Dear Portuguese

We’re on our way to our monthly weekend getaway. Usually, we pick a city — to feel the energy, get inspired, and spot new trends. This time: Porto, the romantic city that feels like a village.

After about an hour on the road, a warning light starts blinking. AddBlue empty. My stress level shoots up — I’m not technical at all, and normally our garage in Loulé takes care of this stuff. Luckily, Marlot stays calm and messages Ruben, our lifesaver back in Loulé. Next gas station, we stop!

We look up how to refill AddBlue, find the tank cap… but can’t open it. And then — as if by magic — a kind Portuguese man walks over. Without hesitation, he offers his help (and strong hands). Two minutes later, we’re back on the road, relieved and grateful.

After five hours of driving through Portugal’s stunning countryside, we finally arrive at our hotel in downtown Porto. And there’s another Portuguese man waving enthusiastically: “Aqui! Aqui! Here’s a parking spot!”

What a nation. Warm, helpful, and always smiling. Dear Portuguese — obrigado, you make every trip / day better.