Portugal's Costa Do Estoril enjoys a delightful south-facing perspective. It starts at Carcavelos, 15 kilometers from Lisbon, and stretches for a distance of 20 kilometers westwards along the Atlantic seaboard to Guincho. It portrays a delightful blend between the charm of the land and the fascinating exquisiteness of the sea.
             Using the internationally known resort of Estoril as a base, my wife and I had the pleasure of experiencing the region and some of its peripheries during a 2001 visit. We found Estoril to be a pleasing, safe, and unspoiled smallish seaside town where natural beauty and individual architecture blend with the surroundings. It has a pleasantly warm climate with an ever-present gentle breeze. Estoril has played its part in history-making. It was a favorite haven of kings and aristocrats who retreated to exile following many of the tumultuous events of the 20th century and, a center of international espionage and secret diplomacy during World War 11. The legacy that remains is one of sophistication and cosmopolitanism.
             Today Estoril is better known for its magnificent casino. A delightful park, edged by tall, tropical palm trees, fronts the attractive building which forms the centerpiece of the resort. A visit to the multifaceted entertainment center is recommended. Close-by is the famous Tamariz Beach. The combination of a vast, shimmering sunlit bay, people of all ages and colors relaxing on the sand, and a promenade hiving with happy, smiling strollers creates a lasting impression. A four-minute train ride, or thirty minutes on Shank's mare via a promenade, takes one from Estoril to picturesque Cascais. It has much to offer in the way of forts, castles, swimming, sailing, eating out, shopping and scenery. Well worth a visit or two! Lisbon is a mere 25 kilometers from Estoril. The breathtaking architectural treasures and deep-seated seafaring past of the Portuguese capital leave one aghast. It was our privileg...