I'm a lawyer, a political scientist and language enthusiast. I've been wandering the world in a long journey that kept bringing me back to Lisbon over and over again.
Q. What inspired you to become a guide?
Sharing the secrets of my culture and exchanging insights with travelers from all over the world is simply the best job I can dream of.
Q. What do you love most about Lisbon?
The incomparable light of Lisbon! The brightness of the city in those magical winter days is almost surreal. In which other city can you feel the light rays dance with wave-shaped cobble stones?
Q. What's your favorite story to tell on tour?
Explaining the multicultural roots of Fado music and its relationship with saudade, the untranslatable feeling of longing and nostalgia that shaped the Portuguese identity.
Q. What's one of your favorite memories from a tour?
I will always remember how a family stopped me in the heart of Mouraria neighborhood as I was leading a private tour. They just wanted to say hello and tell me that they finally accomplished their dream of moving to Lisbon. I was their tour guide some years before and I might have influenced them a little bit to take that decision…
I am an expert in predicting the coloring of the sky at sunset. Finding the best viewpoint for a glass of wine should be considered fine art!
I spent 5 summers camping along the Portuguese coast looking for waves. I know every beach and every fisherman’s village between Sagres and Lisbon.
One day I will own a small property in a hidden village at the edge of Sintra natural park, the true garden of Eden. I will find true happiness growing a vegetable garden, studying Italian recipes, and writing a couple of poetry books!
Q. What's the best time of year to enjoy Lisbon?
Lisbon is blessed with year-round sunshine. The months of spring and autumn are always a safe bet as summers can get quite hot in the city. In June, days are long and you might experience Lisbon’s popular Feast of Saint Anthony!
Q. What do you tell your visiting friends to see in your city?
I always recommend my friends to explore Lisbon’s flea market Feira da Ladra. You will find a genuine atmosphere in a remarkable setting: a small garden with stunning views to the river, the National Pantheon and Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Q. What about the culture in your city should people not miss?
Lisbon has a long-established and renowned coffee culture. Sit down on the terrace of a century-old café, order an espresso and take your time to taste the richness of its flavors.
Q. What are some unmissable foods and drinks?
A traditional meal in a family owned Tasca. Starting with a rustic sheep cheese with cornbread, followed by Caldo verde soup (cabbage and chouriço) and a hearty monkfish rice. It could not be complete without a bottle of Alentejo red wine, homemade dessert and a glass of Aguardente liquor.