What’s up with Portugal? Like, all my friends are going there.

Congratulations, you have very hip friends. Portugal is a great place to visit if you like warm weather and fresh seafood. (The country is famous for its sardines!) Portugal is also pretty affordable, especially right now while the dollar is strong against the euro.

Why is it peaking now?

The truth is a little bleak. It was only a few years ago that the European financial crisis threatened to bankrupt Portugal. But post-EU bailout, the country has become newly revitalized. A combination of new local businesses and a burgeoning arts scene has made Portugal more vibrant than ever.

So I… should go?

Yes! Especially if you want to lounge on some truly stunning beaches. Portugal offers the scenic beauty and culinary delights of southern Europe at a good price.

Is there any reason not to?

Maybe the idea of doing a lot of walking uphill on cobblestones is not your ideal vacation. (It’s a good workout though!) Or maybe you’re someone who’s just not into seafood. Or you have a rare disease that makes you go into a blind rage every time you see a Cristiano Ronaldo jersey.

Okay, I’m convinced. Where should I go in Portugal?

The capital of Lisbon is an obvious go-to. It’s compact, meaning you can basically get everywhere on foot, whether you’re taking in the cultural activities like the National Tile Museum or stumbling out of the clubs on the Bairro Alto. Lisbon is an extraordinary city to wander. Every corner reveals a gorgeous church with a baroque facade or a bakery with delicately-made sweets.

I’d also highly recommend hitting the southern coast. From Lisbon, it’s a short flight to Faro, where you can experience the country’s best beaches. About an hour drive west takes you to the town of Lagos where the beaches are tucked into rugged coves with magnificent rock formations. For just a handful of euros, you can rent a covered lounge chair and chill all day.

Also, an easy train ride north will take you to Porto, where you can admire the rich Douro Valley and sample of city’s famous namesake dessert wine. If you’re looking to relax, you might end up enjoying Porto more than Lisbon—especially if you sneak into the pool at the Yeatman Hotel.

Any advice on accomodations?

The hotels are great, but entire-home Airbnbs are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Find one with a terrace and drink wine while gazing upon the city. In Lisbon, I had no trouble finding one that was centrally located in Rossio for less than a hundred bucks a night.