Porto

I came to Porto early to give myself five slow days before meeting Sue, Glenys, and Cheryl for our Camino. Gianni and I settled into an apartment on a lively square near the river — lots of visitors, music drifting up from the Ribeira, and a scene that reminds me of a weekend on River Street in Savannah, with tourist eateries, live bands, and vendors calling out. Still, Porto has a much more charming, small‑town feel compared to Lisbon.

We spent the week exploring: wandering the old streets, crossing bridges, visiting the market, taking a boat ride, and spending an afternoon at the WOW wine experience. One evening we joined a local food tour originally created for Anthony Bourdain — definitely a highlight. There was also a port tasting, a walk through the market, and, in true traveler fashion, Neapolitan pizza and gelato.

Everyone arrives today, and I’m shifting into Camino mode. The photos I’m sharing are mostly river views, city corners, and a few selfies from these lively, colorful days before the walk begins.Read more