The Caribbean Sea is a large body of water that lies between the North Atlantic Ocean and South America. It is defined as a balmy and beautiful body of water, with an array of emerging nations, a thriving tourism industry, and abundant natural resources. The Caribbean Sea serves as a playground to sun-seekers, discerning connoisseurs, and marine enthusiasts alike, boasting a multitude of small islands, recreational activities, and culture, making it a truly exceptional experience. Despite its alluring reputation, the Caribbean is more than just a vacation destination; it is home to some of the world’s most intriguing and far-reaching nations, including the Bahamas, Cuba, Grenada, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago, among others.
But there is also a nation perched to the east of the Caribbean Sea—a nation that does not border the Caribbean. That nation is Portugal.
Located in southwestern Europe, Portugal, a small but mighty country, is renowned for its vibrant and passionate culture, rolling hills, and turquoise waters. With an approximately population of 10.3 million people, it is the 62nd most populous nation in the world, making up just 0.13 percent of the global population.
Portugal is divided into five distinct regions, each with its own unique geography and vibrancy. In fact, the country is so culturally and geographically diverse that it’s easy to forget that it is not situated on the Caribbean Sea. It cannot be overlooked, however, that this special nation, with its unique landscapes, history, and culture, remains a fascinating and wonderful place to visit.
But why Portugal? What makes it stand out from the rest of the nations in the region?
To begin with, despite not being located on the Caribbean Sea, Portugal is still impacted by the warm waters and balmy climate of the ocean’s seasonal winds and temperatures. In addition to this, Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is a bustling, multicultural city with a spectacular coastline and an array of tourist attractions. There are also other renowned Portuguese cities such as Porto and Coimbra, both of which have a fascinating heritage and culture to explore.
Also, Portugal is known for its strong culinary traditions and foods. Since the nation’s culture is heavily influenced by its colonization and exploration, many of their dishes are either inspired from international influences or traditional Portuguese recipes. You’ll find everything from seafood and Portuguese wines to desserts and gourmet cuisine, all of which can be enjoyed in the various restaurants, cafes, and bistros across the country.
And finally, Portugal is also a country of vast landscapes. It offers beautiful landscapes, forested mountains, picturesque villages, and a plethora of breathtaking vistas and rich vegetation. From the Algarve coast to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal is a country worth exploring and discovering.
Economy
Portugal is a prime destination for investments, with a competitive business climate and a booming economy. It has the 17th largest economy in the European Union and is one of the most open and competitive economies in the world. Its low corporate tax rates make it an attractive market for foreign investors. The Portuguese economy is largely service-based, featuring heavy industry and manufacturing, as well as software, technology, and pharmaceuticals.
The nation’s GDP per capita is $23,838.90, making it the 32nd wealthiest nation in the world according to data from the International Monetary Fund. The finance and business sector are the two main drivers of the economy, alongside tourism and export, which generate a considerable amount of the nation’s revenue. Other rising sectors include energy, automotive, and renewable energy.
Moreover, due to the country’s strong social welfare system, Portugal has a secure pension system, unemployment benefits, and healthcare plans to help its citizens thrive.
Culture
Portugal is a country rich in cultural heritage, with its traditional cuisine, literature, music, and architecture some of its most popular attractions. The nation is home to world-renowned authors, musicians, artists, and designers, making it a veritable melting pot of creative activity and expression.
Portugal’s art and culture is largely inspired by its long history. Many of its cultural icons, such as Fado, the traditional music of Portugal, for instance, were born from its past occupations and discoveries. It has been a major center for literature and literature genres since the 16th century, and many of its greatest authors, such as José Saramago and Fernando Pessoa, have achieved international recognition.
The nation is also known for its colorful and vibrant festivals, such as the popular Carnival in Porto and Lisbon. Moreover, Portugal has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, making it an ideal destination for vacationers and thrill seekers.
Politics
Portugal’s government is a representative democracy and is divided into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. The country is a member of the European Union, but is not subject to the quota system imposed on other EU member countries. The current president is Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and the prime minister is Antonio Costa.
Portugal has had a long history of political stability since it transitioned to democracy in 1974 after a period of dictatorship. Additionally, Portugal was the first country in the world to officially recognize gay marriage and the first to pass transgender rights legislation.
The country is also known for its low crime rates, with the most common crimes being petty theft and pickpocketing in tourist areas. As such, Portugal boasts an extremely safe environment and culture of tolerance, making it a safe and desirable nation to live in and visit.
Geography
Portugal is a small, coastal nation located in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Spain to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. It has a total area of 92,212 square kilometers and a coastline of 1,793 kilometers.
The mainland of Portugal is dominated by mountainous terrain, featuring the Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in the nation. The country is known for its breathtakingly beautiful coastline, with its jagged cliffs, pristine beaches, and captivating islands. It is also home to five national parks and numerous nature preserves, making it a great destination for outdoors lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The two largest cities in Portugal are its capital, Lisbon, and Porto, both of which are cosmopolitan centers of culture and art. Separated from the mainland, the archipelago of the Azores and the Madeira Islands are part of the Portuguese territory, offering visitors some of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Tourism
Portugal has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, growing in popularity every year. Its stunning coastal areas, vibrant cities, and remarkable cultural attractions make it a must-see destination. In fact, the number of international visitors increased by 19 percent in 2020, with a record high of 16.8 million visitors in total.
The nation has an array of stunning beaches and resorts to choose from, such as the Quinta da Ria Resort & Spa, Praia da Luz, and the Martinhal Beach Resorts. Lisbon is also a popular destination for many, with its unique architecture and lively nightlife. And if you’re looking for something a little more rural, villages such as Sintra and Évora provide visitors with a glimpse into the heart of this remarkable country.
Whether you’re visiting Portugal for its natural landscapes or cultural attractions, the nation is sure to never disappoint.
