To a Great Trip! – Carlos Olivas

Traveling to Porto was so fun! I got to see a shift from urban to rural and back to urban. Porto and Lisbon had their own unique pros, but overall I preferred the week in Porto. Although we only had time to explore Porto after 5pm, due to the company visits, I was able to learn a whole bunch about the city. Also, during the week in Porto, we got to go to the Douro Valley, which was the biggest highlight of the trip. The long bus rides became a part of the trip that I began enjoying. Getting to see the valleys during the ride brought peace and clarity to my mind, and made me really appreciate the present. I didn’t know much about wine before the tours, but the tour guides were very thorough on the history and process of wine. I have enjoyed my trip, and I did everything I possibly could’ve wanted to do. If and when I go back to Portugal I will feel comfortable and prepared to explore the cities I wished to stay longer in. To anyone thinking of going but is still on the fence, this study abroad has been one of the best experiences I’ve had while in college. To a great trip!