Interview with Pedro Queirós

About Pedro:

Born in Porto, Pedro’s passion for tourism and hospitality began at an early age. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management and a Master’s Degree in Marketing and Sales. Over the past decade, Pedro has worked in the hospitality industry, gaining valuable experience in top destinations, mainly in Spain and Madeira Island. Most recently, he served as the General Manager at Quinta do Vallado. This last experience in the Douro region triggered a passion for the area, its people, and the opportunity to create new experiences for clients.

What attracted you to the role of Tripwix Ambassador?

I truly believe that the best things in life must be shared with the ones we love the most. Helping to create lasting memories for families and groups of friends is what drew me to Tripwix. I am dedicated to crafting unique and unforgettable experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime.

What are your passions?

I am passionate about gastronomy, flavors, and tastes, always eager to explore and experience diverse cuisines. However, my main passion lies in sports, particularly football. Additionally, I have a deep love for diving, which allows me to explore the underwater world and connect with nature in a unique way.

What makes Douro so special?

Douro is a truly special place, and not just because it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. What sets Douro apart is its remarkable authenticity. In a world where tourism often tends to dilute local traditions to make destinations more palatable for visitors, Douro proudly retains its heritage, traditions, and unique way of life. This authenticity greatly enhances the value of the experience for those who visit, offering a genuine and enriching connection to the region’s history and culture.

What kinds of activities do you want to share with guests?

I highly recommend my guests visit as many vineyards as possible. This allows them to understand the diverse techniques applied, and unique ways of doing things, not to mention the distinct flavors. Additionally, booking a boat tour is essential to fully appreciate the stunning landscape of Douro. This connection between all the elements—vineyards, heritage, techniques, and the breathtaking scenery—is a must-do experience.

How do you want your guests to feel at the end of their stay?

I want my guests to experience a “wow” feeling at the beginning of their stay, which can then be transformed into amazing memories. My hope is that they feel a sense of slowing down from the daily stress, allowing them to calmly enjoy every potential situation and idea. 

What souvenirs can guest buy?

Port wine goes without saying! But, Barro de Bisalhães (black clay) from Vila Real and Moscatel de Favaios (an aperitif made from muscat grapes) are also fabulous local treats.

How would you sum up the Douro Valley Region?

I would recommend taking home wine bottles, as they are the main connection to Douro. Additionally, our olive oil is unique and has won numerous awards worldwide. These two small gifts, perfect for sharing at home with those who were not able to experience Douro in person, will serve as the perfect reminder of this visit.

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Guest Reviews

Aguirre Family from Panama: “Pedro was a great ambassador! He was very friendly and efficient, and he anticipated our needs. His recommendations were always accurate (restaurants, activities, winery visits, towns, etc.).”

Ludeke Family from Charlotte, NC, USA: “Pedro was an absolutely amazing concierge! He gave us a great tour of the house upon arrival and helped us locate food and groceries after a long trip. I had planned most of our trip, but he helped fill in some gaps in my planning and located tours for Porto and vineyards for our large party. He gave us great advice on all the best experiences!”

Ganz Family, Zürich, Switzerland: “Amazing stay with a fabulous host!”