An overview of the tour was very favourable. Well organized and the transportation was two nine passenger vans for 12 clients. There were two guides/ drivers - lead Carlos, assistant Mariana, who were very good and also a trainee Rodrigo ) so we were well attended. Good advice and always there for resupply of water.

Hotels were good of the **** variety except for The Literary Man in Obidos which was a three dressed up as a four. It did however have offsetting qualities such as the location right next to the walled city, very good close restaurants, an unusual and quirky decor of thousands of books everywhere, and a pleasant staff. Breakfasts were good with quality and quantity. Hotel in Batalha had an excellent location next to the monastery and an excellent restaurant.

Most meals were based on the recommendations of the guides and the food and wine in Portugal is excellent.

The physical level of the tour was classified as easy which was somewhat misleading. Portugal is very hilly and the normal day was at least 10 km. and sometimes a lot more. When possible ( such as in Coimbra ) they tried to start at the top and walk down.

Porto is a very interesting and scenic town. Lots to do and see and the extra day ( due to a screw up by Easy Jet) turned out to be beneficial.

Drives tended to be shorter and the scenery pleasant.

My favourite day was the third day when we drove to the Douro Bally , had an hour cruise on a boat up the river, and then had a visit to a picturesque winery ( Quinta de Tedo )with a delicious lunch with the local wines, and a tour and generous portion tasting to complete the afternoon.

The cities of Coimbra ( University ), the seaside town of Nazare (huge surfing waves and beach town, Obidos ( small fortified walled medieval city ) were all quaint and appealing. Due to workers strikes they had to alter the intinerary and so substitute Belem for Sintra which was a bonus.

Lisbon is a great city and staying the extra days was a plus as the three days happened during the biggest holiday of the year and so it was like being in Carnival with the parades, the out door concerts, many street celebrations complete with food, beverages, and dancing. Found some excellent restaurants.

Mike - Brandon, MB - June 2023