Everything you need to know before you go — all in one place.
This page covers everything from navigating the airport and what to pack, to how booking works, what’s included in your trip, and what Porto is really like on the ground. If you have a question, chances are the answer is right here. Take your time, read through, and come prepared.
Still have a question that you don’t see answered here? Reach out. There are no stupid questions – only trips that didn’t happen because someone was afraid to ask.
I want every woman on these trips to feel prepared, protected, and completely at ease from the moment she books to the moment she lands back home. To make sure of that, here are a few things I ask of every traveler:
Register with STEP
Enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before you travel. It’s free, takes five minutes, and ensures the U.S. embassy can reach you in case of an emergency abroad. [Register at step.state.gov]
Travel Insurance & Medical Coverage
All travelers are required to have comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of their trip – minimum 5 to 7 days. Look for a single plan that covers trip cancellation, travel delays, lost baggage, emergency medical care, and medical evacuation. At minimum, your policy should include $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and $100,000 in medical evacuation coverage. A few examples would be Allianz Travel Insurance, Travel Guard (AIG), World Nomads, Seven Corners, GeoBlue, etc but please always do your own independent research. These plans usually costs between $50-$150 for a week long trip. If your plan does not include medical coverage or you rely on your credit cards for travel protection, you will need to purchase a separate travel health insurance policy BEFORE your trip – this is non-negotiable and will be checked prior to booking a trip. Portugal has some excellent medical care, but as a non-EU traveler you will be billed out of pocket without insurance. Not sure what you have? A great place to compare plans side by side is InsureMyTrip.com or Squaremouth.com. When in doubt, call your provider and ask specifically: “Does this plan cover emergency medical care and evacuation abroad?”
Download WhatsApp
Our entire group communicates through WhatsApp. It’s how I’ll share updates, itinerary details, meeting points, and everything in between. Please have it downloaded and ready before your trip begins.
Valid Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
Personal Medications
Bring enough of any prescription medications to last your entire trip for at least 5- 7 days, plus a few extra days just in case.
These aren’t just formalities — they’re what make the difference between a smooth, magical trip and an unnecessarily stressful one. I’ve got everything else covered. This part is on you — and I know you’ve got it! 
Really Porto! welcomes women of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs — and we want every traveler to feel completely respected and comfortable throughout the experience.
If you feel moved to pray before a meal, give thanks, or observe a personal moment of faith, please do so! Your beliefs are valid and beautiful. However, we ask that group prayer not be announced or assumed for everyone at the table. Not every traveler shares the same faith tradition and part of what makes this community special is that everyone gets to show up exactly as they are — without pressure or expectation.
Pray your prayer. Speak your thanks. Honor your tradition. Just do it in a way that leaves space for others to do the same — or not.
We’re all here for Porto, good food, and even better company.
By submitting your inquiry form and signing your booking contract, you agree to be added to the Really Porto! guest list. Your personal information will never be sold or shared with third parties. You may unsubscribe from communications at any time. This site collects basic contact information in accordance with GDPR guidelines.
And if you are wondering, GDPR guidelines stands for General Data Protection Regulation – it’s a European Union privacy law that controls how businesses collect and handle people’s personal data like names and addresses.
Your booking contract will outline all trip terms, payment expectations, and cancellation policies in full. A copy will be sent to you via email upon confirmation of your deposit.
I believe in full transparency — no surprises, no fine print you didn’t see coming. Here’s exactly what your Really Porto! experience includes and what you’ll need to plan for on your own.
What’s Included:
· Accommodation for five nights in a boutique hotel
· Curated meals and dining experiences
· A full day outside of the city
· Activities, walks, and local experiences
· Local transport – fully handled
· A welcome gift just for you
· Your host – me – every step of the way
What’s NOT Included:
· International flights to and from Porto
· Travel insurance (required — see above)
· Personal meals outside of group dining
· Personal shopping, souvenirs, and extras
· Gratuities for local guides and service providers
· Any personal expenses or incidentals
When in doubt, reach out before you book. I’d rather answer your questions upfront than have you feel caught off guard later.
Booking a Really Porto! trip is straightforward — here’s how it works from start to finish.
Step 1 — Express Your Interest
Fill out the interest form on this page to get on the list. Spots are limited intentionally — I keep groups small so every woman feels seen and taken care of.
Step 2 — Receive Your Trip Details
Once a trip is confirmed and open for booking, you’ll receive a full trip overview including dates, itinerary, pricing, and payment instructions.
Step 3 — Secure Your Spot with a Deposit
A non-refundable deposit of $[X] is required to hold your spot. Your spot is not confirmed until your deposit is received.
Step 4 — Pay Your Balance
The remaining balance is due 60 days before departure. Payment plans may be available — just ask.
Step 5 — Sign Your Traveler Agreement
Before your trip is fully confirmed, you’ll receive a digital traveler agreement to review and sign. This covers our policies, your responsibilities, and everything we both need to feel protected.
Questions about payments? Just reach out — I’m always happy to talk it through.
Porto is beautiful, walkable, and full of cobblestone streets — so packing smart makes all the difference. Here’s what I recommend:
Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Porto’s streets are stunning but uneven. Leave the heels for dinner — bring supportive flats or sneakers for daytime.
Clothing
Porto has a relaxed but stylish vibe. Think smart casual — sundresses, linen pants, light layers. If you’re visiting between May and October, it’s warm but evenings can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
Modest Options
If you would like to visit any churches or religious sites, you’ll want something to cover your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or wrap works perfectly.
Bag
A small crossbody bag is ideal for daily exploring — keeps your hands free and your belongings secure.
Medications & Essentials
Bring all prescription medications in their original packaging, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a portable charger. Make sure it’s within travel requirements.
Tech
Portugal uses Type F outlets (European). Bring a universal travel adapter. And of course — make sure WhatsApp is downloaded before you arrive!
A full packing list is available as a downloadable checklist below. Print it, check it twice, and show up ready.
Porto is more accessible than most people think! Here’s what you need to know about getting there.
The Airport
You’ll fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) — Porto’s international airport, located about 20 minutes from the city center.
Flying from the U.S.
Most flights from the U.S. connect through major hubs like Lisbon (LIS), London (LHR), or Amsterdam (AMS). TAP Air Portugal flies direct from several U.S. cities and is a great option. Always compare prices on Google Flights or Kayak before booking.
Getting from the Airport to the City
∙ Metro: The easiest and most affordable option — Line E (Violet) runs directly from the airport to the city center
∙ Uber/Bolt: Both work well in Porto and are very affordable
∙ Taxi: Available at the airport but slightly more expensive
When to Arrive
I recommend arriving one day before the trip officially begins to rest, settle in, and shake off any jet lag. You’ll thank yourself later!
If you’d like to arrive earlier than the trip start date and need help with hotel accommodations, just reach out to me directly. I’m happy to help connect offline to help arrange extended accommodations so your early arrival is just as seamless as the rest of your trip.
Any questions about flights or arrival logistics? Send me a message — I’m happy to help you plan.
Portugal uses the Euro (€) and it is generally very affordable compared to other Western European destinations. Here’s what to know before you go:
Cards vs. Cash
Most restaurants, shops, and hotels in Porto accept credit and debit cards. However, it’s always smart to carry some cash for smaller local spots, markets, and tips.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available throughout Porto. I recommend withdrawing cash when you arrive rather than exchanging money at the airport — you’ll get a better rate. Let your bank know you’re traveling internationally before you leave to avoid your card being blocked.
How Much to Budget for Extras
Porto is very affordable. Budget approximately €50–€100 per day for personal meals, coffee, shopping, and extras — more if you plan to shop.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Portugal but is always appreciated. A general guide:
∙ Restaurants: 5–10% for good service
∙ Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro
∙ Tour guides: €5–€10 per person
∙ Hotel housekeeping: €1–€2 per day
NOTE: The Best Way to Get Euros
The best and most cost-effective way to get euros is to withdraw cash directly from an ATM in Porto using your U.S. debit card. You’ll get the real exchange rate automatically.
A few tips:
∙ Use ATMs attached to major banks in Portugal like Millennium BCP, Caixa Geral, or Santander — avoid standalone ATMs in tourist areas as they charge higher fees
∙ Decline the option to pay in dollars if the ATM offers it — always choose to pay in euros to avoid hidden conversion fees
∙ Notify your bank before you travel to avoid your card being blocked abroad
∙ Most U.S. banks charge a small foreign transaction fee — check with yours beforehand. Schwab and Fidelity debit cards reimburse all ATM fees internationally and are excellent options if you want to open one before the trip
What about exchanging cash before you leave?
You can exchange dollars for euros at your U.S. bank before departure, but the rates are typically worse. Only do this if you want a small amount of cash on hand when you land.
Bottom line: Don’t exchange money at the airport. Wait until you’re in Porto and use a bank ATM.
Absolutely — and I wouldn’t take you anywhere I didn’t feel completely safe myself. I have travelled throughout Portugal for weeks at a time…completely solo.
Porto consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Europe. Portugal as a whole ranked 7th on the 2025 Global Peace Index, reflecting its low crime rates and political stability. Violent crime is extremely rare, and locals are generally warm, welcoming, and respectful toward tourists.
That said, like any city, it’s smart to stay aware:
∙ Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas — keep your bag close and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics
∙ Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially if you’re exploring solo outside of group activities
∙ Trust your instincts — if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation
As your host, I’ll always have safety top of mind. I know Porto well, I know which areas to avoid, and I’ll make sure our group is always in the right place at the right time. You focus on the experience — I’ve got the rest covered.
First of all — good for you. Traveling solo as a woman takes courage, and Really Porto! was literally built for you.
Every woman on a Really Porto! trip arrives as an individual and leaves as part of a community. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or this is your very first time traveling alone, you will never feel alone on this trip. We move as a group, eat together, explore together, and look out for one another.
A few things to know:
∙ Single supplement: If you’re traveling solo and prefer your own room, a single supplement fee may apply depending on the trip. Roommate matching is available if you’d prefer to share — just let me know
∙ You set your own pace: Group activities are planned, but you’ll always have downtime to explore at your own pace if you choose
∙ Community: Many of the women who come on these trips become lasting friends. That’s not an accident — it’s the whole point
You don’t need a travel partner to experience Porto. You just need a passport and a willingness to show up. I’ll handle everything else.
I want to be completely upfront with you here, because Porto is a city I love — and part of loving it means being honest about what it demands physically.
Porto is hilly and cobblestoned. The city’s charm is inseparable from its terrain, which means there is a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces, inclines, and stairs. Most of our group activities will involve moderate walking — typically 3–5 miles per day depending on the itinerary.
What this means for you:
∙ If you have mobility limitations, joint issues, or difficulty with uneven terrain, please reach out to me directly before booking so we can discuss accommodations and whether this particular trip is the right fit.
∙ Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential — this is not the trip for fashion over function.
∙ If you use a mobility aid, some areas of Porto may present challenges — I’m happy to discuss specifics based on your needs.
I want every woman on these trips to have an incredible experience — and that starts with making sure you’re set up for success before you ever board the plane. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about physical requirements. There are no wrong questions here.
By booking a Really Porto! trip, you acknowledge and agree that travel involves inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, loss of personal property, travel delays, and unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. Really Porto! and its owner are not responsible for any accidents, injuries, illnesses, losses, or damages that occur before, during, or after the trip.
Participation in all activities is completely voluntary. You are responsible for your own safety, health decisions, and personal belongings at all times. Really Porto! strongly recommends that all travelers have comprehensive travel/medical insurance in proper place prior to departure and for the duration of the trip and back to your destination
I get it – life happens.
Booking a trip requires trust and I don’t take that lightly. If something comes up and you cannot make it, I want to work with you as much as I possibly can. These policies exist not to be rigid but to protect everyone involved – including the women who are counting on the trip moving forward. Deposits and payments help me secure accommodations, experiences, and logistics well in advance, which means cancellations do have a real cost. That said, I’m a real person and not a corporation – if something serious happens in your life, please reach out to me directly before assuming the worst. I’ll always do my best to find a fair solution.
Refund Policy
∙ More than 60 days before departure: Full refund minus a $75 administrative fee
∙ 30–60 days before departure: 50% refund
∙ Less than 30 days before departure: No refund — travel insurance is strongly encouraged to cover this scenario
∙ Trip cancelled by Really Porto!: Full refund issued to all travelers
Trip Transfers
Can’t make it but don’t want to lose your spot? You may transfer your booking to another traveler at no additional charge, provided the replacement traveler meets all trip requirements and the transfer is requested at least 30 days before departure. Simply contact me directly to arrange the transfer. Please note that transfers are not guaranteed and are subject to approval.
Do I need a passport?
Yes — and make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. If your passport is expired or expiring soon, renew it as early as possible. Passport processing times can take 6–8 weeks or longer during busy seasons.
How far in advance should I book my flight?
For the best prices, aim to book 3–6 months before your trip. Flights from major US cities to Porto (OPO) can range from $600–$1,200 depending on the season and how early you book. Set a fare alert on Google Flights to track prices. Other apps to consider are Hopper and Going. Sometimes you can set alerts for price drops.
What currency is used in Porto?
Portugal uses the Euro (€). The current exchange rate is roughly $1 USD to €0.92, though this fluctuates. ATMs are widely available throughout Porto and are the easiest way to get local cash. Notify your bank before you travel so your card isn’t flagged. Companies such as Charles Schwab and Fidelity usually reimburses international ATM fees.
Will my phone work in Portugal?
Most US carriers offer international plans — check with yours before you leave. T-Mobile and Google Fi have strong international coverage. If you’d rather not pay international rates, you can purchase a local SIM card at the Porto airport for affordable data during your stay.
If your phone is unlocked, you can use apps such as Airalo or Horafly. Always do your own independent research so that you do not incur any unwarranted or unexpected fees.
Do I need a power adapter?
Yes. Portugal uses Type F plugs with 220V power. US plugs will not fit without an adapter. Pick up a universal travel adapter before your trip — they’re inexpensive on Amazon and essential for charging your phone and devices.
Is Portuguese hard to communicate in?
Not at all — especially in Porto. Most people in restaurants, hotels, shops, and tourist areas speak English. That said, locals genuinely appreciate when visitors try a few words in Portuguese. A simple “obrigada” (thank you) goes a long way and will earn you instant smiles.
Is the food safe?
Absolutely. Portugal has excellent food safety standards and Porto is known for having some of the best food in Europe. Seafood is fresh, produce is seasonal, and the restaurants I select are ones I personally know and trust as a local resident.
How do I get from the airport to the hotel once I arrive?
Porto’s airport (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, OPO) is well connected to the city center. You can take the Metro Line E directly to downtown Porto in about 30 minutes for just a few euros. Taxis and rideshares like Uber are also available. Once you’re confirmed as a guest I’ll send you full arrival instructions so you know exactly what to do from the moment you land.
What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable — Porto is a beautiful but hilly city with cobblestone streets everywhere. Beyond that, pack light layers for spring and autumn. A small crossbody bag, a packable rain jacket, and one nice outfit for dinners will cover everything you need. I’ll send confirmed guests a full packing guide before the trip.
Should I notify my bank before traveling?
Yes — absolutely do this before you leave. Call your bank and credit card company to let them know you’ll be traveling to Portugal on specific dates. This prevents your card from being flagged or frozen when you make purchases abroad. Also ask about any international transaction fees so there are no surprises.
Do I need travel/medical insurance?
Yes — travel insurance is required for all Really Porto! trips. At minimum your policy should cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. I included lots of great information in the very first tab on this page labeled “Before We Go – What You Need To Know.”
What if I get sick while traveling?
Portugal has excellent healthcare and Porto has several hospitals and clinics that serve international visitors. This is also one of the reasons travel insurance with medical coverage is required — so you’re never in a position where you’re sick and unprotected in a foreign country. As your host I’ll also be right there with you to help navigate anything that comes up.
What’s the physical activity level?
Porto is a walkable city but it is hilly — there will be days where we cover several miles on foot over uneven cobblestone streets. You don’t need to be an athlete but comfortable, broken-in walking shoes and a reasonable level of mobility will make your experience much more enjoyable. If you have any physical limitations just let me know when you fill out your inquiry form and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
What if I need to cancel?
Life happens — I understand that. My cancellation policy is located under the tab labeled “Refund Policy.”
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days in Portugal — you just need a valid passport. Portugal is part of the Schengen Area so your passport will be stamped on entry. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date.
Can I share a room with a friend?
Each guest has their own private room at the hotel — you will not be sharing a room with anyone unless you specifically request to room with a friend who is also booked on the same trip. Really Porto! is designed to feel personal and comfortable, and having your own space is part of that.
What airport do I fly into?
You’ll fly into Porto Airport (OPO) — officially called Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport. It’s a modern, easy to navigate airport located about 20 minutes from the city center. Direct flights are available from several major US cities including New York (JFK/EWR), Boston, and Newark. From other cities you’ll likely have one connection through Lisbon (LIS) or a major European hub.
How do I hold my spot?
Head to The Porto Playbook page, click on the trip date you’re interested in, and fill out the inquiry form. I’ll be in touch within 48 hours. A deposit of $750 holds your spot once we’ve connected and confirmed your booking.
After your initial $750 deposit is received, you will be placed on an automatic payment plan for the remaining balance. Payment reminders will be sent directly to your email to keep you on track. All payments must be paid in full prior to your trip departure date. Failure to complete your payment plan may result in the forfeiture of your spot and your deposit. Really Porto! reserves the right to release your spot to the next traveler on the waitlist if payments are not received on time.
Trips are limited to 6 women. Your spot is not guaranteed until your deposit is received and confirmed.
What can I bring through customs and security?
Standard TSA and international travel rules apply. Leave pocket knives, multi-tools, and any sharp objects at home or pack them in your checked luggage. Portugal customs is straightforward for US travelers — just make sure you’re not carrying more than €10,000 in cash without declaring it. When in doubt, check the TSA website (tsa.gov) and US Customs guidelines before you pack. Please refer to the “what-to-know-at-the-airport” tab on this page..
How can I get through customs faster?
If you travel internationally more than once a year, Global Entry is absolutely worth it. It’s a US Customs and Border Protection program that allows pre-approved travelers to skip the regular customs line and use automated kiosks when returning to the US — saving you significant time at the airport.
Here’s what you need to know:
∙ One-time application fee of $100 (valid for 5 years)
∙ Includes TSA PreCheck automatically
∙ Apply at cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry
∙ Processing can take several months so apply early
∙ Many credit cards like Chase Sapphire and American Express Platinum reimburse the $100 fee
Also worth downloading before your trip:
∙ Mobile Passport Control — free app that speeds up US customs re-entry without a Global Entry membership
∙ VisaHQ — helpful for checking entry requirements by country
∙ TripIt — organizes all your travel confirmations in one place
Note: Really Porto! guests are encouraged to have these set up before departure. I’ll include more travel app recommendations in the pre-trip guide sent to all confirmed guests.