Empty Nesters in Portugal: Porto, Lagos, and Lisbon Await
This Thursday, Briana and I leave for Portugal.
It’s a trip we’ve been looking forward to for months, but it’s about more than visiting a new country. This journey marks the beginning of a completely new chapter in our lives.
We’re officially empty nesters.
After more than twenty years of school schedules, sports practices, college visits, and family calendars, the house feels different. It’s quieter. The routines we’ve known for so long have suddenly changed.
Like most parents, we’re incredibly proud of our daughters and excited to see what comes next for them. At the same time, there’s no denying that this transition comes with mixed emotions. One chapter is ending, and another is just beginning.
A New Adventure with Great Friends
We’re not making this journey alone.
Joining us are our good friends, Maurisa and David, who recently became empty nesters as well. The four of us are stepping into this new season of life together, which makes this trip even more special.
Instead of talking about college move-in dates or high school activities, we’ll be discussing train schedules, restaurants, beaches, and which Portuguese wine to order with dinner.
That sounds like a pretty good trade-off.
First Stop: Porto
Our adventure begins in Porto.
For years, I’ve admired photos of the colorful buildings lining the Douro River. The city’s historic streets, beautiful architecture, and famous port wine cellars have been on my travel list for a long time.
I’m looking forward to wandering through the old town, sitting at riverside cafés, and simply taking in the atmosphere.
Sometimes the best travel experiences happen when you slow down and let a city reveal itself.
Next Up: Lagos
After Porto, we’ll head south to Lagos in the Algarve region.
This is the part of the trip I’m most excited about.
When I think of Lagos, I picture dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, turquoise water, and long walks along the coast. After a busy year filled with life changes, it feels like the perfect place to recharge.
No rushing.
No schedules.
No alarms.
Just sunshine, ocean views, and time to enjoy the moment.
Finishing in Lisbon
Our final stop will be Lisbon.
Every traveler I know seems to have a great Lisbon story. Whether it’s riding the historic yellow trams, exploring centuries-old neighborhoods, or discovering a hidden restaurant down a side street, the city seems full of surprises.
We’ll spend several days exploring without much of a plan.
Sometimes the best itinerary is no itinerary at all.
More Than a Vacation
This trip isn’t just about Porto, Lagos, or Lisbon.
It’s about taking a moment to pause and appreciate where life has brought us.
For more than two decades, our lives revolved around raising our family. While that role will always be part of who we are, we’re entering a new season filled with opportunities for new experiences, new traditions, and new adventures.
Portugal just happens to be the backdrop.
As we pack our bags this week, we’re carrying a little bit of everything with us—pride, gratitude, excitement, and yes, a little nostalgia.
We’re excited to explore a beautiful country, spend time with great friends, and enjoy two weeks of unforgettable experiences.
Most of all, we’re excited to see what comes next.
So here’s to being empty nesters.
Here’s to friendship.
And here’s to Porto, Lagos, Lisbon, and the adventures waiting around the next corner.