Vila Nova de Gaia

This is the view last night, looking up from the waterfront. I think that’s my room on the top left with the light on.

I ventured out to get something to eat nearby. You are advised to go for seafood here, because it’s so fresh. So I ordered sea bass in champagne sauce with baby roast potatoes:

Lots of people were strolling along by the river, in spite of the cold wind. A few shops were open, including this one all about sardines:

This wall of cans shows all the different flavours. As souvenirs, they are a cheap option - but as tinned sardines, they are expensive!

Sunday morning and time for more exploring in the neighbourhood. It’s a good thing I thought to bring my down jacket on this trip:

The fresh wind was coming downstream. The traditional boats, which used to bring the port wine down to the lodges, are moored alongside:

In the afternoon, it was time for some exercise. I walked up several flights of steps as far as The Yeatman. This is the most expensive hotel around here and boasts of its view from Dick’s Bar. My legs did not appreciate the steps! On the balcony I noticed a man with a falcon. Apparently he is employed by the hotel to scare away all the seagulls which are thought to be a menace. Actually I had previously enjoyed watching them from my room as they wheeled to and fro along the river.

This was their view:

Beautiful tree in their garden: