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active 12 hours ago

João Branco

Hey Everyone! My name is João and I am a World Passionate Traveler.
Ever since I can remember I have been traveling around the world which made my academic and professional choices quite easy - Tourism!
I have been working in the industry for the past 10 years which led to my new recent project - Across Portugal! Alongside with Pedro, my partner, we inaugurated this new Travel Agency aiming to become one of the main references when visiting Portugal.
Will you help me achieving that?

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Across Portugal was born to provide unique and memorable experiences in Portugal. Our team with such a detailed knowledge has some advantages while working as travel specialists.
We are mainly focused on customized / tailor-made trips based on the following topics: history & culture, art, architecture, gastronomy & wines, sea & beach, outdoor activities as well as many others.
Our team provides this services to Individual travelers as well as to families, friends and groups."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was lucky enough to start traveling since I was a Kid. Those experiences led to a huge interest in this industry.
Travel is much more than visiting new places or meeting new people. It is all about the experience, the authenticity as well as the local immersion.
Based on this, and since Tourism is a business from People to People, I have always believed I could contribute by helping people to visit Portugal.
Across Portugal was born from this believe!"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"If I had to choose one travel experience I would certainly highlight my interrail.
I dreammed about it for years.
As soon as I started working I managed to get the chance to live my dream - a train trip throughout Europe during 1 month.
I would certainly recommend an experience like this to everyone."

João is part of the following groups: Portugal Travel Agents, Portugal Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for João

João was the most responsive travel consultant I have ever worked with!
Portugal | Mar 9 - Mar 16, 2024

K
Kathleen W.
Roff, OK | Reviewed on Mar 17, 2024
We connected with João Branco through KimKim, and we were so fortunate to have done so! From our earliest planning inquiries through to our final flight home, João was tremendously responsive, helpful (and patient, as we did often have trouble making decisions!). Every detail that he arranged, from airport greetings and guided tours to reservations at hotels and restaurants, was top-notch and perfectly executed, surpassing our expectations (and we travel a lot!) -- and if at any point we... Read more

We connected with João Branco through KimKim, and we were so fortunate to have done so! From our earliest planning inquiries through to our final flight home, João was tremendously responsive, helpful (and patient, as we did often have trouble making decisions!). Every detail that he arranged, from airport greetings and guided tours to reservations at hotels and restaurants, was top-notch and perfectly executed, surpassing our expectations (and we travel a lot!) -- and if at any point we had encountered a glitch, we knew that he was right at hand to help us sort things out, because he used WhatsApp to check in with us regularly and find out how we were doing. Even someone as outstanding as João cannot control the weather, but he had given us a very accurate sense of what to expect in the Azores in March (i.e. Expect the Unexpected!) and was incredibly helpful in communicating with us and providing alternative suggestions when bad weather meant we had to cancel some planned water activities. Having someone so willing to facilitate for us, especially when we do not speak Portuguese nor know the area, made our entire trip so much more relaxing and hassle-free. We would absolutely use him again if we travelled in Portugal!

Hotel Reviews
Octant Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada

While the Octant is not charming on the outside, the people and the experience on the inside were outstanding, and the modern, green, design elements were original, attractive, and soothing. The team at reception (especially Luisa) and at the spa were so incredibly welcoming and eager to help in any way -- essentially, they conveyed a warm sense that "anything you would like to do, we can find a way to make happen," from booking us a slot to enjoy the thermal bath experience as a family to recommending and giving directions to their favorite hikes on the island. I only regret that the weather was not warm enough for us to enjoy the spectacular rooftop pool and bar area (though we might have hunkered down into the wind and done so anyway, if the pool had appeared to be heated, since the views and design were so amazing) The breakfast buffet (included) was a true feast and allowed us to savor local products as well as more familiar ones. In particular, the staff came to our rescue in the middle of the night when my daughter got terribly sick with food poisoning -- although they were down to a tiny overnight crew without anyone from housekeeping, the two men manning the fort rallied with whatever resources and creativity they had to help us clean up and set up an extra cot in our room when she could not stay in hers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great view over the harbor and convenient for downtown
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Octant Furnas
Furnas

Tremendously welcoming and helpful front desk staff -- they greeted us with a local pineapple liqueur, communicated with a local restaurant for us, and put out breakfast for us to grab when we had to depart for the airport at 4 a.m. (!). The spa treatments were phenomenal, and the thermal bath suite - both indoor and outdoor -- was open around the clock and, while actively used by many guests, never felt crowded (though it would be extra nice if some of their lovely herbal water or cold tea brews were available poolside). Although the bedrooms are small and have unimpressive views, the hotel overall provides an indulgent experience -- great food, beautiful greenery everywhere - - but with a laid-back tone: guests wander around in their spa robes, the fun cocktail bar has a wealth of games, the dining room combines chic, grown-up eco-design with a foosball table. Perfect for a refuge for adventuring in the region!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Mar 18, 2024

Hey Kathleen,
Greetings from Portugal!
Thank you so much for your feedback and wonderful words about your experience. Super happy to know you had a great time in Portugal Mainland and S. Miguel Island. Hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future.
Muito Obrigado,
João & Across Portugal Team

Excellent service
Portugal | Dec 28 - Jan 5, 2024

S
Savita B.
Maple Shade, NJ | Reviewed on Jan 12, 2024
Joao is excellent. He goes above and beyond to help coordinate all your activities . The tour guides and drivers were amazing. All the activities that he helped choose were great. I can’t recommend him enough. We especially enjoyed our tour guide, Elsa in Lisbon. There were some changes I made right before the trip and even one we canceled the day of and he worked with us. You can’t go wrong using their service. Read more

Joao is excellent. He goes above and beyond to help coordinate all your activities . The tour guides and drivers were amazing. All the activities that he helped choose were great. I can’t recommend him enough. We especially enjoyed our tour guide, Elsa in Lisbon. There were some changes I made right before the trip and even one we canceled the day of and he worked with us. You can’t go wrong using their service.

Hotel Reviews
Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace
Porto

That was a wonderful hotel. Service and location are great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
MouraSuites Hotel
Largo da Porta de Moura, 7000-647 Évora, Portugal

Really lovely hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
Porto

Our tour guide was Anna period. This tasting activity was great.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Jan 12, 2024

Hello Savita,
Super happy to know you are feeling better today!
Thank you so much for your kind words - they mean a lot!!
It was wonderful to have your family here. I really hope Portugal remains on your memories for a long time.
Muito Obrigado!!
Your friend in Portugal - João

Portugal 2024.
Portugal | Dec 26 - Jan 4, 2024

D
Dwayne K.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 05, 2024

Joao did a great job organizing everything for us. All went according to plan and Joao was available on very short notice to provide additional guidance. We would strongly recommend using Joao and his team.

Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Jan 07, 2024

Hello Dwayne,
Super happy to get your feedback!!
It was lovely to have you and your family traveling in Portugal - should we consider the islands for a future trip?
Wish you an amazing 2024!!
Your friend in Portugal - João

Excellent service from Joao & his people!!
Portugal | Nov 15 - Nov 24, 2023

Raul
Raul G.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 01, 2023

The travel agents that we met, they were very friendly and help us answer every question we had. We had a very nice experience with Ivo, Andre & Luis, sorry if I forgot other person.

Would be really happy again to work with you Joao!

Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Dec 02, 2023

Hey Raul, Rafael and Margarita,
Thank you so much for your feedback and kind words!
I am super happy to know you had a great time in Portugal!
Thank you once again for your trust - Obrigado // Muchas Gracias!!
João & Across Portugal Team

Simply Amazing Experience
Portugal | Oct 26 - Nov 7, 2023

Kelly
Kelly H.
Bermuda | Reviewed on Nov 10, 2023
We took a chance with kimkim and couldn’t have made a better decision. If you are looking to show up to your destination worry free, with a personal concierge service that takes the stress out of traveling, I would recommend this service. Tailored to everything we were looking for, we experienced Portugal in a way that not only has us wanting more, but could certainly make kimkim a travel partner for life. We appreciated each of our guides, and in particular our driver Eduardo. He not only... Read more

We took a chance with kimkim and couldn’t have made a better decision. If you are looking to show up to your destination worry free, with a personal concierge service that takes the stress out of traveling, I would recommend this service. Tailored to everything we were looking for, we experienced Portugal in a way that not only has us wanting more, but could certainly make kimkim a travel partner for life. We appreciated each of our guides, and in particular our driver Eduardo. He not only ensured we got to our destinations, but was a pleasure to be around. Our guide in Lisbon, Margarida, was a delightful and dedicated ambassador for her country, as well as incredibly knowledgeable. In Porto, Andre took us on a historic journey through the city, and was also a passionate and articulate young man who enjoys sharing Portugal with others. Ultimately, it was an incredible experience, and would certainly consider using kimkim for the next excursion.

Activity Reviews
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon

Enjoyed learning a lot about the history of Lisbon from an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide. Margarida was professional, engaging and a lovely person who is an ambassador for her country. We also enjoyed the wine tasting that was complimented by some of the beautiful olive oils that are produced in Portugal. Ended up purchasing more oil than wine- would highly recommend this tour!

Guides, Drivers and Staff
To Eat Suggestion: Cervejaria Trindade
To Eat Suggestion: Cervejaria Trindade
Lisbon

Bustle inside a large, lively and former monastery that has been transformed into a beautiful restaurant. Excellent if you love seafood, perfect for large groups, and service was great!

Quality of Experience
Immerse Yourself in the Portuguese Culture by Experiencing a Fado Dinner
Immerse Yourself in the Portuguese Culture by Experiencing a Fado Dinner
Lisbon

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience, you must see a Fado performance. We could not help but stay to the end watching three different, but extremely talented singers accompanied by two incredible musicians. You don’t have to speak the language to interpret the passion and historical importance that this art brings to Portuguese culture. A must see!

Quality of Experience
The talent, the environment and the friendly staff.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Nov 13, 2023

Hey Kelly,
Greetings from Portugal!

What a wonderful feedback! Thank you so much for your kind words about your experience in Portugal. I am sure everyone will be super happy when reading your review :)

Despite the weather, I believe we all had a great time with you here. Portugal will be waiting for you for some summer vacations in the future - I am sure you will be able to try and experience different programs and really worth as well.

Muito Obrigado,
João Branco & Across Portugal Team

Obrigado, Kimkim!!!!
Portugal | Oct 16 - Oct 27, 2023

Saul
Saul D.
San Luis Obispo, CA | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2023
This was our ( party of 4) first trip with kimkim.
First of all I have to say Portugal is a beautiful country to visit, I would not hesitate to return.
I was a bit apprehensive at first using an online travel site that I had never nor my friends ever heard of, Kimkim,
My fears were quickly allayed . I was contacted by Joao of , Across Portugal (travel agency) and together our travel itinerary was created. Big Kudos to Joao ! He was great! Always( pre, during and post trip )...
Read more

This was our ( party of 4) first trip with kimkim.
First of all I have to say Portugal is a beautiful country to visit, I would not hesitate to return.
I was a bit apprehensive at first using an online travel site that I had never nor my friends ever heard of, Kimkim,
My fears were quickly allayed . I was contacted by Joao of , Across Portugal (travel agency) and together our travel itinerary was created. Big Kudos to Joao ! He was great! Always( pre, during and post trip ) responsive , helpful and knowledgeable .Kind of like the go to guy during the entire trip. Actually big kudos to the entire kimkim team which was responsible for making our Portugal visit just perfect.
If you want to visit Portugal and see all the sites without the work, headaches and stress , if you like feeling like a VIP , if you like staying in wonderful hotels centrally located, if you like private on time drivers then without hesitation Kimkim is the best!
I'm excited to learn what other countries I may visit using Kimkim!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Britania Art Deco
Lisboa

This Lisbon hotel was a true gem. We couldn't ask for a nicer hotel. Centrally located , friendly accommodating staff a great breakfast free port wine and afternoon tea. We really loved this hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Subtle eloquence with a great staff
Location
Easy walk to Lisbons old town sites.
Staff
Very helpful always smiling . Made me feel special
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfortable practical clean room
Vila Galé Lagos
Lagos

This hotel did not quite meet our expectations. 1)it's location is a bit too far away for walking to the town center 2) the breakfast eating area was a morning zoo, just too many people 3) the quality of the food was not very good 4) the ambience of the hotel is one of a Mega resort , big and busy. To me the hotel is more suited to the traveler with children during the warmer summer months as the hotel pools and nearby beach can be fully enjoyed. I think for somewhat senior travelers like myself would much have preferred a stay in a more smaller boutique hotel located in the city center.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa
Evora

Beautiful restored Monastery about a mile or so from the historic center of Evora . Easy Uber ride. Great fair priced restaurant on site. Regrettably we only spent one night in Evora 2-3 would have been ideal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Nov 02, 2023

Hello Saul,
Greetings from Portugal!
Thank you so much for your kind works and feedback. We are super happy to know you, and the rest of the group, had an amazing time with us.
I am sure you will have many more great experiences with Kim Kim - that is for sure!!!
Muito Obrigado,
João & Across Portugal Team

Visit to Portugal was nothing short of incredible
Portugal | Sep 8 - Sep 21, 2023

Steven
Steven C.
San Diego, CA | Reviewed on Oct 10, 2023
The visit to Portugal was nothing short of incredible. Our trip was a “mama-moon” following my wife’s daughter’s wedding. With all the planning for the wedding, it was both a relief and added value to have Joao help in the planning of our 2-week getaway. His attention to several changes and timely feedback was very much appreciated.
During our visit, we had the luxury of personal drivers and tour guides, making the visit both relaxing and a personal touch… adding great relational...
Read more

The visit to Portugal was nothing short of incredible. Our trip was a “mama-moon” following my wife’s daughter’s wedding. With all the planning for the wedding, it was both a relief and added value to have Joao help in the planning of our 2-week getaway. His attention to several changes and timely feedback was very much appreciated.
During our visit, we had the luxury of personal drivers and tour guides, making the visit both relaxing and a personal touch… adding great relational interaction for the sightseeing trip. Jose, our driver, was both professional and a wealth of knowledge about both Portugal’s history and current events. Equally, our tour through Lisboa by Margarida was fun, entertaining, and a joyful part of our trip.
Although a bit challenging, renting a car to drive through the Douro Valley and then onto Madrid over the mountains was a real highlight of the trip.
Each stop planned by Joao was well thought out and added to the overall experience. Especially loved our side trip to Seville as we drove back into Portugal after 4 nights in Spain.
As has been shared in previous reviews, traveling with KimKim is a more expensive than other travel services, however the service provided was outstanding and a testimony to both Joan’s assembled team and their pride in showing the best of Portugal.

Hotel Review
Hotel Britania Art Deco
Lisboa

Elegant, boutique type hotel in the center of the city, quiet yet close to many special spots in Lisboa. Outstanding, professional staff to complement the hotel’s ambiance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Panoramic Boat to the Ponta da Piedade Grottoes
Panoramic Boat to the Ponta da Piedade Grottoes
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
Porto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Douro Valley Vineyard Delightful Lunch Experience
Douro Valley Vineyard Delightful Lunch Experience
Douro Valley
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Margarida is extremely entertaining, well spoken and a wealth of historical significance. A talent and “old soul”… her influence makes us want to come back to Lisboa and Portugal.
Transport
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Oct 11, 2023

Hello Steven,
Greetings from sunny Portugal!
Thank you so much for your feedback about your experience in Portugal and Spain! Our team is really happy to know you had a great experience and time with us.
Thank you once again for your trust!
Obrigado,
João & Across Portugal Team

Just returned from a great trip to Portugal. ...
Portugal | Sep 23 - Oct 3, 2023

C
Chris B.
Shaw, DC | Reviewed on Oct 06, 2023
Just returned from a great trip to Portugal. What a beautiful country! Many thanks to Joao for making all the arrangements. He checked in on us daily. Excellent locations/accommodations for all of our hotels, tours were enjoyable especially Douro valley, Porto cooking class, Fado experience and walking tour in Lisbon plus a relaxing time in Lagos. All of our Drivers were on time and friendly. Certainly one of our best trips ever. Read more

Just returned from a great trip to Portugal. What a beautiful country! Many thanks to Joao for making all the arrangements. He checked in on us daily. Excellent locations/accommodations for all of our hotels, tours were enjoyable especially Douro valley, Porto cooking class, Fado experience and walking tour in Lisbon plus a relaxing time in Lagos. All of our Drivers were on time and friendly. Certainly one of our best trips ever.

Activity Review
Flavors of Porto an Immersive Culinary Journey through a Cooking Class
Flavors of Porto an Immersive Culinary Journey through a Cooking Class
Porto

Vitor was a great host. We had lots of laughs and cooked a delicious meal. Very hands on. Maybe the highlight of our 11 day Portugal adventure

Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Oct 06, 2023

Hey Chris,
Greetings from Portugal!
Thank you so much for your feedback and wonderful words about your experience. I was super happy with the chance to welcome you and the rest of the group here - what a great adventure it was!!
Muito Obrigado,
João & Across Portugal Team

Gorgeous Country of Portugal
Portugal | Sep 11 - Sep 20, 2023

N
Nancy F.
West Chester, PA | Reviewed on Oct 01, 2023
Once again Kimkim did a fantastic job of ensuring a custom fit journey. My daughter and I absolutely loved Portugal and will be back. We would love to explore Porto and spend more time in the Azores. Joao was so informative and supportive up until even after we returned home. He accommodated us and guided us through the planning. Thank you so much. The people, the food and the culture in Portugal was delightful and made us feel welcomed. Read more

Once again Kimkim did a fantastic job of ensuring a custom fit journey. My daughter and I absolutely loved Portugal and will be back. We would love to explore Porto and spend more time in the Azores. Joao was so informative and supportive up until even after we returned home. He accommodated us and guided us through the planning. Thank you so much. The people, the food and the culture in Portugal was delightful and made us feel welcomed.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Britania Art Deco
Lisboa

Excellent service! The room was beautiful and the breakfast was amazing. The only thing I did not like was having to leave key at the front desk and that I had to go to front desk to get lock for the safe in the room. Other that than, it is in an excellent location in Lisbon and wonderful boutiquey hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cascais Miragem
Cascais - Portugal

We were only there for a short stay but it is a gorgeous hotel!! The breakfast buffet is incredible. The staff was so attentive and friendly. I would highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Exploring Lisbon's Riverside on a E-Bike Adventure to Belém
Exploring Lisbon's Riverside on a E-Bike Adventure to Belém
Lisbon

This is a must do in order to get the lay of the land in downtown Lisbon. Such a great way to see a city in a short amount of time . Our guide Alicia was fabulous. She was so informative with the history of the country and helpful with tip and restaurant suggestions.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Portugal

Gorgeous palace! I would probably skip the house tour unless you are there first thing in the morning. Go on the very 1st tour. Touristy place

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pedro was excellent!
Panoramic Boat to the Ponta da Piedade Grottoes
Panoramic Boat to the Ponta da Piedade Grottoes
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Exploring the Majesty of the Seas on a Group Whale Watching Experience
Exploring the Majesty of the Seas on a Group Whale Watching Experience
Portugal

If you like riding on a boat for hours this fun but I didn't feel it was worth that trip. The dolphins were absolutely amazing but we drove another hour or more and saw a whale in distance and then drove over 2 hours back. I think swimming with the dolphins would be on my next itinerary!

Quality of Experience
To Eat Suggestion:  A Tasca
To Eat Suggestion: A Tasca
Portugal

Fantastic food and staff!! Loved this place!

Quality of Experience
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon Walking Tour + Delicious Portuguese Flavours
Lisbon

This was fantastic personalized tour. We learned so much and the wine was delicious as well and the assortment of breads, cheeses and meats that they served with the wines. Excellent!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Oct 02, 2023

Hey Nancy,
Thank you so much for your kind words and feedback on our service regarding your recent trip to Portugal!
I am super happy to know you had a great time - that is the most important :)
All the best,
João & Across Portugal team

Joao’s planning and little surprises like roo...
Portugal | Sep 4 - Sep 13, 2023

S
Stephen K.
Durham, NC | Reviewed on Sep 14, 2023

Joao’s planning and little surprises like room upgrades and event tickets were top notch. We would recommend in a minute. The guides and drivers were all really good, on time and providing context to everything we were seeing. They added other things to see ideas as well along with restaurant suggestions when we were on our own. Our only negative. Although we gave Joao a specific budget, which sets certain limitations, our hotel had some aging issues. It’s part of a bigger chain and probably just hasn’t hit the list for renovations yet. Again, overall a fantastic experience. Thanks.

Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Sep 18, 2023

Hey Stephen,
Thank you so much for your words!
I am super happy to know you had a great time! Let's Go Portugal!!
Our team will also take your feedback into account for future recommendations.
Thank you once again for your trust - Obrigado!!
João & Across Portugal Team