Porto: Rain, Rum, and Really Weird Vibes
okay, so i’m pretty sure i’m running on caffeine and regret. i landed in porto yesterday, and honestly, it’s… a lot. the humidity is clinging to me like a damp towel, and it’s 18.7 degrees, feels like 19.16. pressure’s 1015, which is… fine, i guess? it’s like breathing underwater. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing.
seriously, the rain. it’s not a dramatic, cinematic downpour. it’s just… persistent. a grey, drizzly thing that seems to seep into your bones. i’m picturing it now, a constant sheen on the *Ribeira buildings, reflecting the streetlights. it’s kinda beautiful, in a melancholic way. i’m staying in this tiny Airbnb - it’s basically a converted attic, which is cool, but the stairs are a nightmare.
found a little tasca down a side street - ‘O Buraco’ - and the vinho verde was surprisingly decent. i overheard a guy telling the bartender that someone told him the best pastel de nata is at Pasteis de Belém, but honestly, i’m not convinced. i’m sticking with what i know.
Speaking of locals, if you get bored, Viana do Castelo are just a short drive away. They’re a pretty serious bunch, these people. Lots of weathered faces and a quiet intensity. I heard that the seafood is incredible, but also that the locals are fiercely protective of their fishing spots. Don’t even think about trying to sneak a peek.
I spent the afternoon wandering around the Livraria Lello, which is apparently where J.K. Rowling got inspiration for Harry Potter. It’s gorgeous, all stained glass and winding staircases, but also packed with tourists. Felt a bit like being trapped in a particularly elaborate Instagram filter.
Checked out the Serralves Museum - modern art, which is… well, it’s modern art. Some of it was actually kinda cool, some of it made me want to throw things. The gardens were a nice escape from the city though.
Someone told me that the best way to experience Porto is to just get lost. Seriously, ditch the map and wander. You’ll stumble upon hidden squares, tiny cafes, and maybe even a secret wine cellar. Just… don’t expect to find anything that isn’t slightly damp.
I’m trying to find a decent coffee shop, but it’s proving difficult. Everything seems to be serving some kind of weird, overly-sweet concoction. I need a straight espresso, stat. I’m thinking of hitting up that place near the train station - ‘Café Majestic’ - but Yelp reviews are mixed.
Seriously, the rain. It’s like a constant, low-level hum. It’s making me crave dark chocolate and strong spirits. I’m contemplating a pilgrimage to a rua filled with port cellars. Maybe I’ll even try to learn how to make it myself. Probably not.
I heard that the best way to avoid the tourist traps is to follow the locals. Just keep an eye out for where they’re eating and drinking - that’s usually a good sign. And don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. Most people are surprisingly friendly, even if they don’t speak much English.
Okay, I need to go. My eyelids are starting to feel heavy. I’m going to find a place to crash and try to decipher the mysteries of Portuguese street food. Wish me luck.
Pro-Tip: Wear waterproof shoes. Seriously. You’ll thank me later.
Local Advice: Don’t trust anyone who offers you a “free” glass of wine. Just… don’t.
Resources:
TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/
Porto Local Board: https://www.visitporto.travel/
And, you know, just… embrace the rain. It’s part of the charm.