Porto: Rain, Rum, and Really Weird Vibes

okay, so i’m pretty sure i’m running on caffeine and regret. 180389… 1404110872. don’t ask. it’s a number. a really long one. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. the humidity is clinging to everything like a damp wool blanket - 90% and rising, apparently. the pressure’s a little low too, 1011, which makes my ears feel like they’re trying to escape. it’s like stepping into a sauna that’s also a slightly melancholic jazz club.

I landed in Porto a few days ago, and honestly? it’s… intense. it’s not the postcard-perfect Portugal you see on Instagram. it’s gritty, it’s loud, it’s overflowing with history and a serious love affair with port wine. i’m talking about the real stuff, the kind that makes you question your life choices while simultaneously feeling incredibly alive.

I’m staying in Vila Nova de Gaia, which is basically the port wine district. it’s a chaotic mix of warehouses, tiny restaurants, and people shouting about vintage blends. i found this place called ‘O Buraco’ - it’s a tiny, dimly lit bar with the best francesinha i’ve ever had. seriously, it’s a sandwich. a mountain of meat, cheese, and a fried egg, drenched in a spicy tomato sauce. someone told me that the owner, Manuel, used to be a competitive pigeon racer. wild, right?

I spent yesterday wandering around Ribeira, the old town. it’s a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and the Douro River snaking through it all. it’s beautiful, but also packed with tourists. i almost got run over by a tuk-tuk - twice. i’m starting to think i need a personal bodyguard. I stumbled upon this little shop selling vintage buttons - seriously, thousands of them. it was a sensory overload. I ended up buying a handful, mostly because i have no idea what to do with them.

Speaking of sensory overload, the food here is… a lot. I had tripas à moda do Porto (tripe stew) last night. Let’s just say it’s an experience. I heard that it’s a local delicacy, but i’m not sure i’ll be ordering it again. Definitely check out TripAdvisor for some decent eats - https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g190951-Porto_Portugal.html.

I’m trying to capture the vibe with my camera, but it’s hard to translate the feeling of this place. it’s like… a faded photograph, slightly out of focus, but still holding a spark of something real. i’m mostly shooting street scenes, trying to get that authentic, unpolished look. I’m using a vintage Pentax K1000 - it’s a beast, but it’s reliable. If you’re into photography, check out some local workshops - https://www.yelp.com/events/porto-portugal.

My neighbors are mostly older Portuguese guys who spend their days playing dominoes in the square. they don’t speak much English, but they’re incredibly friendly. if you get bored, Vila Nova de Gaia is just a short drive away, full of port cellars and riverside cafes. I heard that the best port is made by a guy named Senhor Silva, but he’s notoriously grumpy.

Someone told me that the best way to experience Porto is to get lost. Seriously, just wander around and see what you find. Don’t plan anything, just go with the flow. And definitely try the Francesinha. You won’t regret it.

I’m also trying to find some hidden gems - places that aren’t on the tourist trail. i’m following local Instagram accounts, checking out local boards, and just asking people for recommendations. I found this amazing little bookstore tucked away on a side street - it’s filled with old Portuguese novels and maps. It’s a total treasure. I’m thinking of starting a collection.

I’m seriously considering buying a small apartment here. it’s a crazy thought, but the prices are surprisingly reasonable. I’d probably fill it with vintage buttons and port wine. Maybe. Right now, i’m just trying to survive on coffee and adrenaline. I need a nap. and maybe a stronger drink.

Pro-tip: Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. It goes a long way. And don’t be afraid to get lost. That’s where the real adventures happen. Also, wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking. And don’t trust anyone who offers you a “special” port wine. Seriously.

Check out this local board for events and happenings: https://www.portugal444.com/

Okay, that’s enough rambling for now. I’m going to go find a cafe and try to recharge. Boa noite!