Tomar’s remarkable place in World History – Portugal; Carolina Matos; Portuguese Amarican Journal

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Photo: Portuguese American Journal

At about one-hour drive north of Lisbon, the town of Tomar occupies a special place in the history of Portugal and the world. Built inside the walls of the Castle of Tomar, one of the finest examples of 12th Century military architecture, the original medieval town was established in 1159 on land granted by the first King of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, to the Order of the Knights Templar which foundation dates back to around 1118.

Source: Travel: Tomar’s remarkable place in World History – Portugal

Beyond Paris: Louvre-Lens and Pas-de-Calais; Beverly Mann; Creators

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Photo: City of Beverly Hills

Beverly Mann wandered through centuries, marveling at the masterpieces of De Vinci, Michelangelo, Delacroix, Rafael and 18th-century Islamic artists — all while viewing a country landscape revealed through massive windows. She was encased in the new Louvre-Lens Museum in the former coal-mining town of Lens, situated just a little over an hour by high-speed train from Paris.

Source: Beyond Paris: Louvre-Lens and Pas-de-Calais, by Travel Writers

Just my cup of tea: An island-hopping adventure in the very verdant Azores; Stephanie Cross; Daily Mail

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Photo: Bob Krisl

Most people would fail to plot the Portuguese archipelago on a map but they’re missing out, says Stephanie Cross after she explores islands where the landscape veers from a desolate, dusty, black moonscape to every shade of green.

Source: Just my cup of tea: An island-hopping adventure in the very verdant Azores

5 not-to-be-missed experiences in Verona, Italy; Kathy Bechtel; A Luxury Travel Blog

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Photo: A Luxury Travel Blog

Verona, located in Northeast Italy in the Veneto region, is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.  Often overlooked beside neighboring Venice, it possesses an impressive artistic heritage and many cultural diversions. It has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the importance and value of its many historical edifices. Located a short drive from Venice or Lake Garda, in the heart of the Valpolicella wine zone, it is an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience the many sides of Italy – cultural events, shopping, history, fine dining and amazing wines.

Source: 5 not-to-be-missed experiences in Verona, Italy – A Luxury Travel Blog