Porto, Portugal

Portugal, with a population of roughly 11 million, is located in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula. The Portuguese territory also includes the island of Madeira and the archipelago of the Azores. Portugal combines an interesting culture and breath-taking nature.

The north of Portugal is covered with green areas, the flat south stretches with the "Baixo Alentejo" up to the well-known holiday region of the "Algarve" at the Atlantic Ocean. Olive trees and the famous Portuguese cork oaks dominate the landscape here.

The Portuguese Empire was actually the first global empire in history. It was also one of the longest-lived colonial powers, lasting for almost six centuries. Half of the "New World" once belonged to Portugal. Portugal is also the oldest country in Europe, it has the same defined borders since 1139.

Over 236 million people world-wide are native Portuguese speakers. Portuguese is the official language of 9 counties.

Cultural features are Fado and bullfighting.

The Fado appeared at the end of the 18th century as a nostalgic song of the sailors. The name goes back to the Latin word "fatum", fate. Accompanying instruments are the 12 string Portuguese guitar and the classical guitar.

The origins of the Portuguese bullfight go back to the knight tournaments in the 16th century. The special characteristic of the Portuguese bullfight is the so-called "Pega". The bullfighting season traditionally begins on Easter Sunday and ends in October.

"Coimbra sings, Braga prays, Porto works and Lisbon celebrates"

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal. The harbour city, which is already described by its name, is located at the Atlantic coast at the northern shore of the Douro River. It has 238,000 inhabitants and is the capital of the same-named district. Porto is also the economic and cultural centre of northern Portugal.

The old town of Porto has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage since 1996. The region is also known for its "Port wine". Porto is also famous for its exciting nightlife.

Portugal has a strong Atlantic climate on all its coasts. This means that summers are not too hot and winters are pleasantly mild. In October the average temperature is around 16°C.

Most hotels, restaurants and shops in Porto accept the main credit cards such as American Express, VISA, Mastercard, and Diners Club.

You can also withdraw money with your international bank and credit cards from almost any ATM (Automated Banking Machines).

The official currency in Portugal is: EURO.

Drinks during the meals are included. Drinks that are not part of the program are at own expense.

Portugal is a member of the Schengen Agreement.

Citizens from the EU, EEA and Swiss country only produce a passport or national identity card that is valid on the date of entry and for the duration of the stay.

If travelling from one border-free Schengen country to another however, EU nationals are not required to show a passport or national ID card. It is still recommended that you travel with your passport or ID card to prove your identity if necessary though.

Other nationals must produce a passport that is valid for the entirety of their stay in Portugal.

https://embassy-finder.com/de/portugal_visa

Tripas à moda do Porto is a traditional dish from Porto that has its origins in the time of the seamen. The seamen enjoyed the high quality meat, while the rest of the population, also known as Tripeiros, only received the innards. Today it is a stew with beans and fresh herbs.

Francesinha – the sandwich, which has its origin in Porto, is made with toast, ham, sausage, roasted beef and melted cheese. Finally, the sandwich is covered with a thick sauce made from tomatoes, beer and mustard.

Port wine is a classic type of wine whose name comes from the Portuguese city Oporto. It is a heavy, sweet dessert or liqueur wine containing between 18 and 21 % vol alcohol. Top wines sometimes age up to decades.

In 1910 the monarchy ended in Portugal. The previously founded Partido da República announced the first republic on 5th October, but it was characterized by anarchy and chaos. In 16 years, Portugal experienced no less than 45 governments with eight presidents and 26 revolts. After some internal political confusion and a brief attempt to introduce communism, Portugal became a democracy.

Portugal released its colonies into independence and, for the first time in more than 40 years, free elections were held in 1976.

There are no specific health risks associated with travelling to Portugal.

NEC will contract a health insurance for the guests.

Portuguese is the only official language in Portugal

Within the free baggage allowance according to the baggage rules one piece of luggage per person is allowed with a maximum of 23 kg. In addition, one piece of hand luggage is allowed weighing max. 6 kg with the dimension 30 cm x 45 cm x 15 cm. Of course, these regulations depend on the airline you travel with.

Also note the security regulations for carry-on luggage.

The second largest city in Portugal has a population around 238.000 on a land area of only 41,42 km².

Standard electrical voltage in Porto is 220/380 V AC, 50 Hz. A transformer and an adapter are necessary to use North American electrical appliances whose plugs have two square pins.

Although there are other religions and faiths present in Porto, it is majorly a Roman Catholic city.

International telephone code Portugal: + 351

Mobile phone networks cover the city. Internet cafes are widely available.

General emergency number: 112 Police: 22 209 2000

UTC/GMT

Tips are not included in restaurant or hotel bills. Usually you give 5 to 10% in restaurants or bars, and when driving with a taxi.

All program related tips will be covered by NEC.