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Although Portugal shares Iberian peninsula with Spain, geographically and culturally it has its own distinct identity. Located in the western tip of European continent, it attracts tourists from all over the world for its old fashioned charm, medieval castles, beautiful countryside and sun kissed beaches.
Historically, Portugal has been a country that has produced great explorers. Pedro Alvares Cabral, a Portuguese explorer, is credited with finding Brazil. Portuguese sailors are also believed to have been the first Europeans to discover Australia. In modern times, Portugal was ruled by military dictators. In 1974, democracy was established here.
Algarve, located in the southernmost part, is the leading beach destination of the country. Algarve's stunning coastline stretching 200 kilometers is also one of the most popular holiday spots of Europe. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on two sides, a series of low lying mountains geographically separate it from Portugal, while Guadiana River forms the picturesque natural border with Spain. Some of the Europe's most luxurious resorts are located in this area, offering facilities for a wide range of things to do including golf. It also features a vibrant nightlife. Salema and Praia da Rocha are the most popular beaches of Algarve.
Algarve is not only about fun in the sea and sun; it offers its visitors a piece of Portugal's culture and tradition through its ancient churches, castles and fishing villages such as Luz, Burgau and Salema. Beaches along the Portuguese coast offers excellent opportunities for activities such as surfing and kite surfing.
Lisbon, the biggest city of Portugal and its capital, has maintained a strong link with its history. Medieval palaces, magnificent churches and museums dot the cityscape. Castelo de Sao Jorge, located at a hill overlooking the city, Belem, a monument rich neighborhood, Ponte 25 de Abril, a duplicate of Golden Gate of San Francisco, and Alfama, the Muslim neighborhood, are places of great interest.
National Coach Museum, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Carmo Archaeological Museum and National Museum of Contemporary Art are worth visiting. However, Lisbon is not only about heritage. It is a cosmopolitan city providing exciting shopping experience and nightlife, besides being a gambling hot spot of Europe with two big casinos.
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