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With its sunny disposition, sloping vineyards and sleepy villages, Portugal presents a treasure trove of experiences, and travellers have taken notice. In fact, Globus family of brands’ bookings for Portugal in 2023 are up 80 per cent compared to 2022.

Recognising this trend, in 2024, Globus and Avalon are helping wayfarers and wanderers dive into the warmth of Europe’s hottest destination in even more ways with new tours, a new Suite Ship and a new river cruise.

Globus:
Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Napa fans have a new destination – and holiday spot – to raise their glasses to. Portugal promises some of Europe’s most delectable views, vistas and vino, and in 2024, Globus is ready to show travellers the best of this incredible destination with a new tour:

Taste of Portugal – Seven-days from Porto to Lisbon, from $2,949 per person for 2024 departures – including a saving of $400 per couple (on bookings made by 10th November)

Tantalising tapas. Thrilling natural wonders. Timeless traditions. Portugal is calling with a wealth of experiences that will amaze and enchant. From Porto to Lisbon, travellers’ senses are filled with visions of natural wonder, wonderful wines, tempting tastes and amazing artistry on this escorted tour of Portugal. Stops include:

Porto – nestled along the Douro River, Porto pulls travellers in with its labyrinthine cobbled streets, baroque splendour and the intoxicating allure of its world-famous port wine.
Coimbra – once Portugal’s medieval capital, this city enchants visitors with its historic university, Moorish alleyways and evenings filled with soulful fado that reverberates off its ancient walls. Perched along the Rio Mondego, this vibrant city offers a captivating blend of history and youthful energy.
Lisbon – set against the backdrop of seven hills, Lisbon offers a blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism, from historic tram rides to modern art scenes.

And, for travellers wanting to add a little Atlantic island-hopping to their “wow” list for 2024, Globus is offering two new extensions in Portugal:

Taste of Portugal with Madeira – 11 days from Porto to Lisbon, from $5,249 per person for 2024 departures – including a saving of $500 per couple (on bookings made by 10th November)

Untamed beauty and cultural richness converge on this jaw-droppingly beautiful island that offers visitors everything from verdant hiking trails to centuries-old wine cellars. Known as the “Garden of the Atlantic,” this Portuguese archipelago is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its dramatic landscapes while also serving as a hidden haven for wine connoisseurs with its Madeira wine – a storied drink with a history as rich as the island itself.

Taste of Portugal with Azores – 11 days from Porto to Lisbon, from $5,249 per person for 2024 departures – including a saving of $500 per couple (on bookings made by 10th November)

Dubbed the “Hawaii of the Atlantic,” the Azores offer a medley of experiences from whale-watching and hiking volcanic craters to soaking in geothermal pools. Perfect for both the adventure traveller and the solitude seeker, this island is a multifaceted gem in the heart of the Atlantic.

Avalon Waterways:

Avalon Waterways will make its Portugal debut in 2024 with its new Suite Ship, the Avalon Alegria. Like the rest of the company’s fleet, the Alegria will feature signature, award-winning Panorama Suites on two full decks, as well as a pool on the Sky Deck. Built exclusively to sail the Douro, when the Alegria makes her debut in March 2024, she will have a total of 14 Deluxe Staterooms and 37 Panorama Suites, accommodating just 102 guests and 33 crew. Travellers looking to experience the Alegria and Portugal can enjoy:

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro – Eight-days from Porto to Porto, from $5,186 per person for 2025 departures – including a saving of $1,500 (on bookings made by 11th November)

Hillside vineyards and historic villages await guests as they sail through Portugal’s postcard-perfect views on Avalon’s all-new cruise that begins and ends in Porto and is filled with the brand’s signature excursion choices, including “Classic”, “Discovery” and “Active”.

Featuring everything from a stop in ancient Amarante – in the picturesque Minho region, known for its golden church that dates back to 1530 – to the sandstone architecture in Salamanca, Spain, to rock art and bike riding from downtown Porto to the sea, this new cruise promises countless ways to soak up Portugal’s splendour – whether that’s medieval castles, cinematic scenery and all the vinho, baked bread, olives and cheese guest’s desire.

For more information, visit www.globus.com.au or www.avalonwaterways.com.au. Travel advisors can visit www.globusfamily.com.au.