Explore TV’s Trevor Cochrane returned to the screen with Viking on Sunday 4 February 2024 on Channel Nine with the first of four episodes dedicated to Viking’s 10-day Portugal’s River of Gold cruisetour.
Throughout the month of February, Trevor will be taking viewers on a journey of discovery through Lisbon, Porto, Madrid and the heart of the Douro Valley to uncover the colourful culture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and local cuisine of the Douro River and its demarcated wine region.
Viking Managing Director ANZ Michelle Black said they are honoured to have Trevor return to travel with Viking for the sixth time and present the unique itinerary of Portugal’s River of Gold.
“Viking’s cruisetour explores the diversity of the lesser-known Douro and showcases the absolute best of what Portugal has to offer. Trevor and his team have brought to life this exciting itinerary by uncovering the flavours, scenery and traditions of the cosmopolitan cities and culturally rich villages of this journey.”
In the series, Portugal’s unique language, culture and food are discovered via Lisbon’s vintage Tram number 28 and the historic attractions of Castelo de São Jorge and the Belem Tower. Trevor takes viewers to explore one of the most historic districts of Lisbon, Alfama, meandering his way through its narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings before embarking on Viking’s Taste of Lisbon culinary tour.
“I love the fact that Viking offers a level of relaxed comfort that leaves you ready to explore, and the reality that you only check into the one hotel was brilliant. But this journey was something else,” said Explore TV Presenter, Trevor Cochrane.
“The Douro Valley is simply breathtaking. Its history, the food and wines and, of course, the fact that Viking ships dock at the best access points meant we managed to experience everything the region has to offer at a level of comfort you just don’t expect,” added Cochrane.
In the first episode, which aired last Sunday, Trevor took viewers on a journey through Spain’s tapas culture in a visit to Mercado de San Miguel. In the evening, viewers enjoyed the tradition of Flamenco at the famous Corral de la Moreria. The remainder of the episode took viewers on a tour of Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city.
“We are delighted to have received such a positive response from travellers to the first episode on Madrid and Lisbon. We are really excited to follow where Trevor takes viewers this Sunday,” added Black.
This Sunday Trevor boards Viking Hemming to journey from Porto to Vega de Terrón, traversing the majestic Douro River, stopping at prestigious winemaker Graham’s for a port tasting and savouring dinner at a famous Villa Nova de Gaia restaurant. Trevor then takes viewers to Quinta do Seixo as part of the Mateus Palace & Gardens excursion from Regua.
Cochrane commented “There’s something very special about this journey with Viking and it’s the guest care team on board – they couldn’t be friendlier or more helpful. Whilst exploring the towns at night is a highlight, coming back to the ship and sailing a UNESCO World Heritage region during the day was just as exciting.”
Highlights of the last two episodes include Viking’s Lamego and Salamanca excursions, navigating the many locks of the Douro and visiting the last remaining traditional fish cannery in Matoshinhos.
“If you have clients considering travel to this region, these episodes provide a fantastic opportunity for them to learn about what life is like onboard Viking’s unique Douro ships and the types of experiences they can enjoy while cruising with Viking,” Black concluded.
Upcoming Explore TV episodes:
- Sunday 11 February 2024: Portugal’s River of Gold Part 2
- Sunday 19 February 2024: Portugal’s River of Gold Part 3
- Sunday 25 February 2024: Portugal’s River of Gold Part 4
Tune into Explore TV every Sunday at 4:30 pm AEDT, 5.30 pm AWST, on Channel Nine until 25 February 2024 for the chance to win* a 10-day Portugal’s River of Gold cruise tour, exploring the spectacular Iberian Peninsula from Lisbon to Porto, departing on 17 November 2024.
To watch the first episode of Viking’s Portugal’s River of Gold journey, or for more information on travelling this culturally rich and vibrant journey through Portugal with Viking, visit here.
*Entrants must be over the age of 18 years old. Only one entry is permitted per valid email address. The promotion ends at 11.59 pm (AEDT) on 3 March 2024.
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