This was one of the weekends that I was extremely excited about. One of the reasons was because I was going to the city, which so many people described in such a positive way that it created certain expectations. But most importantly, I was going to see my amazing friends from the Icelandic adventure, Natalia and Alan.
And oh boy, did the whole weekend deliver!
My FlixBus ride from Lisbon to Porto went by pretty fast as I was sleeping for like half of the way. In the other instances, I was listening to music, looking through the window, and very much enjoying the beautiful view of nature appearing, disappearing, and changing. What took my breath away were areas full of cork oaks. These trees are so gorgeous that I want to plant one immediately in my imaginary garden. Their trunks and branches are almost torturously twisted in the most stunning ways. I wish I had better pictures to show you. I was so captivated that they stayed only in my mind, and when I took my camera out, the trees had already faded into the distance. So here is at least a glimpse of one lonely soldier surrounded by eucalyptuses.
If I should describe Porto with one word, it would be “CINEMATIC.” I was in numerous places there that would serve as great locations for movie scenes. This city just breathes culture: old houses decorated with tiles of all shapes, colours, and patterns, lovely people, talented street performers; amazing vistas (in parks, next to the churches, from the bridges…). The food will test the capacity of your stomach, as you can´t get enough of it. The whole atmosphere of the city catches you and won´t let you go. You don´t know where to look first, there is something interesting happening at every corner. Even places with lots of tourists are OK; for some reason, the way they are overcrowded feels natural and not annoying.
And, as always, the people you spend your time with make up the solid majority of the experience. And I’m just incredibly lucky that I have them in so many places across Europe. Spending time with my friends here recharged me so, so much. I was in the moment, and I rested my mind from all the worries. We had wonderful conversations, walks, lunches, dinners, and movie parties. It passed by in an instant, as all great experiences do!
So go there, have a lovely time! I can´t recommend this city enough. Hopefully, the sun will accompany you while you explore all its wonders. Drink some great Porto. Be aware, though, its sweetness very dangerously hides its strength (20% alcohol, to be specific), and trust me, only one full glass is enough for you to feel its presence in your head the following morning. But F… it!
We live only once, right?
One last note… I´m near the end of my stay here – the next post will be the final one. So get excited for lots of sentiment and drama!
