An opPORT(O)unity for love

by Rosiyana Marinova (Bulgaria)

Making a local connection Portugal

“Do you want Pastel de Nata?” “Of course I do, and a little bit of wine, sun and ocean, please.” These are the simple words that describe best what Portugal stands for – a good taste in food, in lifestyle, and last but not least, in wine. I cannot think of Portugal without remembering the scene where I guzzled Pastel de Nata with one hand while holding a glass of wine with the other. The last few months happened to be somehow of a referent point in my life - I had been trying to cope with the stress after my breakdown and the trip to Portugal was an attempt to relieve the suffering. Not only did I become happier, but I ended up strongly connected to this country and I miss everything about it - the cheerfulness of the people in Lisbon, the beaches of Carcavelos, the palm trees of Cascais, and the warm greeting we got by the citizens of Coimbra. Despite my love for the whole country, my most precious place will always be Porto with its amazing boulevards, squares and ancient buildings. When I first came to Porto, I arrived at the railway station Sao Bento, which is the most magnificent masterpiece I had ever seen and, after I drank my coffee in Café Majestic, I went for a short walk through the city. It was already evening when I turned up to Dom Luís I Bridge, which has a grandstand view of the whole city. Porto at night is a different place from that during the day. When all the lights begin to glow the real magical atmosphere of the city looms. I was standing in front of the great azure above the river Douro, searching for a reason not to crumble among the crowd. Every time when it came to my mind that I had to leave Portugal I felt a stab in my stomach. A voice talking in Portuguese was what interrupted my thoughts. As soon as I hear this melodious language I regret being born Bulgarian and my heart starts melting. I was enjoying the velocity that Portuguese talks with, the soothing softness of each tone, which makes words acquire a divine sound, when I felt a gentle touch. “Do you enjoy the view?” – I saw a silhouette that was gradually transforming into a figure. “It’s outstanding.” – I cut off. “Oh, yes, and the bridge we are standing on right now was projected by Gustave Eiffel and the history about the construction is very interesting. There was a competition…” “Which was initiated in order to construct a double-deck metal bridge. I know. I’ve read about it a thousand times. I am an architect and you may have tried anything else to impress me.” – At that moment the streetlamps lighted his face up. A giant, handsome, definitely Portuguese man, was trying to touch a base with me and I was on my way to make him give up. “By the way, I am a pastor, at church.” – He smiled. “In case you want to know about my profession. I have read the Bible a thousand times.” Silence. “Look, you seem to be exhausted and anxious, and believe me, as a God’s servant, I sense your emotions.” - He was staring at me, hoping to receive an answer, pointlessly. “I am going out tonight with my team from the Karate club. Would you like to come with us?” I hooted with laughter. “Since when do pastors at church play the karate?” Hardly had he taken a glance at me when he put a complacent smile on his face. “My name is Alberto and I will be waiting for you at Casa de Lo at 10.” – The last thing I saw was his shade fading away in the darkness. Firstly, I was irritated by his bravery to interrupt a stranger’s thoughts. But, I confess, he made me laugh. Heartily. Like never before. As you may have guessed, our romance was brought to an end when I returned to Bulgaria, but I will always keep the memory of him and Porto in my heart. Do I still want Pastel de Nata? Of course, Alberto, wherever you are right now.