January 4th, 1952, Che Guevara leaves Buenos Aires.

Our favorite flickr scenes of Buenos Aires:

photo credit: Silviapef

photo credit: total13

photo credit: Lorena Betta

photo credit: total13

photo credit: total13

photo credit: TheAlieness GiselaGiardino²³

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Myrtle Beach

America’s wavering economy along with swelling gas prices have tampered with vacationers’ travel plans throughout the summer, leaving many travelers in the lurch. As wallets continue to tighten and stress levels rise, Americans are realizing just how much they need and deserve a vacation getaway that for now seems to be tossed on the backburner.

But despite fuel costs and financial worries, there is good news on the horizon for determined vacationers! As the seasons transition, Americans don’t have to throw in the towel on travel for the rest of the year. Simply learn to travel smarter by taking extended weekend getaways during the autumn shoulder season.

There are many ways to cut costs and allow for a fabulous fall trip. Here are some insider tips that will help you de-stress and recharge, while getting the most for your travel dollar:

Structure a Budget

First and foremost, figure out what you can realistically afford for your next trip, and stick to your guns. Create budget estimates for each vacation day, from meals to attractions, and even highway tolls. By understanding how much you have available before leaving home, you’ll save yourself the headache of ATM overdraws and never-ending credit card bills once you return from your trip.

Make a Smart Destination Choice and Create a Realistic Timeframe

Choose a destination that is close enough to reach quickly and cost-efficiently, but is a world away in ambiance. Do your homework and peruse through guidebooks, travel blogs, Web sites and newspaper and magazine reviews for destinations that provide climate-friendly options in which to spend a relaxing long weekend.

Choose the Right Accommodations

Select a hotel with an in-room kitchen efficiency so you don’t have to eat every meal in restaurants (that gets expensive!), and find a nearby grocery store so you can stock up with a few provisions. You’ll be amazed at how much money eating cereal for breakfast and packing cold cuts for lunch can save you each day. If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, check out beach homes, condos, timeshares and villa rentals, which can turn out to be a much less expensive option, per person.

Now is the time to also look for deals and offerings such as free nights, complimentary parking, or special incentives (like gas cards). With fewer people traveling these days, many hotels are offering attractive deals to get visitors in the door.

Research Affordable Activities

Seek out a destination with lots of activities that are free or highly affordable. When researching things to do or see in a destination, find attractions that will stretch your dollar the farthest. Savvy travelers will also plan in advance to save money through online coupons and deals. As a bonus, you’ll reduce stress while on vacation because your itinerary is already set.

By following the above tips, you’ll surely find and enjoy a long weekend break that fits within your budget. One terrific place you might wish to consider when putting these tips to the test is the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina. Known best as an affordable, budget-friendly vacation destination with a vast variety of accommodations, meals and attractions to suit every visitor, this is a great option for the smart traveler. Here’s why:

Location and Weather
Boasting a mild climate and perpetually temperate weather, Myrtle Beach is a great destination choice year round, especially in the autumn. Its pristine coastline, affectionately called the Grand Strand, is the star attraction here. Stretching for 60 miles, travelers have access to all kinds of public beaches and oceanfront access, from state parks to picturesque waterways — the perfect oasis away from the stress of everyday life.

Quality Accommodations with Perks
With a variety of accommodations from which to choose, including many updated and spacious beachfront condos with kitchens and additional seasonal promotions, Myrtle Beach offers great deals for saving money on food and lodging costs.

A Variety of Affordable Activities
Whether it’s hitting Myrtle Beach State Park to enjoy the pristine beach for pennies or even popping a quick game of miniature golf — Myrtle Beach is the Miniature Golf Capital of the World — there are plenty of options to have fun on a budget in Myrtle Beach.

For further incentives, vacationers can get a great bang for their buck at Myrtle Beach’s acclaimed attractions. At Brookgreen Gardens, a beautiful nature oasis on the site of four former rice plantations, your entry ticket is good for an entire week. And if you visit Hard Rock Park — the world’s first 140-acre, music-themed amusement park — on the day of a big-name concert, you’ll be admitted free to that evening’s concert.

The moral of the story? If you’re itching to use some of those precious vacation days for an extended weekend this fall, choose a destination that has it all within reach. With the right combination of budget-friendly activities, great weather, and a mix of fun and relaxation, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable and much-deserved getaway.

For more information visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle1 (888-697-8531).

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Hotel Blue Fabulous Fall Super Saver

Fabulous Fall Super Saver includes oceanfront accommodations and discounted prices for bowling at Hotel Blue’s sister resort. (Bowling and entertainment center located one block away.) $38-53 per night. Sunday to Thursday. Excludes Nov. 26-29, 2008. For more information, visit www.hotelBluemb.com or call (800) 843-3466.

Springmaid Resort

Buy three nights of the Bed & Breakfast package at Springmaid Beach Resort and get the fourth night and breakfast free. Enjoy this great deal, plus Springmaid’s all ocean view rooms, six pools (two heated) , two lazy rivers, fitness center, onsite restaurants, full sized in-room refrigerators and microwaves, plus the famous Springmaid Pier.

Bed & Breakfast package includes:
- Nightly lodging (Sunday through Thursday)
- Daily hot buffet breakfast
- Free admission to Springmaid Pier
- Resort miniature golf course discounts

Rates from:
$44/person 8/31-10/2/08
$39/person 10/5-10/24/08
$34/person 10/26-11/26/08

Rates based on standard resort room, double occupancy. Limited availability. Restrictions apply. Friday/Saturday and holiday rates available — additional charges apply. For more information call (866) 764-8501 or visit http://www.springmaidbeach.com/specials.html.

Marina Inn Fall Family Fun

Five Nights of Fall Family Fun for $999. Includes accommodations in a Grande Guest room for five nights, 1/2-day boat rental on a 22-foot FunDeck Boat, four general admission tickets to Hard Rock Park or four “Ticket to Play” passes that include top rated attractions at Broadway at the Beach and full breakfast each morning in Waterscapes, the Marina Inn’s signature restaurant. No blackout dates! Valid through December 31, 2008. For more information call (877) 913-1333 or visit www.marinainnatgrandedunes.com/familyfun.

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Taking place in April 2009, the Drambuie Pursuit is a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventure race across the Scottish Highlands that retraces the legendary journey of Scotland’s Bonnie Prince Charlie, for whom the bracing spirit was created in 1745.

If the typical tourist experience bores you to tears and you can’t take yet another bus tour, adventure travel just might be for you. Among thrill-seeking travelers, Scotland is quickly becoming known as a popular, action-packed destination.

Adventure travel is typically defined as experiencing the culture and tradition of a destination in an adrenaline-pumping approach. No souvenir shops or museums here! According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, the adventure and experiential travel market is a $165 billion per year industry, and it’s growing.

Scotland is frequently an exciting travel destination because of its deep history, rugged and varied terrain and a myriad of options ranging from hiking to canyoneering. Activities are available for everyone from daring singles to families and groups of friends and include:

Hiking
Despite its relatively small size, Scotland has a wide variety of hiking options. Whether you’re in for a day hike or a week-long trek, there are trails and lodging options for all levels of interest. Scotland’s coast offers dramatic sea cliff walks in areas such as Shetland and, inland, Loch Ness. The open woodlands of Perthshire and the Isle of Skye also offer a great range of hikes.

Kayaking
Scotland is known in adventure circles as one of the best kayaking destinations on the planet. From your sea kayak, it’s not uncommon to see wildlife such as eagles, puffins, fox, otter, seals, dolphins and Minke whales intermingled with cliffs and ancient castles. Scottish outfitters can provide you with gear and a guide that will take you paddling in places like the rocky eastern coast, among the island archipelagos in the northeast and exploring the white sand beaches of the west.

White Water Rafting
Of the so-called “adrenaline sports,” white water rafting is one of the most prevalent. Using large rafts, six to eight people, with the help of an experienced guide, will travel down rivers with rushing rapids that range from tame to downright dangerous. The River Garry, the River Tay and the River Tummel are popular, challenging and exhilarating rafting destinations.

Mountain Biking
Scotland’s terrain offers exciting and bone-crushing mountain biking opportunities. In eastern Scotland, aptly called “Whisky Country,” the Cairngorms are some of the highest mountains in the country. But nothing beats the famous Scottish Highlands for spectacular sights and forested routes best experienced on a bike.

If just one experience isn’t enough and you’re really looking to find your inner warrior, the search is on for teams of modern-day rebels to take place in the ultimate challenge: the Drambuie Pursuit. Taking place in April 2009, the Drambuie Pursuit is a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventure race across the Scottish Highlands that retraces the legendary journey of Scotland’s Bonnie Prince Charlie, for whom the bracing spirit was created in 1745.

Teams of four adults will have a chance to win an all-inclusive free trip to battle against one another in speedboats and dirt buggies, scale mountains, kayak and raft through rushing rapids and bike over the punishing terrain from the Isle of Skye to Inverness. For more information on the Drambuie Pursuit, visit www.Pursuitof1745.com to register for free.

For more information on travel to Scotland, visit www.VisitScotland.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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National Parks Volcanoes

Fourth of July fireworks are already fading, but you can still enjoy a different kind of light show this summer. Throughout America’s National Park System, volcanoes are putting on a natural fireworks display, according to the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA).

Nearly 40 national parks throughout the National Park System boast a volcanic history or theme. Parks protect a wide variety of volcanic landscapes, ranging from the largest volcano in the world at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, to the smaller but equally beautiful Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Arizona.

“The National Park System preserves many of our country’s magnificent volcanoes, both active and dormant,” says Ron Tipton, NPCA senior vice president of programs. “The protection of these inspirational national parks enables our children and grandchildren to witness them in the same condition we were able to.”

National parks offer a safe and educational environment for viewing some of the most awe-inspiring natural features our country has to offer, including active volcanoes. For instance:

* California’s Lassen Peak first erupted in 1914, and continued sporadically for the next seven years. The peak is the southernmost volcano in the Cascade chain, which stretches into Canada. In 1916 the federal government officially established Lassen Volcanic National Park. Today, visitors can find numerous bubbling hydrothermal areas throughout the park, along with a rich diversity of plant and animal life. For more information go to www.npca.org/parks/lassen-volcanic-national-park.html.

*Mount Rainier in Washington is the highest peak in the Cascade Range at 14,410 feet. An active volcano, Rainier could one day threaten the surrounding Seattle region. Rainier is considered a stratovolcano, composed of many layers of hardened lava, ash and debris from explosive eruptions. Mount Rainier National Park was established in 1899. Today, the park is known for its bicycling, hiking, and climbing opportunities. For more information, go to www.npca.org/parks/mount-rainier-national-park.html.

* In Alaska, Lake Clark National Park and Preserve features two active stratovolcanoes – Iliamna and Redoubt. The last eruption of Mount Redoubt, between 1989 and 1990, was extremely devastating and costly. It significantly affected both the aviation and oil industries, as well as some individuals’ health, demonstrating just how hazardous these majestic mountains can be. Both volcanoes are thought to be close to 1 million years old. Today, the best way to view the volcanoes is by airplane. In addition, Lake Clark offers numerous hiking and boating opportunities for visitors. For more information on the park, go to www.npca.org/parks/lake-clark-national-park.html.

* Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916 to study and protect the impressive volcanic features of Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Mauna Loa is the largest volcano in the world, and Kilauea is one of the most active. Kilauea has been erupting since 1983, except for several short pauses. Hundreds of lava tubes, steam vents, sea arches, cracks and caves exist throughout the park, as well as active craters and calderas. Most are accessible by trails, which offer stunning views for park visitors. For more information on visiting the park, go to www.npca.org/parks/hawaii-volcanoes-national-park.html.

In a new assessment of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, NPCA’s Center for State of the Parks noted damage to historic park structures as a result of seismic activity. In addition, the park periodically experiences closures due to high levels of sulfur dioxide, which can be dangerous to visitors. This spring, the park was closed for a period of time. Although the park has reopened to visitors, NPCA recommends travelers first check the park’s Web site at www.nps.gov/havo or contact the National Park Service for information regarding closures.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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A Once in a Lifetime Visit with Monet, Picasso and More

This summer, there is only one place to be to see works from the likes of Renoir, Degas, Monet, van Gogh, Dali, Picasso and Matisse. Don’t book an airline ticket to Europe, this acclaimed exhibition will take place at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

“Monet to Picasso from the Cleveland Museum of Art” features works by the leading artists of the European modernist movements dating from 1864 to 1964. More than 70 paintings, drawings and sculptures by the luminaries of Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Dadaism, Cubism and Surrealism are gathered together in a single place.

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is one of only four North American venues chosen to host the marquee international touring exhibition. Art enthusiasts should plan now to attend between June 23 and September 21, 2008.

The exhibition was most recently featured in Vancouver, where over 200,000 patrons viewed these master works. Prior to that, more than a half million visitors attended shows in Tokyo, Beijing and Seoul.

“The works of art that comprise the exhibition are by some of the world’s most loved artists and together, they tell the fascinating story of the development of European modernism from the mid-nineteenth century to the mid-twentieth century,” says Gretchen Dietrich, director of public programs and curatorial affairs for the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. “We are proud to be hosting an exhibition of this caliber and confident that all those to come to see the exhibition and participate in the public programming we’ve organized to compliment it, will have a memorable and thrilling experience.”

The show features a total of 74 masterful works of art including seven works by Pablo Picasso, seven sculptures by Auguste Rodin, five works by Claude Monet and two Vincent van Gogh masterpieces.

Visitors will enjoy such recognizable pieces as Monet’s soft and expansive “Wheat Field”, Gauguin’s seductive “In the Waves” and Picasso’s dark and complex “Harlequin with Violin”.

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Located on the campus of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, engages visitors in discovering meaningful connections with the artistic expressions of the world’s cultures. The museum also serves as a teaching, learning and research resource for the University.

While the museum expects hundreds of visitors from across the United States to see the likes of Gauguin and Miro, Dietrich also recommends those unfamiliar with the area take in the sights around Salt Lake City. Any time a traveler chooses to visit during the run of the exhibition is the perfect time to take advantage of Utah’s summer and fall weather for hiking, golfing and exploring the area’s national parks.

For more information on the “Monet to Picasso from the Cleveland Museum of Art” exhibition at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, please visit www.umfa.utah.edu.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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”Vacations continue to be very important to Americans, and even a sluggish economy won’t stop people from enjoying their much-deserved time off,” says Heather Leisman, senior director of merchandising for Orbitz.com. “Hotels have been offering up great deals this summer, so there has never been a better time to plan a road trip.”

To encourage travelers to hit the road for their summer trip, the Orbitz Insiders have found fun-filled destinations within 300 miles of ten major U.S. cities. From the East Coast to the West Coast, and the South to the Midwest, the ten often-overlooked destinations featured are easily accessible by car and a good bet for the whole family.

Local Destinations within 300 Miles of American Cities

* If you live near New York City try Lake George, N.Y.
* If you live near Los Angeles try Palm Springs, Calif.
* If you live near Chicago try Milwaukee, Wis.
* If you live near Philadelphia try The Poconos, Pa.
* If you live near Boston try Newport, R.I.
* If you live near San Francisco try Monterey/Carmel, Calif.
* If you live near Dallas/Ft. Worth try Houston, Texas.
* If you live near Washington, D.C. try Williamsburg, Va.
* If you live near Atlanta try Savannah, Ga.
* If you live near Houston try Corpus Christi, Texas.

Lake George, N.Y.

Just three hours from Manhattan and located in Adirondack Park, scenic Lake George provides a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Although Lake George offers outdoor activities year-round, summer is the perfect time to bike scenic roads or remote trails, take a leisurely canoe ride, thrash through rapids or horseback ride across the picturesque fields and mountains.

Palm Springs, Calif.

West Coasters seeking a desert oasis with a modern twist know that Palm Springs is the go-to spot for world-class dining and the quiet beauty of the desert. Rich in history and blessed with glorious weather, Palm Springs boasts a vibrant downtown area featuring quaint shops, galleries, eateries and coffeehouses. For those simply looking for an indulgent escape, visit one of Palm Springs’ famous spas and prepare to be awed by the variety of services offered.

Newport, R.I.

An hour and a half from Boston, Newport is fitting for both the young and the old as it combines a lively waterfront downtown with the history and grace of the Gilded Age mansions. The local yacht club hosts free waterfront festivals and outdoor concerts throughout the summer, leaving you with plenty of funds to enjoy the great restaurants and local shops.

Williamsburg, Va.

Colonial Williamsburg is a throwback to the “days of yore” and home to the largest living history museum in the United States. Historic trade demonstrations, dramatic vignettes and interactive programs happen daily, and four historical taverns offer unique 18th century menus. Children and adults alike will be swept up by the historical surroundings, as even homes, public buildings, and shops are furnished with objects from Colonial Williamsburg’s extensive collection of English and American antiques and reproductions made by local trade people.

Savannah, Ga.

Home to charming cobblestone streets and just a few hours from Atlanta, Savannah combines Southern hospitality with modern-day luxury. A favorite way to see the city is by taking a tour to experience the rich culture and history of Savannah and its breathtaking coastline. More than 20 tour companies are available, specializing in a particular aspect of the city from its homes and gardens to its role in the Civil War to its famous ghost stories.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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But, whether high or low, every vista is outstanding.

The Moorish Castle is one of this area’s outstanding sights. Begun during the Moorish occupation, it continued to grow under the auspices of the later Portuguese monarchs. King Joao I began a large expansion effort in the late 1300s that continued well into the 1880s.

Be sure to visit the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, too, with its distinctive huge white chimneys. Inside lie many more interesting sights. The Magpie Room (Sala das Pêgas) shows just one example. The ceiling is festooned with these chatty birds, said to represent the many fawning courtiers to the royal court.

The Sala das Armas shows yet another example of Lisbon’s love of fine ceramic tile. It also displays many fine shields from the 16th century. Covered with coats-of-arms from every line, they are a lesson in history at the same time they show the high art that touched even warfare.

Sintra grew to its present position as a tourist attraction in the early-19th century, even attracting such notable visitors as Lord Byron. The area soon fell under the romantic gaze of Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, husband of Queen Maria II.

In 1840, collaborating with the Prussian architect Eschwege, he produced the Palácio Nacional da Pena. Displaying a mixture of Bavarian and Manueline architecture, the interior sports an eclectic variety of furnishings and numerous paintings, many by the royal Ferdinand himself.

But even the surroundings themselves are a delight to visitors.

Near the westernmost point of Europe, this section of Portugal enjoys warm sunshine and cool Atlantic breezes. The whole atmosphere, reflected in its people, is one of relaxation and enjoyment. They have much to enjoy.

Not far away is the casino in Cascais. Just a few minutes from it is the famed nightclub, Coconuts, where many of the locals gather to party the night away.

In addition, there is a Formula One racing track near Estoril. Here, visitors can catch one of the internationally famous races. From one section of the course one can see one of the many outstanding beaches in the area. At night, the neighborhood comes to life in the numerous bars that dot the shoreline.

When touring Lisbon, be sure to visit Sintra and take advantage of all it has to offer.

Sintra is easy to reach from Lisbon via bus or train. But for those who really want to see all the area has to offer, a rented car is the ticket.

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The city is divided into several districts each with its own set of highlights. But no matter where you go, you’ll find attractions galore.

The Gulbenkian Museum is one of the most popular, and it isn’t hard to see why. It’s filled with some of the finest art anywhere in the world. It may be less well known than the Musée D’Orsay in Paris, but it’s just as deserving of praise. Whether your taste runs to Egyptian masks or Japanese screens, or the best Rembrandt portraits, there’s something here to please.

The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (Museum of Ancient Art) is equally worth a visit. Popularly known as the MNAA, it offers a wide selection of sculpture, drawings and more from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century.

Looking for something a little more lively? Head out to one of the many delightful fado clubs. Be serenaded with a soulful tune and enjoy a fine meal. You may happen to be in the old Moorish Alfama neighborhood. Or, you might be near the 16th century Bairro Alto quarter that’s full of local artists. No matter where you are, you’ll find a club that offers this music that has come to symbolize Lisbon.

If, after that, you manage to get up on Saturday morning head down to the Fiera da Ladra. The name means Thieves Market, but you won’t get ripped off. No, indeed, you’ll find so many interesting items your only real concern will be how to haul all the stuff back home.

Once you’ve stashed the goods at the hotel, head out to one of Lisbon’s many monuments to its glorious seafaring past. This nation of ocean traveling traders boasts of heroes like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and many other well known names. Their exploits are well honored at the Discoveries Monument, in the Belem section.

While there, be sure to check out the Monastery of the Hieronymites, built in 1502. Even the religious buildings in this city echo Lisbon’s maritime culture. The cloister is festooned with carved sea monsters, coiled ropes and more.

Stroll over to the nearby Belem Tower, completed in 1515 as a fortress to guard Lisbon’s harbor. It is the site where many of those aforementioned explorers departed.

Lisbon has a fine zoo, as well, not far from the Jardim Botanico housing many prehistoric plants. In the adjoining facility is a natural history museum well worth a look, too.

Don’t leave the city without spending some time at the famous Coach Museum. Even those who might not be interested in royal transportation from the 17th century will find their opinions being tested. It offers a look into Portugal’s royal past that will impress even lovers of modern Ferraris.

Take a trip up the hill and see Saint George’s Castle. One of the oldest structures in this centuries-old city, visitors will come away with a new appreciation for Portugal’s architectural achievements.

That same skill can also be seen in the Lisbon Cathedral, one of the earliest buildings erected after King Alfonso Henriques expelled the Moors in 1147.

Get a view of what the Moors left behind by visiting Sintra, only a half-hour outside the city. An easy trip by bus, train or rented car, the Moorish Castle and the Palácio Nacional de Pena make the trip well worthwhile. While there, soak up some of the local nightlife at one of the internationally populated clubs.

Visit Lisbon and be prepared to leave disappointed – because you couldn’t stay twice as long.

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Today, visitors from all over the world marvel at the new sights and sounds of Lisbon’s Parque das Nações, the Park of Nations. Here, one can explore the Oceanarium, the Vasco da Gama Tower and Bridge, and any of the hundred other fun things to see and do on Lisbon’s shoreline.

One entrance to the area is via the famed cable-stayed bridge, one of the world’s longest: the Vasco da Gama Bridge. At nearly 17km (~10 miles), it is a marvel of engineering. Nearby are lovely gardens where travelers can rest and admire the view before heading off to some of the other sights.

Capping off this area is the Vasco da Gama Tower. Rising 175m (575 feet) into the air, travelers can have a meal in the restaurant, then proceed onto the Parque. If the idea makes you queasy, fear not. There are dozens more restaurants and cafes throughout the area.

Anyone coming here will not want to miss the Oceanarium. The largest in Europe, it houses 15,000 plants and animals encompassing 450 different species. The aquarium is divided into four sections, each holding representative species from four different coastal habitats. There are flora and fauna drawn from the Antarctic to the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

One housing, the Global Ocean tank, is 7m/23ft deep. This massive container holds several species of shark, tuna and other large aquatic creatures.

Apart from the displays, the Oceanarium offers a backstage tour lasting 45 minutes. Knowledgeable tour guides take visitors to areas behind the scenes. Here, one can see how the staff do their jobs to take care of some of the inhabitants.

While some members of the family are exploring the sea life, others might want to take advantage of some of the best shopping in Lisbon. The Vasco da Gama shopping center, named for Portugal’s heroic explorer, offers enough quality and variety to challenge even the deepest pockets.

If you have any money left, spend some time at the Lisbon Casino. There is gambling at 22 gaming tables along with shows in the 600-seat auditorium. There are additional performances at the rotating bar in the Arena Lounge.

All that activity might be a little exhausting. So, stop in for a breather at one of the Parque das Nações fine bars for a little liquid refreshment. The conversation is always lively and the views are spectacular.

You can reach the park via the convenient metro, where you’ll exit at the Oriente Station. That is a sight itself worth seeing, with a variety of murals and contemporary artwork on display.

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First begun in the 6th century by late Romans, it bears a strong stamp of the Moors who inhabited the region after the Visigoths. Conquering the site in the 8th century, the Saracens performed much of the construction on the castle.

Its final form grew during the 12th-14th centuries when it served as the royal palace of several of Portugal’s monarchs. It served as the center of government for Portugal during the period, gaining the name Saint George’s after King Juan I of Portugal took an English princess as a bride.

After the ‘new’ Royal Ribeira Palace was built by King Manuel I in the early 16th century, the castle began to decay. A 1531 earthquake hastened that process. Though much of the castle was destroyed by another earthquake in 1755, what remains is still an outstanding window into the past.

The current entrance is through a 19th century gate sporting the coat of arms of Queen Maria 11th, dated 1846. Once through it one can see a number of interesting cannons and a fine bronze statue of King Alfonso Henriques, who expelled the Moors and took over the citadel. Part of the remaining structure is the Ogival House, once part of a 17th century jail.

As with many designs of the period, the grounds housed a castle surrounded by a large defensive wall. From this high perch one can look out onto the outstanding terraces and gardens. On the northwest side there is a series of walkways that lead to the highpoint of the visit: the medieval towers.

One of the inner one’s, the Tower of Ulysses, contains a periscope and projector that displays spectacular views of the surrounding area onto the walls of the Interpretation Center inside. Even with the naked eye, though, walking along the ramparts on a hill high above this port city provides a look at the beautiful scenery that is modern Lisbon.

Renovations during the 1940s have helped restore the site to a status that allows visitors to see the grounds safely. Those who do won’t be disappointed.

Numerous ducks and geese and swans paddle lazily along the moat. Wandering among the flocks of birds who call the hilltop home, one can see much of Lisbon, both historic and modern. The peacocks provide a view of beauty close up, while the River Tagus, the 25th of Abril Bridge and other sights of Lisbon beckon below.

Saint George’s Castle is located near the Alfama district and is easy to reach by tram or taxi. Food and drink are available either at the snack stand or the restaurants outside where the tables provide a fine view.

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