Portugal, bordering Spain, has been influenced by the Atlantic Ocean; salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, the Algarve’s beaches are a major destination and much of the nation’s architecture dates to the 1500s–1800s, when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire. Portugal’s coastal appeal makes it an awesome destination for the Rip Curl and Billabong Pro Surfing competitions and Red Bull’s Cliff Diving events.