Running around Medieval towns, climbing sand dunes by the Atlantic, and enjoying the beloved Portuguese tradition of Sunday family meals are among my earliest memories. Born in Portugal, I’ve been lucky to travel far and wide, though my list of places to visit keeps getting longer.
I’ve lived in Porto, London, Madrid, and now Barcelona, and love the vibrancy and life of European cities. I am passionate about art and culture, food and wine, and great conversations. My favourite travel memories include discovering the Renaissance Palazzo Te in the small town of Padua, Italy, savouring fresh seafood in São Tomé & Príncipe, and sharing stories with my Egyptian friend Abouda on a boat along the Nile at sunset.
Travel continues to inspire me through the people I meet and the places I am lucky enough to explore.
My most memorable trip
Georgia
Georgia is such an underrated and beautiful destination. I loved getting lost in Tbilisi, exploring the contrast between old and new, hiking in the emerald green Kazbegi National Park with no one but wild horses keeping me company, and enjoying inspiring conversations over great wine in Kakheti. When you visit Georgia, you’re pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with the destination.
My favourite restaurant
Boa Nova Tea House
I had a really outstanding meal at Boa Nova Tea House, near Porto. The restaurant brings together the architect Siza Vieira, in the building concept and design, which is perched on the cliffs for optimal sea views, and Chef Rui Paula, in the menu which centres around seafood from the Portuguese coast. Everything was well thought out for a truly sensorial experience.
See where I’ve travelled
Iceland
"Snowmobiling over the mighty Langjökull glacier was a highlight of my recent trip to Iceland. This fun, adrenaline-filled experience surrounded by incredible natural landscapes is hard to beat."
Peru
"My favourite view of Macchu Picchu is from the top of Huayna Picchu, in the early hours of the day. Sitting there just taking in the view of Lost City of the Incas from above is something I still reminisce about today."
Bolivia
"I loved the experience of travelling by jeep from Bolivia to Chile. Bolivia is such an epic destination, from exploring the immensity of Uyuni salt flats, to dipping in volcanic lagoons, spotting flocks of flamingos and seeing the milky way... it's safe to say this country is an all–round spectacular destination."
Jordan
"I visited Jordan to attend a friend's wedding and of course took the opportunity to see the ancient city of Petra. I was mesmerised by it and the weight it holds in the history of our world. The warmth and friendliness of Jordanians is also unparalleled! "
The best destination for families
Scotland
Scotland is a fantastic destination to visit with your family as it's filled with history, adventure and magic. Discover the Scottish highlands with your ghillie guide (a Gaelic term for a Highlands attendant who looks after guests). Witnessing soaring mountains and deep river-cut valleys off-road, visiting grand estates, exploring small villages, cruising the lochs and touring the places which helped inspire the Harry Potter books in Edinburgh are among the highlights. Lace up your walking boots and get ready to get to know this wildly charming country!
My favourite hotel
Six Senses Douro Valley
Six Senses Douro Valley is a beautifully designed hotel and one of my all–time favourites. Secluded in the midst of the Douro Valley wine region, surrounded by vineyard slopes and with views of the river, it provides a luxurious and immersive stay. As part of Jacada’s Positive Impact collection, the hotel creates a strong bond with the land and nature through their sustainability initiatives, which guests are welcome to get involved in and learn about.
My top tips
When packing for Azores, the key is layers – sunshine, rain, and wind can all happen in a single day. Just take it in as part of your adventure.
Give in to the allure of travelling by train across European destinations and appreciate the journey just as much as the destination. There's some seriously beautiful scenery to look at from your window.
Make the most of the relationship you build with your concierge – they are local to their region, and a fountain of knowledge. It's wonderful to connect and use their personal recommendations to enhance your trip.
Bring a reusable water bottle on your next trip to Iceland and you'll be able to fill it from a stream in the wild and taste the cleanest and best–tasting water in the world!
