Page 52 - Back Roads of Iberia: Spanish Paradores & Portuguese Pousadas

Bus: Generally less expensive than both taxi and train travel, bus travel in Spain has increased
in recent years.

Trains: Spain has an extensive railway network linking all major towns and cities, and rail
travel in Spain is generally comfortable, reliable and often cheaper than many other European
countries. Trains are modern and many are high-speed

Cuisine in Portugal
Portuguese food is wholesome and rich, with many tasty dishes. Usually well-seasoned, the
food is not considered “hot.” Common ingredients include olive oil, garlic, and onions. As
anywhere else, menu prices in Portugal vary substantially, but you should be able to get an
ample, well-made meal at a reasonable cost. Please note that most restaurants in Portugal will
place on your table what appears to be complimentary appetizers, bread, olives, etc. These are
not complimentary—once you eat any item, you will be charged.

Entertainment & Recreational Activities in Portugal

Casino: One of the most famous casinos in Europe is in Estoril, about a thirty-minute taxi
ride from Lisbon (cab fare costing about twenty euros). Lisbon also supports a casino in the
Parque das Nacoes. Be sure to bring your passport with you, as it is required for entrance into
the casinos.

Getting Around in Portugal

Taxi: Portuguese taxis are a convenient but expensive method of transportation for long rides.
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colored or black with green tops. Generally, you should tip a taxi driver approximately 10% of
the fare.
Trains: Portugal’s railway system is not extensive, but it does operate between major cities.
On all train fares, passengers 65 and older will be given half-rate fares upon presentation of
passport.

Remember to purchase your ticket prior to boarding the train. Once on board, you may be
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not sold on the train.

Shopping

There may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement
to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with
the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. O.A.T. is not responsible for
purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.

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