Council Connection: Portugal
Q&A with José Manuel Dias da Fonseca, CEO, MDS Group
We asked José Manuel Dias da Fonseca, CEO of Portugal-based MDS Group, what he recommends for travelers to his country.
Q
What are your favorite parts of Portugal to visit and why?
A
My favorite parts of Portugal are Porto and the Alentejo region. Porto is the city I call home, and it’s also the city that gave Portugal its very name. It’s world-famous for its port wine, its bridges, and its mix of both ancient and contemporary architecture. What I love most is the balance the city offers. You can enjoy amazing food, incredible views of the Douro River with its six iconic bridges, and relaxing walks along the oceanfront promenade. It’s a city with more than 2,000 years of history, and you can feel it in every corner.
Alentejo offers something completely different but equally special. It’s the largest region in Portugal, stretching across the southeast, and is known for its vast plains, cork oak forests, olive groves, vineyards, and a slower pace of life. The landscape is breathtaking, with golden fields under a wide sky, and the atmosphere is peaceful and authentic.
Q
What are some of your favorite local foods and drinks?
A
In Porto, fresh fish and seafood are at the top of my list. Renowned chefs from around the world consider Portuguese fish to be some of the best in the world, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why. The freshness, combined with the way it’s prepared, gives us endless options, from the simplest grilled fish to the most sophisticated dishes.
When it comes to drinks, Portuguese wines are truly exceptional. From the Douro Valley to Alentejo, Portugal produces outstanding red and white wines that are not only high in quality but also surprisingly affordable. And, of course, no visit to Porto is complete without trying a glass of port wine, which is part of the city’s soul.
Q
What experiences should travelers seek out to truly understand the local culture?
A
To truly understand Portuguese culture, you first need to know our people. In general, the Portuguese are very friendly, welcoming, and warm. Family and friendships are at the heart of our way of life, and so much of our culture is fostered around the table, sharing excellent home-cooked food, long conversations, and laughter.
Experiencing Portugal also means discovering our history and traditions, which are deeply rooted in every region. Portuguese culture is about connection, between people, history, and land, and travelers who embrace that will carry a little piece of Portugal with them forever.
