This month I am taking the kids to Europe for the first time. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to look back on my past European adventures. Some will be when I was traveling before Mike and I got married, while others will be from our earliest escapades as a couple. Either way it will be exciting to hop down memory lane.
In 2003, I went to Lisbon, Portugal with my aunt. I was single, out of college and working harder than I ever thought possible. I was in need of a break.
A few weeks before Thanksgiving my aunt asked me if I wanted to go on a trip. We found a great package deal that had us exploring Lisbon a few weeks later.
Our only side trip on that week-long visit was to the nearby town of Sintra, the former summer playground of the Portuguese royal family.
The Pena Palace was a testament to all colors prim and pastel. Textures, mosaics and details only an artist could envision exploded from this monument to extravagance.
I have yet to see a palace that compares. Almost 10 years later this is still a highlight for me of that trip.
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written by Keryn Means











































October 5, 2012 at 8:55 am
What a beautiful place – Portugal is on my list of countries that I want to see soon! My sister-in-law is from the Azores and she is always telling me how beautiful Portugal is and how much I would love it – she’s probably right!
Lisa recently posted..Chicago Architectural Cruise
October 5, 2012 at 8:53 pm
Lisbon is one of my favorite cities ever, though sadly I was only there a few days and didn’t make it to Sintra. Your photos make me really regret that! The architectural detail of everything in Portugal is really unique as is the urban decay (which I find to be so beautiful!). I’m so excited for your current European adventure!
Cassie recently posted..Could This Be The Perfect Destination?
October 6, 2012 at 6:58 am
The detail is amazing!!! Thanks for linking up this week – I know you are busy traveling and it means a lot to me that you still found time!!! XOXO Safe travels!!
October 17, 2012 at 7:05 am
That looks incredible! Love the older style buildings

Lisa Wood recently posted..How David Painted Our Motorhome Roof Easily
December 23, 2012 at 9:46 am
Sintra is a special place and a place to visit when staying in Lisbon. Thanks for sharing those words.
Cheers,
JC
Sintra Portugal recently posted..Pena Palace, an enchanted place