Portugal to the U.S. - A Visa Adventure

Hello from the United States!

February was a whirlwind of movement and big milestones. I kicked things off in Portimão, down in the Algarve, where the pace was slow—sometimes a little too slow, especially on cloudy days. But when the sun made an appearance, I took full advantage, heading to Praia da Rocha to watch the boats and stroll along the boardwalk. The area has some great bars and restaurants, and I thoroughly enjoyed the vibe—especially the Irish pubs (always a good time!). On quieter days, I wandered to Portimão Marina, embracing the relaxed pace before gearing up for my next big move.

Portimão Marina (Marina de Portimão)

The boardwalk at Portimão Marina is a place where art and creativity meet the tranquil beauty of the Algarve. One of my favorite parts of the boardwalk is the diversity of the sculptures. Some are modern and thought-provoking, like the one that appears to mimic the erosion of coastal rocks, while others, like the playful statue of a figure balancing on its head, bring a sense of whimsy to the scene. Even the practical elements, like the colorful recycling bin shaped like a loop, feel like part of the art experience. It’s a reminder of how Portimão values not just aesthetics but also sustainability. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just someone looking to enjoy the peaceful waterfront, the boardwalk offers a little something for everyone.

Back to the United States

Standing in Charles de Gaulle Airport, I took in the breathtaking Notre-Dame de Paris mural behind me—a striking, nearly 3D illusion that made it feel like I was standing right in front of the cathedral itself. The way the glass panels reflected the soft morning light added an almost dreamlike quality to the scene.

With my backpack slung over my shoulder and a ticket in hand, I was on my way back to the U.S.—one more leg of a long journey that started in Portugal. This moment, captured in transit, felt like the perfect blend of past and future—leaving behind one adventure while preparing for the next. But as I stood there, taking in the beauty of Notre-Dame’s towering façade, I couldn’t help but feel a little pause between the movement, a reminder to appreciate where I was, even just for a moment, before taking off again.

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

The last two weeks of February were all about finalizing visa paperwork and squeezing in some much-needed family time. My appointment in D.C. went smoothly, and just like that, the biggest hurdle was behind me. On March 1st, I returned to Paris for a night before heading to Porto, where I officially moved into my apartment—my first long-term place here!

Now, it’s all about getting settled… and, funny enough, leaving again. Since I’m still on a tourist visa while my application is processed, I’ll be heading back to Albania for a bit. It’s a long process, but by May, I should finally be fully settled in Portugal. Until then, I’ll keep embracing the adventure—one stop at a time.

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275

Sunshine and Solitude in Portimão, Portugal

Hello from Portimão, Portugal!

It’s my first time visiting the southern part of Portugal, known as the Algarve, and let me tell you, it’s quite the experience. Getting here from Porto took a six-hour train ride—about all I could handle, lol—but the change of scenery has been worth it, with both ups and downs.

First, the weather has been absolutely beautiful. This region is famous for its beaches and warm climate, and it hasn’t disappointed. Lots of sunshine and temperatures in the 60s—no complaints there!

That said, I do miss Porto. Here, everything feels more spread out, and my Airbnb isn’t as conveniently located. Back in Porto, everything I needed was just a short walk away, and the city-center vibe was vibrant and full of energy. Portimão, on the other hand, has a more laid-back, beachy feel. That’s not all bad, though—there’s an amazing beach about a 20-minute walk from where I’m staying. The boardwalk and restaurants have a great atmosphere, and I’ve been soaking up the relaxed pace.

Since it’s the off-season, it’s super peaceful with hardly any crowds, which is fantastic. However, that does mean some places are closed. Thankfully, enough spots are open to make this quiet, sunny escape a really enjoyable one.

All in all, it’s been a nice change of pace—and I’m definitely appreciating the sunshine! 🌞

Museu de Portimão

Tucked away in a historic building that once housed a sardine canning factory, the Museu de Portimão is a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. As I wandered through the exhibits, I was transported back to the early 20th century when the factory floor buzzed with activity. From preserved machinery to interactive displays, the museum brilliantly captures the industrial and maritime heritage of Portimão. One of my favorite parts was a multimedia exhibit that showcased the life of factory workers—tough yet deeply connected to the city’s identity. If you're curious about Portimão’s roots, this is the perfect place to explore.

Praia da Rocha Beach

Praia da Rocha is one of those places that feels like it belongs on a postcard. The golden sand stretches out forever, framed by these towering cliffs that practically glow in the sunlight. It’s the kind of beach where you can just kick back, dip your toes in the clear blue water, and forget about everything else. If you’re up for a little adventure, there are hidden coves and cool rock formations to explore—perfect for snapping some incredible photos or just soaking in the natural beauty.

A quick stroll from the beach, you’ll find a buzzing promenade with cafes, restaurants, and shops that really capture the local vibe. Whether it’s fresh seafood or a cold drink you’re after, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. And don’t even get me started on the sunsets! Watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange from a cliffside viewpoint is an experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Praia da Rocha really has it all—relaxation, adventure, and a touch of magic.

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

As I shared in my last post, I’m in the process of applying for a visa to live in Portugal permanently. It turns out this journey is both lengthy and a bit complex! Thankfully, I’ve got a consultant helping me navigate it all, but a big chunk of my time this month has been dedicated to keeping things moving forward. That’s included several train trips to Lisbon (about 3 hours each way) and a visit to the US Embassy there.

This month has been a mix of exploring a new part of Portugal while also working through the visa process. And the adventure doesn’t stop here—next month, I’ll wrap up some of these steps with a visit back to the US, including a trip to Washington, DC.

Life truly is a journey, and I’m grateful to be able to share mine with you. Thank you so much for reading and following along—I really appreciate it!

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275

Porto: A Place That Feels Like Home

Hello from Porto, Portugal!

Once again, it’s great to be back in a city that holds so many fond memories for me. I was last here during the pandemic in 2021, and while life has certainly changed since then, the attraction of Porto remains. From the moment I arrived, I felt that familiar pull—this place has a hold on me.

My Airbnb is in the heart of Old Town, in the same neighborhood where I stayed before. Knowing my way around has made it easy to dive right back in, revisiting some of my favorite spots. While a few have closed over the years, I’ve already discovered some fantastic new ones to add to the list.

Porto feels like the perfect fit for me. It’s smaller than Lisbon but offers everything I want—peaceful moments by the Douro River watching boats drift by, an incredible and affordable food scene, and a charm that makes every walk through the city special. My loft is tucked away in a quiet corner, yet steps from all the action, with all the comforts I need.

While the cooler, wetter weather of Porto is a change, I’ve been lucky to enjoy plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures. The only downside so far is not finding a gym with monthly memberships like I had in Istanbul or Tirana, so I’m sticking to at-home workouts. On the plus side, there are plenty of restaurants and coffeeshops where I can plug in, edit videos, and work on social media projects.

Returning here has been a mix of nostalgia and discovery, and it feels so good to be in a place that still feels like home.

Christmas in Porto

Porto during Christmas is pure magic. The markets are alive with the scent of roasted chestnuts, the glow of twinkling lights, and the buzz of holiday cheer. Wooden stalls overflow with handmade crafts and gifts, and there’s always a cup of mulled wine to warm your hands as you wander through. Families, couples, and friends fill the streets, soaking in the festive spirit, and every corner feels like it’s been wrapped in the magic of the season. The decorations? Next level. Lights strung above the narrow streets and vibrant displays in shop windows make the city feel like a living postcard.

But Christmas Eve? That’s when Porto really took my breath away. The streets, usually alive with people and chatter, were completely still. Quiet, peaceful, and unbelievably beautiful. With no one around, it felt like I had the entire city to myself. The lights sparkled against the dark, empty streets, and their reflections danced softly on the cobblestones. It was a moment to just pause, take it all in, and feel the true heart of the holiday—calm, stillness, and the kind of beauty that stays with you.

Porto Cable Car

Exploring Porto is always a treat, but the cable car on the Gaia side of the Douro River takes it to a whole new level—literally! The short ride offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Gliding high above, you can take in the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, the historic Ribeira district, and the terracotta rooftops that give Porto its signature charm. It’s a quick trip, only about five minutes, but it feels like time stands still as you soak in the beauty of the Douro River and the bustling city below. Plus, the ride is super convenient to access, just a short walk from the bridge.

Once you reach the top, the experience doesn’t end. You’re greeted with one of the best viewpoints in the city—a perfect spot to snap photos or simply marvel at the scenery. From here, you can head to the nearby Gaia wine cellars to indulge in a glass of port wine or stroll back down to the riverfront. Whether it’s your first visit to Porto or you’re coming back for more, the cable car is an experience that’s as memorable as it is stunning. It’s a must-do that will give you a whole new perspective of this magical city!

Clérigos Tower and Chapel

Clérigos Tower was one of the first landmarks I visited in Porto, and it completely lived up to the hype. Standing tall in the heart of the city, this Baroque masterpiece immediately grabs your attention with its intricate design and historic charm. The climb to the top is no small feat—225 narrow steps winding through stone walls—but every step is worth it. Once I reached the top, I was blown away by the panoramic views. From the red-tiled rooftops to the sparkling Douro River and even the distant Dom Luís I Bridge, it felt like I had all of Porto at my feet.

Before the climb, I took some time to explore the Clérigos Chapel, which is connected to the tower. It’s smaller than I expected but no less impressive, with its ornate altar, golden details, and peaceful ambiance. It’s a great spot to pause and reflect before tackling the tower. Together, the chapel and tower offer a perfect mix of history, art, and adventure. Visiting Clérigos isn’t just about the view—it’s about experiencing a piece of Porto’s soul, and it’s a memory I’ll always cherish.

Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast

For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Finally...

The past year has been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. I’ve spent time in the UK, Germany, Turkey, Albania, and now Portugal. For the last five years, I’ve been living as a digital nomad, never staying in one place for too long before packing up and moving again.

But as I look ahead to 2025, I’m ready for a big shift: I’ve decided to apply for a visa and residence permit to make Portugal my home base! The process has already started (and it takes some time), but by May, I plan to officially call Portugal home.

I’ve loved the past five years of life on the move—it’s been incredible—but now feels like the right time to put down some roots. Portugal checks so many of the boxes for me: inspiring creativity in filmmaking, mild winters, stunning architecture, a fantastic food and restaurant scene, and of course, the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean.

There’s so much more to come, and I can’t wait to share this next chapter with you!

I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!

ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER

Bob Tapper

actorbobtapper@gmail.com

www.bobtapper.com

Outside US: +01 9494846275

Inside US: (949) 484-6275