Solidarity tours in Portugal: When travel creates human connection

Certain journeys stay memorable because of the places we see, but others become unforgettable due to the people we accompany. At Portugal Premium Tours, we hold the view that travel does more than create memories; it promotes connection, dignity, joy, and positive impact. This conviction inspired one of our most touching experiences: a solidarity journey in collaboration with AMI, International Medical Assistance. It was more than just a tour, it was a day filled with laughter, discovery, emotion, and moments that underscored the importance of human connection. Often, the greatest luxury in travel is sharing meaningful experiences with others.

What are solidarity tours in Portugal?

Travel can be transformative, benefiting not only travelers but also communities and individuals who usually lack such opportunities. This idea is at the core of solidarity tours in Portugal. In December 2014, Portugal Premium Tours hosted a special day for users of the AMI “Porta Amiga” centres, organizations committed to helping vulnerable people through social, psychological, and practical support. The aim was clear: to provide a break from routine, a day of exploration, and most importantly, a day filled with happiness.

How did the journey begin?

The experience started early in Lisbon. Our team arrived at the “Porta Amiga” center in Chelas before heading to Olaias, where the remaining participants joined. The bus felt joyful and full of anticipation, especially since many had recently seen a TV report about Tapada de Mafra, heightening excitement. As we traveled through the Portuguese countryside, conversations, laughter, stories, and songs filled the air. The destination mattered, but the journey was already becoming special.

On December 9, 2014, we offer a West Portugal tour for ‘Porta Amiga’ AMI users, providing support to those in need.

Why was Tapada de Mafra so memorable?

Upon arriving in Mafra, we took a quick stop to view the imposing Mafra Palace and Convent. With guidance, the group learned about the history of this remarkable royal site before heading to Tapada de Mafra, a protected nature reserve famous for its forests, wildlife, and educational activities. There, Filipe from Ambifalco greeted us; his company specializes in bird-of-prey experiences. Suddenly, an enchanting moment unfolded. As falcons, owls, and eagles appeared, everyone’s expressions changed immediately. Curiosity shifted to excitement, and smiles became a common sight.

The day began at the ‘Porta Amiga’ center in Chelas, followed by the one in Olaias, where we met the participants for this initiative. They were very eager, and interestingly, a report about the Tapada de Mafra (which would be one of the main highlights of the tour) raised their anticipation for what they would see and experience.

Participants not only watched the birds flying overhead, but they also interacted with them personally:

• learning their names
• touching them
• observing them closely
• taking photographs together

Arriving in Mafra, we briefly stopped to see the Mafra Convent and Palace, where our guide gave a quick historical overview. The cheerful bus journey was filled with singing, jokes, stories, and positive, emotional moments!

Some participants even memorized the names of their favorite birds before the experience ended. These moments remind us how powerful simple experiences can be.

Discover meaningful travel experiences across Portugal!

At Tapada de Mafra, Filipe from Ambifalco, a bird of prey company, greeted us. He started the Birds of Prey show, and everyone was visibly joyful.

How did the day continue along Portugal’s west coast?

Despite the cooler winter weather, the experience stayed warm and lively. The Portugal Premium Tours team arranged a picnic lunch inside Tapada de Mafra, fostering another moment of sharing and connection before the afternoon drive along Portugal’s beautiful western coast.

The route included:

• Ericeira
• Cabo da Roca
• Cascais
• Estoril

As the Atlantic scenery unfolded outside the windows, the atmosphere remained joyful and emotional. For many participants, these landscapes were places they had never seen before, which made every stop meaningful.

Along with observing the birds, they interacted, learned about them (some decorated their favorite birds’ names!), touched them, and took a group photo.

Why does responsible travel matter?

At Portugal Premium Tours, luxury travel goes beyond comfort and exclusivity; it also entails responsibility. Since 2012, we have proudly supported AMI – International Medical Assistance by donating a portion of our yearly revenue. These donations help provide meals and support at the “Porta Amiga” centers. By 2013, over 600 meals had been donated, and our commitment persists. We believe travel companies can do more than just develop itineraries, they can make a meaningful impact on people and communities.

Can travel leave a positive impact?

Absolutely. At the end of the day, participants were repeatedly asked, “What did you enjoy most?” The answer came almost unanimously: “Everything.” And that is what meaningful travel is truly about. Not only seeing places, but creating moments people carry long after the journey ends.

Portugal Premium Tours has partnered with the AMI foundation since 2012, donating part of its revenue to provide meals for ‘Porta Amiga’ center users. In 2013, over 600 meals were supplied, with the total expected to grow by 2014’s end, aiding in fighting poverty, social exclusion, and hunger. Support the foundation’s 30th anniversary by visiting the AMI website.

Why choose Portugal Premium Tours?

Because every journey should feel personal and purposeful, Portugal Premium Tours creates tailor-made experiences combining authentic culture, storytelling, luxury, human connection, and personalized itineraries. As your planner, we help design your tour around what matters most to you, whether that means gastronomy, heritage, landscapes, communities, or socially conscious travel. This way, you travel your way and discover a more authentic Portugal.

Start designing your meaningful journey through Portugal today!