Olá ! I'm Carla, official Tour Guide. By age 16 I discerned my life's calling: to help others discover the beauty and diversity of the country I adore - my native Portugal. I was born and raised in the Lisbon area and I highlight the importance of having a native born citizen to guide when you travel. I am 58 years old and feel absolutely fit and enthusiastic about my job. There was a time I felt to leave but pandemic days favoured myself and gave me a boost to keep on. So thankful for this !
Guiding is my passion, and driving people too. I offer 2 vehicles, both MERCEDES - a VAN Viano Ambiente meaning top range, and a SUV EQB 100% electric . I give tours ALL AROUND Portugal. Since 2001, full time guiding travellers always small, customized, family groups, up to 7 travelers.
Experience and knowledge is important whenever choosing a guide. Other features such as; flexibility, reliability, honesty and someone easy-going to be with, may also enhance a positive great travel experience.
I will show to you Portugal as it is, seen with authenticity. And a guide who says " I do not know", and who is willing to learn with you !
I am a discreet person, who assures a safe and comfortable driving, I do love driving! I think i have a good sense of humour too !!
To mingle with the locals is crucial for a better understanding of the portuguese culture. We need time for it, so let's do it at your own pace.
Being an official guide means a degree in tourism information (4 years University + examination) allows me to lead historical tours, art, food tours, wine trips, arts and crafts, local traditions, pilgrim trips, gardens and parks of Portugal, architecture, roman sites and archaeology; and so much more that fascinates who visit us. I am curious and love so much learning with my travelers.
My hobbies: Massage therapist, Gardening, Herbal Medicine, Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking, Meditation. I do care about sustainability and try do give my best for environmental protection.
My registration with Turismo de POrtugal national tourism office is 420/2010, licensed to guide and drive tours simultaneously.
Owner of a deluxe Van, Mercedes Viano Ambiente, 7+1 individual leather seats, fully air-conditioned, large luggage capacity for round trips.
Owner of an electric Mercedes EQB a SUV, BRAND NEW, for up to 4 passengers.
I do have Clean Safe certification provided by Tourism of Portugal board. All measures for your safety will be applied.
I may consider a separate driver who will assist during the tours. Since I do also drive, often arise limitations as to where to stop, so a separate driver will minimize this issue. In main cities this becomes a major concern, because of increasing tourism !
I do present a sample of tours around Lisbon but feel free to let me know your interests and I'll prepare a tailored tour just for you.
I am ready to customize all tours! The presented ones are starting points for a full experience of Portugal as it is, genuine and authentic , shown by a local and experienced guide-driver.
I am open and excited about new destinations/experiences in Portugal, despite of looking small there is so much to explore....
Bemvindos to this fascinating country with friendly people that you will love as much as I do !
Hire a local who is also a professional tour guide allows an extraordinary experience !
National Tour guide nº 17/9842/352
Registration nº420/2010 by the Official Tourism Office - Turismo de Portugal - for guide and driving tours with mandatory insurances by portuguese law
Safe and Clean certification provided by Tourism of Portugal board
I do have no restrictions.
As a National Official Tour guide I may give tours all over Portugal.
I am also certified to conduct Tours in Spain and the rest of Europe ( I have led Tours in Spain, France and Italy ).