Book Review: One Year in the World (Portugal chapter)

The second chapter of Frances Mayer's of 'Under the Tuscan Sun' fame 'A Year in the World' is dedicated exclusively to Portugal. Given Portugal's size (slightly smaller than Indiana), it is no wonder the author is rushing through this country a lot faster than through Andalucia (maybe a bit too rushed for my taste).

Nonetheless, I believe it to be a very good depiction of Portugal. And I think I am a rather objective observer, since the closest I ever got to Portugal was by visiting the Western Spanish province of Extremadura, without a doubt the sister region of Portugal's very own Estremadura.

In her quest for the meaning of saudade, fado (traditional Portuguese music), and açordas (bread soup), Frances Mayer starts in Lisbon, then goes on to marble city of Estremoz in the province of Alentejo, Evoramonte, Évora, Obidos, Coimbra, Guimaraes, and Lord Byron's very own adopted city of Sintra on Costa do Sol.

When it comes to lodging in Portugal, I agree with Frances Mayer: she loves pousadas (the equivalent of Spain's paradores - historical/rustic accommodation) . They are truly the best places to stay if you are willing to take the Portuguese plunge.

Also, it seems that France Mayer is a big fan of self-drive itineraries, which is probably the best way to experience a country, provided you have the time. Just remember most cars in Europe have standard transmission, are smaller (which is probably a bliss), and some European roads are particularly narrow.

So, if you are ready to see what Portugal, the country that brought to you Vasco da Gama, Brazil, Capo Verde, and port wine is all about, go ahead.