It has become a habit now that I have morning coffee and a small piece of pastry in Afurada – the old fishing village here at the South banks of River Douro. It is just 5 minutes walk from the marina. These little cafes in Portugal are the “synonym“ for pubs in England – social meeting points of the locals to meet and chat!

The little cafe called Cristina and it’s friendly staff have now started to teach me some words in Portuguese every morning I turn up and try to place my order. In the evening the village turns into special street food atmosphere with simple restaurant arrangements serving seafood prepared on smoking charcoal grills next to the tables placed along the streets.

I enjoy my days at this historical spot in Porto away from the main tourist crowd and look very much forward to welcome Susan tonight here in Portugal.

Fair winds…