Explore the Serene Waterways and Sun-Kissed Shores of Portugal’s Venice on Your Next European Getaway Posted on February 28, 2024July 12, 2024 By Travelworldwide Venice is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most iconic cities, known for its beautiful historic charm and romantic canals. However, in 2024, Venice faces challenges like overtourism, environmental issues, and a new entry fee for tourists, making it less inviting. Luckily, there are other European cities with similar picturesque canals and charming streets. One such alternative is Tavira, a lesser-known seaside city in Portugal’s Algarve region, near the Spanish border. Tavira, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal” or “Venice of the Algarve,” boasts winding canals and stunning golden beaches. While Venice is unique, Tavira offers a delightful second-best option. Think of it as a rebound after a breakup with Venice. Tavira doesn’t claim to surpass Venice, but it fits the trend of finding less crowded and more affordable destinations, popular on social media platforms like TikTok. Although you won’t find romantic gondola rides or the aroma of Italian cuisine, Tavira offers excellent wine and breathtaking natural sites. The canals in Tavira are a notable feature, earning it its nickname. While traditional gondolas are rare, there are fantastic boat tours available. Ferries and tours take visitors to beautiful spots, including the Ria Formosa Nature Park, where calm canals and islands meet a stunning coastline of golden beaches. Unlike Venice, Tavira has no entry fees or reservation requirements. You can enjoy delicious food, wine, and scenery without the extra costs, as the Algarve is known for its affordability. Tavira’s golden beaches are a major attraction. Although not as famous as other Portuguese cities like Porto, Faro, and Lisbon, Tavira’s relative obscurity adds to its charm. One standout spot is Ilha de Tavira, a white sand island just a 20-minute ferry ride from the city. However, beachgoers should be aware of the “clothing optional” section. Reaching Tavira is easier than you might think. Azores Airlines recently introduced nonstop flights to Portugal from Boston and New York. Portugal’s small size means Tavira is accessible from any mainland airport. Exploring Portugal by train is also a recommended adventure. The nearest Portuguese city to Tavira is Faro, which has seen a surge in tourism. United Airlines now offers nonstop flights to Faro, making Tavira just a 40-minute journey away. Alternatively, you can reach Tavira from Seville, Spain, in under two hours by bus or car. Blog
Blog Delta Air Lines Highlights This Summer’s Top 5 International Travel Hotspots Posted on June 5, 2024July 12, 2024 Where are most travelers headed this summer? Delta Air Lines has just shared their most-searched international destinations, and it turns out that Europe is a hot spot this year. Searches have increased by 150% compared to last summer, highlighting the strong demand for travel. This also means that many international… Read More
Blog Experience Punctuality: The 5 Most Dependable Airlines in the U.S. Today Posted on May 13, 2024July 12, 2024 What are the most (and least) reliable airlines for American travelers right now? A new report from aviation analytics company Cirium reveals the details! There’s nothing worse than a delayed flight. Just a couple of weeks ago, I experienced a 4-hour flight delay that would have thrown a major wrench… Read More
Blog A Weekend in Budapest: Must-See Attractions for Your Spring Getaway Posted on April 5, 2024July 12, 2024 Last time I visited Budapest, it was summer. The weather was warm and humid, with thunderstorms looming. We took the kids to watch Hungarian folk dancing during the St Stephen’s Day festival. This time, I returned in February, with a hint of snow in the air and the promise of… Read More