Porto named Best Under-the-Radar Romantic Destination
Porto, Portugal, known for its wine, medieval architecture and old world charm, won the category of "Best Under-the-Radar Romantic Destination", ie outside of mass tourism, with the charm of the cellars, wine and traditions, among other factors.
In laudatory description, it is stated that the city has numerous beauties, "medieval jewels on a rocky gorge carved out by the Rio Douro."
It is also noted that the Porto "combines old world charm with contemporary comforts." The hospitality, the monuments, the quality of hospitality and landscapes elements are also highlighted by USA Today.
Porto took home the title of "Best Under-the-Radar Romantic Destination" by a landslide. The top 10 winners in the category are as follows:
1 - Porto, Portugal
2 - Mackinac Island, Mich.
3 - Rothenburg ob der Tauber
4 - Lugano, Switzerland
5 - Reykjanes, Iceland
6 - Annapolis, Md.
7 - Lucca, Italy
8 - Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
9 - Budapest, Hungary
10 - Cartagena, Colombia
A panel of experts picked the initial 20 nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Experts Ivy Jacobson (TheKnot.com), Susan Moynihan (The Honeymoonist), Betsy and Warren Talbot (Married with Luggage), Michelle da Silva Richmond (10Best Travel Expert) and Lydia Schrandt (10Best Editor) were chosen based on their extensive knowledge of romance travel.
in http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-under-the-radar-romantic-destination/
"Porto, Portugal
Known not only for the wine produced here, Porto also gave the country its name, derived from its history as the Roman settlement of Portus Cale. Sprinkled like medieval jewels on a rocky gorge carved out by the Rio Douro, Portugal's second largest city combines the best of Old World charm with modern-day comforts. Designated a World Heritage City in 1996, the 2,000 year old city offers a host of sightseeing options - best seen on foot as most of the monuments are located in the hilly city center. History buffs are sure to enjoy a tour of the Baroque churches, museums and a walk through the ancient Ribeira district, where laundry is still washed in the river and hung there to dry. Wine tours are offered at several wine distilleries. Porto's sleeping scene offers a wide selection, from venerable city center hotels, boutique gems and a 5-star resort with a unique wine theme throughout. Evening entertainment can be found in Fado clubs, wine bars and Jazz and Blues."
