Online Program

Adventures Online: The Best of Portugal From Lisbon to the Sea

Program No. 24188RJ
From the comfort of your home, discover the best of Portugal as you learn about its medieval history, its connection to the sea and the fascinating cities of Porto, Coimbra and Lisbon.

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At a Glance

“Bem-vindo” (“welcome”) to Portugal! On this online exploration through Lisbon, Porto and along the Mondego River region, immerse yourself in the culture and history of Portugal during online field trips, expert-led lectures and even a performance by local musicians. Under the tutelage of your local expert, learn about Portugal’s connection to the sea as you hear about its early maritime explorations, including those of Vasco de Gama, and gain insight into the local fishing industry and how seafood is incorporated in regional cuisine. Trace history from medieval times to modern day during online field trips through Porto, Coimbra (the former capital city) and Belem, Lisbon’s most notable neighborhood. Along the way, enjoy insightful lectures and group Q&A sessions that allow you to bond with your fellow Road Scholars, all while you enjoy Portuguese music, art and culture.

What You'll Learn

  • Through online field trips and lectures, explore Porto, Coimbra and Belem, Lisbon’s most important neighborhood and the point where Vasco de Gama set sail for the New World.
  • Learn about Portugal’s connection with the sea during a presentation by your Group Leader and enjoy an online field trip to a local market and learn how a “barbecue” of sardines is prepared in a Portuguese home.
  • Enjoy an online field trip along the Mondego River to learn why rice production is so important in this region, then enjoy explorations of a local castle and tile collection, both known for their exquisite artworks.

General Notes

You’ll enjoy 2-3 hours of daily instruction, discussion and/or field trips, which includes sufficient breaks throughout the program. This online program is through Zoom, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. We’ll provide a how-to guide to make sure you’ll have a hassle-free experience. This session is offered live only and will not be available on demand. Please review the daily itinerary for start and end times to ensure you won’t miss a minute of this live experience. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly.
Featured Expert
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Helena Baltazar
Helena Baltazar has a degree in Art History from the University of Porto where she also completed a post-graduate degree in Museum Studies. She then completed her Master's thesis in the university’s Heritage Department. Helena is passionate about her country and has dedicated the past 20 years to lecturing on Portugal’s art and history, participating in projects of museum evaluation, and leading educational visits for travelers interested in Portuguese culture, art, and architecture. She also develops and operates programs in Portugal for Road Scholar.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

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Helena Baltazar View biography
Helena Baltazar has a degree in Art History from the University of Porto where she also completed a post-graduate degree in Museum Studies. She then completed her Master's thesis in the university’s Heritage Department. Helena is passionate about her country and has dedicated the past 20 years to lecturing on Portugal’s art and history, participating in projects of museum evaluation, and leading educational visits for travelers interested in Portuguese culture, art, and architecture. She also develops and operates programs in Portugal for Road Scholar.
Profile Image of Adriana Alves
Adriana Alves View biography
Adriana Alves earned her master's degree in strategic management of travel destinations. Adriana is an energetic and knowledgeable group leader who delights in sharing her experiences as well as cultural, historical information on Portugal with Road Scholar participants. She is fluent in English and her native Portuguese.
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