Packing efficiently makes the whole trip start off on a great note.  By not checking  luggage you save both time and money.  Basic tips....
Open your suitcase and look at the space created by the telescoping of the built-in handles.  Use this space!  Fill it with socks, undies, scarves etc.  By using this area... you area creating a base that you can now start layering pants/tops etc.

 I am a BIG advocate of packing cubes.  They are the best. Yet if you don't have them... I start by layering the pants first.  If you fold them with the waistline positioned out (toughing the sides of the bag) as this is the thickest  part of the pants.  I then roll by tops and they fit perfectly in the center of the suitcase.

I usually only bring a pair of DARK jeans (they hide stains and look nicer that faded jeans), a pair of black slacks and/or jeans & a pair of olive/khaki pants.  That is it.  I usually try to make sure my pants have a bit of spandex or elastyne in them so they bounce back.  I pack more tops.  Usually a 3 pair of pants to 6 top ratio.

Load up on accessories.  Scarves/jewelry/belts do not take up alot of room or add much weight.  These accessories can change an outfit from day to night.

Shoes.... always an issue. for people.  I go with the 3 maximum pairs AND that includes the ones you are wearing!  They can be a pain to pack & take up too much room.  Make sure your shoes are a neutral colored so they go with everything. Always swear the biggest/bulkiest shoes and pack smaller ones.

Tipping is different... everywhere.  Here in the US, we are accustomed to leaving a tip almost everywhere.  In some countries/destinations, tipping is included in your vacation package.  Some countries/destinations tipping is not expected... yet usually welcome.  Our agency offers tipping guidelines with your final documents 

 One of the 1st part of travel planning is checking the validity of your passport.  Too many times clients have waited until enroute to the airport to LOOK at their passport and then realize their passport has expired or is about to expire.  The whole trip is cancelled due to poor planning.  Our agency has changed the way we start the planning  of your dream trip. A copy of your passport must be submitted at the beginning of the trip planning process.  If you do not have one.... forms are supplied and you are encouraged to start the process immediately.. maybe even before applying the deposit on your dream trip.  You can not travel internationally on a passport  that is going to expire within 6 months of your dates of travel.
1. Complete form DS-82,
2. Have your picture taken @ Walgreens, CVS, Costco etc
3. Get a certificated copy of your birth certificate
4.Include name change documents (if necessary)
5. Apply in person for passport (or renew your passport via mail) ASAP

​Portugal is a small coastal nation on the westernmost edge of Europe.  It is the oldest nation-state in Europe & has a incredible diverse geography &  rich history.
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Fun trivia - oldest country is Europe (1131) and oldest university (University of Coimbra, 1290).  Portugal has the longest bridge... a 6 lane cable-stayed, over 10 miles long that crosses the Tagus River north of Lisbon and  has over 1554 miles of coastline..