Tag Archives: porto

Porto, Week Two: Slowing Down Before the Next Adventure

Our second week in Porto was slower, sweeter, and exactly what we needed before setting off again. Instead of rushing from one landmark to another, we allowed ourselves to just live in the city—strolling cobblestone streets, sipping great wine, indulging in ice cream and gelato, and admiring Porto’s colorful tiled facades. Sometimes the simplest days end up being the most memorable.

Back at Time Out Market (and Feeling It Later)
We couldn’t resist heading back to Time Out Market Porto for another round of DJs and good vibes. This time, we struck up a conversation with a fun group from Denmark, and before we knew it, we were tagging along for a night out. A short walk around the city at night provided a welcome reminder of just how special this city is. Not long after, drinks were flowing (vodka and Red Bulls, no less), and we danced our way into the early hours. Let’s just say: they were 30, and we are not. We had a blast, but the next two days reminded us that recovery takes a little longer than it used to.

A Day Trip to Aveiro
One day we hopped on the train to Aveiro, often nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal.” While charming in its own way, the comparison is a bit generous—there aren’t nearly as many canals as we expected. Still, the city had its own quirks and beauty. Known for its colorful moliceiro boats, Art Nouveau buildings, and traditional sweet pastries called ovos moles(egg yolk and sugar wrapped in wafer), Aveiro was worth the quick visit.

We had lunch at Yeah! Restaurant, a trendy spot that puts a modern twist on traditional Portuguese flavors. Dessert was the highlight: Ice Cream Portugal. I kept it classic with two scoops, while Casey went all in with a waffle topped with banana ice cream, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. Delicious doesn’t even cover it.

Tattoo Rebirth
One of the most personal highlights for me was getting my phoenix tattoo redone at Vulcan Tattoo in Porto. The original was done 11 years ago, but it was time for a rebirth—fitting, since the phoenix itself symbolizes renewal and rising from the ashes. The artist did incredible work, and I couldn’t be happier with the fresh, bold design. It felt like closing an old chapter and beginning a new one.

Final Night at Sala de Provas
On our last evening in Porto, we treated ourselves to a memorable dinner at Sala de Provas, a wine bar perched high above the city. The views were phenomenal, the wine tastings perfectly curated, and the food sublime. I had an incredible cod dish paired with homemade chips, while Casey enjoyed a perfectly cooked steak. It was the ideal way to toast to our time in Porto before moving on.

Hello, Montenegro!
Yesterday we arrived in Kotor, Montenegro, and wow—this place is astonishing. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea and backed by dramatic mountains, Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history. Its Old Town is a maze of medieval streets, squares, and stone churches, including St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 1100s.

Oh, and the cats. Kotor is famously full of them. They lounge on steps, wander cobblestones, and seem to be unofficial mascots of the city. I want to pet them all.

We’ll be here for 19 days, giving us time to explore at a relaxed pace. Plans include a boat tour of the Adriatic, a trip to nearby Tivat, fresh seafood, and maybe another wine tour before heading to the beaches along the Budva Riviera for a couple weeks. After the heat of Madrid and Porto, this feels like the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and seaside charm.

Porto, thank you for being unforgettable. Montenegro, let’s see what you’ve got.

Porto, Portugal: Love at First Sight

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From the very first moments in Porto, we knew this was going to be one of those cities we’d never want to leave. The colorful buildings adorned with hand-painted azulejo tiles, the graceful curve of the Douro River, the wide, walkable streets lined with shops and cafés—it all felt instantly inviting. Somehow, it already felt like home.

Life on Rua das Flores
Our condo is right on Rua das Flores, one of Porto’s most charming pedestrian streets. From our balcony, we have front-row seats to endless people-watching. The street is lined with restaurants, boutiques, and hotels, and it’s always buzzing with life. Street performers set the soundtrack—musicians strumming guitars, singers belting ballads, artists painting on the spot, and even magicians drawing curious crowds. It’s the kind of energy that makes you want to linger outside long after your meal is finished.

Dancing at Time Out Market
One evening we found ourselves at a small rave at Time Out Market Porto. This modern food hall brings together some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and specialty vendors under one roof. We sipped beer and Port wine while dancing until midnight, enjoying the laid-back vibe. Casey ordered mushroom risotto, while I went for seafood rice—both dishes absolute perfection.

Porto on a Plate (and in a Glass)
The food here has been nothing short of amazing—fresh hummus, cod prepared every way imaginable, salmon, steaks, and crisp vegetables. I also discovered my new favorite drink: the Port Tonic. Similar to a gin and tonic but lighter and more refreshing, it’s the perfect sunny-day sipper.

Of course, we couldn’t skip Porto’s signature dish: the Francesinha. Imagine a decadent sandwich layered with cured ham, fresh sausage, and steak, covered in melted cheese, then drenched in a rich tomato-and-beer sauce. It’s indulgent, messy, and unforgettable.

A Day in the Douro Valley
Yesterday, we took a private wine tour into the Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in the world and the birthplace of Port wine. Our first stop was Amarante, a small city famous for its romantic bridges, charming streets, and, perhaps most surprisingly, its fertility traditions. We visited the monastery where Saint Gonçalo—the patron saint of fertility—is buried, and even sampled the infamous pastry shaped like… well, let’s just say it’s an eyebrow-raising local specialty.

From there, we visited two wineries: H.O. Winery and Quinta do Covão. Both offered fascinating insights into wine production, from the valley’s uniquely terraced vineyards to the traditional methods still used for making Port. The Douro Valley’s climate is notably warmer—about 15°F hotter than Porto—thanks to the surrounding mountains, which shield it from Atlantic breezes and create a Mediterranean-like microclimate ideal for grape growing.

We sampled dry reds and whites, along with various Ports (though Casey maintains that Port tastes like a “sweet cigarette”). Between the tastings, we enjoyed a scenic boat ride along the Douro River, where steep vineyards tumbled down to the water’s edge. The drive in and out of the valley was just as breathtaking—rolling hills, endless vines, and golden sunlight at every turn.

What’s Next
We have one more week in Porto before heading to Montenegro for a month. The plan is simple: relax, explore the city by foot, drink more wine, eat more amazing food, and maybe take a day trip to Braga or Aveiro—or both.

Porto has already stolen our hearts. Something tells me this love affair is just getting started.

-With Love from My Travel Era,

Brandon

The Journey Continues: Leg 2 of Our World Travels is Locked In!

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After an unforgettable start to the first leg of our journey—from Appalachian charm and Disney magic to the vibrant streets of Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias—we’re thrilled to share that Leg 2 of our global sabbatical is officially finalized! 🌍✈️

The next stretch will take us deeper into Europe, exploring cities bursting with history, food, and flair, before we trade cobblestone alleys for Caribbean breezes. Here’s where we’re headed next:

🇮🇸 Iceland | June 27 – July 5
A land of fire and ice, Iceland kicks off our European summer adventure with otherworldly landscapes, geothermal hot springs, dramatic waterfalls, and endless daylight. We’ll be chasing puffins by day and basking in the midnight sun by night.

🇪🇸 Barcelona, Spain | July 5 – July 10
Gaudí’s whimsical architecture, beachside charm, and bustling tapas bars set the stage for five unforgettable days in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Expect a mix of culture, cocktails, and seaside strolls.

🇵🇹 Lisbon, Portugal | July 10 – July 13
A short but sweet stay in Portugal’s colorful capital, where old-world charm meets modern cool. Think pastel buildings, steep hills, soulful Fado music, and flaky pastel de nata with a view.

🇩🇰 Copenhagen, Denmark | July 13 – July 16
We’re popping into one of Scandinavia’s happiest capitals for canal-side bike rides, Nordic cuisine, and maybe even a visit to Tivoli Gardens. It’s sleek, sustainable, and effortlessly stylish.

🇧🇪 Brussels, Belgium (Tomorrowland) | July 16 – July 22
We’ll dive into waffles, beer, and electronic beats as we base ourselves in Brussels for one of the most iconic music festivals in the world—Tomorrowland. Culture by day, rave by night.

🇪🇸 Ibiza, Spain | July 22 – July 25
Three days of sunsets, sea breezes, and chill vibes to recharge after the high energy of Tomorrowland. Ibiza offers the perfect mix of beach lounging and Balearic beats.

🇪🇸 Madrid, Spain | July 25 – August 8

Two weeks in the heart of Spain’s capital to soak in sultry summer nights, world-class museums, tapas culture, and rooftop cocktails. After the party vibes of Ibiza, this leg promises a more refined, yet equally lively, rhythm.

🇵🇹 Porto, Portugal | August 8 – August 21

Ah, Porto—where wine flows like water and every street looks like a painting. We’re setting up camp here for two weeks of riverfront strolls, port tastings, and day trips through the Douro Valley. Yes, please.

🇲🇪 Tivat, Montenegro | August 21 – September 26

We’re slowing down in style. Tivat gives us access to the Bay of Kotor, medieval towns, rugged mountains, and beaches that beg for long, lazy afternoons. This will be our moment to pause, reset, and soak in Balkan beauty.

🇸🇪 🇳🇴 Scandinavia | September 26 – October 21

As autumn sets in, we’ll head north in search of the aurora borealis and cozy train rides through fjords and forests. From Stockholm to Oslo and (hopefully!) all the way to Abisko, this leg promises magic in every sense.

🚢 Caribbean Cruise | November 1 – November 8

Back to the states! Time to trade layers for swimsuits. We’ll set sail for a week-long Caribbean cruise stopping in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and the Bahamas to celebrate our brother Dustyn’s birthday. Sun, sea, and some well-earned pampering after a whirlwind European adventure.

🇺🇸 Georgia (November) & North Carolina (December)

We’ll wrap up 2025 stateside, reconnecting with family and friends for the holidays in two of our favorite southern stops before gearing up for Leg 3—our leap into Asia and the Pacific.

We’re incredibly grateful to be able to continue this journey together—gathering memories, stories, and probably a few extra pounds from all the food. If you’ve been to any of these destinations, drop us a tip or must-see! Otherwise, come along for the ride here at Brand On The Run. 💫

Living Our Dream,
– B & C