Porto

This was a fraught few days.  I think Tony and I had a COVID hangover from Normandy and we split up our time with Joe according to our health.

I got to spend a day walking all around Porto with Joe.  I can't tell you what specifically you are looking at, but I can share scenes of the city.

This is a rough map of our walk.

I was impressed with this green rooftop space across from a famous, beautiful bookstore that is €15 to get into...

The bookstore is called Livraria Lello and is supposedly a stained glass wonder and a beautiful Gothic former home.  It is also rumored that JK Rowling got her inspiration to write the Harry Potter series while sipping coffee here.

We did not go in because of crowds .

I have to say, I am surprised by the crowds we have encountered in cities in October.  We will either have to wait until November next time, or just avoid cities.

The tiles, of course are always a showstopper.

This turned out to be a hamburger joint.

We got wandered long enough to get to the beautiful waterfront on the banks of the Duoro River.

There was a live band playing rock and roll hits.

There are crazy people jumping off the bridge into the river for cash from spectators.

The lower level of this bridge.

The funicular up the hill had too long a line, so Joe and I walked it. 

I'm not surprised that he made it...

We were lucky to stay in a lively,  vibrant neighborhood again.

I think the food may be another high point of Porto.  We had delicious meals every time we went out.  They take great pride in their coffee.  The seasonings are gorgeous. They have the local Vino Verde that is light and refreshing.

My Portuguese teacher on the Queen Elizabeth was from Porto, and when I asked him what to do there he said,  "See the bridge and then eat.  Eat the rest of your time there."

He may have had something there.