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INDEX ESN Wecolme note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Proalv welcome note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Financial matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Health care in Portugal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Getting around in Portugal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Finding a place to stay - tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 What is the ESN? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Buddy System / Mentoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 ESN Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 National level and events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 ESN Lisboa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ESN Porto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 ESN Aveiro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 ESN UTAD (Vila Real and Chaves) . . . . . . . . . . 55 ESN UÉvora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 ESN Coimbra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 ESN Covilhã . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 ESN Minho (Braga and Guimarães) . . . . . . . . . 77 Why should I learn Portuguese? . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Portuguese quick dictionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
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WELCOME FRIEND! NEED A HAND?
PROALV WELCOME NOTE
Are you an exchange student in Portugal or planning to come to Portugal? On behalf of Student Network (ESN), we welcome you to one of the best experiences of your life! I sincerely hope that by the time your exchange experience is over the idea of living in Portugal comes up in your mind at least once. The mission of ESN PT is to foster and promote student mobility in Higher Education. We are students helping students; this is what ESN is all about. In Portugal we have now 8 sections throughout the country supporting you during your stay, which is a small number compared to more than 400 sections in 36 countries. This booklet was first created by the ESN Lisboa section in January 2010. Now in its fourth edition a strong effort has been made to rewrite this guide in order to better meet your needs. On one hand we have invited each section to produce more material and on the other hand we invited partner universities to include useful information about each institution.
WELCOME NOTE: WELCOME ABOARD!
With nearly 25 years of existence Erasmus continues to be the ex-libris of the European Mobility, and throughout Europe, more than 2 million students have had the opportunity to undertake a period of mobility in a country of their choice in greater Europe! Erasmus provides knowledge and experience that cannot be achieved “between doors” and for many it is the first great voyage of their lives. The acquisition of knowledge and skills in a multicultural atmosphere, the possibility of making new and different friendships between different nationalities and to benefit in terms of education, linguistic and cultural through a learning experience in another European country, is something rewarding for students and an asset for their professional future. In Portugal, there are more than 80 higher education institutions (HEIs) participating in Erasmus and it is with great pleasure that we see the increasing number of students who year after year choose Portugal to study or have a work experience under the Erasmus. Each year more than 5.000 students are sent abroad and over 6.000 are welcomed for a period of study or placement. In 2009/10 this number grew to more than 7.000! Portugal is also among the most popular destinations for the attending of Erasmus Intensive Language Courses – specialized courses in the less widely used and taught languages aimed for Erasmus foreign students. We could continuously point out as many reasons to board on Erasmus as to doing it in our country – reference institutions on higher education and research, academic environment, tradition & culture, history & heritage, food, natural heritage, coast & beaches, climate, security, cost of living… Ultimately, some
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FINANCIAL MATTERS (or all) of those have brought you to our country, which makes us most grateful. Expecting your stay in Portugal to contribute to develop and deepen academic and professional knowledge and skills as well as your understanding and fondness of the Portuguese cultural heritage, we would like to warmly welcome all students and wish you a very fruitful stay in our country. In the end, we sincerely hope your experience and memories may be translated in saudade … The National Agency Team.
AGÊNCIA NACIONAL PROALV, AN PROALV, the Portugal National Agency for the Management of Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP), is a structure created by the Portuguese Government for the management of decentralized actions of the LLP. In addition to Erasmus, programme such as Comenius (school education), Leonardo da Vinci (vocational education and training) and Grundtvig (adult education), managed by the NA, have continuously provided mobility experiences to thousands and supported transnational projects in education and training. Agência Nacional para a Gestão do Programa Aprendizagem ao Longo da Vida Praça de Alvalade, 12 Lisboa 1749-070 Telephone: +351 210 101 900 Fax.: +351 210 101 910 E: AGENCIANACIONAL@PROALV.PT | I: WWW.PROALV.PT (AN PROALV) | HTTP://PROALV. PT/ERASMUSINPT/ (ERASMUS IN PT)
Currency
Portugal belongs to the euro zone, so if you come from a country that uses the euro you won‘t find any problem. If you come from outside the euro zone you can convert your currency at the airport or at any bank.
Banks
There are several banks in Portugal, including international ones, but they are all bounded to the national bank system. As a student you can open a bank account for free in most banks, and many universities have special agreements with banks. Withdrawing money might make you pay a high fee (depending on your home bank) when using your home country bank card, especially if it is not from the Euro zone.
Payment
All bills and payments are connected to the Portuguese ATM system, meaning you can pay them at any ATM. Gas, electricity, water, internet, insurances, car fines and even taxes, you can pay all that in an ATM machine. However, in order to be able to do this you will need a Portuguese bank account. Mobile phones are also topped up using the ATM.
* From the Latin solitāte, «solidão», saudade is only known in Galician and Portuguese languages, and describes a mixture of feelings of loss, love and distance, a melancholy feeling caused by the absence or the disappearance of persons or things that were very emotionally connected, by removal of a place or a time, or the privation of previously pleasant experiences (source: http://www.infopedia.pt/)
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HEALTH CARE IN PORTUGAL Should I open a bank account? That’s a tricky question! If you don’t pay any fees to withdraw money in Portugal using your home banking card, then you may skip this section. However, if you pay something or if there are currency conversions it may prove to be very beneficial for you.
Why opening a bank account? • • • •
you can top up your mobile phone anywhere; you can use debit card basically anywhere, since international cards are not accepted everywhere; cheaper restaurants and stores often don’t accept international cards; it is safer, since there is no need to withdraw big amounts of cash each time.
Europe - the EHIC card
European citizens who are travelling within the European Economic Area for private or professional reasons are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which simplifies the procedure when receiving medical assistance during their stay in a member state. The EHIC entitles the holder to the same treatment at the same cost as a national of that country. Beware that dental is most of the times not covered.
Claiming in Portugal with an EHIC card Doctors and dentists: To benefit from treatment go to the nearest Health Centre (Centro de Saúde), show them a passport or EHIC card and ask to be treated under the EU arrangements. A non-refundable fee will be charged that is. Under the state health program in Portugal, dental treatment is limited and it is most likely that a non-refundable fee will be charged. Prescriptions: Medication is paid in part by the patient (between 30 and 80 percent). Medicines prescribed for serious illnesses are free of charge. Hospital treatment: Hospital treatment is most of the cases, free, however any secondary examinations such as X-rays and laboratory examinations will need to be paid for.
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GETTING AROUND IN PORTUGAL Health Care 24h
Medical advices and guidance over the Phone/Internet 24h a day 808 24 24 24 www.saude24.pt
Non-EU or Non-EEA students
Students from countries outside EU-EEA should ask for further information in their own countries before travelling to Portugal. If they fall outside the system mentioned at your wright, students must get a health insurance, which will provide them with health care during their stay in Portugal. Without one of these, should they need medical assistance during their stay in Portugal, students will have to pay for the respective health treatment.
Personal Physical Accidents Insurance
This insurance is not compulsory, however, it is recommended. Besides covering personal physical accidents in your daily life, this insurance often provides you with repatriation insurance, in case of sickness or accident (depending of course on the insurance policies).
Civil Liability Insurance
This cost effective insurance is not compulsory, but is recommended, since health insurance policies and the CESD (European Card of Insurance on Illness) do not cover civil liability (damage caused to third parties) of your daily activities (except University activities, which are covered by School insurance).
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Public Transportation in Portugal varies a lot from region to region. But it is specially developed in the big cities, like Lisboa and Porto. Furthermore, trains generally run on time. Each city has its own ticket system. If you use the bus or subway daily, a monthly pass is recommended. There are also many cheaper passes and ticket discounts for students or young people, so remember to ask your local ESN section or University. Daily/weekly and one way tickets are available as well.
Railways
Most of the rail infrastructure is maintained and operated by the state-owned REFER. CP is the company that runs all regional and inter city trains. Rail infrastructure shows higher developments in the centre and northern cost line.
Buses / Tramways
Most cities offer bus routes inside the city managed by a a state/municipal/private company. At district level, each district has its own company. At national level you can find Rede Expressos or Renex. Buses are usually cheaper and with more routes to every city; however, trains can offer a good price/comfort option for popular destinations. Discounts are available for students.
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SERVICES Railway www.cp.pt www.transtejo.pt Bus - (Intercity) www.rede-expressos.pt www.renex.pt Lisboa www.carris.pt www.transporlis.sapo.pt Porto www.stcp.pt
Hitchhiking
Braga www.tub.pt Guimarães tug.com.pt Coimbra www.smtuc.pt Évora www.trevo.com.pt Car Sharing www.energiapositiva.pt
Hitchhiking can be quite hard in Portugal since it is not that common. It is not illegal, but most drivers are just not used to giving people a ride. People might be afraid of giving a ride, but you might get lucky, or find younger people that will take you. As a rule, no woman stops for a male hitch-hiker, so going in couples might increase your chances. Generally, it is quite easy to get a lift with males driving alone. Many people work in a city and live in a town nearby or in the suburbs. Male drivers usually pick up hitch-hikers because they want somebody to talk to. If you choose this method, please be careful. Hitchhiking is not a public service, so you have not the promise of having a safe person giving you a ride. Remember this point anytime you take this option.
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Mobile Phones
Before you choose a mobile phone or a subscription, check your ESN section for special deals with phone operators - we are offering free SIM Cards with special deals just for Erasmus students: TMN Moche and Optimus Tag - with these you will have a fixed small monthly fee and you’ll be able to talk/text to all other people with the same type of card as much as you want for free! Portuguese’s largest mobile phone companies are TMN, VODAFONE, OPTIMUS. All three of them provide a nationwide coverage with their networks. There are other providers that use the networks of the operators mentioned above, offering mobile prepaid offers at good rates.
Postal Services
Portugal has a state-owned postal service, called CTT. There are many postal offices throughout the country. They are usually located in the city centre and/or near the train station. You also find many red mailboxes, where you can drop your letters. The market for parcels is privatised; therefore you have a choice between different companies if you want to send a package.
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FINDING A PLACE TO STAY - TIPS Get some help
Try to garantee that you have a Portuguese student (ESN member or a Buddy) that helps you - he will have a better knowledge of the city and will help with translations (a lot of landlords don’t speak english). Getting an extra help from a local or a formal Erasmus student would ease your mission in finding a house. Not that this should be a “mission impossible”. Does your university or ESN section have a buddy program or Facebook pages / groups? Does your university have the record of students who did Erasmus in the year before? If you don’t get help right away, don’t despair, you can also do it on your own! A good idea is to find temporary accommodation so you can find and compare different options before you make your choice.
Where to look for a room? • • • • •
Asking your University is a good start (check its website, for instance) - some offer accomodation to all Erasmus students; Your ESN Section Website and Facebook page / group (check the Section pages further ahead); Student Association Website; Websites like OLX, Custo Justo, BQuarto, Universia, etc. Newspappers (Correio da Manhã, Ocasião).
Contract
It is very hard to find accommodations with a contract. It would make the agreement legal and covered by law (some responsibilities). There is in Portugal some tendency to escape taxes, although this is more noticeable in the north of the country.
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Remember to check: The price - what does it include? Normally, all expenses are included in the monthly rent of your room, but in some cases expenses are payed separately. Ask about other expenses. The household appliances: The availability of many appliances (e.g. a dishwasher) has an influence on the price you may afford. The location: Is it near the University Campus? Is there transportation nearby? Remember it also influences the price. The flatmates: Avoid living with people from your own country, this will limit your erasmus experience, but keep in touch with them. Having Portuguese flatmates can be interesting! The number of toilets/showers: How many toilets and rooms are there in the house? The internet: Can you live without internet? Does the room have a window? Renting one that doesn’t is illegal! So try to avoid this, also for your own mental health! Can I bring a friend?: Some landlords/landladies are quite strict when letting visitors in. Check this with them before renting a house, especially if you are planning to have many visits. About parties and noise: This will definitely be important when throwing a house party/dinner! Enjoying friendly relations with your neighbours will also allow you more time before someone calls the police.
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WHAT IS THE ESN? The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is an Europe-wide student organisation supporting and developing student exchange. It is composed of over 2,500 members from more than 400 local sections in 36 countries working in Higher Education Institutes (Universities, Polytechnics and University Colleges etc). ESN is organised on a local, national and international level. Our network is in contact with more than 160.000 internationally-minded students. The aim of ESN is to promote the social and personal integration of exchange students. The local ESN sections offers help, guidance and other valuable informations to the exchange students hosted at their universities. Newcomers find their way in the new environment easier and they can utilise their time in the best way to get as much out of their exchange as possible.
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Main Principles • • • • • •
ESN works on behalf of exchange students. ESN is committed to improve the social and practical integration of exchange students. ESN represents the needs and expectations of exchange students on a local, national and international level. ESN provides relevant information about academic exchange programmes and ESN resources. ESN works with the reintegration of homecoming students. ESN provides relevant information on academic exchange programmes and student mobility.
PALLOMERI? PALLOMERI!
PALLOMERI is Finnish and stands for the area filled with many coloured balls where kids can play, for instance in shopping centres - a ball pool. PALLOMERI within ESN stands for a mindset or even a life-style that you can experience as an ESN member or together with ESN. It is about being young, being surrounded by motivated, interested, international students. It is about friendship, travelling, learning and having fun connected with an international exchange. And, by the way: in ESN it is also an abbreviation for Paneuropean Association Leading Local Organisations Making Erasmus Richer Inside.
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WHAT THE HECK IS...
ESN CARD
Buddy System / Mentoring?
Why should I get an ESN Card?
The Buddy System gives exchange students the possibility of “having a local student of their own”. Exchange students who apply to the Buddy System get a “Buddy” who shows his city to the foreigner, helps with problem solving and tries to be a good friend. The Buddy programme is a great opportunity for exchange students to connect with locals. It’s not only popular among exchange students, many Portuguese students like to care for a “foreign godchild”. You can get information about the ESN Buddy System of your host university on the homepage of the local section or as always: just ask the ESN guy/girl passing you in the aisle of the university.
The ESN card is the magic key for many ESN activities. It gives you cheaper access to trips, parties and other activities organised by ESN sections. There are many special deals for ESN card holders. In Lisbon for example you get free entrance into clubs and cheaper drinks with your ESN card. For further details on discounts check the homepage of the according section. Take a look into our partners discounts for each section and at national level.
Tandem?
Tandem is a system of learning foreign languages with another student during individual meetings. That way you can learn or improve a foreign language for free. Besides, you and your partner can choose where to meet and the frequency of your meetings based on your own preferences. It is also an easy way to gain first-hand knowledge about another country. Not from books, but through a person like you. ESN Portugal‘s website -> www.esnportugal.org ESN International‘s website -> www.esn.org
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ESN Community
Owners of an ESN card can also enjoy the benefits of the online ESN community. If you register your ESN card on the ESN international homepage (www.esn.org) you will be able to access information about career opportunities, travels and discounts across Europe.
Where can I get it?
Being an exchange student, you have the opportunity to get an ESN card from the ESN section of your host university for a small amount. Most of the Portuguese sections in Portugal work with the ESN CARD.
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NATIONAL LEVEL National Board (NB)
The National Board is responsible for the communication between sections, as well as between communication with partners and institutions outside ESN. Furthermore the National Board looks after the knowledge management, the organisation of National Events and the support of the local sections.
National Representative (NR)
The National Representative is responsible for the contact between the sections of the country and the International level.
National Platform
At the National Platform the members of the different Portuguese sections meet and discuss current topics concerning ESN Portugal. Even though these are work meetings, the fun and social parts like a party on Saturday night. It’s the time for Portugal ESN members to connect and make new plans.
OUR NATIONAL EVENTS ESN Olympics
Yes! We have our own National Sports Event for you to participate in or to cheer for your team! The aim is the integration of exchange students throught different sports, making good competition the best, healthy way for you to meet foreign students in Portugal. Ask your local section about it and run for the gold medal! The first edition included futsal, volley and swimming, and we are planning to have more sports.
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Erasmus in Schools (EiS)
Flagship project of ESN in 2013, EiS aims to promote mobility at an early age. Our local sections organise visits to elementary and secondary schools so that our exchange students can do a wide range of activities that include country and culture presentations, language sessions and mobility promoting activities for the younger local students. Be part of this wave of promotion and ask your section to participate on this event. Let Portuguese students know about what it’s like being an exchange student. You can be the motto for the creation of more exchange students in Europe! ESN Portugal supports you on.
Erasmus National Meeting (ENM)
Our biggest and oldest national event. Can you imagine hundreds of exchange students like you enjoying 4 crazy days in Algarve with cultural activities, sports, beach and parties? This will be your reality if you join this event. These will be the best relax/party days you’ll experience in Portugal if you’re here during the second semester. Don’t miss it!
For more information about those events follow our facebook page (www.facebook. com/ESNPT), check our website (www.esnportugal.org) or ask your local ESN section.
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ESN LISBOA ESN Lisboa is the Lisbon section of the Erasmus Student Network. ESN Lisboa is a non-profit organisation born in September 2008 by the hand of a small group of Portuguese Erasmus students that had just come from their Erasmus. ESN Lisboa started as an informal student group and organized activities in the first semester of 2008/2009 with no more than 150 IST exchange students. Since then ESN Lisboa took a crucial leap and started offering its support and activities to all exchange students in Lisbon. More than 50 different activities were organized throughout each year, targeting almost 2000 exchange students. Nowadays ESN Lisboa is formed by voluntary Portuguese and international students from various universities in Lisbon and it is considered the biggest section in Portugal in number of organised activities and exchange students.
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ESN Lisboa has as its main goal the integration of international exchange students in Lisbon and in the Portuguese culture; ESN achieves this objective through a different set of projects: • Buddy Program - Voluntary Portuguese students helping international students; • Weekend Trips - Culture and leisure trips to different destinations across Portugal; • Movie Nights - Providing exchange students with the opportunity to watch Portuguese movies with • english subtitles; • Sport Events - ESN has organized football tournaments between exchange students and the possibility for exchange students to attend to radical sports activities, like SkyDiving; • Cultural days - Providing free visits to museums and monuments across Lisbon; • Day Trips - Trips to close locations or cities to visit relevant monuments or events, lasting no more than one day; • Occasional Events - like barbecues or wine tastings; • Parties - Partying is unquestionably an important part of Erasmus and we will provide you unforgetable ones.
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Where to find us?
WHERE CAN YOU FIND US? ESN Office
Our Office is located in the heart of the city center in the bustling famous quarter called Bairro Alto - address: Rua da Atalaia, 157. Office hours: Mon-Friday from 15h to 18h30 How to get to the ESN Office? • Catch a Metro until Baixa/Chiado (blue and green line), get out towards Chiado; • Keep on following the tram tracks going up the hill, after crossing the square Largo de Camões; • Take the first upleading street on your right (Rua da Atalaia); • After 5 min. climbing you will find our office on the left side of the street, located inside a building owned by the city’s town hall (Câmara Municipal).
ESN Lisboa’s Website - www.esn-lisboa.org The ESN Lisboa website gathers all information regarding the activities, parties and projects.
Join our group: facebook.com/groups/ESNLisboa2013.2014
Check our page: facebook.com/ErasmusStudentNetworkLisboa
MusicBox
Known as a paradise for emergent songs and DJ’s, it is a small concert hall and club located in the center of Lisbon (Cais do Sodré). It This is where ESN Lisboa organizes its Erasmus Tuesdays Parties. Rua Nova do Carvalho nº 24
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ESN CARD IN LISBOA The ESN Card is the membership card of ESN Lisboa. With it you get: • European Valid ESN Card • Discounts in all ESN Trips and activities • Access to our Parties • Drink discounts in our partner bars • Surf and Language courses discounts • Gyms • Promotions in other ESN sections • Car rental discounts • Sailing • Many other ESN Lisboa Partners (check www.esn-lisboa.org/partners for more)
ESN Card partners Accommodation: The ESN Card gives you special discounts in some Hostels: • Lisbon Central Hostel • Lisb’on Hostel • Lisbon Destination Hostels • Lisbon Poets Hostel • This is Lisbon Hostel • Hostel Nice Way Palace Sintra Education and Culture • Language Craft Language School
Sports and activities: • SPICA Salling Team • Centro Internacional Surf • Ginásio Clube Português • SkyDive Europe Bars/Restaurants • Apolo XIII Bar • Quiosque O Melhor Bolo de Chocolate do Mundo • Cais de Quatro • Papo Cheio • Wasabi • Hard Rock Cafe Lisboa
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THE CITY
GETTING AROUND LISBON
The History
Getting Around Lisbon
Lisbon was founded in the mists of antiquity being at least a thousand years old when first ruled by the Romans. It has been the capital of Portugal since it was taken from the Moors in 1147, becoming the capital of the kingdom in 1255. In the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries Lisbon was the starting point for the discoveries made by Portuguese navigators, which rapidly changed the city into an international trading centre for the merchandise that came from the newly discovered colonies. Over the centuries Lisbon naturally grew and changed. However, in 1755, Europe’s most devastating earthquake destroyed about two-thirds of Lisbon and killed more than 90,000 people. The ruling minister, Marquês de Pombal, rebuilt Lisbon’s city centre, creating what is presently known as Baixa Pombalina (downtown). This was Lisbon’s darkest moment in history.
Lisbon has a subway, bus and train network to get around in most of the city. You can get the public transportation card, Lisboa Viva, and charge it with the monthly pass, Navegante, which includes subway, bus and train (until Belém). The subway works from 6:30 am to 1:00 am of the following day in most stations. For your convenience here are some locations where you can ask for the Lisboa Viva card: Marquês de Pombal and Campo Grande subway stations; Mob shops at Arco do Cedo and Alcantara. You can buy the monthly pass in any subway station.
Nowadays, Lisbon is one of the most beautiful capitals of Europe and a popular destination for travellers and students, while still maintaining the marks of its early glorious history.
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WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO VISIT? Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 1200 BC. It was ruled by several Germanic tribes, the Romans, then the Moors and finally the Portuguese, but it was nearly destroyed by an earthquake in 1755, only 15 % of the buildings survived. The old Lisbon Alfama - is thus one of the oldest surviving parts of the city where it is still possible to see Roman and Moorish influences. It is a place dominated by narrow streets, a result of Moorish influence; Saint Jorge’s Castle - sits in one of the highest points in the city. It was originally owned by the Moors, but was taken in 1147. Its towers, walls and beautiful gardens sport a wonderful collection of views over Lisbon, which makes it a must see; Chiado - A commercial zone for noble goods. In the 25th of August 1988 it was struck by a huge fire engulfing 17 buildings. Restored several years later it is now a good place to find book stores, fashion houses, hotels, theatres, museums and restaurants. Praça do Comércio – or “Terreiro do Paço” is one of the most majestic squares in Lisbon. It is the site of an old palace that was almost completely destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The Square has two main features: a great 19th century triumphal arch leading to Augusta Street, an important pedestrian shopping area, and in the centre an equestrian statue of King José I.
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Belém Torre de Belém – Classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO (1983), this fortress was originally built (1514-1520) for the defence of the Tejo river entrance. This fortress is riddled with beautiful Manuelline decoration, with ropes and knots carved in stone, armillary spheres and crosses of The Order of Christ.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos – is a monumental testimony to the wealth of the Portuguese Discoveries period. It is located relatively close to Torre de Belém; this monastery is considered to be the epitome of Manuelline architecture. In 1983 it was classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
The New Lisbon Parque das Nações – is a new area of Lisbon built from scratch for the World Expo of 1998. The area it rests on was originally occupied by storage container parks, slaughter houses, and other pollutant industries, and is now, home to a wonderful system of seaside leisure parks and commerce area. Visitors can still visit several pavilions that are still open to the public. Oceanário – It is the second greatest marine biology museum in the world. It is located in “Parque das Nações”, and houses an impressive array of live species including corals, fish and other sea dwellers, birds and mammals. One of its major attractions is the 4 million litre central tank, which can be seen throughout the visit.
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NIGHTLIFE
SHOPPING
The neighbourhood of Bairro Alto (upper district) is situated at one of the hills in Lisbon’s historical centre. Nowadays, it functions as a residential, shopping and entertainment district, and at night it is the place to be! It is one of the oldest districts of the city. Dozens of fado singing clubs animate the area along with nearly fifty bars and restaurants. Bairro Alto’s popularity emerges from the density of bars (about 200), as well as the unique way of going out: Having a pre-drink (or as the Spanish would say Botellón) before going to one of the clubs in the surroundings. Cheap prices are usual: 1l beers are affordable for just 2€, 1/2l Caipirinha for 4€ and a shot starting from 1€.
Lisbon remains Western Europe’s least expensive capital and it’s a true shoppers’ paradise! In the center of downtown you can find traditional and specialised shops, many of them are even worth going into just for their distinctive decoration. Portuguese designers are based in Bairro Alto and Chiado. Bairro Alto is also popular because of it’s alternative fashion set, with club and street wear shops. Most of those only open in the mid-afternoon and remain open all the night. In the Chiado quarter you will also find luxurious international brands from Hermés to Cartier along with popular modern retailers like Zara, H&M, United Colors of Benetton, Foot Locker, and some quaint traditional old shops and bookstores. For high fashion head to Avenida da Liberdade, home to well-known international names such as Emporio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Burberry or Escada.
THE BEACH On sunny weekends there is always a wide variety of students, travellers and jumble sellers gathering at the closest beaches around. You can either get a train to the west at the station Cais do Sodré (direction: Cascais) and get out at one of the stops (e.g. Carcavelos, Estoril) or go by bus (from Praça de Espanha) to Costa da Caparica on the other side of the Tagus river, where the most beautiful and less crowded beaches are.
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SPORTS Since your exchange can’t only be based on tourism, try to enjoy some sport activities! For a gym, check the agreement that we have for you with the ESN Card, you probably won’t find a better price/ quality ratio. For group sports, most universities have their own team, so it should not be very hard to find a club or team willing to accept you. You can also take a look at the big sports complexes like Estádio Universitário de Lisboa, Ginásio Clube Português and Fitness Hut.
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SURFING IN LISBON Surf is definitely a “not to miss experience” among exchange students during their stay in Portugal. Some of the best beaches to surf in the region of Lisbon are “Costa da Caparica”, “Carcavelos”, “Praia do Guincho” and “Praia Grande”. ESN Lisboa has a partnership with a Surf School, offering special conditions to practice surf in the amazing beaches of Costa da Caparica. Check out the ESN Card conditions for this surf school. ESN Lisboa organizes frequently free surf tryouts.
ESN LISBOA’S BUCKET LIST Here are the things you really can’t miss when you are doing your Erasmus in Lisbon:
x Fall in love with Lisbon
Eat a pastel de Belém Go to santos populares and buy a manjerico Surf in caparica... Or at least try to! Sing pimba music Visit Sintra and eat a Travesseiro at Piriquita Go to chapitô Drink a Ginjinha at Rossio Eat Caldo Verde and Pão com Chouriço after a late night out Ride the 4 elevators of Lisbon (Stª Justa, Bica, Glória e Lavra) Visit all the 7 Miradouros of Lisbon Go on the 3 weekend trips of ESN Lisboa: Porto, Algarve and Peniche
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Try a Capirinha, Capirião, Caipiroska and Morangoska, all in the same night! Go to Cristo-Rei and take a photo like the statue, facing Lisbon Take a picture with Fernando Pessoa at Brasileira Take a ride on tram 28, through all Lisbon Go to Musicbox on tuesday Have a coffee with your buddy at Lost In Eat “O melhor bolo de chocolate do mundo” Sail in the Tejo river Go for a drink in Pavilhão Chinês Eat some grilled sardines Visit casa Fernando Pessoa and Fundação Saramago Watch a Sporting-Benfica game at the stadium Run the mini marathon of Lisbon to get to walk on Ponte 25 de Abril Go to feira da ladra Answer a question of a tourist without him/her realizing you’re not a local Eat a bifana Drink a Beer and eat Tremoços at Apolo with ESN Members Eat an ice cream at Santini Kiss a stranger at bairro alto Visit the Oceanarium Go to a “tasca” and listen to some Fado Vadio Visit Castelo de São Jorge Visit the Roman Catacombs of Princípe Real Eat a croissant at Careca, in Restelo Find this tile panel and take a picture with it on your last day of Erasmus
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ESN PORTO
OUR ACTIVITIES
ESN Porto is the oldest ESN Section in Portugal. Founded in 1991, this section receives around 3.000 exchange students per year.
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Where are we?
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Eurodinner: Cook typical dishes from your country and share them with everyone; Pubcrawl: 1 night, 6 different bars and lots of drinking games and fun; CinEsn: An exclusive cinema session for you; Portuguese night: Come and taste traditional flavours of Portugal and watch a Fado concert; Café lingua: If you either want to learn or teach a new language, this is the perfect event for you; Football tournament: Time to show us your football skills; Surf course: You’ll be living near the sea, so no excuse for not learning how to surf. ESN provides you a 8 lesson surf course for half the price. Latin dances course: Put on your dancing shoes and come learn some salsa, bachata, merengue or cha cha cha
Our office is located in the rectory of the Universidade do Porto. Address: Praça Gomes Teixeira, 5th floor, room 500. We are oppen from Monday to Friday. www.esnporto.org www.facebook.com/ErasmusStudentNetworkPorto
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What do we do?
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Parties ESN Porto organizes a theme party every week, usually on Thursdays. The bars and themes vary as much as possible, so expect something different every week.
Weekend Trip calendar:
Trips Remember that we are not travel agents, we are students like you trying to help you the best way we can, having fun and meeting people from other cultures. We are not professionals organizing trips but volunteers with considerable experience, which means that we became proficient at doing it. We don’t profit from our trips, so you cannot find a lower price anywhere. Usually transportation, accommodation, visits, parties and dinners are included. We also hold cultural visits to museums and other important places in the city.
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Trip to Lisbon– Mid October and March – 3 days – We will show you everything you need to see in Lisbon from the monuments to the nightlife, all of these in the company of 120 erasmus. Snow Trip - Early January – A weekend in Serra da Estrela with snow sports and parties; Trip to Guimarães and Braga - Visit to two of the most historical towns in the North of Portugal; Trip to Algarve –March– Lots of sunshine and beaches – 4 days in Praia da Rocha, one of the top places in the Algarve.
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ESN CARD IN PORTO With your ESN Card you can participate in every activity that ESN Porto organizes, including free entrances in our weekly party. Also you get discounts in laundries, gyms, hostels, car renting or parties not organized by ESN. For more information check the ESN Card discount section in our website.
Portuguese Mobile SIM Card
ESN has partnerships with most of the Porto Universities so you’ll receive a printed version of this guide together with the free Tag SIM card, upon your arrival at the international office.
Gym
ESN gives you a free week’s trial at the Bom Sucesso Health Club, all you need to do is show your Card at the front desk. Also if you wish to sign up, there are special conditions for ESN Card holders.
EVENTS YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IN PORTO Queima das Fitas
(1st week of May): Its the biggest student party in Portugal! Every year all students gather at Queimodromo to celebrate the end of the year and their graduation. One week of pure madness, concerts, party and lots and lots of drinks, with around 80,000 people each day. ESN has its own drink stand so you can celebrate with all your Erasmus friends.
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Cortejo Queima das Fitas
(Tuesday): In the student promenade, over 30,000 students invade Porto’s downtown during this event.
Serenata
(Sunday) Its one of the most symbolic and important moments of the academic life, where freshman’s are allowed to wear their black suit (the Harry Potters strange look :P) for the first time. This serenade opens the party week at 00:01 of the first week of May and it happens in front of Cadeia da Relação on Cordoaria (near Reitoria).
São João’s Fest
(June’s 23rd): This is the biggest festival on the Porto’s calendar, and one of Europe’s liveliest street parties. It’s the night where literally Porto comes to the streets. Loud music pumps up from huge amplifiers set up on the main squares, the smell of sardines being grilled on makeshift barbecues fills the streets, lit up balloons eerily go up in the summer evening sky, and boats ply the river with their loads of merry locals and tourists keen to get the best spot for the main event - the spectacular fireworks!
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THE CITY
MOVING AROUND
Overlooking the Douro River, Porto is one of the most ancient European cities. It was born and developed from the northern bank of this river during the Middle Ages. One of the most significant aspects of Porto and its historical centre is its landscape, combining harmony with the urban structure and presenting a frame of rare beauty. The city was classified as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1996. When discovering Porto, you will find many surprises. Besides its welcoming and conservative environment, Porto is also contemporary and artistic. This is shown not only in the streets, architecture, monuments and museums but also in the terraces, restaurants, leisure and shopping areas.
Night life
Porto is a city with an intense nightlife. Nights usually start late and last until dawn. A typical meeting point for Portuguese students is Piolho, close to reitoria. There you’ll see lots of people outside just chilling and drinking. Erasmus normally meet at Piolho (close to Reitoria). You can also check Rua Galerias Paris where you’ll have the same exquisite atmosphere, but with slightly older people. After that, you can try one of the Bar/discos downtown. Pitch, Gare, Maus hábitos or Tendinha are some suggestions. Monday’s night is one of the best Erasmus evenings, at Ribeira(close to the riverside), famous for offering two drinks for the price of one. After Ribeira everyone goes to La Movida disco club. If you’re more into big warehouse clubs there’s an industrial zone where you can find lots of clubs to enjoy. You’ll also be able to get to know some of the best clubs in town by attending to ESN parties, where the entrance is free for ESN card holders.
In order to ride Porto’s public transportation system you will need to buy an “andante”, which is the general ticket requested in all public transports (metro, train and buses). The price depends only on the itinerary you choose. So if you want to go from a place to another, you pay the same whether you catch 3 different buses or only one. An one-way ticket costs 1,20€, and you can buy it at any subway station. If you already have an andante you only have to recharge it, you don’t need to buy a new one. Make sure you validate your andante before you get on the vehicle, and every time you switch lines you need to validate it again. For a monthly ticket you have 25% discount if you aged under 25 years old. You can get your monthly ticket at Trindade station. The subway is open from 6.00 am till 1.00 am. Buses, depending on the line, can run only during the daytime or all night long. Bus: www.stcp.pt Trains: www.cp.pt Metro: www.metrodoporto.pt General Info: www.itinerarium.net
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FINDING A PLACE TO STAY
THE UNIVERSITY OF PORTO
Finding a place to live in Porto is generally the first concern of Erasmus students, but this doesn’t mean it’s the easiest thing to do. There are two options for you, regarding this matter: you can either apply for one of the residences destined for mobility students or try to find an apartment/room in private houses.
The University of Porto is the one of the largest higher education and research institutions of Portugal and one of the top 200 European universities. With it’s origins dating back to the 18th century, it’s one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Portugal.
Private Housing
Porto’s real estate market is a little bit different from most European cities, as most Portuguese don’t live in the centre. This is good news for erasmus students because the houses in the centre become a little bit cheaper. Prices vary depending on the place and conditions of the house: 150€-250€ are the “normal” prices for a room in Porto. Usually, rent prices don’t include gas, electricity or Internet. We understand that your knowledge of the Portuguese language is probably not the best at the time of your arrival and, in top of that, some landlords do not speak English. You are always more than welcome to drop by ESN office and we will do our best to help you out. Additionally, if you already found a place but you need someone to share it with, you can leave your contact at our office and we’ll help you find someone.
Buddy Program
We strongly recommend you to join the Buddy program from ESN Porto. Your Portuguese Buddy can be a great help in finding you a nice place to live.
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Today, about 28,000 students (11,000 postgraduate) attend the courses provided by the one of the U.Porto’s fifteen schools (13 faculties, a biomedical sciences institute and a business school, each one with a considerable degree of autonomy). The University buildings are grouped in three main sites (called ‘poles’). In the city centre lies Pole 1; Pole 2 (Asprela) is a campus in the northern end of Porto; Pole 3 (Campo Alegre) is located in the western part of the city, over the river Douro bank.
Residences
There are residences available for exchange students from the University. The rent per month is 105.00 EUR (for undergraduate students) and 155.00 EUR (for post-graduate students). Cleaning, internet access and linen are included in this price.
Canteens
With your UP student card you can eat in every canteen of the University of Porto. At night there are only three canteens open FEP, FLUP and FBAUP.
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ESN AVEIRO
WHAT DO WE DO?
ESN Aveiro is the Aveiro Section of the Erasmus Student Network. This association is formed by a group of volunteer students - many of them once participated in exchange programs, such as ERASMUS and Campus Europae. ESN Aveiro is ruled by the principles of the Erasmus Student Network and, just like the other ESN sections, it is a non-profit organization. ESN Aveiro fully cooperates with the International Office of the University of Aveiro, aiming to help with the integration and improve the quality of life of exchange students in Aveiro. ESN Aveiro was officially approved as an ESN Section on the 4th of July, 2010. Since then, ESN Aveiro became one of the most active sections in Portugal, working nowadays in the benefit of more than 600 exchange students per semester. It organizes many weekly activities aiming to promote the social integration of students.
ESN Aveiro aims to promote the social and cultural integration and reintegration of exchange students coming to Aveiro, either to participate in a mobility program, or Portuguese students returning from such experience. Another goal of this organization is to promote the mobility programs between the students, who haven’t yet participated on any exchange programs. ESN Aveiro achieves these objectives through a different set of projects: • Buddy Program – a project in which exchange students are assigned a local student from Aveiro’s University who is intended to offer the newcomer direct help by providing useful tips about the city, welcoming the student on his first days, presenting the university and helping him/her to find a place to live, among others; • Trips – the best way to get to know the country that you will be living in and to create or strengthen friendships with your Erasmus colleagues; • Sport Events – every year ESN organizes the Erasmus Aveiro Football Tournament, but other sport activities, like radical sports or water sports may spontaneously occur; • Parties – because we know that Erasmus students have a very strong will to go out, make friends and relax, we usually organize several parties throughout the year; • Cultural Days – events for you to get to know the culture and the tradition of Portugal;
info@esnaveiro.org http://esnaveiro.org facebook.com/erasmusaveiro
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WHERE CAN YOU FIND US?
THE CITY
ESN Aveiro’s Office is located at the Language and Culture Department of the University of Aveiro (building number 2), room 2.0.10. There are weekly help desks there, where you can enroll to our activities. You will be informed every time this place is used by the ESN.
The city of Aveiro dates back to the 10th Century (at least). Its name derives from the Latin Aviarium, which literally means “the gathering place of birds”. The Moors invaded and occupied it until the 11th century, after which it became a very popular city among Portuguese royalty. Aveiro is called “The Portuguese Venice”, because of its canals and traditional boats (moliceiros) that resemble the Italian city Venice. Aveiro is well known in Portugal for its traditional sweet, ovos moles, made of egg yok and sugar. Its convenient location near the Portuguese coast, just an hour away from Oporto and two hours from Lisbon (by train), makes it a very nice city to live in. Aveiro has a good nightlife with most of its bars and clubs situated in the main square, called Praça do Peixe (fish market/ square), but there are also a couple of other nice spots spread around the city.
ESN CARD IN THE CITY With ESN Card you can get a variety of different discounts and promotions, including special prices at bars and discos, dance classes, car rental, etc. The ESN Card is also a must-have in almost all ESN activities, granting you priority at registering, as well as the best prices and deadlines. Statistically, more than 75% of Erasmus Students are ESN Card subscribers. As we are frequently establishing very dynamic partnerships and protocols, we advise you to visit the branch ESN Card on our webpage, where you can find an up to date list of ESN Card benefits. Promotions are not restricted to Aveiro, covering other cities in the country and in Europe, wherever an ESN section exists.
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Some points of interest in or around the city may include: Theater • Teatro Aveirense Museums • Museu da Cidade • Fábrica de Ciência Viva Beaches • Costa Nova • Barra • São Jacinto.
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MOVING AROUND
FINDING A PLACE TO STAY
Being a very popular city among tourists (specially during the summer), Aveiro has an endless number of touristic resources. Visitors can, for instance, enjoy a tour of the Ria de Aveiro in the typical boats, moliceiros, or simply tour around the city using the already-famous free-usage bicycles (BUGA – Bicicleta de Utilização Gratuita de Aveiro) that can be “rented” (for free) in specific spots in the city. Additionally, there are regular buses to the beaches of Costa Nova and Barra, from which you can reach other beaches by ferry-boat (from Barra only) Reaching other Portuguese cities is easy and quite affordable, by train. The trains to the main Portuguese cities (Lisboa, Porto, Coimbra, …) run regularly (usually at least one per hour, sometimes more).
Rooms at the university‘s halls of residence are scarce and are assigned with priority to students with special needs. In consequence, you may have to stay a couple of nights on a guest house, while you are looking for a definitive place to stay.
City Bus -> http://www.moveaveiro.pt Train -> http://www.cp.pt
To help you, ESN Aveiro has a partnership with Aveiro Rossio Hostel, where you can stay for a couple of nights for a cheaper price. About the place you will live in during the semester, you should know that in Aveiro, it is common for students to use the living room as a bedroom, to lower the price per person in the apartment. Common student neighborhoods are Bairro do Liceu, Vila Jovem and Alboi. Landlords may tell you that places such as Forca, São Bernardo, Esgueira and Verdemilho are at walking distance from the University, but in our opinion they are too far from the University and the bar zone. Buddies will offer assistance particularly on this subject. As you are new to this country and culture, you may face a situation where landlords try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge about the renting system in Aveiro. Also, most of them don’t speak English. For these reasons, we strongly recommend you not to lose contact with your Erasmus Buddy and to follow his/her advices. However, as the Erasmus Buddy Program is based on voluntary service, we cannot guarantee that every student will provide you all the help that you may need, especially on the first days. Nevertheless, remember that you will always have the ESN team as a last resource.
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THE UNIVERSITY OF AVEIRO The University of Aveiro, created in 1973, is considered one of the most dynamic and innovative universities of Portugal. It is consistently ranked as one of the best in Portugal, mainly in science, engineering and high-tech, according to recent national and international ranking. In 2009, it was ranked as the 38th in Europe and 137th in the world in the area of Engineering In 1994, the top national search engine, SAPO, was created in this university. UA has seventeen Academic Departments which work together in an inter-disciplinary manner according to their academic and research affinities. The “Campus Universitário de Aveiro” is a “small town” in the city of Aveiro with facilities like canteens, a sports hall, a post office, a bank branch and some other important infrastructures. The University of Aveiro currently participates in various mobility programs, such as ERASMUS, CAMPUS EUROPAE and ERASMUS MUNDUS for students all over the world. Additionally there are several bilateral agreements with Universities from countries such as Brazil, Canada, Angola, Mozambique, China and India. International office of the University of Aveiro: http://www.ua.pt/gri/ University of Aveiro‘s website: http://www.ua.pt Student association: www.aauav.pt
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ESN UTAD ESN UTAD is the Vila Real section of the Erasmus Student Network for the “ Univesidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro”. ESN UTAD was created in 2009 and since then it works with up to 100 enchange students per semestre. As all ESN sections in the country, ESN UTAD is a non-profit organization pulled through by the solid work of volunteers, mainly ex-Erasmus from UTAD and UTAD students. ESN doesn’t profit from the activities organized. ESN UTAD has worked in benefit of more than 500 exchange students, having organized more than 40 activities since its foundation. grim@utad.pt http://esn.utad.pt
What do we do?
ESN UTAD develops several projects to enhance the life quality of each international student: -Tandem Program – Providing you easier access to learning Portuguese; • Trips – ESN UTAD develops trips around the most famous places of our country with a huge load of fun and adventure; • Sport Activities – Volleyball, Basketball and Football competitions, pub crawl and city games; • Cultural Events – in order to provide our Erasmus students we devolped visits to museums, theatres and palaces, wine tasting with exquise refinement, among others;
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Parties – As one of the most important part of the Erasmus experience we organize the most incredible parties, to improve the fellowship among exchange students; ENM – ESN UTAD gives you the opportunity to participate in one of the biggest events of ESN PORTUGAL the ENM ( Erasmus National Meeting). ENM is an event that bring Erasmus from all parts of the country to one week of parties and sports activities. ESN Olympics games - The best Erasmus competition of sports in one city. All the national sections will be represented with the best erasmus players. Social Erasmus - be able to help the community, like help disadvantaged people, clean city, among others. Erasmus in schools - Erasmus students going to high schools to talk about their experience and promote mobility.
What we have for you at UTAD: Recreational • “Barraquinhas”; • Carnival; • Academic Week; • Theme Parties; • Popular Games; • UTAD Maré Alta (Sports Holiday in the Algarve);
Sports: • Handball; • Volleyball; • Rugby; • Football 11; • Futsal; • Swimming; • Athletics;
Cultural: • Photography contests; • Tunas; • Solidarity Cinema;
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THE CITY The History
On the banks of the Corgo river, a tributary of the Douro river, the city of Vila Real rises about 450 meters above sea level, in a region that shows evidence of having been inhabited since the Paleolithic. In 1289, a charter of King Dinis is founded pobra of Vila Real Panóias, who would become the city of today. The success of the village then founded proves itself with the evolution of the number of residents: 480 of about 1530 inhabitants, Vila Real increases to about 3,600 in 1795. Today the city has more than 30 000, 55 000 and advice. This growth is due in large part to a privileged location between the coast and inland, with connections to Porto, Braga, Guimarães, Chaves, Bragança and lands of the South. As most important town in Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real acquired the status of provincial capital and now in this century, in the 20s, saw recognized its economic, demographic and administrative acts with two large relief . Currently, Vila Real is in a phase of increasing development, industrial, commercial and services, with an emphasis on health, education, tourism, etc., presenting itself as a choice location for foreign investment.
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Vila Real is an enriched historical city with a lot of interesting characteristics both within and outside its boundaries. It is located in a 450m height plateau, by the side of Corgo river, affluent of Douro river, surrounded by the mountains of Alvão and Marão. The city shows unquestionable signs of having been inhabited since the Paleolithic. The present city, was created by D. Dinis in the year of 1289 and holds now approximately fifty thousand people.
Landscape and urban image
Vila Real is geographic location enhances greatly its natural beauty. A few kilometers away from the city there is the National Park of Alvão where, apart from the great diversity of fauna and flora, you can find every typical and ancient small villages, such as Ermelo and Lamas de Olo, definitely worth visiting. Gorgeous waterfalls can be seen all across the mountains, such as the famous “Fisgas de Ermelo”.
Night life
Vila Real is also known for its enthusiastic academical environment. The life of an Erasmus student in Vila Real comes to complete change when the sun goes down. A place certainly not to be missed is the main square, called Pioledo where you can either have a normal coffee or taste the excellent Portuguese beer. Take your time with your friends, meet new people and relax.
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THE UNIVERSITY The Vila Real Polytechnic Institute, founded in 1973, was transformed in 1979 into the Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro University Institute and, in 1986 became a fully-fledged university. Despite its relatively short history, the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) has already developed considerable national and international prestige. Today, after over 23 years of commitment to high quality teaching, research and community extension, UTAD has earned its rightful place among the new generation of Portuguese universities, and is striving to make its name at both national and international levels as a centre of academic excellence and innovation. The campus, built on the site of a number of adjacent former farm estates, or “quintas”, is 10 minutes walk from the city center and has a bus connection to any city corner. There are also one academic unit closer to the centre – the CIFOP that is the department of Educacion and the department of Arts and Crafts. UTAD has also installations in another city, Chaves.
Residences
There are residences available for exchange students from the University. The rent per month is €121 in bloc B,C and D, the bloc A is €154 per month because they are single rooms. Cleaning, internet access and linen are included in this price.
Canteens
With your Student or ESN card you can eat in every canteen of the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro. The price is €2.45 and includes soup and dessert. At night there are only two canteens open, that is the canteen of Residence Além Rio and the canteen of residence of Codessais. www.utad.pt Phone :+351 259 350439 Fax: +351 259 350 629 E-mail: vric@utad.pt vricc@utad.pt
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Socrates/Erasmus Address: Quinta de Prados, Apartado 1013, 5001-801, Vila Real
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ESN UÉVORA
THE UNIVERSITY
ESN UÉvora was created in March 2009 and is highly integrated in Evora University Students’ Union. The major task is to give all the support needed for the integration of foreign students in the University of Évora: we help in finding accommodation, learning the languages and having fun! We organizes events like parties, meetings, trips, system tandem meetings, cultural and sport events. Our email: esn.uevora@gmail.com Our website: http://esn.aaue.pt/
“Honesto estudo com longa experiência misturado” The University of Évora, the second oldest in Portugal, was founded in the 16th century (1559) by Cardinal Infante Dom Henrique (the future king of Portugal), and by the Pope Paul IV, and it was delivered to the Society of Jesus. The Jesuit college (Colégio do Espírito Santo) in Évora operated between 1559 and 1759. In this year and as a consequence of the Jesuit expulsion promoted by the Minister of the Kingdom Marquis of Pombal, it was closed.
THE CITY Évora is the city in the municipality of the same name. As of 2004, it has 41,159 inhabitants. It includes the parishes of Santo Antão, São Mamede, and Sé e São Pedro in the historical centre and the urban parishes of Bacelo, Horta das Figueiras, Malagueira, and Senhora da Saúde outside the great city walls. Évora is ranked number two in the Portuguese most livable cities survey of living conditions published yearly by Expresso. It was ranked first in a study concerning competitiveness of the 18 Portuguese district capitals, according to a 2006 study made by Minho University economic researchers. Due to its well-preserved old town centre, still partially enclosed by medieval walls, and a large number of monuments dating from various historical periods, including a Roman Temple, Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What else to see in Évora: Karting, Aerodrome, Escoural cave, Dams (e.g. Alqueva dam), check also: www.goalentejo.pt.
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The Colégio do Espírito Santo became famed as a centre of learning and rivalled the University of Coimbra. Among its eminent theologians and philosophers were Luis de Molina (1535-1600), Pedro de Fonseca (1528-1599), St. Francisco de Borja, St. João de Brito, Manuel Álvares. Several prelates of the Portuguese Empire were trained at this university: D. Afonso Mendes, Patriarch of Abyssinia, and D. Pedro Martins, first bishop of Japan. The University of Évora resumed work in 1973 as a state-run university. Nowadays, the University of Évora’s organic structure divides into schools: • Art School • School of Sciences and Technology • School of Social Sciences • São João de Deus Higher School of Nursing University‘s website: www.uevora.pt
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ESN COIMBRA
WHERE CAN YOU FIND US?
Welcome to one of the oldest universities in the world, where tradition is kept alive by the young spirit of students since 1290! The local department of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN Coimbra, also known as Associação Sócrates-Erasmus da Universidade de Coimbra [ase-uc]) was founded by volunteers (newly graduates, university students and former Erasmus students) with the aim to help the increasing number of foreign students as well as promote their integration in the academic life of Coimbra through activities such as sports, cultural events, sightseeing trips and international parties. We are a non-profit organization and we are here to make your stay better, easier and provide you with a pleasant experience in Coimbra, the city of knowledge, the city of students.
The esn office is located close to one of the most central places in Coimbra, Praça da República, in the address: Rua Antero de Quental, 192 - 3000-031 Coimbra, Portugal. Phone: +351 915 509 009 esncoimbra@gmail.com www.erasmuscoimbra.com Facebook: Page -> facebook.com/ESNCOIMBRA Groups -> Erasmus Coimbra 2013/2014
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Weekend / Day trips: visiting historic cities in Portugal, snow and summer trips as well as some meetings with other Erasmus students studying either in Portugal or in Spain. Sports events: we organize a wide variety of sports such as football, volleyball, paint ball, basketball tournaments and some radical sports too. Cultural events: tour guides to historic places, focusing on the most traditional culture of Portugal and Coimbra’s academic life. Parties: being part of the Erasmus life, we organize some parties with many different themes of different countries and cultures (and drinks!) and sometimes involving other Erasmus students.
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THE CITY
TOP 5 COIMBRA ATTRACTIONS
Coimbra, known as the city of students, is located in the centre of Portugal, about 2 hours from Lisbon and 1 hour from Porto. The city has a good transport facility which provides easy access to airports and beaches, for instance Figueira da Foz and Aveiro. The city has a lot to offer, including several important archaeological remains, fado sung by students, stories about forbidden love affairs and a very exciting nightlife. The daily life is marked by students, coming and going back from their lectures, stopping on the way to chat with friends, gossiping and discussing University issues in some of the Praça da República or Sé Velha´s pubs.
1. University of Coimbra It was founded in 1290 and also holds the famous University library, which is richly decorated with exotic wood in green, red and gold. The library now operates as a museum with an amazing collection of about 300,000 volumes. 2. Botanical Gardens They were created by the Marquis of Pombal and are generally regarded as one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Portugal, covering an area of up to 13 acres. 3. Machado de Castro Museum One of the most important art museums in Portugal, containing Roman material from excavations, medieval sarcophaguses, Romanesque and Gothic sculpture in stone and wood, goldsmith’s work, furniture, tapestries, porcelain and paintings. 4. Sé Velha (Coimbra Old Cathedral) The Cathedral dates back from the reign of King Afonso Henriques and is based on Romanesque style, which was popular at that period in Coimbra. It is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Portugal. 5. Convento de Santa Clara a Velha Located on the left bank of Mondego River, it’s a beautiful representation of the Gothic style in Portugal.
Coimbra is divided into two main areas: • Alta (upper town): is the older part which consists of steep narrow cobbled streets, where the Repúblicas (typical communal student hostels) are to be found, as well as some of the city´s most important monuments: Sé Velha, Sé Nova and the University. • Baixa (lower town): where most of the city’s commercial activity is concentrated. By the Mondego River, the Monastery of Santa Cruz and several medieval churches can easily be found.
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UNIVERSITY OF COIMBRA Coimbra University is a public university and its origins date back to the 13th century (as it was already founded in 1290 by Portuguese King Dinis I). Nowadays, it has students from 70 different nationalities; almost 10% of the students are foreigners, which makes it the most international university in Portugal. The University of Coimbra holds a great historical meaning in the Portuguese speaking world as well as in Europe’s higher education system. The University of Coimbra is an indisputable reference in higher education and research in Portugal, due to the quality of the courses and to the advances achieved in pure and applied research in various areas of knowledge. The University of Coimbra consists of 3 campus, called “Polos”.
TRADITIONS Queima das Fitas
The “Queima das Fitas” of Coimbra is classified as the largest and oldest academic festival in Portugal. It involves not only the entire student community of Coimbra, but also countless people around the country who join in this extraordinary party. It has many attractions and people come for either the concerts, sports and cultural activities surrounding the event or for all the traditional and
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mystique parades it proudly holds. It is relevant to mention that “Queima das Fitas” is an event with a national and international context in which all the activities take place in a consecutive period of four months.
Festa das Latas
The “Festa das Latas” began in the nineteenth century when the students loudly expressed their joy for their end of the academic year in May. Thus, using any object available that would produce noise, especially cans. They wear outfits according to their personal fantasies or with the “batina” reversed, carrying banners with critical messages, depicting the life which circles the school and/or national level without excluding international issues as well. The newcomers should follow in two parallel rows, with their academic godparents (doctors from the praxis) in the middle of what should be a performance worthy of a student of Coimbra, setting an example to the newcomers who are starting their Academic Praxe.
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NIGHTLIFE The city´s large student population guarantees an active, sometimes raucous nightlife. You will find the pubs around the Largo da Sé Velha, packed with students, professors and locals who drink and enjoy themselves. Your favourite experience will be hopping randomly from pub to pub.
TRANSPORTATION To get to Coimbra from Oporto, Lisbon or Faro catch a train to Coimbra B Station or to the bus station in Avenida Fernão Magalhães. From there you can easily take a bus to any point in the city. When getting around in Coimbra it is always possible to go for a walk, as there are safe cobbled pavements everywhere. Also, there is an urban bus connection (in town) and it is easy to catch a bus to go to different parts of town. You can also use a bicycle but there are no designated cycle tracks and Coimbra is a city with quite a few steep roads which may make cycling complicated. The city bus is the only way to travel within the city; they run every 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the bus you take (except at weekends and bank holidays). If you want to take the bus you can check the prices at: www.smtuc.pt/geral/index_precos.php It’s important to know that the Portuguese word “viagens” means trips and “tarifas” are the prices. For the student pass you will find information too at the website above in the section “Passes Sociais Especiais”, line “Estudante(mensal)”.
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ESN COVILHÃ
TRANSPORTATION
The city
Reaching Covilhã
Covilhã lies below the highest mountain of Portuguese mainland, it is a calm and pleasant city, considered, by many, one of the best places to live in Portugal. Why? Either if you’re looking for fresh air and a peaceful city in the countryside or if your will to party urges you can find both in Covilhã. The citie’s nightlife is among the most active in Portugal, since most of its population consists of students. It is also one of the safest (if not the number one) cities in Portugal. Covilhã used to be known as the “Portuguese Manchester” because several years ago it was the main location of the wool industry, many of those old factories still remain, some have been closed, some have even been converted into night clubs! Covilhã today is also known as the “city of snow” because it’s one of the coldest cities in the winter, and one of the only places where you can see snow and practice winter sports in Portugal. But don’t be fooled! Covilhã is also one of the hottest cities in the summer when it is common for temperatures to rise above 37ºC.
From Lisbon: you can catch the train (CP - Intercidades) at the Oriente Station (you can take the metro from the Airport to Oriente) which goes straight to Covilhã or the “Expresso Bus” at Sete Rios Station (if you take the metro get off at the “Jardim Zoológico” stop). A train tickets costs about 18€, but with EURO<26 or student card you have a 20% discount. From Porto: you can catch the “Expresso” bus at the Bus Station (“Alexandre Herculano” street - next to “Praça da Batalha”) which also goes straight to Covilhã.
Inside Covilhã
Covilhã is a small city, being relatively easy to cover by foot. However, there is a frequent bus service (during the night it is limited, though) that serves the entire city and the surrounding villages. You can buy a ticket from the driver for 1,20€, or buy several tickets in a kiosk, getting a discount for each ticket contact the local ESN team to know where you can do so. Covilhã is also an important stop for both national and international buses due to its proximity to the border between Portugal and Spain.
WHERE ARE WE? ESN Covilhã office: Rua Senhor da Paciência, n.39 6200-158 Covilhã Facebook: facebook.com/esncovilhaofficial
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ESN MINHO ESN Minho is a non-profit organization composed by voluntary members that started its activity in September 2011. In July 2012, we joined the ‘Erasmus Student Network’. ESN Minho is present in both Campuses of the University of Minho: Braga and Guimarães. Our University welcomes around 800 international students each year! We work with and for international students with the purpose of welcoming, integrating and accompany foreign students studying in our University, and they play an important role in the definition, preparation and execution of our activities. Feel free to join our team!
Dinners -> Our gastronomic events are mainly dinners. We promote groups dinners, some typically Portuguese and some other thematic dinners as the ‘EuroDinner’, ‘Low Cost’ dinner and ‘Brazilian barbecue’. It is a great occasion to taste typical food from other places in the world, share a little bit of you own culture, show your culinary skills, sing and have lots of fun! This is one of the most preferred activities between the international crowd!
WHAT DO WE DO?
Erasmus band -> It was born during our Jam Sessions and karaoke nights and it is one of our most dear projects. During the last year it was composed by voice, guitar, violin, trumpet and drums. Some of the members of the band will leave the band to return to their home country by the end of the academic year. And we are waiting for new candidates. Do you know how to play an instrument or do you would like to? Do you like to sing? This is the perfect group for you!
Besides helping in the search for accommodation, giving access to useful information and giving support in burocratic and legal aspects; we as well organize several activities. And we try to innovate each year! The most well-known are: Trips -> We consider this an excellent way to get to known not only our beautiful country but also great new friends and share some unforgettable experiences with them. We try to get the lowest fares available so you can visit as many places around the country as you can. Usually the price includes transportation, accommodation, (guided) visits, dinner, parties and t-shirt. Remember that although we have a considerable experience in organizing group trips, we are not travel agents!
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Parties -> We try to organize parties in as many different places as we can, like bars, discos, beach and parks, etc. They are one of the best opportunities to experience the international environment, to spend an amazing time and to chill-out.
Cultural activities -> We promote visits to the local museums and monuments. We held movie nights regularly. We take part in the academic festival during the month of May. Sport Activities -> We promote sport games and tournaments as well as sportive days. They are a very good opportunity to develop healthy habits and hang out with your friends.
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USEFUL LINKS www.esnminho.org info@esnminho.org www.facebook.com/esnminho Universiy of Minho (UM) - www.uminho.pt City halls: Braga: www.cm-braga.pt Guimarães: www.cm-guimaraes.pt Buses inside de cities: Braga: www.tub.pt Guimarães: tug.com.pt
THE CITY OF GUIMARÃES Guimarães is located in the district of Braga, sub-region Ave (one of the more industrialized subregions of the country), with a population of 158 000 inhabitants. Is an historic city, known as the “Cradle City”. It had an important role in the formation of Portugal, as it was the birthplace of “D. Afonso Henriques”, the first King of Portugal. It should be noted the historic Battle of San Mamede was fought in June 1128 by “D. Afonso Henriques” and its army, very near the current campus of Minho University of Azurém, in Guimarães. Guimarães was selected to be the European Sports City in 2013.
THE CITY OF BRAGA Braga is the oldest Portuguese city. It was founded by the Romans as ‘Bracara Avgvsta’. It is considered the third biggest city of Portugal and one of the youngest cities in Europe (Braga 2012: European Youth Capital), it has around 182 000 inhabitants and more than 2000 years of history. Although it is a city full of culture and traditions, it is in constant development, growth and expansion. Here history, religion and technology live side by side with. It is located in northern Portugal, more specifically in Cávado valley, is the center of the Minho region and it is considered the third biggest city of Portugal, it has around 182 000 inhabitants. Minho University - Campus of Gualtar is in Braga.
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WHY SHOULD I LEARN PORTUGUESE? Did you know that Portuguese is the 6th most spoken language in the world? Indeed, with 215 million native speakers, it is even the third most spoken European language in the world. Would you guess that? Not only is the official language in Portugal and Brazil, but also in several other African Countries. Portuguese Language is also one of the fastest-growing European languages and it is, for example, the most spoken language in the Southern Hemisphere, so if you see yourself living outside of Europe, Portuguese may be the key!
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And if you still think “Naaah, that’s way too difficult for me”, Portugal will prove you wrong. From the first days here, if you have some basics on any Latin Language, you’ll see a lot of familiar words and discover that information for example in the supermarkets will be understandable. But even if you only know English… did you know that English words like banana, fetish, mosquito or potato have a Portuguese origin? But we also have words that have no translation. Probably you’ll hear about “saudade” - a emotional state when someone feels nostalgic towards people and things that might never return. It is a word with much stronger tone than “missing someone”, unique and part of our culture. We cannot say it is going to be too easy, but if you make an effort, we think you will end your Erasmus able to communicate in the Portuguese Language. Especially if you are French, Italian or Spanish, because then… let’s face it, you have it even easier!
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PORTUGUESE QUICK DICTIONARY Yes Sim
Do you have an English Menu ? Tem um menu em inglês?
1
um
No Não
What are the local specialities? Quais são as especialidades locais?
2
dois
3
três
4
quatro
5
cinco
6
seis
7
sete
8
oito
9
nove
10
dez
11
onze
12
doze
13
treze
14
catorze
15
quinze
Hello Olá Good morning Bom dia Good bye Adeus Thank you Obrigado/Obrigada * You’re welcome (Reply to “Thank you”) De nada Please Por favor I’m sorry / Excuse me(to apologise) Desculpe Excuse me (if someone is in your way) Com licença Maybe Talvez I want Quero This Isto That Aquilo I don’t understand Eu não percebo
Ladies/ Women Senhoras / Mulheres Gentlemen/Men Cavalheiros / Homens Do you like this music? Gostas desta música? I want to go home Eu quero ir para casa Want to dance? Queres dançar? Shall we go for a walk? Vamos dar uma volta? You are so cute Tu és tão giro / gira * How old are you? Quantos anos tens? What do you study? O que estudas? Where do you study? Onde estudas?
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dezasseis
Where is the... Onde é a/o...
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dezassete
University Universidade
When did you arrive? Quando chegaste?
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dezoito
19
dezanove
20
vinte
30
trinta
40
quarenta
50
cinquenta
100
cem
Train station Estação de Comboios Bus stop Paragem de autocarro I want to go to... Eu quero ir para One ticket to... Um bilhete para Could you repeat that? Pode repetir? How much is it? Quanto é? Beer Cerveja Wine Vinho
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Can I use the bathroom? Posso usar a casa de banho?
My name is.... O meu nome é ___
I don’t speak Portuguese Eu não falo Português
* masculine / feminine
I am vegetarian Sou vegetariano
I am learning Portuguese Eu estou a aprender Português Do you speak English? Fala inglês? Not too bad Mais ou menos See you later (same day) Até logo See you later (another day) Até amanhã See you soon (very soon) Até já I‘m not hungry Não tenho fome
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For more info, see: www.learningportuguese.co.uk
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GLOSSARY Useful Phone Numbers
Pan European Emergency 112 Police 115 Fire Service 117 Fire Brigade 118 Toxicological centre 145 Police 117 Medical Emergency 112
Useful Links Government: www.portugal.gov.pt Map of Portugal: http://mapas.sapo.pt Public Transportation: www.cp.pt (train) www.rede-expressos.pt www.renex.pt www.ana.pt (Portuguese airports) Telecomunications: www.pai.pt
EDITORIAL ESN PORTUGAL/ESN LISBOA www.esnportugal.org/ www.esn-lisboa.org president@esnportugal.org / president@esn-lisboa.org Editors: ESN Portugal Copyright: ESN LISBOA/ ESN Portugal /ESN Switzerland. 2013 production: 7650 copies Design: Pedro Ribeiro (D3S design) Content reviewers: André Saramago, João Neto, Paulo Ramos Photos are either owned by ESN local sections or from wikipedia commons, under respective copyright license. Special thanks to Bruno Mateus for his contribution. Photos that were used according to the Creative Commons. Attribution Licence belong to the following authors: - Raphaël Fauveau (photo of Goa, India); - Lusitana (photo of Castelo dos Mouros, Sintra); - Klaus with K (photo of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil); - Dantadd (photo of Guimarães); - Pranav Bhatt (photo of the ATM); - David Sim (photo of the Oriente Station, Lisbon); - Duncan Rawlinson (surf photo); - Skistar Trysil (snowboard photo); - Pedro Moura Pinheiro (photo of the Oceanarium, Lisbon); - Alvesgaspar (photo of Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon); - Lacobrigo (photo of Dona Ana beach, Algarve).
Portals: www.sapo.pt www.clix.pt www.aeiou.pt
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