Hi there!
My name is Gonçalo, but please call me Rock, that's what most of my friends call me, like the wrestler, although I've got more hair and muscle.
I'm from a beautiful wine region called Bairrada which is located in the Centre of Portugal, between two delightful cities: Aveiro and Coimbra. I'm very passionate about my country and I love to meet people from all around the world that are interested in learning more about Portugal and its history, culture, and food.
I have a Graduate Degree in Tourism and a Master's Degree in Tourism, Territories, and Heritage. I took two internships in a Cultural Association from Coimbra focused on promoting and defending the local culture and heritage, where I was given the task of providing information to tourists and occasionally accompanying walking tours.
Later I started to work as a Tuk Tuk driver (and guide) in the city of Aveiro. Then, in 2019 I began to work as a Full-Time tour guide. In 2020 I became a Certified Tourism Guide by SNATTI (Tourism Guides Union) but was forced to make a pause due to COVID.
Nevertheless, it was not time to give up! I spent most of the time during the pandemic studying and visiting Portugal's regions, cities, and villages to improve my guiding skills. I also took advantage of my grandma's wood-fired oven and started to bake pizza and sell it to my friends and neighbors. "Living la pizza loca", a ham and cheese sensation, emerged as my top-seller.
If you would like to enjoy a funny, interesting, and knowledgeable tour provided by a passionate tour guide that wants to show you his country's wonders, don't hesitate to reach out! PIZZA IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR THOUGH :D!
Prepare to fall in love with the country and probably to gain some extra pounds (if you return home slimmer you've missed the essence of Portugal!).
When I'm not guiding I love to spend my time with my family, reading (I am a huge Harry Potter fan), watching movies (Harry Potter, Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, Lord of the Rings), watching Series (Game of Thrones, The Simpsons, Family Guy, The Office, Friends) and of course baking pizza.
Let's explore Coimbra together! As your local guide, I'll show you the best of Coimbra on a private & personalized tour for you.
All Withlocals tours are completely customisable to your needs. Just let me know your preferences for a private and personalized experience!