I still think of my trip, review my pictures....and smile,
Portugal
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May 21 - Jun 3, 2025
I still think of my trip, review my pictures, and share stories with anyone that'll listen! The attention to the details by Tiago was extraordinary. The app we received had all the details we needed for our trip, a fantastic online tool and reference instead of carrying paper records. I made the mistake of looking for answers online for a couple of specific thing, that had I thought about it, Tiago would have given me the answers. One: how to dress in Portugal? The site I visited was way off, and when I mentioned to Tiago, he sweetly gave the truth about how to dress for each location on our itinerary. Porto was our first stop, and what a beautiful city. We ventured down south to the Algarve and returned to Lisbon for our departure home. The Douro Valley, Guimaraes, Tomar, Evora, Lagos, Tavira, and so many other stops. We had 14 beautiful days in Portugal, it's a beautiful country, with lovely people, and fantastic food. And it's all thanks to the expertise and love Tiago has for his country. I'm so glad I didn't travel or plan blindly, I may have missed all the beauty Tiago exposed to us, We plan on going back....soon. Even hopes to find a second home in Lagos.
Hotel Reviews
In the heart of Porto, a stylish boutique hotel, comfortable accommodations, lovely breakfast, and friendly and helpful staff. Shower was not great, had to worry about water running out of the shower stall, design was not smart.
Vasco was so special. What a pleasant young man! When he explained his name was like Vasco da Gama, I misunderstood and thought he was actually a descendant! What great laughs we had at my expense. Great sleep at night. We did it all. Restaurants nearby, great stores, the history here is abundant. The staff friendly, delicious breakfast. The shower here was the best of all the hotels we stayed.
The photos on their website show the more glamorous rooms. Ours was small, but comfortable. It wasn't bad, but not beyond the average.
Location, location, location. At the Marina, but our room faced the bus terminal in the back, Luckily, we didn't spend too much time in our room. The staff were kind, professional, and helpful.
OMG! The best of all the hotels. Don't get me wrong, every hotel that was selected for our trip was classic, different, and comfortable. I just pointed out certain 'observations' on which they could approve. But Hotel Britania was a true historic and awesome hotel. Omar, Patric, Jose, and the dining room staff were so kind, engaged, and made our stay so memorable. We will be coming back here.
Activity Reviews
Wild boat ride. The two person boat team were great!
What a pleasant surprise on a tour focused on landmarks and history, an Olive Grove Visit. The beauty of the Olive Trees, especially the one that well over 2,000 years old.
I wish I was more artistically inclined. Some in the class were more talented. But it was still a great time, and we brought home our own creations,
Meu caro amigo Carlos!
Thank you so much for your words. I still recall very fondly the time we spent in the car because of the kids' festival in Cascais. And I start with this because it really left an impression on me. The way you spoke about your beloved ones (people and animals!!) was rather touching. I told you that I had goosebumps at a certain stage. And I told Tom the same.
I'm very happy that you enjoyed your trip and I hope to go visit you in the Algarve!!!
And I'm sorry for the longer walks!!!
All the best,
Tiago