Porto Fantastico

Despite a couple of hiccups in getting there, Porto was fantastic. Iberia Airlines  (read Tiger Air) could do with some communications training. Our flight to Porto from Madrid was cancelled  (bad weather they said). The blue skies seemed to dispute this. Poor bookings seemed a more realistic reason. Anyway, after lining up at several queues for what seemed like hours, we eventually found ourselves on a 6:00pm bus instead of a 2:45pm flight. And a 12am arrival to Porto instead of 4:30pm.

Waking up to this picturesque town was worth the exercise. Marg and Brad had waited up for us the night before and our apartment was right in the center of the action in Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro from the main part of Porto. But also in a popular area full of bars, restaurants and port cellars.

The first day was basically spent wandering around this beautiful town exploring the many narrow streets, and climbing the many hills. We also found a food and wine market (which involved renting a glass for a euro and sampling as much wine, cheese, ham and other delicacies as you could eat). Great introduction to the area. Then we found another large covered market area for dinner.

We even sampled some port and then tried the suggested aperitif before sunset,  a white port and tonic.

We explored more of Porto on Day 2, climbing to the top of the hill and walking across the Douro on the top level of the bridge. Visited the main square and the cathedral and had a great lunch at a little restaurant.

Porto is a fantastic place to visit. Great vibe, friendy people, beautiful scenery and we only scratched the surface. Next time, maybe a cruise up the Douro.

Lisbon next.