Author name: Anastasia

Blog, Travel Tips

Beyond Lisbon: Exploring Local Neighborhoods for Remote Work & Lifestyle

BEYOND LISBON Exploring Local Neighborhoods for Remote Work & Lifestyle Let’s explore some of Lisbon’s most characterful areas that are drawing remote professionals from around the world. Home / Lisbon has become one of Europe’s top destinations for digital nomads and remote workers. But beyond the tourist-packed streets of Baixa and Chiado lies a network of authentic neighborhoods where community, tradition, and modern convenience blend perfectly.   Graça Tradition Meets Creative Energy Graça sits high on one of Lisbon’s famous hills, offering sweeping views of the city and the Tagus River. Known for its Miradouros (viewpoints), narrow streets, and timeless charm, Graça balances old-world Portugal with a growing creative scene. For digital nomads, Graça offers a slower pace while still being close to downtown. Cafés with Wi-Fi, local bakeries, and affordable apartments make it a practical base. The neighborhood is also famous for its lively festas in June, bringing a strong sense of community.   Alfama The Soul of Lisbon Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama, is a maze of cobbled alleys, tiled houses, and the haunting sound of Fado music drifting from taverns. While it’s touristy at first glance, many locals still call Alfama home, giving it a unique authenticity. For remote workers, Alfama can feel like living inside a postcard—morning coffees in small squares, afternoons spent working from a rooftop terrace, evenings exploring wine bars. The trade-off? Narrow streets and smaller apartments. But for those seeking atmosphere over space, Alfama delivers   Campo de Ourique Community & Convenience Away from the hills and crowds, Campo de Ourique feels more residential and balanced. Known for its food market, leafy streets, and mix of families and expats, it’s a neighborhood with everything within walking distance. Remote workers value its co-working cafés, reliable infrastructure, and friendly vibe. It’s also well connected by tram and bus, making it easy to reach other parts of Lisbon. If you want a blend of community life and work convenience, Campo de Ourique is a strong choice.       Intendente and Mouraria: Diversity and Innovation For those seeking an edgier vibe, Intendente and Mouraria are districts full of cultural fusion. Once overlooked, they’re now hubs of art, gastronomy, and entrepreneurship. International restaurants, street art, and coworking hubs make them hotspots for young professionals. The atmosphere is vibrant, sometimes chaotic, but always inspiring. Nomads who thrive in diverse, multicultural settings will find plenty of inspiration here.   Why Local Neighborhoods Work for Digital Nomads Lisbon is not just about iconic tram rides and pastel-colored streets. Choosing the right neighborhood can shape your entire lifestyle as a remote worker. Graça gives you views and tradition, Alfama offers history and atmosphere, Campo de Ourique provides comfort and balance, while Intendente and Mouraria bring diversity and innovation. Final Thoughts Living beyond the central tourist zones allows remote workers to connect more deeply with Lisbon’s local culture, while still enjoying the infrastructure that makes the city a global nomad hotspot. BLOG & NEWS The Untold Story Sahara, Soft-Packed: From Dunes to Desert Camps • 11 de November de 2025 Gran Canaria for Nomads: Micro-Climates, Neighborhoods and Productivity Hotspots • 22 de October de 2025 Madeira Magic: Explore the Island’s Wonders • 15 de October de 2025 Azores Unplugged: Hot Springs, Crater Lakes & Whale Routes • 13 de October de 2025 Living Like a Local in Marrakech: A Cultural Immersion Guide • 17 de September de 2025 Best Practices When Traveling: Your Guide to Eco-Traveling Responsibly • 9 de June de 2025

People Riding Camels
Blog, Travel Tips

Sahara, Soft-Packed: From Dunes to Desert Camps

SAHARA SOFT-PACKED From Dunes to Desert Camps An unforgettable 2–3-day adventure across Morocco’s most iconic landscapes. Home / The Call of the Dunes There’s a moment, somewhere past the Atlas Mountains, when the green valleys fade, the air turns golden, and the road seems to melt into infinity. This is the call of the Sahara — timeless, vast, and utterly magnetic. Embark on a local expedition to Morocco’s desert frontier, starting from Marrakech and traveling through cinematic landscapes, Berber villages, and palm-fringed valleys before reaching the golden dunes of Merzouga. This is not just a trip — it’s a journey through centuries of culture, color, and silence.   Through the Atlas Mountains The adventure truly begins as you leave Marrakech and climb the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains. The views are nothing short of breathtaking — rugged cliffs, terraced fields, and roadside cafés perched above deep valleys. A stop at a women-run argan oil cooperative reveals one of Morocco’s hidden treasures: the production of argan oil, often called liquid gold. The process is meticulous, the results fragrant and rich — perfect for tasting or testing on your skin. Further along the route lies Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose mud-brick walls have stood for centuries. Once a key stop on ancient caravan routes, this fortress-like ksar is now known to film fans worldwide for Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping into history itself.   The Road to the Desert Past Ouarzazate — the “Gateway to the Desert” — the landscapes change. The ochre cliffs of Dades Valley rise dramatically, shaped by wind and time into the surreal “Fingers of the Monkeys.” Alongside the winding road stand kasbahs and small Berber villages, their earthen walls glowing red in the afternoon sun. Continuing toward the Todra Valley, you follow ribbons of green oasis lined with date palms until the dunes of Merzouga finally appear — vast, golden, and impossibly still. The sensation is immediate: this is another world.   A Night Among the Dunes From the edge of Merzouga, travelers trade wheels for hooves and set off by dromedary caravan into the heart of the desert. The rhythmic pace of the camels, the whisper of sand, and the deepening sunset turn the journey into something almost timeless. Before reaching camp, there’s time for sandboarding and photos in traditional Berber attire — a playful nod to the nomadic past. As dusk settles, you arrive at a glamping site nestled among the dunes. Dinner is served under a canopy of stars, accompanied by the sounds of Berber drums and dancing around the bonfire. It’s a scene that captures the soul of the Sahara: simplicity, connection, and endless space.   The Journey Back As dawn breaks, the desert glows in soft hues of pink and gold. Watching the sunrise over the dunes is a moment that stays with you long after you leave. After breakfast, the caravan returns to the edge of the desert, and the long, scenic drive back to Marrakech begins. The road unfolds through mountains and valleys once more, with rest stops every few hours to stretch, take photos, and enjoy local meals. By evening, the red city welcomes you back with familiar warmth and energy. Spend your last night exploring the Jemaa el-Fna square, where snake charmers, storytellers, and food stalls bring Morocco’s magic to life.   A Final Taste of Marrakech Before your flight, there’s time to wander through the Medina, browse vibrant souks for spices and carpets, or visit iconic landmarks like Bahia Palace and the Majorelle Gardens. Enjoy mint tea on a rooftop terrace as the city hums below — the perfect farewell to Morocco.   Traveler’s Essentials Money & Connectivity: ATMs are available at the Marrakech airport near SIM-card vendors (Maroc Telecom, Inwi, Orange). A 20 GB local SIM costs about €20. Drones are strictly banned in Morocco — they’ll be confiscated at customs. Packing List: Lightweight clothing for warm days and layered outfits for cool desert nights Scarf or headwrap for sun and sand protection Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle Portable charger or power bank Comfortable walking shoes or sandals Small cash in dirhams for personal purchases The Essence of the Sahara This journey across Morocco is more than a route — it’s a rhythm. From the cool peaks of the Atlas to the glowing dunes of Merzouga, each stop adds a layer to the story: landscapes shaped by time, traditions kept alive by people, and nights so still that you can hear your own heartbeat. The Sahara, soft-packed, is comfort without luxury, adventure without rush, and beauty without filter. It’s Morocco at its most elemental — a journey written in sand, silence, and starlight.   Begin Your Sahara Story with Tripico The Sahara is more than a destination — it’s a feeling, a rhythm, a silence that stays with you long after you leave. With Tripico, you don’t just visit the desert — you experience it. Our small-group expeditions are designed for curious travelers who want to see Morocco beyond the postcards: crossing the Atlas Mountains, visiting Berber villages, and sleeping under a million stars in Merzouga. Final Thoughts Travel responsibly, connect locally, and rediscover adventure — one dune at a time.Book your Tripico Sahara Expedition today and let the desert show you its magic. BLOG & NEWS The Untold Story Gran Canaria for Nomads: Micro-Climates, Neighborhoods and Productivity Hotspots • 22 de October de 2025 Madeira Magic: Explore the Island’s Wonders • 15 de October de 2025 Azores Unplugged: Hot Springs, Crater Lakes & Whale Routes • 13 de October de 2025 Living Like a Local in Marrakech: A Cultural Immersion Guide • 17 de September de 2025 Best Practices When Traveling: Your Guide to Eco-Traveling Responsibly • 9 de June de 2025 5 Hidden Desert Camps in Merzouga for an Unforgettable Sahara Experience • 26 de May de 2025

The Power of Micro-Climates
Blog, Travel Tips

Gran Canaria for Nomads: Micro-Climates, Neighborhoods and Productivity Hotspots

GRAN CANARIA for NOMADS Micro-Climates, Neighborhoods & Productivity Hotspots Join the Tripico Team as we dive into the must-sees and hidden gems of Gran Canaria. Home / Our journey begins on the stunning island of Gran Canaria, often called the “Little Continent” for its striking diversity. Within a few hours, you can move from lush jungle valleys to volcanic cliffs, golden sand dunes, and the deep blue Atlantic. It’s a place where every corner feels like a new world — and for digital nomads, it offers the rare combination of lifestyle, productivity, and adventure.   At the heart of it all lies Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the island’s vibrant capital. Frequently ranked among the world’s top ten destinations for digital nomads, the city blends a near-perfect climate with a cosmopolitan yet relaxed atmosphere. With year-round spring temperatures, fiber-optic connectivity, and a thriving international community, Las Palmas has become one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for long-stay remote workers.   Las Palmas: A City of Neighborhoods Las Palmas feels like many cities in one. Each neighborhood has its own rhythm, community, and lifestyle — making it easy to find your ideal base.   The area around Las Canteras Beach is the most popular among nomads. You can surf before work, open your laptop at a beachfront café, and end the day with a sunset swim. It’s lively, social, and perfect for those who love to balance work with outdoor energy.   Nearby Guanarteme attracts creatives and long-stayers. It’s packed with coworking spots, coliving apartments, and local bars where ideas flow easily. Those seeking charm and culture often move to Vegueta or Triana, the city’s historic heart. Cobbled streets, art galleries, and colonial houses create a slower, more authentic vibe. For a quieter life, Ciudad Jardín and Ciudad Alta offer leafy streets and peace — just a short bus ride from the coast.   Coworking by the Sea Las Palmas has one of the strongest coworking ecosystems in the Canary Islands. Spaces like Sky Coworking, Work-Labs, and The House offer high-speed internet, 24/7 access, and bright, modern interiors.   If you prefer a community vibe, Ecoisleta and CoworkSurf mix coworking with coliving – adding events, dinners, and surf sessions.The setup makes it easy to meet other professionals while keeping your work routine stable.   You can move easily between beach cafés, coworking hubs, and mountain getaways. That flexibility is exactly what makes the island so special for remote workers. The Power of Micro-Climates Gran Canaria’s landscape changes dramatically  within minutes. The north is green and cool, the south dry and sunny, and the center often rises above the clouds.   You can spend your morning under palm trees and your afternoon hiking in a jacket at Pico de las Nieves (1,949 m). It’s a natural playground for creativity and balance — the perfect antidote to monotony.   Whenever you need a break, drive inland for mountain air or head south to Maspalomas, where golden dunes meet the Atlantic. This diversity keeps both body and mind refreshed.   Weekend Escapes & Local Life In less than an hour from Las Palmas, the Agaete Valley reveals a greener, slower world. It’s home to Europe’s only coffee plantation growing the Arabica typica variety, surrounded by whitewashed villages and volcanic soil. Close by, natural rock pools form with the tide — fragile ecosystems that locals carefully protect.   At night, you can join a snorkeling tour to spot octopuses, manta rays, and starfish coming out to feed. Higher in the mountains, Pico de las Nieves offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s ancient past. Here, the first settlers once held rituals among the volcanic rocks.   And when it’s time to recharge, nothing beats a surf lesson along the Atlantic coast — pure energy and salt air to clear the mind.    The Nomad Rhythm Gran Canaria offers something rare: a place where work, nature, and culture coexist effortlessly. You can start your day with coffee by the sea, join a coworking event at noon, and hike above the clouds by sunset. Through Tripico, travelers can explore beyond the tourist routes — discovering the island’s coffee farms, sacred peaks, and authentic local life. And if you decide to stay longer, check our guide to the Digital Nomad Visa, your ticket to making this island your next remote home.  Final Thoughts When to Go? The best time to visit is March–May or September–December. You’ll find mild weather, fewer tourists, and better flight prices. Temperatures usually stay between 18 °C and 27 °C — eternal spring in every sense. BLOG & NEWS The Untold Story Madeira Magic: Explore the Island’s Wonders • 15 de October de 2025 Azores Unplugged: Hot Springs, Crater Lakes & Whale Routes • 13 de October de 2025 Living Like a Local in Marrakech: A Cultural Immersion Guide • 17 de September de 2025 Best Practices When Traveling: Your Guide to Eco-Traveling Responsibly • 9 de June de 2025 5 Hidden Desert Camps in Merzouga for an Unforgettable Sahara Experience • 26 de May de 2025 Nomad’s Guide to Chefchaouen: Work, Hike, Repeat • 20 de May de 2025

Blog, Travel Tips

Azores Unplugged: Hot Springs, Crater Lakes & Whale Routes

Home / Azores Unplugged: Hot Springs, Crater Lakes & Whale Routes Tucked away in the vast Atlantic, the Azores beckon with their untamed beauty and serene rhythms. The Atlantic’s Wild Garden Our journey takes us to the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic, celebrated for volcanic peaks, emerald valleys, and dramatic coastlines. Each of the nine islands has its own rhythm — from São Miguel’s steaming hot springs to Pico’s lava-stone vineyards and Flores’s untouched cliffs. This is a paradise where nature still reigns, and travelers can slow down, unplug, and immerse themselves. Volcanic Landscapes & Crater Lakes The Azores are born of fire, and their landscapes tell the story. On São Miguel, crater lakes like Sete Cidades shimmer in contrasting shades of green and blue, while Lagoa do Fogo sits high in the mountains surrounded by untouched trails. On Faial, the vast Caldeira is an open invitation to hike its rim, and on Flores, multiple crater lakes reflect the shifting Atlantic skies. These are dreamscapes for eco-photographers, where light, mist, and water constantly reshape the scene. Hot Springs & Geothermal Wonders Volcanic energy bubbles beneath the islands, surfacing in fumaroles, geysers, and mineral pools. In Furnas Valley, you can:   Bathe in the warm waters of Terra Nostra Garden or the rustic Poça da Dona Beija. Taste the Azorean “cozido,” a stew cooked underground by geothermal heat. Explore steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, reminders of the earth’s power. On the coast, natural spas like Ponta da Ferraria let you swim in ocean water naturally heated by volcanic springs. Few places combine raw geology and relaxation so seamlessly. Whale Routes & Ocean Adventures The waters around the Azores are a highway for giants. From spring through autumn, more than 20 species of whales and dolphins can be spotted — sperm whales, blue whales, bottlenose dolphins, and more. Boat trips depart from Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Horta (Faial), and Madalena (Pico), guided by marine biologists. Encounters are never guaranteed, but the anticipation is part of the thrill. For those seeking more adrenaline, canyoning down waterfalls or swimming in natural sea pools adds a land-based counterpart to ocean adventures. Pico: Mountain & Vineyards Rising above the archipelago, Mount Pico is Portugal’s highest peak. Climbers who summit are rewarded with sweeping Atlantic views, but even at its base, Pico enchants. Its UNESCO-listed vineyards, planted in black lava fields and protected by stone walls, are living cultural landscapes. Tasting local Verdelho wine here is a journey through history as much as flavor. Hidden Villages & Traditions Beyond the iconic spots, the Azores reveal their charm in small details: Fishing villages where boats line volcanic coves. Tea plantations on São Miguel — Europe’s only commercial tea fields. Pineapple plantations where the fruit is cultivated in greenhouses, producing a unique liqueur.   Local festivals and traditions, where music, food, and folklore keep the islands’ spirit alive. Seasons & Best Time to Visit The Azores are year-round destinations, but the experience changes with the calendar: April – June: Hydrangeas bloom, landscapes glow green, weather is mild (15–20 °C), flights are affordable, and whale migrations peak. July – August: Warm seas and lively festivals, but with higher prices and more visitors. Late September – Early October: Summer warmth lingers, but crowds fade. Wine harvests and hiking weather are ideal. Travel Tips Getting Around: Inter-island flights (SATA/Azores Airlines) and ferries connect the main islands. Car rental is essential on each island — book early, especially on Pico and Flores. Packing: Waterproof jackets, hiking shoes, and swimwear for hot springs. Weather can shift quickly. Eco-travel: Stay on marked trails, respect geothermal zones, and support local guides and family-run lodgings. Final Thoughts To travel the Azores unplugged is to let the islands set your pace: soaking in a hot spring under the stars, watching whales breach at the horizon, wandering through volcanic vineyards, or pausing at a crater rim as mist drifts by. Whether you’re a slow traveler, eco-photographer, or island hopper, the Azores are not a checklist — they’re a living landscape to savor.

marocco market
Blog, Travel Tips

Living Like a Local in Marrakech: A Cultural Immersion Guide

Home / Living Like a Local in Marrakech: A Cultural Immersion Guide Marrakech is a city of colors, scents, and sounds — a place where centuries-old traditions blend with the rhythm of modern Morocco.  From hidden souks to hammams, street food to riads, here’s how you can live like a local in Marrakech. Stay in a Riad, Not a Hotel The heart of Marrakech lies in its medina — a maze of narrow alleyways and bustling life. Skip the international hotel chains and book a riad, a traditional Moroccan house with an inner courtyard. Here, you’ll wake up to birdsong, sip mint tea under carved wooden balconies, and fall asleep to the scent of orange blossoms. Discover the Souks Like a Local The souks (markets) of Marrakech are a labyrinth of treasures. From colorful textiles and leather goods to brass lamps and handwoven carpets, it’s a shopper’s paradise. But the real magic is in the interactions: bargaining with artisans, learning the story behind a Berber rug, or tasting olives from a vendor’s stall. Tip: Locals expect you to haggle. Start at about half the asking price and enjoy the lively negotiation — it’s part of the culture! Experience a Traditional Hammam For centuries, Moroccans have gathered in hammams, public bathhouses, for cleansing and relaxation. The ritual involves steam, exfoliation with black soap, and rinses that leave you feeling reborn.   Local hammams (like Hammam Mouassine) are authentic and budget-friendly.   Luxury hammams (such as at La Mamounia) offer a spa-like experience.   Go where locals go for the real deal: it’s as much a social experience as it is about wellness. Eat Like a Marrakchi Street food in Marrakech is not just about eating — it’s about connecting with people and flavors. Head to Jemaa el-Fnaa square in the evening, where smoke from grills rises into the night sky. Must-try bites: Tangia – slow-cooked lamb in a clay pot, a Marrakech specialty. Msemen – buttery layered flatbread, best with honey for breakfast. Harira – a hearty tomato and lentil soup, often enjoyed during Ramadan. Fresh orange juice – squeezed right in front of you in the square. Slow Down and Soak Up the Atmosphere The soul of Marrakech isn’t only in its monuments — it’s in everyday life.   Listen to gnawa musicians playing rhythmic desert blues in the square. Sip tea on a rooftop café while watching the sun set over the Koutoubia Mosque. Wander through hidden alleys where children play football and cats nap in the shade.   These unscripted moments are where Marrakech reveals itself most vividly. Final Thoughts Why Living Like a Local Matters When you immerse yourself in Marrakech’s rhythm, you go beyond sightseeing — you build connections. You’ll understand why mint tea is poured from high above the glass, why bargaining is a form of storytelling, and why hospitality is considered sacred. Travel becomes less about checking off attractions and more about feeling at home in a culture that welcomes you with open arms.

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