

The early 1500s saw the construction of the Chateau de Villandry. It was one of the last Renaissance-era chateaux on the Loire. The gardens, which had been destroyed in the 19th century, were rebuilt in 1906 in keeping with the chateau’s style.

The grounds cover 9 hectares and include six unique areas: a water garden with ponds and fountains, an ornamental garden with elaborate patterns filled with different flowers depending on the season, and a vast vegetable section.

The vegetable garden is, surprisingly, one of the most attractive areas of the garden. It will inspire you to renovate your own vegetable patch when you return home.

Volksgarten (Vienna, Austria)

That is the second garden from Vienna, Austria’s capital, on our list, and for good reason: the city that gave the world brilliant minds like Mozart, Strauss, Haydn, and Schubert could not disappoint in the art of gardening.

Make time to see the Volksgarten, a park whose name translates to “People’s Garden.” It’s a section of the equally magnificent Hofburg Palace, which I visited several years ago. Because it was winter, I was unable to fully appreciate the garden’s splendor.

This park, built on the site of Napoleon’s fortifications, has fountains and, in the middle, the neoclassical Theseus Temple by Pietro di Nobile, finished in 1821. A coffee shop, erected between 1820 and 1823, is located on the premises. Johann Strauss I and Joseph Lanner, both Austrian Romantic composers, played there.

Vrtba Garden (Prague, Czech Republic)

Here’s the thing: Prague disappointed me. Not because it is unattractive, but because scammers and tourist traps are everywhere. One of the reasons I don’t recommend traveling to Prague during winter is because you will miss gems like Vrtba.

This garden, on the other hand, is an exception, and it was one of the highlights of the trip. It is also less crowded than other more famous attractions like the St. Vitus Cathedral.

The Vrtba Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the left side of Prague’s center, and it is open from March to October during the summer and is well worth a visit.

It was established around 1720 as part of the Vrtba Palace and is one of the continent’s oldest well-preserved gardens. The landscape was designed by architect Frantisek Maxmilian Kanka on the site of a former vineyard. Matyas Bernard Braun created the lovely sculptures in the yard.

It has a Baroque style, which is defined as a gardening style centered on symmetry and the notion of imposing order on nature. The style first appeared in the late-16th century in Italy, at the Vatican and Villa Borghese gardens in Rome, as well as the Villa d’Este grounds in Tivoli (mentioned previously on this list).

The 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe: Conclusion

Mixing breathtaking green areas with architectural masterpieces, here is the list — not in order of preference but in alphabetical order — of the 10 most beautiful gardens in Europe.

On this website, you can buy tickets to skip the lines for most of these attractions.

Boboli Gardens, in Florence, Italy.
Keukenhof Gardens, in the Netherlands.
Parc de la Ciutadella, in Barcelona, Spain
Saxon Gardens, in Warsaw, Poland.
Schonbrunn Palce Gardens, in Vienna, Austria.
Versailles Palace Gardens, in Versailles, France.
Villa d’Este Gardens, in Tivoli, Italy.
Villandry Castle Gardens, in Villandry, France.
Volksgarten, in Vienna, Austria.
Vrtba Garden, in Prague, Czech Republic.

If you enjoyed reading about the most beautiful gardens in Europe, check also:

Best Countries to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year

4 Ways to Save Money on International Flights

How to Save Money on a Hotel Room (You could save up to half of the total bill.)

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Second, if you liked this article, please consider supporting me and other writers by becoming a Medium member. By using this link, you will directly support me with a piece of your fee; there will be no additional cost to you. Thank you a million times if you do!

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in the article may be affiliate links, which means the author receives a commission on any purchases made by readers.

Digital Nomads

Going to the 2022 Fifa World Cup? Check the…

An Insider Guide About Things to Do in Qatar in December

For a significant portion of my career, I worked in the aviation industry, specifically in a relatively unknown department known as Revenue Management — it is the area responsible for the sudden ups and downs in ticket prices (here I reveal some secrets for finding cheaper tickets).

I was fortunate to work for three years in what is regarded as the world’s five-star airline, based in Doha, Qatar.

But I won’t lie: Doha isn’t one of the most entertaining cities I’ve ever visited.

Yet, there are some interesting places there, and in this list, I will reveal to you these places.

If you plan to attend the 2022 FIFA World Cup, you should check out some of these unexpected things to do in Qatar in December.

About the World Cup, who will you support? If any of my readers will be cheering for Brazil with me, tell me in the comments 🙂

But first, let’s discuss why the FIFA World Cup will be held in December (during the winter), rather than in the summer, as is customary.

Qatar Weather During Winter

Qatar is excruciatingly hot for nearly half of the year. I experienced temperatures over 50 degrees celsius. This is hot enough to endanger your life if you stay outside for too long.

As a result, the World Cup will be held this year in November and December, during the winter.

December is the third coldest (or less hot?) month in this country, just after January and February. Temperatures are mild and the sky is frequently clear, making it a spring-like season by European standards. Lows are in the 14/17 °C (57/63 °F) range, with highs in the 22/25 °C (72/77 °F) range.

Sounds good, right?

Time to give you the list of things to do in Qatar in December (or during winter).

1 — Visit the Souq Waqif

During the winter, you should visit the Souq Waqif, a traditional market in the city’s center. It is primarily open-air, so while it may be too hot in the summer, the weather is great in December.

This market has been around for over a century and sells everything from traditional clothing to spices and handicrafts. Here you may buy souvenirs and eat traditional meals.

There are some well-reviewed tour guides at the Souq Waqif who can show you the hidden gems as well as guide you through the best (and relatively inexpensive) food stalls and restaurants.

Visitors will find it convenient because of nearby metro stations and a vast underground parking garage. It’s also close to other Doha attractions and landmarks, such as the Museum of Islamic Art (more about it below).

If you want to see some local art, go to the Souq Waqif Arts Center, which has both traditional and contemporary art. The Arts Center also encourages local artists and features an area for arts & crafts.

It’s a good idea to bring along your camera. If you are hungry, there are several eateries serving a variety of cuisines.

2 — Go to Al Zubarah Fort

During December, you can visit the renowned Al Zubarah Fort in Qatar. The fort sits 100 kilometers west of Doha and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This town thrived during the early days of pearling in the Gulf. However, by the late nineteenth century, the pearl business had all but vanished. During the construction of the Suez Canal, commercial routes were curtailed, and the town population fell.

The fort is now but a relic of an extraordinary past. It comprises five rooms and rotates photo displays as well as exhibits on excavation history and natural components.

After you’ve seen the fort, you can explore the surrounding area, which includes the historic Pearl Diving Centre. Al Zubarah is a significant archaeological site as well as a piece of early Qatari history. It is completely free to visit, however, this guide will take you there comfortably and will also take you to other attractions such as the Purple Island and the mangrove forest.

3 — Discover the art of falconry by visiting the Falcon Souq

Visit the falcon souk in Qatar. You’ll get to see falcons around and tour the world’s largest falcon hospital. Falconry has deep roots in the Middle East, where pharaohs practiced it over 5000 years ago. Today, falconry is still practiced throughout the region, with various organizations formed by aficionados. Some falcons compete in beauty pageants.

The Falcon Souq is a fantastic spot to visit if you want to witness a trained falcon in action or buy an unusual gift. The Falcon Souq, located off Souq Waqif, provides a unique peek into Qatari culture. This tour with an experienced guide explores it and other attractions nearby.

4 — Visit the Museum of Islamic Art

The MIA is the world’s biggest museum dedicated to Islamic art, located in Doha, Qatar. Its permanent collection covers over 1000 years and 7,000 miles, from Spain to India. Several temporary exhibitions are also held in the museum. Through special exhibitions and educational events, visitors can learn about the art of the Muslim world. The museum’s art collection is often loaned to other museums across the world.

The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha displays artifacts from the royal family’s collection as well as dozens of pieces from its own. The museum is divided into multiple floors, the first of which houses a gift store, a coffee shop, and a special exhibition area. It also features thematic displays ranging from calligraphy and patterns to figures and decoration. The second floor is dedicated to small and handwritten Korans.

In a comfortable private car, this tour will take you through the MIA and other museums in Doha.

5 — Take a look at the view from the top of the Aspire Tower

This 300-meter tower is located in the heart of the Aspire Zone, a new development in Doha that also houses one of the World Cup stadiums. During the Asian Games in 2006, the tower became the focal point of the city. Panorama Restaurant, located on the 91st floor of the tower, offers a view from the top.

Conclusion: Things to do in Qatar in December

There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied while you’re in Qatar this December, between the games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Check out the Souq Waqif, visit Al Zubarah Fort, learn about falconry in the Falcon Souq, visit the Museum of Islamic Art, and have a dazzling view from the top of the Aspire Tower.

If you want to visit Doha, I’ve written two other articles about it. One answers questions about visiting Qatar as a female (based on my wife’s and friends’ experiences), and the other discusses the issue of alcohol accessibility (hint: it is available, but it is not at the same time).

If you enjoyed reading about things to do in Qatar in December, check also:

The Top 5 Countries for Coffee Lovers

4 More Insider Tips for Finding Incredibly Low-Cost Flights

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Cultural Shock

Visiting Qatar as a Woman for the 2022 World…

Dress code in Qatar and everything else you need to know for the 2022 World Cup.

It may appear strange that a man is writing an article about visiting Qatar as a woman. However, I lived in Qatar for many years, and during that time, my wife, as well as other female family members and friends, visited me numerous times. This article is based on their observations.

The goal is to dispel some of the misconceptions that foreigners (particularly Westerners) have about tourism in this Middle Eastern country, particularly in relation to the 2022 World Cup hosted in Qatar.

Some of what I’m about to tell you may seem shocking at first, but for anyone who has lived there, they are as normal as it gets.

Dress code in Qatar

Qatar is an Islamic country, and the Qataris dress in a highly traditional manner.

For foreigners, although there is no formal dress code, it is advised to dress modestly and conservatively. This means no shorts for males and no miniskirts or tank tops for ladies.

Normal swimmers, including bikinis, are fine on the beach or by the pool (until some years ago, bikinis were allowed only on Public beaches and still they may draw attention). It is prohibited for women to sunbathe topless.

When visiting public locations like as parks, malls, or souq areas, especially those frequented by people of various nationalities, it is essential to be especially mindful of dress code.

Qatari ladies often cover their hair with a black headdress called shayla and their body with a black garment called abaya. Some women also cover their faces by using a niqab.

Do I have to wear an abaya in Qatar?

No, tourists are not required to dress in the way of the Qataris.

Shorts, skirts above the knee and sleeveless/short sleeves are not permitted when visiting mosques or government facilities. When visiting mosques, you will also need to cover your hair. In any public place, women should avoid wearing spaghetti-strap or see-through shirts and short skirts.

Regarding the temperature, spectators of the 2022 Fifa World Cup need not fear since the weather and temperatures are mild in November and December, owing to the cool desert air.

Typical daytime temperatures are approximately 24 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures are around 18 degrees Celsius. It’s wise to bring light coats and cardigans, and it won’t hurt to keep a hat and pair of gloves on hand when you’re out and about in Qatar during these times.

There are lots of shopping malls in Qatar where you may buy just about whatever you need, especially clothes to wear for the duration of your visit.

Can you hold hands in Qatar?

Male and female holding hands is tolerated. Lots of couples hold hands everywhere. Banks, hospitals, restaurants, malls, and other public places. Most of them are married couples, but nobody really checks that.

It is also common to see men holding hands in Qatar, especially Indian immigrants, but that does not have any sexual connotation.

So, bottom line: a couple can hold hands in Doha.

Can women drive in Qatar?

Yes. People used to ask this question due to confusion with neighboring Saudi Arabia, where until recently, women were not allowed to drive.

Can you drink alcohol in Qatar?

True, but not everywhere and not for everyone. Alcohol is mostly available in bars, hotels, and restaurants. It is not available in regular supermarkets or grocery stores. Furthermore, not everyone is permitted to consume alcohol (although tourists probably will have no issues). I detailed this matter in this article about the booze question during the 2022 World Cup.

Is Doha similar to Dubai?

From the outside, Doha may appear to be a smaller, less boisterous, and less tourist-centered version of Dubai. Here I listed some nice things to do in Qatar.

However, from the perspective of an insider or a resident, as I was, they are considerably different. Dubai is less restrictive in many ways and offers more entertainment options. In fact, it was common for western foreigners living in Doha to visit Dubai for additional entertainment options.

Is Doha safe for females? Conclusion.

Yes, Doha is safe for female tourists.

Women visiting Qatar should have no problem during the 2022 World Cup if they follow the same guidelines that common sense dictates everywhere else in the world, plus some extra consideration for the local culture, such as not getting drunk in the middle of a public park or beach, or not wearing transparent tops.

While I was living there, my wife came to see me several times, and the only thing that ever happened was that when we went to a museum, at the entrance they offered her an extra blanket to cover her shoulders.

During other months (eg: Ramadan), the rules in Qatar are much stricter. You cannot eat or drink water in public during the day, for example. Once I forgot that already was Ramadan and I got warned about drinking water outside. The dress code is also much more rigid.

But the World Cup will not happen during Ramadan, therefore, tourists can expect a certain level of tolerance from the local authorities.

Have a good travel, and enjoy the Fifa World Cup 🙂

Ps: In this article, I only wrote about the rules. It does not mean that I agree or disagree with any of them.

If you enjoyed reading about visiting Qatar as a woman, check also:

The Top 5 Countries for Coffee Lovers

4 Ways to Save Money on International Flights

4 More Insider Tips for Finding Incredibly Low-Cost Flights

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and best-selling author.

Living Costs

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

From a German hub to an isolated island, here are the cheapest cities to fly to in Europe!

Listen to “The CHEAPEST Cities to Fly to In Europe” on Spreaker.

If you’re from Asia or America, like me, probably you, at some point, considered doing a tour across Europe. And you know that after you’ve landed on the old continent, moving around isn’t such a difficult task.

Europe (at least the western and central parts) has some of the world’s finest railway networks. They also have a plethora of regional, low-cost airlines and inexpensive bus routes.

BUT…

Crossing the ocean to reach Europe may be costly. So, to assist you in determining the cheapest gateways to the Old Continent, I utilized my years of airline experience to compile criteria and rates to assist YOU in determining what are the cheapest cities to fly to in Europe and what should be your starting point in your next euro excursion!

Reasons that make certain cities the cheapest to fly to in Europe

The price of flight tickets fluctuates. A lot. Airlines have an entire area called Revenue Management just to operate the models behind ticket pricing — this is the area that I worked for years. Before, I shared some tips on how to use revenue management in your favor so you can save money.

For this reason, the cheapest city to fly to today is not necessarily the same to fly tomorrow.

There are, however, some criteria that make certain cities (or rather, certain airports) consistently cheaper than others.

1st — Airport taxes and fees.

This is the easiest one to understand why. Each airport operator is free to set its own fees, and each country has its own taxes, which are then added to the total price of a flight ticket. Some countries have very high airport taxes.

The UK, for example, is unlikely to have many airports among the cheapest in Europe for the simple fact that they have something called Air Passenger Duty Tax. It is charged to people flying out of the UK and has increased in value by 539% since its implementation in 1993. The value is based on the distance of the flight, and Americans can expect to pay up to $110 in the economy and $215.60 in first class.

2nd — Competition between airlines

There’s also no surprise here. The greater the number of airlines serving a specific origin and destination, the lower the prices. That is why, despite the relatively low income of the people, some airports in Africa are so expensive, particularly those monopolized by state-owned companies.

3rd — Competition between airports

Airports, like airlines, can compete with one another. The presence of multiple airports in a single city may also result in one of them focusing on low-cost carriers.

Examples of airports focusing on low-cost airlines are Modlin (Warsaw, Poland), Gatwick (London, the UK), and Skavsta (Stockholm, Sweden).

4th — Exchange rate

If a country’s currency is devalued, fees and taxes (and even some airline tickets) priced in the local currency will be cheaper when quoted in dollars or euros.

Cheapest cities to fly to in Europe

Prices come from various sources, like Kayak, Priceoftravel.com, or Hopper.

7. Frankfurt, Germany
Airport: Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Frankfurt Airport is the third busiest in Europe and by far the busiest in Germany. The city itself is not very touristy (for that, better choices are Cologne or Munich), but it is well-connected by railway to most capitals in continental Europe, making it an excellent starting point (in fact, my second trip to Europe started in Frankfurt).

Some of the cheapest flights from the United States to Europe pass through this german hub. From North America, you can expect flights below $900. The cheaper flights will have layovers, while the more expensive ones would be direct flights with Lufthansa, Germany’s national airline.

6. Milan, Italy
Airports: Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Linate Airport (LIN)

Milan is one of Alitalia’s two main hubs and is often less expensive than traveling into Rome. Surprisingly, Alitalia never appears to have the greatest fares, since the Italian airline faces fierce competition from dozens of other companies. You can expect prices around $700 for a round-trip flight from major North-American airports.

5. Oslo, Norway
Airport: Oslo Airport, Gardermoen (OSL)

The good news for anyone going to Norway is that flights into Oslo are unusually inexpensive: around $600 departing from North America. The bad news, of course, is that certain items (well, almost everything, it is Norway after all) are extremely pricey once you arrive.

Once I booked a flight to Oslo for a really good price. I was glad for taking profit from an incredible airline promotion. Later I realized that the cost of staying for a few days in the city in a budget hotel, plus the transfer to and from the airport, was more expensive than the airline ticket itself.

4. Lisbon, Portugal
Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

Different than Oslo, the Portuguese capital not only has cheap flights to reach there, but Lisbon is also an inexpensive (and splendid) city to spend a few days at the beginning of your Eurotrip. Flights should also be around $600 departing from the US or Canada.

3. Barcelona, Spain
Airport: Barcelona–El Prat Airport

Barcelona El Prat Airport has prices similar to Lisbon. Albeit smaller and quieter than Madrid’s, El Prat offers a few trans-Atlantic flights of its own. It is served by all of Europe’s main airlines, and from there, low-cost carriers like Vueling and Ryanair can transport you to other regions of Europe. Spain is a perfect country to visit either by land or sea.

This Spanish city also has one of the most beautiful gardens I saw.

Just be aware that walking around La Rambla while unaware of pickpocketers is one of the most stupid things to do in Spain (and Europe).

2. Dublin, Ireland
Airports: Dublin Airport (DUB)

Dublin is a low-cost destination from several locations in the United States. The lowest rates are usually around $600, depending on the airline and length of layovers. A direct flight with Aer Lingus or Delta will cost somewhat extra.

There’s so much to see and do in and around the Irish capital, with its superb beer (I visited the Guinness factory and it was a remarkable day!), ancient castles, and beautiful countryside (never mind the weather and ignore the constant drizzle). Dublin is also the headquarters of Ryanair, the leading low-cost carrier in Europe, meaning that you will also be able to explore many other countries in Europe from there — even though Ireland is an island.

1. Reykjavík, Iceland

Airport: Keflavik Airport (KEF)

Why are flights to Iceland so cheap?

The question becomes even more intriguing when one considers that, like Norway, Iceland itself is a very expensive country.

This is the cheapest European city to fly to for most North Americans. Depending on the time of year and where you fly from, you can expect to pay between less than $500 for a roundtrip ticket and from there start your Iceland road trip.

Here are a few reasons why flights to Iceland are so cheap:

Iceland is very close to North America. Reykjavik, in fact, is geologically in North America. The European tectonic plate does not begin until roughly 30 miles to the east. Reykjavik is closer to Boston than California is to Boston. A nonstop trip from Boston or New York to Los Angeles takes roughly 7 hours. To Keflavik Airport, it takes less than 6 hours.
Since it is close to North America, cheap narrow-body planes like the Boeing 737or the Airbus A320 have enough range to fly from North America to Iceland. Narrowbodies cost around a quarter of what longer-range narrowbodies cost, thus tickets can be significantly less expensive.
Flights to Iceland (or Norway) must be inexpensive. Almost nobody would visit there if the flight cost $800 or more since everything else is so absurdly pricey once you got there.

The Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe: Conclusion

These are the cheapest European cities to fly into if you are departing from New York or any other city in the opposite side of the Atlantic ocean:

7. Frankfurt, Germany. Airport: Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

6. Milan, Italy. Airports: Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Linate Airport (LIN)

5. Oslo, Norway. Airport: Oslo Airport, Gardermoen (OSL)

4. Lisbon, Portugal. Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

3. Barcelona, Spain. Airport: Barcelona–El Prat Airport

2. Dublin, Ireland. Airports: Dublin Airport (DUB)

1. The cheapest city to fly into Europe is Reykjavík, Iceland. Airport, Keflavik Airport (KEF):

If you enjoyed this article about the cheapest cities to fly to in Europe, check also:

The Best Cities to Retire in Europe

The 8 Safest Big Cities in the US Right Now

Best Place to Visit in Europe on Each Month of the Year

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and best-selling author.

Best Countries Ranking

What Food is Portugal Famous For?

Have You Ever Been to Europe’s Culinary Jewel? Discover What Food is Portugal Famous For!

This country is perhaps best known for having plenty of sun-soaked days and its stunning collection of beaches in places like the Algarve.

There is something magical about the simple pleasure of walking across Portuguese houses decorated with azulejos. And in their culinary, some plates will make you look forward to lunch the moment that you’ve finished breakfast.

If this sounds like your type of holiday, then this is the place for you (and remember that the best month to visit Portugal is July).

From the buzzy cities of Lisbon and Porto to the hilly oasis of the Douro Valley, Portugal is crammed full of gastronomical delights wherever you turn. Portugal is brimming with gastronomical delights. To get your tastebuds tingling, here are three reasons why you should plan plenty of time for your meals on your next holiday.

Let’s discover what food is Portugal famous for. But before, let’s talk about prices.

Is Food Cheap in Portugal?

The average cost of a meal in Portugal is around €16.

There are many restaurants in Portugal where you can get a meal for under €10, but the average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant comes in at around €16. In a cheap restaurant, your dinner will likely include bread, soup, salad, and the main dish.

Be aware that the bread that the waiter puts on the table is often not for free! If you touch it, you’ll pay a little extra.

If you want to eat out but keep your expenses low, you might want to consider street food, which is quite popular in Lisbon. Meals like sandwiches and wraps start around €4 and go up from there. You can also buy some great Portuguese pastries from street vendors for less than €1.

What Food is Portugal Famous For?

Seafood

With the west coast of Portugal surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the country has access to a bounty of fresh seafood. As a result, there are plenty of beloved national dishes that celebrate these delicious local ingredients.

Why not be brave and try polvo à lagareiro? This dish of boiled then baked octopus is a common favorite and is traditionally served with baked potatoes. Whilst octopus might feel a little out of your comfort zone, it’s a simple dish that focuses on flavor, and you can be sure that your chef will know how to prepare it.

Another famous seafood ingredient from Portuguese plates is the Bacalhau (codfish). Personally, this is one of my 3 favorite things to eat, not only among Portuguese stuff but overall.

Bacalhau is also traditional in many former Portuguese colonies. I have good memories of having it for dinner during my childhood in Brazil.

There are numerous Portuguese bacalhau dishes to choose from. It can be baked, grilled, canned, served with potatoes or rice, and more. It’s worth noting that Portuguese codfish is usually dried and salted, and not sold as a fresh fish but stacked in piles.

The origins of bacalhau were one of the things that surprised us the most. Surprisingly, bacalhau is not native to the Portuguese coast.

Bacalhau is a type of fish that is imported from Newfoundland or Norway. Since the 16th century, when Portuguese fishermen first brought it back from Newfoundland, it has been an integral part of Portuguese cuisine.

The three most common types of Bacalhau dishes are:

Bacalhau à Brás: Salted pulled Codfish, with eggs, and potatoes.
Bolinhos de Bacalhau: Dumplings of salted pulled codfish.
Bacalhau assado na brasa com batatas: Roasted Codfish, served with potatoes and lots of olive oil.

If you want to get involved with their national dishes, in any major Portuguese local markets sell fish caught on the same morning at good prices. Even if you’re used to cooking with seafood, the quality of the ingredients will be enough to ensure that you experience your familiar dishes in a whole new way.

Pastéis de Nata

These tasty little tarts have expanded worldwide, but the best place to get them is the city where they were created — Lisbon. Originally, these tarts were made by the monks in Santa Maria de Belem. It was common to use egg whites for starching the nun’s habits, which left a large number of leftover egg yolks, and so the monks got creative and the tarts were born.

There is plenty of debate over where Lisbon does the best tarts, and you’ll find that each location has its own slightly different recipe, so it’s worth leaving plenty of time to do your own taste comparison.

Portuguese Meat and Sandwiches

Meat has long been a historically important part of European diets. As well as being a status symbol, it was an essential source of protein, as there were not as many types of vegetarian protein available.

This has led to a wide range of meat dishes in Portuguese cuisine, particularly hearty stews, which combine seasonal vegetables with a rich sauce, as well as slow-roasted meats served with rice.

For a light snack, make sure to try out bifanas, a traditional Portuguese sandwich made with pork marinated in garlic, white wine, and paprika. The meat is served between white bread with a crunchy texture and is often accompanied with soup or fries.

You can also try the Portuguese adaptation of a croque monsieur, called a francesinha sandwich. This tasty treat is full of ham, sausages, and steak. It’s then covered with melted cheese and topped with an egg.

Portuguese Drinks and Beverages

The Portuguese take two drinks in particular very seriously: coffee and wine.

The idea of spending time in a coffee shop in Portugal literally is about the coffee itself. Locals often start their day with a cup from a neighborhood coffee shop, rather than a chain. They also use it as a social activity, and this has been an important part of Portuguese culture for many years.

The classic way of serving coffee in Portugal is called Bica and is somehow similar to what we know as espresso, although with some differences from the Italian version. It has more volume than the normal espresso, and it is smoother in taste.

Of course, you can order with your coffee a range of milk drinks too using the right terminology. Rather than the more common arabica beans, the Portuguese favor a blend that also has robusta beans, which is a light to medium roast.

The beans used in Portugal are usually brought from one of the best places in the world for coffee: Brazil, which is also one of their former colonies.

Later in the day, settle down with a glass of wine. If you’re looking for an immersive experience, then head to the Douro Valley wine region, which has been producing wine for over 2000 years. Not only does it offer the finest wine that Portugal has to offer, but it’s stunningly beautiful, with a winding river and luscious green slopes.

Portugal produces a wide variety of wines. The Porto wine is perhaps the most well-known, but what this Iberian country has to offer extends far beyond it.

Best Food Cities in Portugal

Portuguese cuisine has a variety of regional tastes. Unfortunately, we could not make justice to all of them, but here we selected the 3 best food cities in Portugal:

Lisbon — It is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal but also the capital. It’s known for its great seafood restaurants and traditional dishes like bacalhau com natas (codfish with cream sauce). There, you can find some world-class restaurants, but great street food stalls as well. You can also try the curious mix of tastes caused by the enormous Brazilian diaspora in Lisbon.
Porto — Porto is not only famous for its port wine. This city offers some of the best street foods in all of Portugal, including Francesinha (a great sandwich, see what we wrote about it above), and Tripas à Moda do Porto (not for my taste but a lot of people enjoy it).
Portimão — The Algarve region is well known for its beaches, resorts, and as one of the best places in Europe to retire. However, not many people know about the excellent food you can find there. Apart from multiple fish dishes like in the rest of the country, Algarve has some specialties of its own such as the Polvo à Lagareiro that we described before.

Food and Wine Tours Portugal

Here is a selected gastronomical tour for you in 3 of the places we mentioned.

Lisbon: Treasures of Lisboa Food Tours
Porto: Porto: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour – Guided Experience
Douro: Douro Valley Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch and Optional Cruise.

If you enjoyed this article about what food is Portugal famous for, check also:

The Ten Most Dangerous Cities in Europe Right Now

Sleeping in Poland May Be More Expensive Than in Monaco

The Eight Safest Big Cities in the US in 2022

3 European Cities to Travel on 25 Euros per Day!

Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means the writer may receive a commission if you purchase through them. This has no bearing on their rating or their status as recommended attractions.

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Youtube Channel The Expat, creator of a page for aspiring entrepreneurs, and best-selling author.

Expat Problems

What to Do in Case of War?

How to Prepare for War as a Civilian (Read It NOW if You Live Abroad)

Listen to “How to Prepare for War as a Civilian (Read It NOW if You Live Abroad)” on Spreaker.

I live in Poland, less than three hours from the Ukrainian border, where a war is currently raging.

Because I’m assuming you never read my bio (who reads it after all?), I start by saying that, besides being a writer, I am also the owner of a tourist hostel in Warsaw. We frequently host international backpackers and transit tourists.

But not right now. Almost all of my rooms are occupied by people who have fled the war in Ukraine, a country that, until recently, was not on the list f the most dangerous places in Europe.

Many of my guests now are women, children, and elders. Some have arrived after days of traveling through difficult border crossings, checkpoints, and congested roads.

Every day, I have to reject over 30 calls from people requesting a room because we are full and have a waiting list. It is painful to see.

Having said that, it has also been a learning experience (check here 3 incredible stories of solidarity I witnessed with refugees in Poland). I discovered what these people wished they could do before the war starts by talking to them.

Familiar with other conflicts (before moving to Poland, I lived in the middle-east, one of the most stressful places in the world), I also pondered about what to do after a war.

This small guide arose from these discussions, reflections, and research. It is also inspired by Poland’s emergency service manual on what to do in case of war. I hope you enjoy reading it.

BUT

I hope you never need to use it.

What to Do in Case of War

How to Prepare Financially for War

PS: This is not financial advice, but what I would do (in fact, I have already done most of the things in this list).

Withdraw a substantial sum from your bank account. Bank runs are common on the eve of war, and ATMs may run out of money. I’d take enough to last at least two months, if not longer.
If there are chances that your country will be directly involved, avoid keeping local currency. Why?

Because it will quickly depreciate if war breaks out. Besides, exchange houses may refuse it. This is one of the most difficult challenges that Ukrainian refugees face in Poland, as the Ukrainian currency (Hryvnia) has depreciated significantly and is no longer accepted by many exchange houses.

Change your local currency for a neutral currency (yes, I am talking about you, Swiss Franc). Be aware that this should be done before the war as rates will be high during the conflict.
Exchange hard-to-carry assets into mobile, easy-to-carry assets, like gold.

This may raise a question:

Will Gold Go Up if There Is a War

People that are used to investing in risky countries are familiar with how useful are hard assets like Gold.

Gold is expected to increase in value, drastically, before the war starts. The prices may also raise after failed negotiations and when the conflict is prolonged.

But…

Frankly, it doesn’t matter if gold prices will go up or not. In the case of war, you are not investing in gold, but using it as a value storage. You can bury it in your garden, making it much more difficult for looters or an invading army to steal it.

Besides, you cannot carry your plasma TV in your pocket when you are escaping from war. Unless you have a Gulfstream jet ready to evacuate your family like Peter Thiel.

What to do if the invasion already started.

Before the Russian invasion on February 24, foreign intelligence agencies warned of a Ukrainian invasion. While the invasion’s scale was unexpected, the invasion itself was expected.

If you find yourself in similar situations, this is what you should do:

Have an escape wallet ready, with your documents, cash, passport, and keys.
Research flight schedules and build a plan in case of emergency. Check also the train routes, as well as the fastest ways to the border in the case air transport and railways are disrupted.
If you are a foreigner, like me, contact your embassy and ask about possible contingency plans.
If your country does not have an embassy nearby, contact a diplomatic mission from another country. During the evacuation in Ukraine, for example, the Brazilian embassy in Kyiv also assisted citizens from Ecuador and Argentina.
Carry with you ALL documents that attest ownership of vehicles, land, houses, assets, and so on. This includes fiscal receipts, notarized acts, and transfer notes. This step is crucial to demand compensation once the war finishes, and is often neglected by people fleeing a country.

Many of the suggestions above are based on the assumption that you want to flee before war breaks out. My respect if you wish to remain and defend your land.

Nominate reliable people located abroad for the guardianship of your children, to protect them if the worst happens. Put their name in your life insurance policy.

Should I stay or should I flee if war breaks out?

Just remember that, in case you wish to remain, you will be helpful if:

You have military experience
You have medical or paramedical experience
You can act as a translator, with fluent knowledge of the local idiom and other multiple languages (assisting in foreign legions and so on).
You have mechanical, engineering, or logistical skills.

If you do not fit any of these cases, there is a good chance that you will not be useful during the conflict, or require training in a very limited (and often unrealistic) timeframe.

What to Do During a War

If you managed to escape the war and returned to your home country or became a refugee in a third state, the first step is to contact assistance from organizations like the UNHCR.

Store the resources (cash, gold, and other assets) that you brought in a secure place and exchange just the necessary into local currency.

Always adopt a realistic outlook. Wars have the potential to destroy the infrastructure of a country, so it is unlikely that you will return soon to your former home.

Besides, modern wars are not quick. While larger forces may conquer territory quickly, most modern conflicts are prolonged by enduring guerrilla fights. Here are how long it took some of the most recent examples:

Second Congo War: 15 years (1998–2003)
Syrian Civil War: 11 years, ongoing.
Iraq War: 8 years (2003–2011)
Afghanistan War: 19 years (2001–2021)
Yemen War: 7 years, ongoing.

Why am I telling you that? Because the sooner you accept that it may take years for you to return, the better you start to adapt to a new country.

Be kind to people that are receiving you. Here in Poland, people are doing their best, but due to the sheer volume of incoming refugees, it is difficult, and even the most dedicated volunteers are under stress.

Try to find a source of income or a job. Don’t expect to live with the same standards that you were living before, at least at the beginning.

What to Do After a War

I hope you followed the tip of keeping all your receipts and documents attesting to the ownership of your assets, right?

Once the war finishes, and you return to your country, it is time to seek compensation for everything the invaders took from you — considering that your side was the winner and repelled the invasion.

For this purpose, it will be essential that you use the documents certifying the ownership of your house, car, or anything else you lost due to the conflict.

In Poland, for example, there is even a government institute that, among other functions, assesses the war reparations that German invaders should pay for the Second World War, among other things.

Be aware that war reparations may take years, even decades to be paid, and there is a chance that it will not be you, but your kids that will receive them.

Conclusion: How to Prepare for War as a Civilian

1st Phase: How to Prepare Financially for War

Withdraw from your account a substantial amount of money. Enough to last a few months. Bank runs and cash shortages are common before wars.
If your country is directly involved, avoid keeping local currency. Swap it for the currency of a neutral country.
Convert hard-to-carry assets into mobile assets like gold, that you can easily carry or hide.

2nd Phase: What to do if war is imminent.

Prepare an emergency wallet with your documents, cash, passport, and keys.
Study the fastest possible flight and train schedules, as well as the quickest routes to the border, in the event that air travel and railways are disrupted.
If you are a foreigner, like me, contact your embassy and ask about their contingency plans for the outbreak of war.
Carry ALL documents proving ownership of vehicles, land, houses, assets, and so on. This includes fiscal receipts, notarized acts, and transfer notes.
Nominate trustworthy people in another country to be your children’s guardians, to protect them if the worst happens. Include them in your life insurance policy.

3rd Phase: What to Do During a War (as a refugee)

Modern wars are not quick, taking years or even decades during their guerrilla phase. Therefore, try to settle in and adapt from the very beginning.
Contact assistance from institutions like the Red Cross, Caritas, or UNHCR.
Be courteous to those who are receiving you. If you feel homesick, take a look at this article about how to deal with it.
Try to find a job or a source of income. Do not expect to live up to your previous living standards, at least not at first.

4th Phase: What to Do After the War

Use the documents you kept all this time to demand war reparations from the invader.

If you enjoyed this article about what to do in case of war, check this one about how to make a plan B when you live abroad. If you are an asylum seeker in Poland, read this article.

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks, of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author.

Poland

What to Do in Warsaw in One Day

An itinerary to visit Warsaw in 1 day

Warsaw is the Polish capital, but it is not the most popular tourist destination; that honor belongs to Krakow and its surroundings. However, because it has the country’s largest airport, many tourists stop there on their way to other parts of the country. A frequent question from these visitors is what to do in Warsaw in ONE day?

This is what I will respond to here, based on what I learned during my five years in this city (and from the feedback of my international guests, since I also operate a Hostel in Warsaw).

Because the majority of the recommendations below are based on my personal experience, you may be curious as to who is writing them: some random guy in his 30s who enjoys history, nice views, and a few drinks at night. This guide will be very useful if you like any of these things.

Cheap accommodation in Warsaw

I could recommend my own hostel here, but I’m not going to do so for one simple reason: my hostel is close to the airport but far from the city center.

If you are only staying in Warsaw for 24 hours and then taking a train/bus somewhere else (for this, I recommend buying tickets via Trainline), it is critical that you stay close to the main tourist attractions and the central train station.

In this link here, I already filtered the best accommodations in the most central districts of Warsaw, with breakfast included.

Yes, choose a place that includes breakfast; it will save you time because many eateries in the city center open only at 9 or 10 a.m., and at that time, we already have your first activity: starting the day with the…

Warsaw bike tour

There are many tours available in Warsaw, including a great free walking tour departing from the royal castle.

The disadvantage of a walking tour is that it is limited by the average human walking speed, so it does not cover a large area (eg: the Vistula river bank).

Since you want to make the most of your time, an idea is to opt for a bike tour with experienced guides — bike rental included, and they can even lend you a helmet if you request. No need to worry about navigation, you’ll have a guide.

During the tour, you will spend time outside visiting interesting locations such as:

The Krasinski Palace
The Presidential Palace (Palac Prezydencki, or the Polish White House)
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Royal Path (Krakowskie Przedmiescie), with its restored palaces, and historical churches.

The tour takes 3 hours, so when you finish it will be already afternoon, and time for the next stop…

The Palace of Culture & Science

If you are feeling hungry, buy a Zapiekanka at any street food stall. It will give you the energy you need for the next attraction. Or should I say attractions, since they are 2 of the most iconic places not only in Warsaw but in entire Poland.

The first is the PKiN, or, in English, the Palace of Culture and Science.

For many Varsovians, the Palace is a debatable structure. Many people see it as a historical souvenir from a difficult, painful past. There are also projects to demolish it.

The massive edifice holds approximately 3000 different rooms, including restaurants, a university, theaters, cinemas, offices, conference and performance halls, and even a swimming pool and it is a perfect example of the 1950s soviet style.

The interiors are covered with marble and mosaics, and light pours in through massive windows, all of which add to the one-of-a-kind feel of this site. The visitor is greeted with a magnificent view of Warsaw after reaching the terrace on the 30th level. Simply said, you must see it to understand it.

After spending around one hour at the Palace, head to the next attraction.

The Warsaw Uprising Museum

Attention: this Museum is one of the most popular places in the country, and the lines may be very long. If you have only 24 hours in Warsaw, it is a good idea to buy a tour package that includes guides and a skip-the-line entrance, as well as tickets to the previous attraction (the Palace of Culture and Science) and hotel pickup.

The Warsaw Uprising Museum is unique. Essentially, it transports visitors back to 1944. The multimedia display juxtaposes the growing volunteers’ resistance and daily life with the occupation’s atrocities, the complex international environment, the communist tyranny after the war, and their fate in that new scenario. Images and sounds depict the days leading up to the rising, its stages, and final collapse. Over 1000 original exhibits, 1500 pictures, and films are available.

You can watch a 5-minute 3D simulation of a fly over a devastated Warsaw.

A must-see for everyone visiting Warsaw

Polish vodka tasting

The next attraction has a lighter tone.

Poland has been producing vodka for centuries, and nowadays some of the best vodka brands in the world are Polish.

During the Vodka Xperience, you will learn about the various vodka types and pick which vodka you like. Learn how to inspect vodka by sight, smell, and taste. During the 1h30min vodka tasting, you will sample 6 different varieties of Polish vodka while learning about the background of the country’s favorite beverage from specialists in the field.

The entire experience takes place at a centrally placed facility known for hosting such tastings. Along with the drinks, you’ll get a little appetizer that Poles normally take with vodka. Prepare to have a lot of fun, incredible tales, and a good time.

After the vodka tasting session, take some time to recover, because there is still one last attraction to close your 24-hour tour.

A Pub Crawl with Premium Open Bar in Warsaw

A good pub crawl in Warsaw will immerse you in the boisterous revelry of the Polish capital’s nightlife. Visit a selection of Warsaw’s most stylish and evocative bars and pubs with a professional guide and enjoy free drinks and exclusive deals at each one. Finish your exciting night in a famous club, where you may dance and drink till the wee hours of the morning.

The #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw is one of the most traditional Pub Crawl organizers in the city, and they offer all that for a price that you will not find in most European capitals.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus in Warsaw: is it a good idea?

It is commonplace to recommend these hop-on-hop-off buses when we have a short time to spend in a large city like Warsaw. That makes sense: they save you a lot of time and take you back and forth to the most important destinations.

But I have 2 problems with hop-on-hop-off tours:

They may get stuck in traffic (and Warsaw has a lot of traffic during weekdays).
The most famous hop-on-hop-off tour operator in Warsaw has a page full of complaints on Tripadvisor — I will not expose them here, but you can check for yourself.

Warsaw Chopin airport transfer

It is perfectly possible to travel between the Warsaw Chopin Airport and the City Center by public transport and it should take around 40 minutes. But if you are traveling in a group larger than 3 people, it is might be cheaper (and certainly faster) to book in advance a transfer from the Airport to your hostel or hotel.

What to do in Warsaw in one day – Conclusion

Warsaw bike tour from 10:30 to 13:00
The Palace of Culture & Science from 13:00 to 14:30
The Warsaw Uprising Museum from 15:00 to 17:00
Polish vodka tasting from 18:00 to 19:30
A Pub Crawl with Premium Open Bar from 19:30 until…?

What do you think about these recommendations? Any other idea that was missed? Do you think you could do such an itinerary in 24 hours?

If you enjoyed this article about what to do in Warsaw in one day, check also:

4 More Insider Tips to Find Incredibly Cheap Flights

Have You Ever Been to Europe’s Culinary Jewel?

5 Things Insanely Expensive In Poland

Best Place to Visit in Europe on Each Month of the Year

3 European Cities to Travel on 25 Euros per Day!

If you liked this article, please consider supporting me and other writers by becoming a Medium member. By using this link, you will directly support me with a piece of your fee; there will be no additional cost to you. Thank you a million times if you do!

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of a page for aspiring entrepreneurs, and best-selling author.

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