The food is exceptional, the wine is divine, the people friendly, the scenery breathtaking – and it’s cheaper than France, Spain or Italy. Welcome to Portugal, once considered the poor cousin of western Europe but has now well and truly emerged from the global recession to make its mark and take its place in the world.

Portugal is compact – roughly 350 miles long and just 135 miles wide. But despite its diminutive size, it was the first truly global empire, a legacy depicted in the ubiquitous azulejo-tile murals showing important battles and monuments that honour famed explorers.

Portugal, with its diverse landscapes kissed by the sea and basking in the warmth of the sun, offers a unique blend of charm and hospitality. While its cities thrive as chic destinations, the coastal regions remain picturesque and inviting. A haven for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle, Portugal beckons with open arms.

From Sagres’s secret surf scene in the south to Alentejo’s underrated wine country, there’s more to Portugal than Lisbon (although, what a capital it is). With its Atlantic coast and Mediterranean climate, the country is scrappier than Spain and wilder than France – its charm is in its reluctance to be too polished, and Portugal’s prettiest places are raw, real, and natural.