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You can't see the Highlands in a day. But a small-group day tour from Glasgow can give you a taste of them, and in this episode we tell you what that taste looked like. We spent about twelve hours in a van with our friends Chris and Sheila, a guide named Keshava, and two other travellers, covering Loch Lomond, Glencoe and the Three Sisters, Fort Augustus on the Caledonian Canal near Loch Ness, a view of Ben Nevis, and a stop to hand-feed Highland coos near Perth. We share what took our breath away (Glencoe in the mist), what we'd plan differently (lunch, lunch, lunch), and why we'd rather do this part of Scotland slowly, by car, over six or seven days. If you're deciding whether a Highlands day tour is right for your trip, or how to make the most of one, this one's for you. Timestamps00:00 Welcome and where we are now (Portugal, not Scotland)00:34 Why one day isn't enough for the Highlands01:34 Why we booked a day trip: five or six days in Scotland and a just-returned rental car02:17 The tour: a 12-hour small-group van trip with guide Keshava03:08 What we wanted from the tour: the Highlands, Loch Ness, and Highland coos04:33 Loch Lomond: tea cakes, the famous song, and Lola the dog07:13 Glencoe and the Three Sisters10:39 The most photographed house in Scotland11:41 How a good guide times the day (and dodges the big buses)12:57 Fort Augustus and the Caledonian Canal15:02 The Nessie boat cruise: to cruise or not to cruise16:12 The lunch scramble and Nessie's Monster Mash17:40 What we'd do differently: pack a picnic19:52 Overtourism, and why you should tip your servers20:12 What the boat-cruise passengers found21:23 Loch Leven, the Spean Bridge memorial, and Ben Nevis24:02 The Highland coos near Perth27:17 Our verdict on the tour and on Keshava29:24 Up next: the Glasgow-to-Belfast bus and ferry, and a possible guest30:57 Sign-off and what you'd like to hear aboutImportant Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Highlands Day TripHighlands Experience Tours–the tour group we used RESOURCES & LINKS Looking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 26 August 2026 Title: Glasgow 2: Back again for more Mackintosh, Murals, and Museums Summary of EpisodeGlasgow has become one of our favorite cities in Scotland, and after spending five days there on this trip, we decided it deserved its very own episode. We love Edinburgh too, but Glasgow has a completely different feel. Edinburgh is the picture-perfect Scotland that many visitors imagine—castles, bagpipes, kilts, and the Royal Mile. Glasgow feels more like a real, lived-in city. It is creative, friendly, walkable, a little grittier in the best possible way, and full of great food, pubs, art, architecture, and interesting people. On this trip, we revisited a few favorites, including the Willow Tea Rooms, while also exploring new places. Beth went deep into the world of Charles Rennie Mackintosh with a visit to the Hunterian and the recreated Mackintosh House. Shelley took some time on her own to follow Glasgow's incredible mural trail and discovered just how much of the city you can see on foot. Of course, we also went looking for Highland coos at Pollok Country Park, found one of Glasgow's oldest pubs, ate some excellent Thai and Vietnamese food, and had a few adventures with the city's public transportation and construction. And because we were traveling with our friends Sheila and Chris, we also took them out of Glasgow for a visit to our beloved little Scottish town of Strathaven. Their reaction reminded us of something we always encourage travelers to do: make time for the smaller places. The big cities are wonderful, but sometimes the best travel memories happen when you slow down, visit a village, meet some locals, and see what everyday life is really like. Pour yourself a gin and tonic—preferably a Glasgow gin—and come along with us as we talk about five days in one of our favorite Scottish cities. Key Topics00:33 – Welcome to the Glasgow episode After a few technical difficulties—and a couple of false starts—we finally get going and explain why Glasgow deserves its own episode. 01:25 – Why we came back to Glasgow We had visited before on day trips, but this time we stayed in the city for five days and had a chance to really explore. 03:25 – Why Glasgow is our favorite Scottish city We talk about how walkable and comfortable Glasgow feels and why we keep wanting to return. 03:40 – Edinburgh vs. Glasgow Edinburgh is the beautiful, quintessential Scotland that everyone imagines. Glasgow? It feels more like a real, lived-in city—and that is exactly what we love about it. 06:00 – Gin and tonic, Glasgow style We introduce our special Glasgow gin, brought back for us by our friend Geoff, and talk about the Glasgow street artist featured on the bottle. 08:25 – Back to the Willow Tea Rooms Great tea, scones, Scottish breakfast, and plenty of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. 10:40 – The Hunterian and the Mackintosh House Beth goes looking for more Mackintosh and discovers a fascinating museum, an unexpected science collection, and the recreated home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife. The “whatever” building is the Mackintosh House at the Glasgow School of Art. 15:00 – Shelley takes on the Glasgow mural walk A little solo time turns into a walking tour of Glasgow's incredible murals, hidden alleys, tunnels, and street art. 17:50 – Our updated opinion on the hop-on, hop-off bus We loved it on our previous visit, but with all the construction around George Square, we don't think it's the best choice right now. 20:30 – Highland coos at Pollok Country Park This was an absolute must-do for Sheila—and she was determined to see some Highland coos. We talk about getting there, racing to the field, and finally seeing the famous fluffy cows. 24:10 – Hanging out at The Scotia Bar One of Glasgow's oldest pubs, good beer, dark wood, friendly locals, and some memorable conversations. 24:55 – Football weekend in Glasgow We accidentally found ourselves in town during a huge football weekend and discovered just how seriously Glasgow takes its football—and its beer. 27:10 – A Sunday roast we wouldn't repeat Not every meal can be a winner. We share our honest experience and then move on to some much better food. 30:00 – Where we ate in Glasgow Excellent Thai at Rosa's Thai, delicious Vietnamese at Four Seasons, and a surprisingly good breakfast at Black Sheep Coffee. 32:00 – A day trip from Glasgow to Strathaven We take Sheila and Chris to one of our favorite places in Scotland to meet friends, see more Highland coos, eat ice cream, visit a pub, and spend time in a real Scottish village. 34:00 – Why more village time might be better travel Our biggest travel takeaway: don't spend all your time checking off the major cities. Make time for small villages, local pubs, public transportation, and everyday life. 36:50 – What's coming next We wrap up Glasgow and preview our next Scotland episode: a very different adventure into the Highlands. 37:35 – Subscribe, share, and… maybe another gin and tonic We attempt to close out the episode while proving that two gin and tonics may not be ideal for remembering your outro. Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Glasgow, Scotland: Best things to do and see Also, Glaswegin brand gin can be found here. RESOURCES & LINKSLooking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 1 August 2026 Title: York & Corbridge, UK: Ghosts, Vikings, and the Wall That Ended Our England Leg Summary of EpisodeYork earns the title of favorite city on the trip: walkable, atmospheric, and layered with Viking, medieval, and LGBTQ+ history.  We cover the Shambles and its Harry Potter branding, the Jorvik Viking Centre's ride-through experience (built on the actual Coppergate dig), a haunted pub crawl at the Black Swan, a walk on the city walls at sunset, and the Holy Trinity Church plaque marking Anne Lister and Ann Walker's 1834 union.  We're honest about regretting skipping York Minster. From there, we head to Corbridge for one final England stop — reuniting with an old friend, visiting Corbridge Roman Town, and touring Hadrian's Wall — before the coastal drive north to Edinburgh closes out the England chapter of the trip. Key Topics[03:25] The Shambles and its Harry Potter-themed shops [06:10]  The butterbeer verdict (get it for the show, not the taste) [11:00]   Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate — Anne Lister and Ann Walker [13:00]  The Black Swan and York's haunted-pub reputation [13:30]  Walking York's city walls at sunset [15:00]  Where we ate in York (Côte York, The Fat Badger, Kalpakavadi) [16:35]  Jorvik Viking Centre: the Coppergate dig and the immersive ride experience [23:50] York Minster — the one we regret skipping [26:00] Corbridge and the Golden Lion Inn [26:30] Corbridge Roman Town and its museum [27:40] Reconnecting with an old friend for a personal tour of Hadrian's Wall [29:00]  The coastal drive north to Edinburgh Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Things to Do in York: Vikings, City Walls, and a Butter Beer we wouldn’t order again.RESOURCES & LINKSLooking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list! **Wandering Works for Us contains affiliate links and is part of Viator, Get Your Guide, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Awin,  and Amazon Services Associates Program LLC. If you make a purchase using one of the links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 25 July 2026 Title: Puddings, Manor Houses, and a Princess Bride Cameo: Our Bakewell Story Summary of EpisodeAfter the busier stretch through the Cotswolds, we slow down for a two-and-a-half-hour drive north to Bakewell — a market town we picked for two reasons: the famous puddings, and Haddon Hall, right next door. In this episode we talk through our stay at the Castle Inn, wander Bakewell's Monday market, and finally settle the Bakewell tart vs. Bakewell pudding debate (there's a clear winner).  Then we take you room by room through Haddon Hall — a nine-hundred-plus-year-old manor house still owned and lived in by the same family, and still standing largely untouched since before the Victorian era. Expect Great Hall table gouges, dry frescoes, a Princess Bride cameo, and a very good pudding-and-beer pairing. Episode HighlightsBakewell Town [01:00] Why we chose Bakewell: the puddings, and Haddon Hall being right on our route north toward Edinburgh[02:20] Staying at the Castle Inn, a Greene King Inn — rustic, a little basic, but quiet even right next to the pub[04:50] The Monday market: more flea market than food market — think tools, clothes, and plants, with a history stretching back generations[06:07] The real dessert debate: there are three versions of the Bakewell classic, and the pudding (not the iced tart) is the one to seek out. Find them at the Bakewell Pudding Parlour[07:53]  A fun moment on Instagram: a follower in the US wishing she could try one, and the shop chiming in to say they'll mail it anywhere[09:00] An evening walk through quiet streets and a proper sunset once the shops rolled up for the night[10:00] The River Wye walk: a genuine Roman bridge, and swans and geese that'll come looking for breadHaddon Hall [11:00] Nine hundred-plus years old, still home to Lord Edward Manners — whose brother, the Duke of Rutland, lives at the family's other (and better-known) property, Belvoir Castle[12:20] Why it stayed so untouched: the family moved their main residence to Belvoir before the Victorian era and largely closed Haddon Hall up, so it skipped the redecorating most stately homes went through[14:10] The Princess Bride filming locations: the main square and the balustrade where Prince Humperdinck announces the wedding[15:40] Dry frescoes in the chapel, and the very deliberate restoration approach — repairing and reinstalling original stained glass rather than replacing it**Note from Beth: Dry frescoes are done on dry plaster, and wet frescoes are done on wet plaster.[18:08] The Great Hall table, still marked with hundreds of years of knife gouges from feasting[21:50] Fireplace signatures from Princess Anne and a young Prince Charles, long before he was kingNo real gift shop — but don't skip the cream teaImportant Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Bakewell and Haddon Hall: The Quiet Peak DistrictRESOURCES & LINKSLooking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 4 July 2026 Title: The Cotswolds Road Trip: Cathedrals, Gin, and Sheep Summary of EpisodeWe pick up where the Oxford episode left off and head into the Cotswolds, basing ourselves in the tiny village of Longborough at Lime Cottage.  Along the way, we fall hard for Longborough Gin, take a day trip into Gloucester to see the cathedral (Harry Potter fans, this one's for you), and have a few white-knuckle moments learning to drive England's narrow country roads. We also spend our days wandering Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and a miniature model village straight out of The Borrowers. We wrap up with thoughts on what they'd do differently next time and a preview of what's coming: Bakewell, the Peak District, and Haddon Hall. Key Topics Why they chose Longborough as a home base, and their stay at Lime CottageLongborough Gin — discovered at the village shop, and now a mission to find in PortugalGloucester Cathedral: the whispering gallery, the cloisters used in Harry Potter, and a nearly 1,000-year historyA stop at a Gloucester shop hand-weaving wicker casketsLearning to drive on narrow English country roads (and being very glad for full coverage insurance)Bourton-on-the-Water: the "Venice of the Cotswolds," why weekends and tour buses can ruin the charm, and tips for timing your visitThe Bourton-on-the-Water Model Village — a faithful miniature recreation built from real Cotswold stoneStow-on-the-Wold: their favorite stop, including shopping at Woolovers, dinner at The Porch, and a Mother's Day Sunday roast at The StagThe "Tolkien Door" church in Stow-on-the-Wold and the Cotswolds' long history of inspiring writers like Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Lewis Carroll, and Jane AustenVillages they missed and want to go back for: the Slaughters, Bibury, Castle Combe, and the area around BathWhat's next: Bakewell, the Peak District, and Haddon Hall Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: A Cotswolds Villages Guide: Gloucester Cathedral, Stow, Burton & More I was not able to find a link for the Longborough Gin, but The Longborough Village Shop and Cafe carry it. Contact them! Click here to book the Lime Cottage in Longborough. The Stag at Stow The Porch House Gloucester Cathedral RESOURCES & LINKS Looking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 27 June 2026 Title: What we did on our trip to Oxford UK, and what we would do differently next time Summary of EpisodeOxford was the first proper stop on our England road trip with Julie and Ann — and it nearly didn't get the time it deserved. In this episode, we talk about driving into the city in 5 o'clock traffic (on the wrong side of the road, in a rental car twice the size of ours), the 30-minute Bodleian Library tour that left us wishing we'd booked the longer one, and the completely unplanned moment that turned out to be the highlight of the whole stop: stumbling into a boys' choir rehearsal inside the chapel at New College. We also get into the Ashmolean, Oxford's literary pubs, an accidental trip to Blackwell's, and everything we'd do differently if we went back. Takeaways Two weeks is the ideal maximum for a trip like ours.Driving in the UK requires patience and understanding of local road rules.Oxford's architecture and history make it a must-visit destination.Traveling with friends adds joy but also logistical challenges.Planning for local experiences and downtime enhances travel enjoyment.  Let's Talk Have you been to Oxford? What did we miss? Find us on Instagram and Threads and tell us — we'd love to know. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Experiment 01:01 Reflections on the Grand Adventure 04:00 Traveling with Friends: The Dynamics of Group Travel 05:00 Arrival in Oxford: The Journey Begins Key TopicsDriving from London to Oxford — first time behind the wheel on the "wrong" side of the road, plus a lunch stop at a pub claiming to be over 900 years oldFirst impressions of Oxford: more spread out than we expected, and very much a lived-in city rather than a museum pieceThe Bodleian Library and Divinity School tour — the Harry Potter hospital wing, the centuries-old "no books leave the library" rule, and why we'd book the longer tour next timeNew College and the moment that became the whole episode: walking into a chapel mid-rehearsal and just standing thereThe Ashmolean Museum, and our case for why you don't need to see everything to enjoy a museumPubs, Inklings, and an accidental bookshop detour at Blackwell'sWhat we'd do differently — and what we'd tell a first-timer planning their own visit Mentioned in This EpisodeWhere we stayed: Newton HouseComing up next: we head into the Cotswolds — one-lane roads, sheep, and the best gin we've had from a village store Important Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Best things to do in Oxford (1-2day guide) RESOURCES & LINKS Looking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 13 June 2026 Day Trips beyond Lisbon, Part 2: Palácio do Bucaco, Grutas da Mira de Aire, Quinta do Cerejeiras, and Buddha Eden Gardens Summary of EpisodeWe're back with another round of day trips from Lisbon — and this batch might be our favourites yet. In this episode, Shelley and Beth head into some of Portugal's most surprising corners: a fairy-tale palace lost in an ancient forest, the largest caves in the country (that almost nobody outside Portugal knows exist), and a vast sculpture garden full of Buddhas and terracotta warriors tucked between vineyards. Yes, really. If you loved our first Lisbon day trips episode, this one goes even deeper off the well-worn path. In This Episode Palácio do Buçaco (~2.5 hours from Lisbon) A neo-Manueline palace inside a UNESCO-protected forest — the kind of place that genuinely feels like it shouldn't exist. We talk about the centuries-old forest (planted by monks, over 700 tree species), the extraordinary palace interior, and the shadow of King Carlos I, who was assassinated just a year after it was completed.  We also get into the Battle of Buçaco from the Peninsular War and why the old convent on the grounds is worth seeking out. Our honest take: this one is better as an overnight or paired with Coimbra, just 30 minutes away. Grutas de Mira de Aire (~1.5 hours from Lisbon) The largest open caves in Portugal, discovered by accident in 1947 when a local farmer noticed steam rising from the ground on a cold morning. Formed during the Middle Jurassic era (yes, dinosaur times), the caves stretch 11 km but 600 metres are open to visitors.  We walk you through what the guided tour is actually like, the app you can use if your tour is in Portuguese, and that final room with the fountain show — a little kitsch, absolutely wonderful. A car is needed if you are doing it yourselves, but you can get a tour through Get Your Guide from Lisbon, and it pairs beautifully with Fátima for a full central Portugal day. Buddha Eden & Quinta das Cerejeiras (~1 hour from Lisbon, near Bombarral) This one needs to be seen to be believed. Thirty-five hectares of Buddhist statues, Easter Island heads, and terracotta warriors set among vineyards in the Óbidos wine region — created by collector Joe Berardo as a response to the Taliban's destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas. We share what the experience is actually like, why you need comfortable shoes and more time than you think, and Beth tells the story of the train. We also cover Quinta das Cerejeiras nearby — the historic home of Abel Pereira da Fonseca — and how to actually get inside (hint: you need to call ahead). Key Topics [01:10] Palácio do Buçaco–Sorry about calling Luís I, Louis. I guess we went French for a minute. Make sure you check out our episode on Braga too! [09:50] Grutas Mira de Aire underground caves Quinta do Cerejeiras and wine tasting [27:15] Buddha Eden Gardens  Mãe d’Água Restaurant    Important Links  **Wandering Works for Us contains affiliate links and is part of Viator, Get Your Guide, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Awin, and Amazon Services Associates Program LLC. If you make a purchase using one of the links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog posts for this episode: Grutas, Palácio do Bussaco, Quinta de Cerejeiras, and Buddha Eden Gardens. Want a guided day trip to Grutas de Mira de Aire? We've found a great option via GetYourGuide! Click here to see it. Head to wwforus.com for the full written guides with photos, practical details, and everything you need to plan these trips. Enjoyed this Episode?If the podcast is helping you plan your Portugal adventures, we'd love it if you'd subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a friend who's got Lisbon on their list. You can also find us on YouTube if you prefer to watch. And if you'd like to support what we do, you can buy us a gin and tonic over at Ko-fi. Until next time — keep wandering. RESOURCES & LINKS Looking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com

Wandering Works for Us PodcastDate: 2 May 2026 Title: Day Trips Beyond Lisbon: Cascais, Santa Cruz, Vimeiro, Lourinhã Summary of Episode Looking for the best day trips from Lisbon? In this episode, we explore five destinations within easy reach of the capital — from the upscale coastal town of Cascais to the dinosaur fossils of Lourinhã, a Napoleonic battlefield at Vimeiro, and one of our favourite beaches on the Silver Coast. Three years of living in Portugal and we're still finding new places to love. In part one of their day trips series, they wander through the upscale-but-welcoming coastal town of Cascais (including a stunning seafood platter at Baía de Peixe), explore the charming beach town of Santa Cruz, uncover the little-known Napoleonic battlefield at Vimeiro, geek out over dinosaur fossils in Lourinhã, and sing the praises of Areia Branca, one of their favourite beaches on the Silver Coast. Lesser-known doesn't mean less worth visiting.  Grab your car keys. Key Topics [03:10] Why Cascais deserves more than a half-day stop — and why Shelley and Beth almost missed it after three years of living in Portugal [04:35] Getting to Cascais: driving vs. the commuter train from Lisbon (both about 40 minutes) [05:40] The best bakery find in Cascais: Padaria Brunch & Specialty Coffee [06:15] Walking the Cascais waterfront — the ocean path, Boca do Inferno rock arch, and what they'd do differently next time [08:40] Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães and the gorgeous Parque Marechal Carmona (peacocks, turtles, and chickens who ignore the "do not feed" signs) [11:18] The Citadel of Cascais — repurposed as galleries, restaurants, and shops, Fortress of Our Lady of Light and the statue of King Carlos I at the marina [13:50] Lunch at Baía de Peixe: a seafood platter for two at €35 per person that was worth every euro [19:10] Santa Cruz: a beach town with great cliffs, a walkable waterfront, a Saturday market, and a small chapel worth stepping into [23:30] The accidental discovery — the river trail to Porto Novo beach that led them straight to a Virgin Mary statue on the cliffs [26:45] Vimeiro and the Battle of Vimeiro Interpretation Center: the first major Napoleonic battle in Portugal and Wellington's first significant victory   [32:30] Lourinhã's surprising dinosaur heritage — and why they recommend the Museu da Lourinhã over the Dino Park (unless you have kids) [35:30] Areia Branca: one of their favourite local beaches, with restaurant recommendations including West 23 by Chakall, Alta, and Ansom Brewery Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Check out our travel guides! WWforus.com Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKSLooking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list! Transcript: Hello everyone and welcome to our podcast wandering works for us. I'm Shelley And we're finally back again We keep taking breaks And I'm Beth. Even though we don't, you know, we take the breaks, it doesn't mean we're just sitting around doing nothing. no, we're partially taking breaks because we're so blessed busy. And part of that is because we've now been here three years. Yes. We have more friends, we have more social stuff, we've joined a couple of card groups, you know. Where? Speaker 2 (01:05.089) We are doing things. Yeah, we're grooving over here. It's big fun. But that also means that we still get out for the occasional day trip to go explore Portugal some more. And so last month we had Eli here. Hi Eli. And we did a couple of things with him. And then we've done a couple of things before he was here. And I don't know, we did one thing after. Yes! Speaker 1 (01:22.634) Bye Eli. Speaker 1 (01:36.488) him yeah so and all of them are kind of lesser known in a way maybe yeah and so we decided we should put together a podcast with all of those things yes and it's kind of part one because we're gonna have more after our next visitor Short trips here Speaker 2 (01:56.13) Probably so. Well, I don't know. She's wanting to do stuff we've already done. Well, see? You never know where we might escape to. Plus, any of you out there listening have any suggestions on places, know, lesser known places we can go? Let us know. We still haven't really explored the eastern part of Portugal very much. And we'll see. Speaker 1 (02:20.406) We have not, and summer's not the time to do it. So maybe this fall we'll pop over there. And we also have not spent nearly enough time in the Alenteju. Alan Taju or the Algarve really? We've, yeah, yeah, we need to do more. All right, we'll get on that. We'll make a list. But today we're to talk about a few places that are kind of lesser known to the day trip people out there. Although the first one we're going to talk about is actually a very popular day trip from Lesbians. It is, but we hadn't been before. Speaker 2 (02:57.567) We've been here three years and still hadn't made it out to cash cash. Which took us a long time to figure out how to pronounce. Yes, but it's such a beautiful little town. my gosh. How did we miss it? It is. Someone described it to me as the, what did they say? The, not the Hollywood Boulevard. No, it wasn't that either, but it was something like that of Portugal because it is, it's upscale in general. Rodeo Drive. Speaker 2 (03:29.774) It is very, but it's so easy to get to. And it is a simple day trip that is usually, I wonder if any of y'all could hear the roosters in the background. Can y'all hear them? Anyway, it's one that's usually paired up with like Sintra and Cabo da Roca, Rocha rather, da Rocha. And so, you know, it's kind of one of those. Rocha. Speaker 2 (03:56.63) trips that you pop in and you see the beach, maybe you walk around downtown and then you leave to go to Sentra or do something else. And we decided we were going, it was kind of almost spontaneous. We were dropping Eli off at the airport and we had talked about going back into Alfama and spending the day since we didn't get a chance to do that when he was here and just mess around since we were in Lisbon. And I was like, Ooh. Speaker 2 (04:25.336) Why don't we go somewhere we haven't been? And it was an easy 40 minute drive out to Keshkais. Now we drove because we have a car, but you can take a train, a commuter train out there, and it takes about 40 minutes still to get there. But that train apparently drops you off like two blocks from the beach. it does. Speaker 1 (04:46.198) Yeah, yeah, it comes right in. And we, I can't remember now how we found parking. Did I look it up? I think you did look it up because we wanted to go to a bakery first and have some breakfast. Oh, that's right. And so I found a garage, an underground garage, and then we just walked down from there. So we just parked and then we walked. So the whole city is walkable. I mean it took us 20 minutes to get back down to the ocean from where we were and 20 minutes to get over to the marina area. It was and then yeah. Yeah. I would say it's very walkable. Speaker 2 (05:22.688) Yes, very walkable. It's not as hilly as it is in Lisbon and it's a beautiful city. So when we got there, we of course stopped at a wonderful bakery and had some pastry. And do we even remember the name of that bakery? Yes. Speaker 1 (05:40.768) No, why don't you pause? And so the name of the bakery is... crust and it's really Padaira, brunch and specialty coffee. specialty coffee but they had such lovely pastries. were good. The coffee was amazing. It was very worth going up in there. It's kind of like up in the business district of college. A lot of apartment buildings or condo buildings were kind of thing, but it was definitely worth seeking out. Highly recommend it. Speaker 2 (06:06.85) I didn't work. Speaker 2 (06:15.34) And then from there, we walked down to the waterfront. Now, the whole waterfront area has a great place for people to walk and bike. Sidewalk, biker lane, and you're right there on the ocean where the cliffs, well, they weren't really cliffs, there were a lot of rocky places where. Yes. Speaker 1 (06:32.782) Yeah, they've done a really good job of getting you, giving you access to be on a sidewalk, if you will, or in the bike lane and still be right along the ocean all along to see it. Yeah, people were out walking and being all healthy and stuff. Walking their dogs. There were a lot of runners. saw it. We don't see runners very often. We see a lot of cyclists here. I mean where we live in the areas where we are. We see a lot of cyclists. We see a lot of surfers of course. But we don't see tons of people running for exercise like we did in the United States. But we saw many of them in Kashkais, which makes me wonder if those were people that have moved in there and aren't from there because it does have a very large immigrant or expat population. It does from what we understand. Yeah. But we we didn't make it to this particular place along that area called the Boca do Inferno. And apparently that is a beautiful rock arch that you can see. And it kind of starts, I think, I think the walk kind of starts up that way. And then it gradually goes downhill through the town, you know, to the marina out to th

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 21 March 2026 Title: Moving Abroad and Finding Home Summary of Episode In this engaging conversation, Yolanda Reshemah shares her journey of living abroad, exploring what home truly means, and the cultural nuances of integrating into a new country. Discover insights on community, identity, and thriving in a foreign land. In this engaging conversation, two experienced expats share their journey of moving from the US to Portugal, highlighting cultural differences, lifestyle changes, and practical advice for those considering a similar move. Discover insights on embracing a slower pace of life, letting go of possessions, and the emotional journey of expatriation. Key Topics [01:45]  Introduction to living abroad [03:20] Yolanda’s journey from the Caribbean to California [05:50] The Birth of Yolanda’s podcast “The Places We Call Home.” [12:30] Understanding what home means to us [18:00] Psychological impact of moving abroad [24:00] Creating a sense of belonging and community [33:05] Navigating cultural differences and integration [39:09] Thriving as an expat/immigrant, and what does that mean? [53:20] Why did we decide to move abroad [01:00:15] Advice for considering a move abroad [01:05:10] Reflections on adventure and regret [01:08;20] Closings and thank yous! Important Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Guest Links:InstagramApple PodcastsWebsite: The Places We Call Home Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKSLooking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 28 February 2026 Title: Portuguese with Anita da Silva: Overcoming Fear, Cultural Mistakes & Speaking with Confidence Summary of EpisodeIn this episode, we welcome Anita da Silva, an experienced online Portuguese teacher, to discuss the challenges of learning Portuguese as immigrants. We explore Anita's unique teaching methods that emphasize a relaxed and fun approach, the importance of building conversational skills from day one, and the cultural nuances that affect language learning.  Our conversation also touches on the differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese, the role of grammar, and the use of language learning apps. In this engaging conversation, Anita shares her insights on language learning, particularly focusing on Portuguese.  We cover cultural nuances, essential phrases for visitors, overcoming the fear of speaking, and inspiring stories from her teaching experiences. Anita also provides effective strategies for language learning, details her various courses, and explains the significance of the CIPL exam for residency in Portugal.  We also talk about favorite Portuguese expressions, emphasizing the importance of consistency in language learning. Key Topics [00:25] Intro to Anita da Silva [03:50] What makes Anita’s classes different for learners Challenges of learning Portuguese as immigrants [06:30] Anita’s unique teaching approach [07:50] Building confidence through small victories [08:45] The importance of conversational skills [09:45] Integrating culture with language learning [[12:50] Balancing grammar and speaking [15:20] Understanding variants of Portuguese [19:00] Cultural nuances [26:00] Building confidence in speaking [27:45] Journey to fluency–a success story [33:00] Anita’s language courses [35:50]Where to find Anita: Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and her website: Portuguese with Anita [36:50] Preparing for CIPL [37:15] Favorite Portuguese expressions Important Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKS Looking to plan your next trip to Portugal? We can help! Check out our guides and Itineraries at wwforus.com Free Lisbon ItineraryPacking ListEssentials for every tripRenting a car in PortugalLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 21 February 2026Title: Lisbon: Chapter 2–some other stuff to do Summary of Episode Planning a trip to Lisbon? In Part 2 of our Lisbon travel series, we’re diving deeper into the history, food, and culture that make Portugal’s capital unforgettable. In Part 1, we covered Lisbon neighborhoods and what to do if you only have two days. In this episode, we go beyond the highlights and explore iconic sites like São Jorge Castle, the Carmo Archaeological Museum, and the National Pantheon (formerly the Church of Santa Engrácia). We talk about how the 1755 earthquake shaped the city, what you’ll experience at the immersive Quake Museum, and whether these historic landmarks are worth your time. We also share our experience on a Lisbon food tour in Rossio Square, exploring markets in Alfama, and spending time at LX Factory,  plus tips for navigating Lisbon’s hills and planning your days geographically. If you’re building a Lisbon itinerary and want to move beyond the postcard spots, this episode will help you plan smarter and experience the city more deeply. 👉 Don’t forget — we offer free Lisbon itineraries on our website to help you organize your days, maximize your time, and avoid unnecessary backtracking. Whether you have 2 days in Lisbon or a full week, this episode will help you plan a meaningful, well-paced trip. Key Topics [01:30] Intro: Lisboa part 1 podcast, what’s covered, and planning your days in Lisbon easily. [04:20] São Jorge Castle [07:35] Carmo Convent and Museum [11:25] National Pantheon and Feira da Ladra in Alfama [16:40] Quake Museum (interactive earthquake museum) [22:45] Food tours in Lisbon→ Link for food tour (Oh My Cod tour), One we took which is a good mix, Food and Wine small group tour [26:20] The LX Factory   [28:45] Seasonal, other stuff: Christmas, Expo area in Oriente, Ikonik Hotel (great place to stay), Street art, Sao Bento neighborhood, rooftop bars [36:25] What’s coming up next Important Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode: What to do in Lisbon in 2 days (there is more to do in this post!) RESOURCES & LINKS Planning a trip to Lisbon or Portugal? Check out our guides and Itineraries! Lisbon Itinerary7-Day Portugal ItineraryPorto ItineraryDay Trips from LisboaEssentials for traveling

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 6 Feb 2026 Title: Alcobaça, Portugal: Monastery History, Medieval Love Stories & Wine Traditions Summary of EpisodeIn this episode of Wandering Works for Us, we explore Alcobaça, Portugal, a historic town known for its rich cultural heritage, medieval architecture, and deep ties to wine production.  Our visit begins at the Monastery of Alcobaça, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s most important Gothic monuments, founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. We share our experience walking through its vast stone halls and reflect on the legendary love story of Pedro and Inês de Castro, whose tombs rest inside the monastery. We then visit the Wine Museum of Alcobaça (Museu do Vinho de Alcobaça), the largest wine museum in Portugal, housed in a former 19th-century winery. Here, we learn how the monks of Alcobaça shaped agriculture and winemaking in the region and how wine became central to the town’s identity. Although the Ceramics Museum of Alcobaça was closed during our visit, we discuss its importance and Alcobaça’s long tradition of Portuguese ceramics, known throughout the country for their craftsmanship and everyday beauty. To end the day, we take a walk up to the castle ruins above Alcobaça, where we’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the monastery and town, one of the best photo spots in the area. This episode is perfect for travelers interested in Portuguese history, cultural travel, wine tourism, UNESCO sites, and off-the-beaten-path destinations in Portugal. Key Topics [00:30] Welcome back to us! A recap of the holidays, etc. [01:40] Intro to Alcobaça [02:10] Why we wanted to visit Alcobaça  [05:10] Alcobaça Monastery, history of the Monastery, architecture  [08:00] Parts of the Monastery and the importance of the monks [11:35] Inês and Pedro Graves → Link to our podcast of this story  [13:30] Tour of the Monastery→ private tour here! [13:45] Across the road from the monastery are restaurants and cafes to people-watch and have lunch.  [14:15] Wine Museum–a wine memorabilia museum [19:40] Wine tasting at the museum [21:30] The ceramics Museum (it was closed…) [22:35] Castle Ruins at the top of the hill   [23:55] Other cool things in Alcobaça: the river walk, shopping, fun parks [25:05] Make sure you visit the Atelier do Doce for pastries What’s up next? Lisboa part 2, Portugal day trips, England and Scotland (again)   Important Links  To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episodeMonasteries of Portugal blog postInês and Pedro Blog post   Thanks to Everyone!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKS Did you know we have a newsletter? Click here to sign up for updates, tips, and tricks!---> Wandering Works for Us Newsletter PS--booking a trip soon? Here are some resources we use. ​Get your Guide​​Viator​​Trip Advisor​​Booking.com​​VRBO​Expedia.comAiralo.com Like what you read? We have a Ko-Fi set up, so you can tip us or buy us a gin and tonic. Anything helps to keep the content coming!

If you're fascinated by the Knights Templar, Tomar is your place — and one of the most underrated day trips from Lisbon. In this episode, we explore the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, the medieval Templar Castle, the oldest synagogue in Portugal, and the charming riverside streets of one of Central Portugal's most historic cities. We also visit the dramatic Almourol Castle on its island in the Tagus River — one of those places that genuinely stops you in your tracks. Whether you're building a Central Portugal road trip or looking for the best day trips from Lisbon, this episode will make Tomar essential on your list. Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date: 13 October 2025 Title: Tomar, Portugal: City of Templars Summary of EpisodeJoin us as we wander through the enchanting medieval city of Tomar, Portugal — one of our favorite destinations in Central Portugal! Steeped in history, Tomar is best known for its fascinating connection to the Knights Templar and the magnificent Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this episode, we go beyond the famous Templar Castle and explore the many other gems that make Tomar so special — from the Tomar Synagogue and the scenic Nabão River Park to the city’s delicious local cuisine and the colorful Festa dos Tabuleiros, one of Portugal’s most unique traditional festivals. We wrap up our journey with a visit to the stunning Almourol Castle and the Contemporary Art Museum in Vila Nova da Barquinha, rounding out an unforgettable adventure through Portugal’s Templar Route. Key Topics How far is Tomar from Lisbon? Headquarters of the Templars A short history of the Templars as we know it Tomar’s Templar Castle and Convent of Christ [10:55] Nabão River Park [14:02] Le P’tit fraçais–(a little French) is the pastry shop [15:20] Synagogue and Jewish Museum [17:15] Igreja São João Baptista  [18:45] Taverna Antiqua [20:00] Insensato Café and Livraria [21:30] Festa do Tabuleiros or festival of trays–correction– it is every 4 years, not every year  [23:40] Almoural Castle [Museum in Vila Nova Barquinha What Tomar feels like  What’s up next Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! Instagram FacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog posts for this episode: Tomar, Convent of ChristGoogle Map of all places listed Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media, and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKS We love discussing our adventures on our podcast, but we also share personal travel experiences on our Substack, and we're now also on Flipboard.

Wandering Works for Us PodcastDate: 27 September 2025 Title: UK Trip Part 2: Strathaven, Glasgow, and Dunblane Summary of EpisodeIn this episode, we continue our trip in Scotland. We travel to Strathaven to stay, then to Glasgow, and take an overnight trip to Dunblane. While in Strathaven, we experienced the Balloon Festival, visited local pubs, toured a fully automated farm, and spent time with family and friends. We were also able to head down and see New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage site.  Glasgow was very cool! We rode the hop-on hop-off bus, the Kelvingrove, and the Pot Still. Dunblane was a charming surprise! We loved visiting the cathedral, the Leighton Library, the Dunblane Museum, and Doune Castle! Key Topics Part I : Staying in Strathaven, Scotland [02:20]Thanks to Margaret for housing us! [03:15] Balloon Festival of Strathhaven [06:30] Nether Lathame Farm – a fully automated farm [11:35] Party for Liz [13:15] Strathaven Balloon Festival glow-up [14:50] Great pubs: Weavers, The Strathaven, and the Drumclog Inn [17:10] New Lanark UNESCO World Heritage Site  [21:45] Part II: Glasgow [22:30] Hop on Hop off bus [24:00] Kelvingrove Museum–Mackintosh exhibit and the Dali painting [26:00] Willow Tea Room [28:00] The Pot Still [31:00] Part II: Dunblane [32:15] Dunblane is known for… [34:00] Cromlix Hotel [35:00] Dumblane Cathedral–Drummond Sisters [37:20] Leighton Library [41:30] Dunblane Museum [42:30] The Tappit Hen [43:00] Doune Castle [47:00] Bridge of Allen [50:20] What’s up next?  Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places, and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! Instagram FacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog posts for this episode: Glasgow, Strathaven, and Dunblane (all different posts). Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!!

Wandering Works for Us Podcast Date:  17 September 2025 Title: UK Trip Part 1: London and Edinburgh Summary of EpisodeThis August, we decided to try to escape the tourists in our village and went to places where there were more tourists! We’ve become so European (ha!).  We spent three lovely days in London with our niece, Katey, and seeing Buckingham Palace, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, walking around the Black Friars, and saw Sean Hayes at the Barbican Theater in his award winning role, Good Night, Oscar. We then headed north to Scotland, where we spent the rest of our time exploring new cities and villages and meeting some amazing people. Check out below what we did while we were there! Key TopicsPart 1 London:  [03:30] Dinner at Slaughtered Lamb  [04:38] Walked around Mayfair in London, ate at Popina, met a dog [06:08] Buckingham Palace State Room Visit –Beth loves to talk about the Royals [16:45] Beer drinking at Bag O’Nails   [18:15] Dishoom Indian Restaurant–loved!!! High-quality Indian food [19:35] Staying in the Black Friars [20:35]  Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Christopher Wren, The Old Bell Tavern, Winston Churchill gates in the crypt. [25:25] Good Night, Oscar at the Barbican Theater [28:45] Cross, Platform 9 ¾, train travel and bus travel. Part 2 Edinburgh–30:55 [32:00] Dinner at Makars Mash –highly recommend [33:30] Edinburgh Military Tattoo–check out our YouTube video. [42:40] Writers Museum–Highlights Scotlands best: Robert Louis Stevenson, Robert Burns, and Sir Walter Scott [44:45] Howies Restaurant For more info on Edinburgh, check out our first podcast on the city on Spotify or where ever you like to listen. Important Links To follow all of our antics and adventures, please visit our social media pages and our website at wwforus.com! You can send us a message at any of these places and feel free to email us at [email protected] Like what we are doing? Buy us a gin and tonic and help us keep going! InstagramFacebookTiktokYouTubeLooking for a tour guide in Portugal? I have a whole list!Blog post for this episode–Both blog posts are updated –3 Days in Edinburgh and First Trip to London Thanks to Everyone who has been so supportive!Special thanks to all of you who have listened, subscribed, followed us on social media and just took the time to say hello and tell us how much you enjoy our podcast and blog. YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!! RESOURCES & LINKSSpecial shout outs to AL and Leanne of A Sideways Life that has given us so much help and support for the move. To Gal and Mayaan at Smoozitive with their love and support. Please check out their podcasts on Apple Podcasts  A Sideways Life website and podcastSmoozitive website (if you are moving abroad, these women are experts and will help you out!)