Happy New Year! 🎉
Here’s a slice-of-life story I captured while filming scenery during a trip to Porto, Portugal. The tour guide, talked about a special New Year’s tradition celebrated by the Portuguese. It’s Porto’s version of the polar plunge.
On January 1 of each year, people visit Ourigo Beach to bathe in the cold North Atlantic waters. This tradition started because the residents believed taking a dip in the water would bring good luck for the year.
Travel tip: Book a tour from a trusted vendor before you arrive.
Asali Traveler Viator Shop
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon. It is the capital of the Porto District and located along the Douro River in northern Portugal. The city is best known for its Port wine. It’s a great base to visit smaller, notable areas such as Braga and Barcelos. It’s a beautiful city full of old world charm and picturesque views.
Why it’s worth it to join a tour
I probably wouldn’t have learned about this or many other uniquely Portuguese stories if not for a planned tour. Organized tours create a more intimate and engaging trip. You learn so much about the place you’re visiting from an insider’s lived experience. When you’re traveling solo it gives you the chance to chat with people from other countries too. And when your guide is fluent in English it’s a bonus! No fooling with translator headsets or phone apps.
Whether I’m traveling solo or with a group, I always like to book a local tour ahead of time. Although, I have booked when I first arrive if the weather is a little iffy where I’m going. Check out some of the excursions I’ve curated for a Portugal vacation. Take a dinner cruise at sunset, bike around the city or visit a Port wine cellar. You can always visit my Viator Shop link any time you’re ready to book a tour. You might even get a discount of up to 20% off!
Interested in traveling to Portugal? Keep following for more experiences and tips.
Pinkpodster Ponders 