Last day at Porto de Rio, what a wonderful apartment. Early morning visit before the crowds to Igreja de Sao Francisco, just around the corner. Looks quite austere from the outside, but inside sits one of Portugal's most dazzling displays of baroque architecture. Almost 100kg of gold leaf and goes back to the Chapel of St John the Baptist, the 13th century granite statue of St Francis of Assisi and catacombs - because, prior to 1845, all Portuguese were buried in churches.
On then to the adjacent Palacio da Bolsa (68 years to build) which honors Porto's past and present money merchants. This is where heads of state are hosted and where port is declared "vintage". Stunningly spectacular.
Free shopping time for Pat while I explore various viewpoints, the Se, the old city wall, the fish market and make some new Portuguese mates at a very small bar which supports the Porto FC. Most enjoyable as we exchange toasts, work to understand one another and have a most enjoyable time together over a few beers.
Meet up with Pat for a bite to eat and the Porto market before heading back to pick up bags and taxi to boat. The Miguel Torga is a Croisi boat (French family company and reputedly the biggest river cruise company in the world). The Miguel Torga is in its first season and is ultra modern. Only 132 passengers and we are teamed up for dinner with two Canadian couples (sisters with their husbands from Montreal). Very good company, so all looks promising. Probably only about 30% english speakers on board. Roast leg of duck for dinner - magnifique!!!
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