Porto's Got a Weird Vibe (and I'm Here for It)
okay, so porto. i didn't really plan to come here, you know? one minute i'm dodging pigeons in berlin, the next i'm staring at azulejos. it’s… a lot. i just checked and it's drizzling a persistent, almost apologetic rain right now, hope you like that kind of thing. it’s not exactly sunshine and sangria, but it’s got a certain charm, i guess.
I’m operating on about three hours of sleep and a questionable pastel de nata, so bear with me. I’m trying to channel my inner history nerd, which is proving difficult when all i want to do is find a decent coffee. Speaking of which, someone told me that the place near the *São Bento train station is legit, but be prepared to elbow your way in. Apparently, it’s a thing.
I’ve been wandering around the Ribeira district, which is… touristy, obviously. But also kind of beautiful in a chaotic, overflowing-with-people kind of way. The buildings are all these crazy colors, and the river is… well, it’s a river. I’m not a river expert. I did see a guy trying to sell hand-painted tiles, which felt very on-brand. I almost bought one, but then I remembered i’m traveling with a backpack and my back is already screaming.
I overheard some drunk tourists complaining about the hills. Honestly, they’re not that bad. It’s like a gentle workout. Plus, the views from the top are worth it. I’m thinking of checking out the Livraria Lello, apparently J.K. Rowling got some inspiration there. I’m not a huge Harry Potter fan, but a beautiful bookstore is a beautiful bookstore. You can find more info here: TripAdvisor.
I’m staying in a tiny apartment near Cedofeita*, which is apparently the “cool” neighborhood. It’s… quieter. Which is nice. I found a little cafe that serves amazing bifanas. Seriously, go there. I can’t remember the name, but it’s on Rua Miguel Bombarda. Yelp says it’s got a 4.5-star rating. Yelp
I’m trying to be a responsible traveler and learn a few basic portuguese phrases, but my brain is refusing to cooperate. “Obrigado” seems to cover most situations, though. I also heard that if you’re looking for vintage clothes, you should head to Rua da Cândida. Apparently, it’s a treasure trove. I’m definitely going to check it out tomorrow. I’m always on the hunt for a good oversized blazer.
If you get bored, braga and vila nova de gaia are just a short drive away. I’m thinking of taking a day trip to gaia to check out the port wine cellars. I’m not a huge drinker, but a little port wine tasting sounds… pleasant. Someone a local warned me about the crowds at the cellars, so book in advance. Check out this local forum for more tips: Porto Forum.
Honestly, porto is just… weird. In a good way. It’s not polished or perfect, but it’s got character. And a lot of hills. And a persistent drizzle. And amazing bifanas. I’m not sure what i’m doing here, but i’m enjoying it. For now. The temperature is 19.26 degrees, feels like 18.78, and the pressure is 1008. Humidity is 59%. Sea level is 1008, ground level 1006. Who even cares?
Okay, i’m off to find more coffee. Wish me luck.
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