September 12, 2022
What a week it has been here in Porto! It’s always nice when something exceeds expectations, and Porto certainly has. I have been charmed by the city since my driver dropped me off a week ago. My little studio apartment is in an ideal location, and I’ve had fun cooking in my petite yet fully equipped kitchen. (The convection/microwave oven is the bomb.)
The hills of Porto have helped me burn calories. My legs are looking good. In fact, I feel healthier. I am recuperating from the stress of the past three years. It feels good to let go and just enjoy the experiences.
I am also getting better at just rolling with it. I am well aware that life is not going to go to plan. Sometimes the unexpected ends up being the best or most memorable. I remember missing the bus the other day. The walk down through the Foz ended up being better than riding the bus. Then today, I had planned to go on a bike ride. It ended up being a rainy day, so that idea was out. Instead, I went to the little cheese shop up the street this afternoon, and I’m so happy I did! When was the last time you had a sausage grilled at your table?
Things I loved about Porto:
- My little studio apartment. The location is perfect, just a block from Santa Catarina pedestrian street and the Majestic Café.
- The stone sidewalks. Hard on the feet but so charming!
- People are generally amiable and feel down to earth. I’m not feeling any snobbery here.
- Whimsical and lively public art
- The carillon (it looks like a huge cuckoo clock) rings every quarter hour starting at 9:00 AM and plays a song on the hour. I didn’t see it in person until the end of my week here!
- There are hills, lots of hills. You’ll stay in shape walking here.
- One-hour full body massage for 30 euros.
- Lots of musicians and singers throughout the city streets
- Groups of people spontaneously break out in song.
- The Douro River is gorgeous, and the scenery is varied.
- Parks and plazas.
- Tiled buildings, especially the churches
- Market equal to Spanish markets (I have traveled extensively through Spain.)
- Beautiful beaches on the Atlantic Ocean
Wandering Shannon 