Fun

Exhibition Escher in Alfandega
29 March, 2019 / , , ,

Hey Porto spoke with Frederico Guidiceandrea, onde of the exhibition curators and a major expert on M.C. Escher’s work

– What can people expect from this exhibition in Porto?

The exhibition covers the entire artistic career of MC Escher, starting from the early works that reflect the influence of his teacher, Jesserun de Mesquita, a major exponent of the art nouveau in the Netherlands. An important space is dedicated to the italian period, the nocturnal images of Rome, the southern Italian landscapes and studies of nature.

In the following sections the most famous works are represented: the tessellations, the impossible buildings, ribbons, regular solids, reflecting surfaces and metamorphosis. The exhibition continues with occasional works that MC Escher created on commission such as bookplates, greeting cards, postage stamps and more.

The exhibition closes with a large space devoted to the Eschermania. Here, evidence of the influence of MC Escher on the iconography of the 20th and 21st century. Book covers, psychedelic posters, LP covers, comics, magazines, videoclips and works of contemporary artists who were inspired by MC Escher.

Throughout the exhibition a series of experiential games leads the visitor into the world of MC Escher. They experience the paradoxes of perception encoded by the laws of Gestalt and  physically enter into some of MC Escher’s works.

– How would you define Escher’s art?

The art of MC Escher can be interpreted in layers. At first wonder prevails, then if you look deeper you will discover more and more details: paradoxes of perception, mathematical structures, references to the Italian landscape and to the great artists of the past. Every time I set up an exhibition, even having seen the works hundreds of times, I always discover something new.

– Which are his main references?

The main influence especially in his early work is certainly to be found in the art of his master, Jesserun de Mesquita, who was an important exponent of the Dutch Art Noveau. Later in Italy he came into contact with exponents of Futurism, in particular with the art movement called ‘Areopittura’ who loved to depict scenes and landscapes from above with an unusual use of perspective. In the later works the greatest influence came from the contacts with the world of mathematics, especially the correspondence with important mathematicians such Roger Penrose or Harlod Coxeter were the basis of many of the iconic works.

– Escher is intriguing, disturbing, disconcerting, a true genious. Do you agree?

Yes, his work captures many of the trends in the technological society. Modern scientific theories such as the theory of relativity and quantum physics have profoundly changed the way we see the world. The world is not as it appears, on a very large or very small scale it can be very counter-intuitive and paradoxical. MC Escher, through his tessellations and impossible structures, opens a window that allows us to grasp the complexity of the world.

 

 

 

Porto always celebrating
18 February, 2019 / ,

Tiago Pinto Leite is a 50-year-old entrepreneur with a 30-year curriculum in catering, bars and nightclubs. Opened spaces such as Voice Club, Twins foz, River Café, Chic and Stox Club. Having collaborated in the creation of Industria Club, Estado Novo, Praia da Luz and Cais 447 and many more..

The city is today fertile ground for a night out .  In the center of Porto,there now exists a more diverse and vaster choice, vertualy door to door that grows in size from year to year. Here is my suggestion for an unforgettable evening.

If you have a late dinner reservation and would li9ke to enjoy a drink  before dinner, I advise you to start at the BASE. Overlooking the Clérigos Tower,  a space with gardens and terraces. Great atmosphere during the summer months.

Then dine. And here are two suggestions not too far from each other. The FLOW of Mediterranean cuisine with a beautiful and exotic decoration, with a beautiful outside patio, known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and wonderful food. Or the GOOD BAO, Thai food and great cocktails. Its decoration transports us to an oriental environment and known for its friendly service.. As they do not accept reservations, it is advisable to go early.

After dinner nothing like going to the Vogue Café, door to door with the beautiful Hotel Infante Sagres, a space full of charm, decorated by the respected decorator Paulo lobo.

To get in step for the night my suggestion is the HOUSE OF THE BOOK. One of the oldest bars in downtown Porto,  beautiful and cozy decoration. With a great atmosphere and live music most nights and Dj´s at the weekends. If you prefer Jazz or Blues my suggestion is the HOT FIVE JAZZ AND BLUES CLUB.

And to end  in great style go to  the Disco PLANO B – A space with a far-out deco, with two floors, two distinct areas with DJs, one more pop / rock / funky and  the for electronic music lovers. There are great names in Portuguese and international electronic music. It is perhaps the most frequented space by tourists!

 

At nights end grab a snack at one of  the many outdoor food stands, Have fun in the city and  remember that there is always more to discover.

 

 

“ESSÊNCIA DO VINHO” RETURNS
8 February, 2019 / ,

Created for the first time in 2004, ESSÊNCIA DO VINHO – PORTO is an organization of Essência do Vinho and Revista de Vinhos, in partnership with the Associação Comercial do Porto, which is held once again at the Palácio da Bolsa from 21st-24th February. The last edition of the event received over 20,000 visitors, 35% of which were foreigners.

Promoted since 2004, this event is considered as the main wine experience in Portugal, testing thousands of references from around the world and promoting a program that includes dozens of activities carefully planned to offer a unique experience to all who participate , from producers to professionals and consumers.

In this 16th edition, participants will be able to discover and be amazed by the possibility of tasting over more than 3,000 wines from 400 producers, from all Portuguese and international wine regions, in one of the highlights of the event that allows establishing or developing contacts with key players of the industry and know the backstage steps of production.

Four days dedicated to the knowledge and awakening of senses, with rare and exclusive labels presented by renowned experts invited to masterclasses, commented evidence, , the sharing of experiences and tasting of snacks, in a relaxed atmosphere.

Amongst the masterclasses and tastings  mentioned, the highlight being the “TOP 10 Portuguese Wines – Wine Magazine”, which will bring together a selection of the best wines by a prestigious international jury of the Wine Magazine in the Arab Hall of the Palace of the Stock Exchange. Composed of journalists, wine critics and sommeliers, the panel will choose the best white wines, the best red wines and the best fortified wines.

WINE ESSENCE – PORTO will be held from February 21st, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on the 22nd and 23rd from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on February 24th from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in a joint organization by Essência do Vinho and Revista de Vinhos, in partnership with Associação Comercial do Porto. Tickets  for ESSÊNCIA DO VINHO – PORTO are now  available at www.essenciadovinhoporto.com/pt/informacoes-uteis.

The admission costs € 20 daily  and includes a Riedel tasting glass.

Tickets bought on site on the days of the event will cost € 25.

Night in Porto
10 January, 2019 / , ,

One needs to start this journey with their belly lined. Create a wall that is prepared to protect us from the aggressions that we are about to endure. For this, there is no better than a Francesinha. The place? Requinte, still in Matosinhos, which promises to protect all those who venture out in Porto.

The night is a crescendo, and if we have dinner in Matosinhos it is necessary to start to climb the Avenida da Boavista where, in the middle of it, it is obligatory to make a pit stop in the Bar 1900, in Foco. The young environment and the mystery that covers it, are signs of a promising future. There, one drinks beer, cold “minis”, or cocktails brilliantly prepared by its owner: Martins, as everyone knows him by.

However, this is just a warm-up. When the sounds of the bells begin, announcing a new day, it is time to take to the sea and continue to climb Boavista towards Porto. Then the world begins. Adega Sports, Adega D.Leonor and 77 are the mandatory stops. Also, these places are not eternal and when their closure begins it is time of indecisions: go for a little dance or call it a night. For those who are willing to make their night epic, in my opinion, there is only one place to go: Boo. Refined space, many stories, where we are well served and well received, with the music of vogue and an environment of more or less general madness. However, for the less adventurous, the Rendez Vous or Porto Tónico  are always good places to stretch your legs. These never disappoint and are a safe haven of leisurely play.

It is necessary to finish as we started, in Rainha da Foz , accompanied by a Francesinha or some “panados à Rainha” and a beer, laughter and memories of a recent night that promises to linger in our memory.

 

Zeca Couceiro da Costa

Porto, a world of expressions
6 December, 2018 / ,

It never made sense to compare Porto with other cities in the world. The privilege of being able to eat a Francesinha in every corner and drink a beer in a terrace of the river is something that all that live here or visit us have access to. But there are details that distinguish one who is a true tripeiro: the very particular pronunciation and the unrivalled expressions.

If I had to say the first Porto expression I heard in my life, although it is impossible to say that it is true, it would have to be something I heard on the day of my birth. I could swear that the doctor, seeing my father in a state of ecstasy, would have approached, exclaiming, “Look, be careful or you’ll have a badagio.” But what is this, “to have a badagaio”? It’s as simple as saying, “Watch out or you’ll faint.”

But if you’d like another typical expression of Porto and that can help you in your stay: Jecos. It would be offensive to treat a dog, not knowing its name, just by dog. And that’s where the good manners of Porto come in: all dogs have names, they’re all Jecos. You already know if you hear “BE CAREFUL WITH THE JECO”, run.

And since there are not two without three, here’s a fundamental one for your stay in Porto: Fino. Fino is more than just beer. It is an instrument of conversation, an excuse to make plans.

The one who thinks that the people of Porto do not have an ID card of their own, is deceived. The pronunciation and the expressions of the North, are what makes us so unique, so different and at the same time so easily recognized.

 

Suggestions – Elien Declerck (Erasmus)
15 October, 2018 / , ,

Nationality: Italian

International experience: Internship under the Erasmus +

Before Porto, my Erasmus stops were Madrid and Barcelona: two populous cities full of life. However, my time in Porto was by far the best I could have imagined. And the vibrant international community that Porto offers. As soon as I arrived I felt welcome and had the feeling that everyone knew each other or wanted to be friends.

 

  1. A suggestion of a restaurant to go in Porto

Tasquinha dos sabores (favorite restaurant)

  1. A bar that you really need to know

Labirintho Bar

  1. A tour of Porto

Rua Santa Catarina to take a walk and go shopping

  1. A place to study

Livraria Lello. A place to study or to go when you are struggling to find the motivation to study. This place inspires anyone to choose a book and start reading.

The panoramic view from the Guindalense Futebol Clube.

Suggestions – Elien Declerck (Erasmus)
15 October, 2018 / , ,

Nationality: Belgian

International experience: internship and currently living and working in Porto, the city where she moved to after meeting her boyfriend there.

  1. A suggestion of a restaurant to go in Porto

Bira dos namorados, in the street of Ceuta. It is a restaurant that recently opened, but which already existed in Braga. It is a hamburger and pregaria place, with a simple but very good menu. I love the space because it is filled with quaint motifs with its own style and it is almost all built through reused materials.

 

  1. A bar that you really need to know

Capela Incomum, in Travessa do Carregal, in the area of ​​Cedofeita. It is a bar inside an old chapel of the nineteenth century.

 

  1. A tour of Porto

I highly recommend a bike ride along the river Douro to Foz. There are several places along the Ribeira where you can rent a bike, so there are no excuses for not doing this tour. Then, when you get to Foz, you must eat fish in one of the restaurants!

 

  1. A place to study

E-Learning Café in the Botanical Garden. In addition to being a space to study, the e-learning café also organizes various academic and cultural events. The garden is the perfect setting to take a break and a picnic before returning to study.

 

  1. A secret of the city of Porto

The secret ingredient of Francesinha’s sauce! I have not found it yet. Porto has several good restaurants to eat francesinha. My favorite is the restaurant Santiago. That’s where I ate my first one and I was a fan!

Douro Academy
7 October, 2018 / ,

The Douro Academy is the perfect location for all your surfing and canoeing experiences.

The academy is located in the Douro Marina, in Vila Nova de Gaia, in one of the most beautiful landscapes of the north region next to the Douro River and with the ocean in sight. The location is therefore ideal for those who practice or want to learn water sports. You can bring your boat or board or rent equipment from the academy.

Whether it is for training, learning or sightseeing, the Douro Academy has several experiences available that allow you to enjoy the scenery while playing sports. Surf, Stand Up Paddle (SUP), Surfski and Kayak Surf classes are available, as well as kayak and SUP tours, ideal for enjoying the beauty of the Douro’s shores.

 

The prices and terms of participation are explained in detail on the website.

www.douroacademy.com.

Information:

Douro Academy

Douro Marina
Rua da Praia, Vila Nova de Gaia
GPS: 41º 08’ 35’’ N | 8º 39’ 02” W

Tel: + 351 914 322 630

E-mail: info@douroacademy.com

 

Parque Oriental
21 September, 2018 / , ,

It is one of the less known green spaces which makes it more peaceful and ideal for strolling, relaxing or playing sports.

Designed by the same author of Parque da Cidade – the landscape architect Sidónio Pardal – Parque Oriental benefits from the proximity of Rio Tinto and many of the routes are old rural roads that crossed the fields. This quiet and bucolic setting, dominated by pines and cork trees, is perfect for relaxing or escaping the heat on the warmest days of summer.

The wild flowers and some examples of camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas lend more color to this space, making it even more enjoyable for those who like to be in contact with nature.

With nine hectares in length, this park is also ideal for walking, running or cycling, often receiving initiatives designed to promote physical activity.

 

Alameda de Azevedo, Porto

Animaux de Porto
12 September, 2018 / , ,

Laura (26) and Romain (29) came to Porto almost by chance. To their passion for the city they added their love for animals and created Animaux de Porto, a company that provides pet-sitting services.

The French couple, from Brest, Brittany, passed through Porto whilst on vacation in 2016, but it took some time before they decided to leave their jobs and live in France a year ago. Accompanied by their cats, Pipoune and Snookie, they got in the car and began a new life in Porto 17 hours later.

When one of the cats fell ill and realized that the treatment involved taking three pills a day, they questioned what anyone who had animals with similar problems would do. And so the idea came up to create a service for those who have animals and do not want to take them out of their environment whilst on vacation or working.

Pet-sitting is more than a job; it’s a passion that began even in France, when they took care of their relatives’ pets. “We bring a special presence to the animal, which has a moment reserved just for him,” they say, explaining the advantages of this service for both the animal and its owner who receive messages and photographs to keep them informed their animal’s state of mind. And language is no obstacle since, in addition to French, Laura and Romain also speak English and a little Portuguese.

Information:

www.animauxdeporto.com

animauxdeporto@gmail.com

Instagram: @animauxdeporto

Facebook: Animaux de Porto

Tel: + 351 926 857 199

Tél: +33 631 890 173