24 hours in Porto
12 mai 2015 § 1 commentaire
Porto was by far the best surprise of all the cities I have visited until now. One of my friend has decided to spend few months as an exchange student here, and I never thought that Porto would be so lively and charming. Second largest city of Portugal and only two hours flight distant from Paris, it boasts everything you could dream for the perfect holiday: beach, cool eating spots, excellent wine and warm weather.
I found everything I love here: very good burgers at Munchie, incredible fresh juices at Liquid Baixa and my favorite Pastel de Nata. Nobody here is in a hurry, Portuenses (people of Porto) are taking their time, enjoying a glass of wine with a Francesinha on the terrass. Concerning nightlife, you will see Rua Galeria de Paris being completely transformed after dinner time: the street is full of modern cocktail bars and trendy restaurants. If you are a night owl, you will love this area. 
The historical core of Porto was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by Unesco and you can admire the magnificent Azulejos, which are painted tiles – ornamenting many buildings. 
What to do if you are in Porto for a week end? The must-see Livrario Lello, where the best selling author JK Rowling found inspiration, building of Casa da Musica designed by Rem Koolhas, taste Pastel de Nata and finally have a wine testing among the many cellars located on the riverfront of the Douro. 
Address: Munchie – Praça Filipa de Lencastre, 183 ; Liquid Baixa – Rua do Almada, 203 ; Nata Lisboa for Pastel de Nata.
Tea at BUuh! e etc – Porto
11 mai 2015 § Poster un commentaire
After the visit of Casa da Música designed by the architect Rem Koolhas, Joséphine and I stumbled upon this Casa de Chá (tea house in portuguese) located on Praça da Republica. Teas are from Palais des thés and there is large choice of delicious cakes and pastries. 
BUuh! e etc was a very nice spot for drinking tea in a relaxing atmosphere. An edgy selection of magazines, vintage furniture and vinyls are decorating this space.
Address: Praça da Republica, 164 – facebook page here.
Where to shop in Porto: A Vida Portuguesa
9 mai 2015 § 1 commentaire
A Vida Portuguesa is located in a 19th century building, just near the Lello bookstore where tourists are stopping by. The shop displays original furniture and various items all made in Portugal. You can purchase soaps, tableware, canned sardines and olive oil. The interior of the store is very spacious and you can admire the Clerigos tower from the first floor. 
I bought propolis « sabonete » (soaps in portuguese) with a retro packaging. If you are looking for a gift, I am sure you will find something that will please you.
Address : Rua Galeria de Paris 20
Pastel de Nata at Nata Lisboa – Porto
8 mai 2015 § 1 commentaire
Pastel de Nata is a portuguese treat made with egg yolks. The first time I had egg tart, it was in Hong Kong at Tai Cheong bakery. I did not have any crush back then because of the strong egg flavor. The original version I had in Porto was more « creamier » inside with a smooth crust. Compared to the Hong Kong version, the tarts were sweeter with a touch of caramel and vanilla. 
They can be enjoyed at any moment of the day, at breakfast with a coffee or for afternoon goûter as well. After trying Pastel de Nata at different places, my friends and I unanimously agreed that the best ones were at Nata Lisboa. There are currently two locations in Porto, you can’t miss them because you will see displayed : « The world needs Nata ». I can’t agree more!
Address in Porto: Rua das Flores, 291 and Rua Santa Catarina, 499.
Sugarsheet 