Calendar of Events:
Tuesday May 28th: Depart USA for Azores, Portugal
Wednesday May 29th: Arrive early morning and spend two days of tourism in the Azores.
- The Azores are a chain of islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that boasts scenery and natural beauty that relates to the Hawaiian Islands.
- Visit outdoor scenic spots such as dramatic volcanic craters, azure-blue lakes, whale watching, and many other adventure opportunities in gorgeous landscape
- Explore Sao Miguel Island and the capital city of Ponta Delgada. Sites include Sete Cidades, Ferraria Thermal Pool, Terra Nostra Park, or simply stroll along the charming cobblestone streets with historic churches.
Thursday May 30th: Enjoy another full day in the Azores
Friday May 31st: Spend a partial day wrapping up the explorations on the Azores before departing for Porto, Portugal and arrival in the Atlantic Ocean Beachfront city of Povoa de Varzim.
Saturday June 1st: Practice in the AM, enjoy the sandy beaches of Povoa de Varzim, and then compete in the evening against CD Povoa.
- CD Povoa is a top level team that has 5 American import spots available and compete against Euro Cup and Champion League competition in Sporting, Porto, and Benfica.
Sunday June 2nd: Explore the City of Porto
- Porto is the 2nd biggest city in Portugal and home to the beautiful Historic City Center known as “Ribeira”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Port Wine Cellars, Scenic River Cruises, Local Cuisine along the River Promenade are just a handful of activities that can be explored in Porto.
- The City is known for its diverse architecture styles, from medieval building to contemporary designs. The Porto Cathedral is one of the most known churches in all of Europe.
Monday June 3rd: Continue exploration of Porto and compete against Vasco da Gama
- Finish any unseen tourism in the city or take another beach day.
- In the evening we visit the historic gym and club of Vasco da Game in the heart of Porto’s shopping district.
- Vasco da Game competes in the 2nd Divison (Proliga) and employes up to 2 import players each season.
Tuesday June 4th: Take a morning flight to Lisbon, Portugal for the final leg of the trip. Prepare for a game with Benfica B
- Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the biggest city
- Play against the 2nd Division team of Champions League member Sport Lisboa Benfica.
- Get some rest after back to back games and an early morning flight
Wednesday June 5th: Explore Sintra
- Sintra is quite possibly the most beautiful city in all of Portugal, located 15 minutes from the center of Lisbon.
- Explore the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, Palace de Montserrate, and the National Palace of Sintra. All UNESCO World Heritage Sites with rich history’s and breathtaking views.
- Explore the Historical Center with shops, restaurants, gelato. Sintra residents will say the tranquil settings of city and nature help inspire the creative minds of some of the world’s greatest writers. JK Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, was known to write some of the first volumes while living in Sintra.
Thursday June 6th: Explore Lisbon and play final game against Galitos-Barreiro
- The Art, Culture, and Architecture throughout the hilly capital of Portugal is unmatched across Europe.
- Try as many of the Cafes and local cuisine restaurants throughout the city while also exploring the Sao Jorge Castle, Belem Tower, and other scenic viewpoints in the main city districts of Caixa, Alfama, and Bairro Alto
- Compete in the Final basketball matchup with Galitos-Barreiro. A top league member for 8 out of the last 10 years and currently one of the top 2nd Division teams in Portugal.
A perfect way to end an incredible trip throughout 3 of the top destinations in Portugal.
Thursday June 7th: Depart for USA