# Portugal: Tiles, Trams, Tarts & Vino Verde


There are some places you visit and then there are places that seem to settle right into your soul. Portugal could be one of those places.

From the colourful streets of Porto, to the energy of Lisbon, and the breathtaking beauty of the Douro Valley. Portugal reminds us that sometimes the best way to travel is simply to slow down and take it all in.

In Porto, we loved discovering how easy it is to get around. The metro system makes exploring feel effortless, leaving you more time to wander, discover little cafés, admire the architecture and, of course, enjoy a glass of wine!

Speaking of vino, Vinho Verde is light, refreshing and absolutely perfect for sipping while watching the world go by. Sometimes mindfulness comes in a wine glass, as I reminisce about Portugal.

Then there's Lisbon, with its hills, trams, winding streets and endless character. Around every corner is another beautiful scene although sometimes distracted by cranes, the Portuguese tiles, or azulejos are gorgeous, they turn ordinary buildings into works of art.

And then... the Douro Valley.

Wow. Definitely a highlight of our vacation. Rolling vineyards stretching along the river, terraced hillsides, charming villages and landscapes that make you stop talking for a moment which, for us travellers, is saying something!

Let's not forget one of Portugal's most delicious little treasures: the pastel de nata.

That flaky, golden pastry filled with creamy custard and sprinkled with cinnamon is basically a mindful moment all by itself. Find a little café, order a coffee and a pastel de nata, sit back and enjoy every single bite.

No rushing allowed.

Portugal taught us another little mindful lesson:

You don't have to rush to experience more.

Take the metro. Wander the streets. Look up at the tiles. Sip the Vinho Verde. Enjoy a pastel de nata. Watch the Douro River. Get lost down a little lane. Stop for coffee. Have another glass of wine. And let the day unfold.

Because sometimes the most memorable moments aren't the ones we planned.

They're the ones where we simply paused long enough to notice how beautiful the moment was.

Travel mindfully. Wander freely. Sip slowly. Eat the pastry, and always leave room for a little wonderment.

Yours reminiscing,
Ms. Mindful Traveller