Feeling Like Royalty, Dining as an Author

Today was another stellar day for touring—this time, by motorcycle and sidecar. Our guide for Porto was John, who came promptly at 9:30am. We introduced ourselves, put on our helmets, and got ready for a more than ordinary ride. We liked John immediately with his kind, informative and humorous ways. He gave us the usual safety talk, along with one other warning— by riding in a sidecar vehicle, we would be instant celebrities. And he was right! People everywhere of all ages waved, smiled or gawked at us. And I followed suit by giving them my best royal wave.

Up and down the hills we rolled, first along the river's edge and expansion bridge, then back into the city to see churches and government buildings. . .

When the explorers brought back ceramics from China centuries ago, the Portuguese created their own version of the tile as seen on the church above.

The following are a few Porto city views . . .

I enjoyed Porto much more than Lisboa. It was smaller, more navigable, and somewhat less hilly.

Finally across the river to Gaia, where the fishing boat industry and wine preservation continues.

It's also where J.K. Rowling lived while she wrote the first two Harry Potter books. We ended with a trip up past the military base and to the highest point of the city where an old Catholic Church is situated.

Many come here to take wedding or engagement photos. We had our anniversary photo taken!

We returned to our hotel with time to eat at the Majestic Café, known for serving and inspiring authors and poets, including of course, J.K. Rowling. This was where she had the inspiration to write her series, and name one evil character after Spain's former dictator—a slippery sort of person!

Then, a taxi took us to Leixôes (pronounced something like: Lee-shoines, believe it or not), where we caught our first glimpse of our home for the next four days. Breathtaking! Tomorrow, we visit an off-the-beaten-path location known for its natural beauty. . .