And so it began

I love to travel and going on vacations, but it's not that common at all to feel that I need it.

Well, now was one of those times. Dealing with serious health issues from a close family member (hopefully taken care of now), changes at work, a little bit of this and that, all that started to weight more than it should. Fortunately, I still have a ton of vacations this year, and took the week off. A week of relaxation, thoughts organization, taking a step back and thinking about life... and enjoy the free time.

They started a few days back, in the best way possible: a get together with close friends , a full day of catching up, eating, and enjoying the swimming pool! Since the location was a bit far from home, and in the direction of my chosen destiny for the next days, I took the opportunity and at the end of the day, followed straight to Porto, where a friend was kind enough to let me stay for the night. And even kinder in the next morning, becoming the perfect guide for a mini Porto tour!

Porto is an amazing city, and although I've been here quite a few times, I think it was the first time I've done it in a pure touristic form. We passed through a bunch of iconic places, such as estação de São Bento, the famous train station...

... and Mercado do Bulhão, the most famous market in Porto, now with a new face.

The views from the margins of Douro are some of the best you'll find in the city, especially if viewed from the other margin, Gaia.

And how to get there? Crossing the awesome Luis I bridge!

It was great rediscovering Porto and catching up, but the final destination was waiting for me. It's also a rediscovery, since 20 years have passed since I was here last time. But for a period of tranquility and introspection, it's perfect.

Nature is my fix.

And here, most forests are magical.

All these hiking trails will deserve proper posts, but I had to share some of the pearls until now.

I'll be offline most of the day, but will allow myself some brief periods to catch up on comments and minor interaction. Time doesn't stop, after all! 🙂

Have a great week!