I’m turning 66 this Saturday. That’s not a big surprise to those who know me. I’m not shy about celebrating my birthday month or sharing my age with people. Many people might say I overdo it. Celebrating your day of birth for an entire month may be considered self-indulgent, selfish, and self-involved. I say that it’s a great way to reward yourself for making it through another year, reflecting on all the things you’ve accomplished, and taking stock of what you’d still like to do.
Sign from our trip through the U.S. on Route 66
I must admit that this year, I couldn’t quite decide what to do. I typically have a theme or a plan of things I want to do. This year, I felt uninspired. I’ve been having trouble moving forward with almost everything. I have plenty to do, but somehow I couldn’t seem to get motivated to start anything. This inaction let the birthday month arrive with no plans. With all that’s going on in the world, it seemed more indulgent than ever to be celebrating myself every day.
Birthday Jar
When June 1st rolled around, I was greeted by a glass jar labeled “Your Magical Mystery Birthday Month Jar!” and a stack of notes bound by a rubber band. My ever-creative wife, Diana, had filled this jar with folded handwritten notes. Each note contained an idea for what to do each day. She gave me the direction that if I didn’t like the one I picked, I could keep picking until I found the one right for that day. If I chose one that I wanted to do at a later date, I could set that aside.
This whole idea made me smile and giggle with glee. How fun to choose an adventure every day. The first day, I picked “Private Joni Mitchell Backstage Pass Day – music, videos, movies, food, and drinks all inspired by Joni – up close and personal.” What!?! As a raving Joni fan, this made me seriously happy. We turned on Apple Music and listened to non-stop Joni. We watched a few documentaries, ate oranges, drank tea with honey, and had a great time. It was simple but perfect.
The other stack of notes was filled with something each day that Diana liked about me. This was very sweet and certainly helped build up my self-esteem. Opening one each day made me feel very special and loved.
Cheeseburger at Miami, Miami in Estoril
Some of the things we’ve done are go to new parks and have a picnic, enjoy our breakfast or lunch on the veranda, take a drive to somewhere new, have afternoon tea with friends, eat cheeseburgers, eat tons of cherries, have cocktails with friends, meals with friends, try new recipes, and much more.
Many of these notes that Diana left me gave me time by myself to read, draw, paint, or do nothing. I’ve spent a lot of time walking to the beach by myself due to Diana’s ankle injury. This has forced me, without realizing it, to reflect a little deeper on my birthday month. I made a list of the things I’ll be focusing on in the upcoming year.
Be Open To New Things & New People TODAY
No more “I’ll do that next week, next month, next year.” When opportunities present themselves I’ll get my butt out there and stop making excuses. I’m going to ask more questions and get to know people better.
I often think I want to do something, and then later wish I could just stay home. I am a Cancer crab after all, safe and secure in her comfortable self-created shell. Forcing myself out of that shell inevitably ends up feeling good.
Early morning walk on the paradao
Make The Change TODAY
They say you have to do something for at least a month or more before it becomes a habit. I believe it. I made a goal to walk at least 5 miles (8 kilometers) every day last year. Most days, I still do it. The days that I miss, I don’t feel as good, and I don’t sleep as well. I know it makes a difference in my life, so I do it.
Deciding what you want to change about your life and doing it will give you a huge sense of accomplishment.
Plan That Trip and Take It TODAY
We moved to Europe in part so we could travel easily and affordably throughout this region. We’ve taken many trips already, and we see many older people struggling to navigate places they’ve waited their whole lives to see. It’s essential to make time to travel and see the world as early in your life as possible. Don’t wait!
We’ve done several trips, but there are still many places we want to see. We sat down and made a list of the places we want to go and when we can do that.
Make That Call TODAY
One thing I did during my morning walks was record short videos to send to people I hadn’t talked to in a while. At about a minute or less, I took the time to say hello, tell them I missed them, and send a short message on what’s going on with us. It was like leaving a video voicemail, and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
Sending someone a short note will make their day and help keep your connection strong.
Forgive Yourself TODAY
I think one of the reasons I couldn’t decide what to do this month was that I just felt like, at this point in my life, I should have done more, been better, loved better, created more. Growing older prompts reflection on your past, your present, and what you’ll leave behind when you’re gone. The reality is that I’ve accomplished a great deal, more than most, been a good person, have a loving wife, and we’ve made a good life together.
Sometimes we are too hard on ourselves. As Joni Mitchell said, “Nobody’s harder on me than me, how could they be, nobody’s harder on you than you.” Taking stock every now and then is a good idea. Talking to old friends who know you helps to keep you grounded and appreciated.
I want to thank all my friends who helped me celebrate my birthday month. Even if we didn’t get to see each other in real life, you sent notes, left messages, and I felt all the love. The ones I did get to see, we laughed, we gossiped, and we shared precious time together. That’s what birthday month is all about.
I strive to live the best life I can each day. Being grateful for my sixty-six years on this planet, I try to ignore the little aches and pains that make it just a bit harder to get out of bed each morning. As my Uncle Ed used to say, “Getting old isn’t for wimps,” and boy was he right.
I watch way too much women’s sports, says no one ever.
BONUS IDEA: I belong to a lot of online painting groups. One group leader came up with the idea to create a calendar with two-inch by two-inch squares for each day. Each day, you could draw or paint something, anything, so that you create something each day. I took that idea and decided I could fill each day with something that I did that day or something that happened during birthday month. It’s been a fun experiment. Completing each day doesn’t take much time. I now have a calendar full of reminders. A friend suggested that I frame it, and I just might.
We have been living in the area of Cascais, Portugal for almost four years now. It’s safe to say that we have had a lot of amazing meals here. Whether you want seafood, meat, or vegetarian, there are lots of phenomenal restaurants waiting to serve you the very best. It’s fun to visit some swanky spots from time to time as well as enjoy cuisines from other countries. Many of our favorites are local “tascas” or family-owned and operated gems serving authentic local Portuguese fare.
People coming for a visit often ask for our recommendations. So, even though we’re discovering new places all the time, we wanted to share some of the best restaurants in Cascais from our experiences so far. Here, in no particular order, are our 15 Cascais restaurants not to miss.
1. Flecha Azul
For a fantastic meal at a fantastic price on a side street just out of the touristic main drag, Flecha Azul is the place to go. This Cascais restaurant, run by brothers who know how to keep you happy, has become a favorite with those we have introduced it to as well. They offer traditional Portuguese meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Every day also has a couple of specials, which are usually outstanding examples of Portuguese classics. They have omelets, salads (their tuna salad is one of our favorites), and pasta dishes too. Try the “pressed” wine here, which is a house wine that comes from a tap, quite pleasing and inexpensive.
Porco preto and Flecha Azul in Casais Portugal
There are tables outside as well as inside the simple restaurant with a humble ambiance. Service is fun, and the brothers have a quirky sense of humor, best exemplified by when Diana asked for a small beer, and out came a beer in a tiny shot glass mug, which got a big laugh from everyone. This is one of those places you can always count on for ample portions, great food, and very reasonable prices.
2. Pizzeria Il Siciliano
There is no lack of Italian restaurants in Cascais, and Pizzeria Il Siciliano is one of our favorites. The owner is from Sicily, knows how to make a great pizza, and has the oven to do it. The service is friendly, and the menu offers all the hits. Pizzas, pastas, salads, and more. A fun way to start is with a delicious bruschetta. This is also a good place if you have a group because the food is easy to split and there is an extensive wine menu. It’s again on a side street away from the main touristic area so you will find plenty of expats and Portuguese locals dining here.
Veggie Pizza at Pizzeria Il Siciliano Cascais Portugal
You’re not cramped inside and there are a few tables out front when the weather permits. Desserts are highly regarded here too. For those who need a gluten-free option, they’ll find it available and tasty here. The restaurant is popular, so go early or make a reservation to be sure you don’t have to wait. They do a brisk takeaway/delivery business all over Cascais Portugal.
3. Hifen
For a delicious meal with a view of the water, Hifen is one of the best restaurants in Cascais. This hip restaurantoffers an eclectic range of dishes that are great for sharing. Petiscos are like Portuguese tapas and make for a fun meal with a variety of tastes. Meat, seafood, and vegetarian options come with Portuguese, Asian, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and European influences. Tuna Crudo and tabbouleh, duck tostada, shrimp tempura, and veal tataki hint at some of the unique dishes.
Salmon tataki at Hifen in Cascais Portugal
There are lots of veggie options “from the garden” as well as fun starters like chips from the world, featuring cassava, yam, and parsnip fries with a delectable dipping sauce. Add an excellent drinks menu and a beautiful view of Cascais Bay, and you’re set for a fabulous time. Weekends may have music too, but every day is busy, so be sure to make a reservation at this trendy, popular spot.
4. El Caminito
We discovered El Caminito after walking through the side street where it sits quietly just out of the Cascais touristic fray. If you’re a meat lover, then you won’t want to miss out on this Argentinian grill that specializes in meat actually from Argentina. The wine list is good and reasonable and there’s a lovely view from the top floor. Side dishes, seafood, and vegetarian choices are satisfying as well. A great option is the combo platters, different meats served on a platter togetherso you can try a few different cuts from picanha to entrecote. We went with a party of four and had more than enough meat with a few sides and starters so that we were too stuffed even to try dessert. Sangria and cocktails are available too.
El Caminito Cacais Portugal
The service is delightful and the place is energetic but quiet enough that you can hear the people you are dining with, which in some places isn’t that easy to do. Inside a house in the historic center, this Cascais restaurant is truly a hidden gem. But because the locals know all about it, make a reservation.
5. LovIt
LovIt is one of those places that you go and know you will never be disappointed. The Cascais restaurant’s outdoor dining area on the Casa da Guia grounds is large, and that’s a good thing because it always fills up. There’s dining inside, too, if the weather doesn’t cooperate. But being outside with a view of the coastline makes it so special. The menu is ridiculously good for people who want something different. The sushi here is offered in abundance, even up to a 40-piece platter.
Sometimes we just need a cheesburger. Ok, most days we need a cheesburger. Dream Burger does them right. Love their sweet potato fries and onion rings too. #cheeseburger#burgerlover
Cascais offers more than just its historic center and downtown area. Heading up the wild western coastline, you’ll encounter beautiful hotels, historical lighthouses, and gorgeous views of the rocky coast. There are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the beaches or grab a snack. But for a special dining experience with spectacular views, we love the picturesque Furnas do Guincho. White linen tablecloths and attentive service punctuate the elevated menu and fabulous views. Meat and seafood are given equally upscale treatment. Fish lovers will find it hard to resist the fresh-caught selections served with flair. Meat lovers will enjoy top-notch choices like chateaubriand and filet mignon.
Watching the sunset from the terrace while sipping a cocktail or a glass of wine is the perfect way to celebrate just being alive. Enjoy the showy presentation of a large fish baked in a salted crust or taste local seafood stew with enough for two and feel the glow from outside and within. It’s a little on the pricey side but worth the splurge. But, if you’re watching your budget, it’s the perfect spot to go for a drink, have an appetizer, and still enjoy the wonderful view.
7. Local
Local is one of those places that make eating healthy foods look and taste like something special. Their focus is on taking fresh, high-quality, and nutritional ingredients and turning them into meals that taste like a treat. We love the approach that feels fun and colorful on your plate. Vegans will find a lot to love here, but you don’t have to be vegan to get a great dish here. We had both falafel and octopus dishes for lunch and each plate was just as inviting and satisfying as the other. They offer diverse and global flavors like poke bowls and turmeric chicken with couscous.
The service is friendly and fun, too. They don’t add preservatives or refined sugars to their foods, so what you get is naturally tasty. Devoted to working with local producers using sustainable practices, Local has a few locations, including Cascais Mercado do Vila, all of which make seasonal eating of real food delicious. This is a place you can feel good about while you’re there and after you’re done because you know they’re doing their part to be custodians of our planet.
8. Bullguer
When you just want to have a good burger, Cascais has got you covered. Among plenty of options, we pick Bullguer for its honest smash burger approach and really, really good prices. Located in the heart of the downtown square, Bullguer is rather new to Portugal. The concept comes from a phenomenal success in Brazil, where it started in 2015 and now has 30 stores. Cascais is the first location in Portugal, but we’re sure there will be others. The burgers are Angus beef, fresh, never frozen. Add yummy brioche buns and crinkle fries – yes, we said crinkle! – which you can even get topped with cheese, and we’re in hamburger heaven. Various options include bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a variety of sauces. They also have hot dogs and veggie and fish burgers.
Inspired by the Shake Shack smash burger concept in the U.S., three young entrepreneurs started Bullguer, which is now selling about 3 million burgers a year. It’s not a fancy place and is surrounded by the bustling action of Cascais downtown. But if you want a satisfying burger that doesn’t disappoint, get one at Bullguer.
9. Marisco Na Praça
For the real seafood lover in you, check out Marisco Na Praça inside the Cascais Mercado da Vila. You can order some items off of the menu, but for the best fresh seafood, go to the display to look at what they have on view and order what you like. There are so many different types of shrimp, clams, and other shellfish, and for a special treat, slipper lobsters are only found right in Cascais Bay. Then you tell them how you want your catch cooked – steamed, grilled, sautéed in garlic and olive oil, whatever you want. Your wish is their command. Go back to your table and enjoy some delicious sparkling sangria, have a starter, and just kick back. Or stick around and watch the talented chefs prepare your dishes.
You can dine inside or on the patio beside the main floor of the mercado. Either way, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that will remind you why fresh seafood is so amazing. This is the place where we learned that the beef sandwich called a prego is the preferred dessert of locals. Something about the simple bread and meat combination provides a sinfully satisfying finish to a seafood meal. If you’re looking for more of a seaside view, Marisco Na Praça also has a location at the Cascais marina.
10. El Clandestino
El Clandestino is a fresh concept that combines Peruvian flavors with Asian influences and integrates some local twists. Peruvian classics like ceviche and lombo make their way onto the menu. That’s no surprise as Peruvian chef Teófilo Quiñones worked in a Michelin restaurant in Lima. He decided to unite with his family in Portugal and bring big, bold flavors to his sparkling new culinary home. The fusion-y menu includes osso buco and salmon bao, Vietnamese crepes, mushroom risotto, and dijon chicken, just to name a few of the soul-satisfying dishes. There are also some great drinks, not the least of which is the Peruvian pisco sour.
The place has a fun and funky vibe, from the very cool backlit cityscape art piece to the long bar and outdoor seating. Music adds to the lively atmosphere with a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights until the wee hours. For something unique both on the plate and in the air, we love the positive vibes and creativity flowing at this smile-making spot.
Pro Tip:
If you have a sweet tooth, stop by Sacolinha for delicious bakery treats. Try the Jesuita, Noz, or Areias, all specialties of Cascais.
While we continue exploring the best restaurants in Cascais, we know that these spots are already ones we visit regularly and recommend to friends. We’d love to hear how you like them and others you discover when visiting Cascais Portugal.
11. Moules & Gin
If you’re a fan of mussels, then you will be delighted with Moules & Gin, which, as the name says, has lots of mussels. With so many variations in substantial portions, take your mussel-loving friends with you, share a few different choices, and have a feast. Of course, it doesn’t hurt if you’re a gin lover, too. Tasty gin & tonics and creative cocktails featuring the botanical brew ensure that gin shares the spotlight with mussels in an oh-so-perfect combination. The moules or mussels are prepared in various sauces like classic French meuiniére, Thai, pesto, Mediterranean, beer, mustard, and more.
If you’re not into mussels, don’t worry. There are excellent beef options too. The crispy fries the perfect and worthy accompaniment. Enjoy a winning combination (or two) in a cozy place where the personable staff makes it easy to settle in and linger over a great meal. Be sure you bring cash or a Portuguese credit card as they don’t take anything else. Reservations are recommended too.
12. Café Galeria House Of Wonders
Vegetarians will find their pot of gold at the end of the eating rainbow that leads to Café Galeria House of Wonders. This colorful, easy, breezy spot is so inviting that non-vegetarians cluster here, too. There is a gardeny terrace out front and one with a smidge of ocean view on the roof. In between are levels of the cheeriest of Cascais restaurants, full of fresh fruits on display and quirky artwork popping up everywhere. The menu is visual, too. You don’t get it on a piece of paper. Instead, you walk inside and see a veritable cornucopia of offerings right before your eyes. The person in charge explains to you what each dish is and all of its ingredients, what sides it comes with, and helps with any alterations or recommendations you may wish. You place your order, then go back to relax in your cozy spot and wait for the magic to come to you.
It’s even more fun to hang out if you do so with some of their fresh fruit juice combinations or a unique and tasty sangria. The creative dishes range from vegetable-stuffed tarts, veggie burgers, and shakshuka to Buddha bowls, curries, wraps, and more. The bohemian vibe encourages you to slow down and relax a while. Many of the dishes can be easily made vegan, and the staff seems to be having as much fun working there as you are dining. Go when the sun is out and there’s a breeze. But be sure to get there before the crowds kick in, as they always do. When you’re done, stroll around the fun ceramics shop on the bottom side of the building and get inspired by beautiful things to take back to your kitchen.
13. Mana
Mana Cauliflower with caramelized carrots and beetroot hummus.
Their pinsa, “better than pizza,” is a Meditterean flatbread with unique toppings. We absolutely loved that flatbread. This is a place with a wide variety of dishes, including pasta, risotto, salads, burgers, and much more.
Don’t leave without checking out the dessert menu. The mousse de chocolate with raspberries vanished pretty quickly at our table.
14. Taberna Clandestina
Sometimes, you just want to be in the thick of things. The “Yellow Street,” so known for its yellow-painted pavement punctuated with colorful fish and other bright images, is a central hub for dining in Cascais. When the weather is good, you hardly notice the painted street because it is covered end to end with people happily enjoying their outdoor tables in the middle of the pedestrian-only street. One of our favorite spots in the midst of all this merriment is Taberna Clandestina. Great for either lunch or dinner, the varied menu is conducive to dining, drinking, and chatting the time away with friends.
The menu is varied, with Portuguese and Italian influences. Focaccia, bruschetta, and burrata cheese make a great place to start. They also offer a variety of salads with fresh ingredients and interesting combinations. But what has us hooked are the platters offering charcuterie, cheese, fruit, and accompaniments in a variety of combinations, great for sharing around the table. Paired with an excellent gin and tonic, some lively sangria, or local beer or wine, this makes for the perfect meal to nibble while sharing stories and ideas among friends, old and new. It does take a short but steep climb to get to the yellow street, so wear comfy shoes and take your time if you plan to walk to it. Once you arrive, treat yourself to whatever looks good, and don’t be afraid to start a conversation with other diners. This is one of the best Cascais restaurants where people love to share their good moods.
15. Baia do Peixe
When friends and family come to visit us in Cascais one place we like to share with them is Baia do Peixe. The food is always perfect, and the setting is exquisite. You dine overlooking the Cascais Bay, so the view is breathtaking. We’ve yet to take anyone here who doesn’t fall in love with the food and wants to instantly move to Cascais.
Baia do Peixe serves seafood in a Brazilian rodizio style. This means you basically can have all you can eat. The platters of seafood that come out of the kitchen are awe-inspiring. Of course, you can order a la carte, too, which is typically what we do. The seafood is fresh and abundant. They also have a good local wine selection to pair with your meal. The staff is very friendly and attentive; they make sure you have a wonderful time.
These are just a few of our favorites in our new hometown of Cascais. Many new restaurants are opening all the time. Be sure to check out our Food Travelist Instagram account for more recommendations.
This post contains affiliate links. Click here to learn exactly what that means.
A lot of planning and research goes into traveling. One of the things we don’t want you to forget about is how to travel sustainably. Just take a few extra minutes to consider how you can travel with a little less impact on our precious planet.
What Does Travel Sustainably Mean?
It means that when you travel you think of your impact on the planet and the places you’d like to visit. When you’re making your plans there are a few things that you can do to lighten the load on this world we call home.
Here are some of our favorite tips for more sustainable travel.
Take A Train Instead of A Plane
You might be surprised that taking a train uses significantly less energy than taking a plane. Train trips may take a bit longer but it will give the time to unwind, watch the scenery go by, read a book, or even take a cat nap.
Rail Europe Double Decker Train
If you simply have to fly, book a non-stop flight when you can. This will help decrease your carbon footprint.
Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transportation
Once you arrive at your destination get to know your new place by walking, biking, or taking the local transportation. You don’t always need to rent a car. Learn how the locals get around and follow suit.
Coast Rental Bikes in St. Petersburg Florida
Our favorite thing to do in a new destination is to walk around and go down the smaller streets, checking out small shops and restaurants. We wandered off the main streets during our last visit to Paris and found some beautiful uncrowded parks and restaurants. It was lovely.
Bring Reusable/Refillable Containers
We always travel with our water bottles (it’s safe to drink the water throughout Europe and most countries, but check to be sure) and refill them often. A lot of people seem to like to carry around huge water bottles. I’m a fan of lightweight ones, especially for travel. This water bottle from GSI is microlight and keeps water or any beverage cold or hot for hours. I’ve had mine for years. It’s been everywhere and still is like new.
GSI Microlight Water Bottle
Pro Tip: Take the bar of soap, unused shampoo and toiletries with you when you check out. You can use them on the rest of your trip or at home. They will be thrown out so why not use them!
Bring along reusable shopping bags for your shopping days. They also are great to have in case you need a little more room to bring your lunch along or extra goodies back with you from your travels. We always carry our foldable shopping bags. They fit easily in a pocket, purse, or backpack and many come with a handy little pouch to keep them nice and neat.
If you have cosmetics or toiletries you use regularly, get refillable travel-size bottles and keep them in your travel bag.
Consume Water Responsibly
Be sure to find out the current situation on water wherever you visit. Here in Portugal, many areas are often in a drought status. You don’t want to add to the problem, so take shorter showers and turn off the water while brushing your teeth. Hang up and reuse your towels (do you use clean towels at home daily?).
Support Local Businesses
Buying from local shops and local producers reduces the energy spent bringing items to the destination. Shopping at the local market and trying out food grown and raised nearby is also a great way to get to know what’s available and different while you visit.
Be sure to ask restaurants about their local specialties what local ingredients they are using and if they are sustainably sourced.
As you know, we’re focused on helping you discover the joy of “Deliciously Mindful Travel.” Supporting the local economy, experiencing the flavors of the community, and getting to know the residents are wonderful ways to start.
Here are a few resources to help:
Dine Green – their mission “shift the restaurant industry toward ecological sustainability.”
The Sustainable Restaurant Association – has a “vision of creating a clear intersection between the sustainable food movement and the hospitality industry.”
EatWith.com dine with locals! Have a culinary experience in the home of a local, take a food tour, or enjoy a cooking class.
Stay Longer
Traveling from destination to destination in an effort to see as much as you can is tiring and also takes more energy. There is no better thing you can do than spend more time in one destination. Take a deep dive into what makes each place unique and special. Go to a local concert or a play and root out the unexpected and unmarketed local restaurants that locals cherish. Take your time, slow down, and truly get to know the place.
Choose A Destination That Cherishes Travel Sustainability
When you begin your planning, look for places to value sustainability for its residents as well as its visitors. There are many websites and much research has been done around sustainability around the world.
Many destinations now talk about their sustainability programs on their tourism websites. Be sure to look for that as you plan.
Many, many articles have been written about cities and countries that are the “most” sustainable. Honestly, it’s a monumental task to try to root out the most accurate information. This guide from Green.org is a pretty good place to start.
Stay in a Sustainable Hotel
Many hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts now focus on being more sustainable. You’ll need to do a little homework but we think it’s worth the effort.
Here are a few resources to help you choose:
Booking.com has a sustainability certification filter that allows you to choose property options that are certified as sustainable.
EcoHotels.com finds eco-certified hotels on this platform that plant one tree for every booking. More benefits if you create a profile and become a member.
Green Key Portugal – if you’re traveling to Portugal be sure to check out this guide. It includes hotels, rentals, restaurants, and more that are sustainable tourism in Portugal.
TripAdvisor – Save on top-rated hotels on Tripadvisor. Find the GreenLeaders by looking for the green leaf on the properties listing page to see what green practices they have in place.
Visit During Off-Season or Shoulder Season
If you’re visiting a spot that is very popular and suffers from over-tourism try planning your trip in the off-season or shoulder season before or after the peak season. You’ll enjoy your visit with fewer visitors and see it in other seasons that will be just as lovely.
Granted many destinations don’t have much of a break any longer, but you can typically find a time of year when they are less visited. Portugal for example is not as busy in the winter months. You do risk experiencing the rainy season but you also get to enjoy the cooler weather and fewer crowds.
We visited Yellowstone National Park in the winter. It was unbelievably peaceful and being among only a few visitors made it even more special.
Visit Lesser Known Destinations
The next time you have the urge to visit a popular destination take a look at a map and look for other places nearby. Paris is lovely but typically jammed with tourists especially this year with the Olympics. Check out Toulouse, Montpellier or Reims. Each has its own distinct features and attractions. They are undeniably French with exquisite food and local charm worth exploring.
Pack Light
Most of us overpack. Consider using a packing list to keep yourself from throwing in one more thing you most likely won’t need. Keep to a simple color palate so that you can easily mix and match your outfits. One nice-looking scarf can help perk up an outfit or help keep you warm on a chilly night.
Lightening your load makes it easier on you and on the planet. Using packing cubes is another way to organize and reduce your packing. The latest compression packing cubes let you pack just a little more, too.
Buy Only What You Need
Take it from someone who has downsized two homes. Carefully consider what you need to purchase when traveling. Sometimes we all get caught up in the moment and find ourselves buying something as a keepsake or buying that souvenir that ends up in a drawer.
If you want to buy a memento, get something special like a piece of artwork that will always bring back a happy memory or a special taste of a place you can’t get at home. I used to collect unique travel magnets but after realizing I had a 20-pound box of them I knew it was time to stop. I gave them to my niece and nephew along with a globe. My hope is that they learn a little bit about geography from them.
Now when I go to buy anything I always ask myself, “Do I need this?” The answer is typically, no.
We hope that when you start to make any travel plans you consider the impact that your trip and you have on the world. Making a few slightly different choices to travel sustainably can make a big difference. Happy travels!
