1. Napa Valley, California, USA

• Ideal for wine lovers, Napa offers lush vineyards, gourmet dining, and cozy boutique hotels. It’s a quick escape for West Coast travelers looking for a serene retreat.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

• With beautiful architecture, historic sites, and sunny beaches nearby, Lisbon is a perfect blend of relaxation and culture. Affordable last-minute flights from many European cities make it an ideal choice.

3. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

• For a romantic getaway, head to the Amalfi Coast. The cliffside villages, stunning beaches, and Italian cuisine make it a memorable escape with plenty of last-minute accommodations.

4. Tulum, Mexico

• Tulum’s tropical beaches, Mayan ruins, and bohemian vibe make it a great option for a quick escape, especially if you’re looking for an easy-to-reach beach destination with unique experiences.

5. Savannah, Georgia, USA

• Known for its charm, Southern hospitality, and walkable historic district, Savannah offers cozy inns, riverfront strolls, and beautiful squares. A perfect spot for a short but enriching getaway.

6. Vancouver, Canada

• For nature lovers, Vancouver offers mountains, beaches, and vibrant city life. Go hiking, kayaking, or explore the scenic city spots, all easily accessible for a last-minute trip.

7. Barcelona, Spain

• With beaches, world-renowned cuisine, and iconic architecture, Barcelona is an excellent choice for a last-minute European escape. It’s a lively city with plenty of things to explore spontaneously.

Each of these locations offers unique experiences and easy access to last-minute accommodations, making them ideal for a quick and unforgettable getaway.

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Today, to really get you in the mood for your next great European holiday, we’ll highlight some of the most captivating destinations in Portugal, from vibrant Lisbon and historic Porto to the golden beaches of the Algarve and the fairy-tale landscapes of Sintra.

Lisbon: A City of History, Art, and Modern Vibes

As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon offers a compelling mix of historical landmarks and contemporary culture. The city’s charm lies in its ability to honour its past while embracing modern creativity. One of the most iconic sights in Lisbon is the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizing Portugal’s maritime past. Nearby, you’ll find the Jerónimos Monastery, another architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur of the Manueline style. Both landmarks serve as reminders of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Exploring Lisbon further, the Alfama district’s narrow, winding streets are a portal to the past, with its medieval houses, cobblestone pathways, and traditional Fado music filling the air. By contrast, the Bairro Alto neighbourhood pulses with modern energy, offering eclectic bars, trendy shops, and a booming nightlife scene. Lisbon’s growing art scene is also making waves, with the city establishing itself as a hub for creative industries. The LX Factory and MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) are just two examples of the city’s thriving contemporary culture.

If you’re planning an extended stay to explore Lisbon and its surroundings, staying in one of the many beautiful villas in Portugal offers a relaxing home base after a day of intense sightseeing. Imagine returning to a cozy villa, soaking in the views, and preparing for the next day’s adventures.

Porto: Wine, Architecture, and a Rich Cultural Heritage

Cultural Treasures and Beach Escapes: A Holiday Guide to Portugal

Situated along the banks of the Douro River, Porto is a city steeped in history, with its impressive architecture and centuries-old wine tradition. Stroll through the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire the colourful buildings that line the riverfront. The Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, making it a must-see landmark.

For literature lovers, a visit to Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, is a treat. Its neo-Gothic architecture and ornate interior are said to have inspired famous authors, adding a magical touch to any trip.

No visit to Porto would be complete without delving into its unique local wine culture. The city is synonymous with port wine, and a tour of the wine cellars along the Douro River is a highlight for many travellers. Many of these cellars offer tastings, giving visitors the chance to sample the iconic fortified wine in the very place where it’s been perfected for centuries.

The Algarve: Golden Beaches and Seaside Escapes

For those looking to bask in the sun and enjoy crystal-clear waters, the Algarve is Portugal’s premier beach destination. This region, located in the southernmost part of the country, boasts golden sands, dramatic cliff formations, and hidden coves that attract sun-seekers and adventurers alike.

Lagos, with its stunning coastline and historic charm, is a favourite among visitors, offering both relaxation and opportunities for water sports such as surfing and kayaking. Albufeira, known for its lively nightlife and expansive beaches, is perfect for those looking for a more vibrant scene. For a more tranquil experience, head to Tavira, a town known for its whitewashed buildings and proximity to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Eco-tourism is becoming increasingly popular in the Algarve, with visitors drawn to the region’s natural reserves and commitment to sustainability. From dolphin-watching tours to guided hikes along the coastal cliffs, the Algarve provides a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Sintra: Fairy-Tale Palaces and Stunning Landscapes

A short trip from Lisbon, the town of Sintra feels like stepping into a storybook. Known for its fairy-tale palaces and lush landscapes, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a must-see for anyone visiting Portugal. The most famous attraction is the Pena Palace, perched on a hilltop and painted in vibrant hues of yellow and red. Its whimsical design combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles, making it one of the most distinctive palaces in Europe.

For those more interested in history, the Moorish Castle offers not only a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past but also panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Quinta da Regaleira estate, with its enchanting gardens, hidden tunnels, and mystical symbolism, is another must-see attraction that invites visitors to explore its secrets.

Whether you’re visiting Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon or choosing to stay longer, the town’s combination of royal heritage and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable destination.

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Christian Louboutin, the renowned fashion designer known for his signature red soles, has added a new jewel to his crown. Vermelho Melides Boutique Hotel, located in Melides, Portugal, showcases his unique vision and love for art, design, and culture. Operated by Marugal Hotel Management, the intimate 13-room hotel is set in the village of Melides, deep in Portugal’s Alentejo region, just inland of the west coast, south of Comporta and Lisbon. This peaceful part of Europe is home to vineyards, rice fields, white cobbled squares and endless views of the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon.

Christian Louboutin’s Inspiration: Discovering Melides’ Creative Community

Louboutin, who has a long-standing admiration for Portugal and the area, has spent many weeks designing his collections in the country inspired by the unique light and culture of the people. The name Vermelho, meaning red in Portuguese, is the perfect homage to his signature colour and the design is a tribute to the unique natural beauty and heritage of the region.

From the moment guests step through the historical wooden doors of Vermelho, they are transported to an intimate world of boutique luxury. The hotel welcomes the culturally inquisitive and curious guests to be bold, brave, different and stand out.

The boutique hotel reflects Louboutin’s passion for arts, crafts, and cultures from all around the world. The designer found his inspiration in Melides, a small village in southern Portugal, where he used to retreat for weeks to design his winter collections. The village’s unique light and personality, along with its flourishing creative community, made it an ideal location for Louboutin to bring Vermelho Melides Boutique Hotel to life.

Christian Louboutin’s Vision About Architecture, Art and Design at Vermelho Hotel

To bring Vermelho to life, Christian has called upon the talents of the Lusitanian architect Madalena Caiado, whom he had already worked with on his Lisbon house, as well as long-time friend Carolina Irving, who has acted as an advisor on textile creations and overall decoration. Patricia Medina, his friend from Sevilla, connects Iberian artisans with a unique and secular savoir-faire with contemporary architectural visionaries. French landscape architect, Louis Benech, regarded as one of the most remarkable landscape architects of his generation with portfolio of public and private commissions around the world, from Peru to Morocco and the United States, has designed the hotel’s gardens also sit comfortably within the wider landscape in seamless harmony – colourful but natural.

VERMELHO, MELIDES, PORTUGAL

Every aspect of Vermelho embodies Louboutin’s cultural passion, curiosity, and welcoming character. The designer also collaborated with local and international artists to create bespoke pieces that play with styles, eras, fabrics and colours. This collaboration has created an intimate, warm and welcoming ambience throughout the hotel.

Vermelho’s maximalist and eclectic style reflects Louboutin’s signature colour, red. The hotel’s hand-sculpted façade by Italian sculptor Giuseppe Ducrot and frescoes by Greek artist Konstantin Kakanias are some of the unique pieces of art that guests can admire. The Grenadian carpentry, Los Tres Juanes, has created doors that invite guests to explore every corner of the hotel, including the bespoke silver bar made by Villareal goldsmiths.

Klove Studio, an Indian design studio that redefines luxury lighting, has created a gold and green glass-blown mural chandelier that welcomes guests as they enter the hotel’s reception area. Focusing on traditional glass-blowing, Klove Studio supports local Indian artisans to create slow, artisanal and handmade designs.

The traditional Portuguese patterned ceramic tiles, known as azulejos, can be found scattered throughout the hotel. They tell the stories of the many foreign influences that make up the country’s rich history, culture and traditions. At Setúbal, the Fábrica de Azulejos de Azeitão perpetuates this tradition and uses the same techniques  that have been used in Europe for five centuries. The azulejos are hand-made from clay from Leira,  then decorated with antique designs from the decorative repertoires of various European countries,  but also Islam and China. The craftsmen make flat, hand-painted tiles with natural dyes as well as  raised tiles with different colour glazes in the 16th-century Spanish-Moorish style.

Christian Louboutin commissioned Azeitão’s craftsmen to create the hotel’s red tile floor  pigmentation as well as the azulejo panels of Vermelho’s bedrooms.

Immersing Yourself in the World of Vermelho

VERMELHO, MELIDES, PORTUGAL

The home-away-from-home experience to which guests are invited to experience will extend to the restaurant, Xtian, where the culinary treasures of Portugal can be discovered, and the Vermelho bar, where cocktails will be served in a relaxed setting. Spa treatments and massages will be available to guests to ease both body and soul.

The dishes in Xtian, the hotel’s restaurant, are prepared with ingredients from the local market and the land, reflecting the peaceful pace of life and legacy in Melides. Guests can also enjoy the calm music in the luxury wellness area, feel the Atlantic Sea breeze, and immerse themselves in the flora that inhabits the gardens.

VERMELHO, MELIDES, PORTUGAL

Vermelho Melides Boutique Hotel is more than just a hotel; it is a cultural journey that invites guests to experience the La Vie en Rouge. Vermelho Melides Boutique Hotel is not just a beautiful space, but also a place that celebrates the Portuguese tradition and know-how, while embracing Louboutin’s cultural passion.

The hotel’s vision, created by Christian Louboutin, offers a unique and unforgettable experience to all. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a cultural adventure, Vermelho Melides Boutique Hotel is the perfect destination for you.

Photo Credits: Ambroise Tezenas

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The house opens up around back with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening out to the garden and swimming pool.

The ground floor features one large open room that houses the living room, dining room, and kitchen, all next to the outdoor space.

Up the concrete stairs, the second floor contains the bedrooms and an area for the children.

A clever staircase leads to an office/library made possible by the sloped roof.

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Brazilian surfer Marcelo Luna rides a wave at Praia do Norte.

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Portugal is definitely the hot flavor for Europe travel in 2017. I recognized its sparkle all the way back in 1998.

The Algarve is no longer a hidden secret, or budget, destination in Europe, but the Azores is and it sounds just as divine.

The Azores is an archipelago composed of nine volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic 800 miles off the coast of Portugal.

Breathtaking landscapes, volcanoes, crater lakes, fishing villages, and waterfalls are waiting for you. No wonder UNESCO listed the Abores a Biosphere Reserve in 2009.

The Azores has been referred to as Europe’s answer to Hawaii. Out of this list of destinations in Europe on a budget, this is the most exciting to me.

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Supermodel Helena Christensen strips down naked for the September 2016 cover of Vogue Portugal. Photographed by An Le, the Danish beauty flaunts almost everything with a piece of fabric covering her front. Inside the fashion glossy, Helena works her magic posing in leopard prints and embellished frocks. Stylist Paulo Macedo selects a mix of ladylike pieces as well as more modern looks for the black and white spread. Nabil Harlow worked on hair with makeup by Mayia Alleaume. / Manicure by Rica Romain, Set & Props by Rachel Stickley, Production & Casting by Victoria Pavon

Photographed by An Le, the supermodel poses in black and white

Helena Christensen poses in leopard print coat with floral dress and stockings

A spotted print and menswear inspired flatforms are worn by Helena Christensen

Helena Christensen models embroidered top and leopard print skirt

Posing with a cat, Helena models an embroidered dress

Helena Christensen embraces wild prints, even with the chair

Shot in black and white, Helena Christensen wears embellished top and leather skirt look

Helena Christensen wears her hair in messy waves

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Ghent, Belgium

Lyon, France

Leipzig, Germany

Segovia, Spain

Porto, Portugal

Linz, Austria

Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Belgrade, Serbia

@ElenitsaB 

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