In less than a week, I depart for an unusual summer trip. I'll be flying into Paris and spending a night in the coastal city of Ostend, Belgium. Then, I will spend two nights in northern France in Lille, a bustling cultural center and university town. From there, I will take a short flight to Porto, Portugal and spend three nights here. A three-hour train ride will take me to Sintra, a historically town near Lisbon. After two nights here, I will spend two nights in Lisbon, and then fly home.  

I've been intrigued with Portugal for a long time, with its medieval castles and cobblestone streets and beautifully-colored seaside towns. It's also affordable for western Europe, or, more affordable than France or Germany.  And, let's not forget about the wine (port). I'm guessing it will be busy, as tourism has increased and I'm visiting in summer. 

Here are some trip highlights: 

- Walk the Royal Galleries in Ostend.

- Walking tour in Lille.

- Eat a franceshina sandwich in Porto, as well as many pasteis de nata (egg custard tarts). 

- Visit the beautiful Sao Bento railway station. 

- Douro River cruise in Porto. 

- Tour the Pena Palace in Sintra.

- Walking tour in the Alfama District in Lisbon.

Take off is Monday, June 24. Excitement is building!  

- Jamie