SUMMER TRIP 2023: JUNE 18TH – JULY 1ST
Day 1: The adventure began on Day 1 as 25 travelers and 6 staff members embarked on our journey to Lisbon, Portugal. With excitement and anticipation in our hearts, we boarded their flights, eager to explore the rich culture, history, and landscapes that awaited them in this beautiful European country.
Day 2: marked our arrival in Lisbon, where we were immediately captivated by the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The group spent the day touring Lisbon, soaking in the sights and sounds of its diverse neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and bustling streets. The pastel-colored buildings, vintage trams, and scenic viewpoints provided a perfect introduction to the city’s unique charm and character.
Day 3: On Day 3, we delved deeper into Lisbon’s historical and cultural treasures. We started the day with a visit to Sao Jorge Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the city. From it’s ancient ramparts, we enjoyed breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon’s red-tiled roofs and the shimmering Tagus River. The group then proceeded to the National Azulejo Museum, where they marveled at Portugal’s distinctive ceramic tiles, known as azulejos. These beautifully painted tiles told the story of the country’s history and artistry through intricate designs and vivid colors. The day concluded at the Time Out Market, a gourmet food hall that offered a plethora of culinary delights. Here, we sampled a diverse array of local dishes, from fresh seafood to delectable pastries, savoring the flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
Day 4: Day four was dedicated to exploring the district of Belem, rich in maritime history. The first stop was the iconic Belem Tower, a fortress that once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. This impressive structure, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, provided insights into the country’s seafaring past. Nearby, the Padrao dos Descobrimentos stood as a tribute to the explorers who expanded the horizons of the known world. The monument’s detailed carvings and grand scale inspired a sense of adventure and discovery. Later in the evening, the group headed to Pink Street, a vibrant nightlife spot in the heart of the city, where they experienced Lisbon’s lively and contemporary side.
Day 5: On Day 5, we left Lisbon and journeyed south to the Algarve, a region renowned for its stunning coastline and picturesque towns. Along the way, they made several stops to admire the diverse landscapes and quaint villages that characterized this part of Portugal. Each stop provided a glimpse into local life and the natural beauty that made the Algarve a favorite destination.
Day 6: Day 6 was spent exploring some of the Algarve’s most famous natural attractions. The day began at Praia do Camilo, a beach famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. We then moved on to Ponta de Piedade, a headland with breathtaking rock formations and sea caves that offered spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. We chartered a boat and set sail for the afternoon to explore the sea caves, ocean, and Algarve’s beautiful coastline. Everyone had a chance to steer the boat with the captain, making a memorable moment for all of us. The final stop of the day was the Castelo dos Governadores, a historic castle that provided insights into the region’s Moorish past and the architectural styles that had influenced the area.
Day 7: We took the group to several key locations within the Algarve. We visited Faro, the region’s capital, known for its well-preserved medieval quarters and lively marina. Next was Albufeira, a popular resort town with beautiful beaches and a vibrant atmosphere. The day concluded in Carvoeiro, a charming village with a scenic coastline that was perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
Day 8: We headed to the Douro Region, famed for its vineyards and stunning landscapes. Here, we visited a local vineyard to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region’s renowned wines. The Douro Valley’s terraced vineyards, combined with the winding river, created a picture-perfect setting that epitomized the beauty of Portugal’s countryside.
Day 9: Day 9 was dedicated to Aveiro, often referred to as the Venice of Portugal due to its network of canals and colorful moliceiro boats. The group explored the city’s charming streets and enjoyed a boat ride through the canals, taking in the Art Nouveau architecture and lively market scenes. Aveiro’s unique blend of tradition and modernity made it a captivating destination.
Day 10: The journey continued on Day 10 with a trip to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its stately bridges and port wine production. The travelers immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Ribeira (Riverside) District, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with medieval buildings and bustling cafes. They visited the Bolhao Market, where they experienced the local culture through its fresh produce. Some of the group took a scenic ride on the Gaia cable car looking over historical Port wine cellars in the historical area of Gaia and the dazzling views over the world heritage Porto and river Douro, in the route between the Cais de Gaia and the Morro garden.
The next day we traveled back to Lisbon where we all had a hearty farewell dinner sitting by the water and recapping our adventures. Half the group went back to the United States and the rest continued on for the second portion of the summer trip to England and set sail on the Anthem of the Seas in Norway.
