(26 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Joyce Hopkins

Tampa , FL
Peru Travel Agent Expert

Some people are drawn to Peru by photos of Machu Picchu. Others come for the cuisine, culture or the promise of adventure. For me, Peru is each of these things and something more!

Peru is a country that has shaped me personally and professi...
Learn more about me.

Portugal Travel Agent Specialist

Portugal is effortlessly elegant—where old-world charm and modern sophistication blend seamlessly against a backdrop of golden light, ocean breezes, and timeless traditions. It’s a country that invites you to slow down, savor, and fall in love—with the food, the views, the rhythm of daily life. After exploring Portugal deeply, I’ve come to see it as one of Europe’s most quietly luxurious destinations—and one of my favorite places to plan unforgettable travel.


In Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, history and innovation coexist on every corner. You'll wander through mosaic-tiled alleyways in Alfama, ride iconic yellow trams past pastel buildings, and take in sweeping views of the city from hilltop miradouros. The food scene here is extraordinary—fresh seafood, Michelin-starred tasting menus, and tiny taverns where you’ll hear live fado music echoing through the night. The hotel scene is just as rich: restored palaces and 18th-century townhouses now serve as boutique luxury stays, where every tile and terrace tells a story.


Just a short drive or train ride away lies Sintra, a romantic dreamscape of misty forests, colorful palaces, and ornate gardens nestled in the hills. This is the kind of place that feels lifted from a storybook. I love curating experiences here that include private tours of Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, followed by a night or two in a countryside estate where you can sip port by the fireplace and watch the fog roll in from the mountains.


Traveling north, Porto offers a different kind of magic. Built along the Douro River, the city is full of atmospheric charm: medieval streets, riverside promenades, and a vibrant energy that pulses through every café and wine bar. Here, I help clients discover Porto’s unique mix of grit and elegance—from its cutting-edge architecture and boutique shopping districts to the world-renowned port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where private tastings and sunset cruises can be seamlessly arranged.


No trip to Portugal is complete without time in the Douro River Valley, one of the most stunning wine regions in the world. Terraced vineyards climb steep hillsides above the river, creating a cinematic backdrop for wine tastings, gourmet meals, and leisurely river cruises. I specialize in crafting immersive experiences in the Douro that go far beyond the ordinary—think private vineyard lunches, curated cellar tours with top sommeliers, and overnight stays in hillside quintas (wine estates) that blend rustic charm with five-star comfort.


Let’s not forget the southern coast. Portugal’s Algarve region is a sun-drenched paradise of golden cliffs, hidden coves, and laid-back beach towns. For clients seeking coastal luxury, I recommend secluded resorts with oceanfront suites, private yacht charters along the coastline, and guided excursions to explore sea caves and traditional fishing villages. The Algarve offers relaxation and indulgence in equal measure—perfect for honeymoons, wellness retreats, or multigenerational escapes.Portugal is also incredibly easy to pair with neighboring destinations like Spain or Morocco, and I often design multi-country itineraries that flow seamlessly between cultures and landscapes. Whether you're focused on Portugal alone or tying it into a broader journey, my goal is always the same: to make your experience feel effortless, elegant, and deeply personal.


I work with travelers who want more than just a checklist—they want meaning, beauty, and a sense of place. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Portugal or returning for something deeper and more tailored, I’ll help you uncover the best of this timeless destination, at your perfect pace.If you’re ready to experience Portugal in a way that’s curated, immersive, and unforgettable, I’d be honored to craft your perfect journey.

My Reviews

A solo river cruise I'll never forget
I was nervous to travel alone, but Joyce found the perfect Danube River cruise for me—friendly, safe, and full of culture. I made friends, saw castles and vineyards, and even had private guides in Vienna and Budapest. I’ve already asked her to help plan my next one in France.
By  Helen Janet   from  Naples, Fl.
Traveled to  Danube | On the River | At Sea
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
An incredible family adventure through Costa Rica!
Joyce helped us plan a 10-day journey that had something for everyone—zip-lining through the jungle, a chocolate-making workshop, beach time in Manuel Antonio, and eco-lodges that our kids are still talking about. We felt safe, well taken care of, and completely immersed in the experience.
By  THE PARKER FAMILY   from  WASHINGTON
Traveled to  Costa Rica | Central America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
The Alaska cruise Joyce planned for us was flawles
I had always dreamed of seeing glaciers up close, and this cruise exceeded every expectation. From the scenic rail ride in Skagway to whale watching in Juneau, every moment was unforgettable. Joyce handled all the logistics—private excursions, ship dining, even a spa treatment. We can’t wait to plan our next one!
By  Megan Winters  from  OREGON
Traveled to  Alaska | USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
I never knew a road trip could feel so luxurious.
We drove from Santa Fe to Sedona, stopping at beautiful boutique hotels and incredible restaurants Joyce picked for us. She even helped us score a sunrise hot air balloon ride in Arizona! The trip felt so personal, and every detail was taken care of.
By  Brian T.  from  Dallas
Traveled to  Sedona | Arizona | USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
A Dream Trip to the Galápagos
Joyce did an amazing job helping us choose the perfect Galápagos cruise. It was educational, exciting, and luxurious. The naturalist guides, the food, the wildlife—wow.
By  Kelly P  from  Charlotte, NC
Traveled to  Galapagos Islands | Ecuador | South America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Portugal
  • Porto
  • Lisbon
  • Sintra
  • Algarve

Travel Specialist:

  • Architecture
  • Wine Country Vacations
  • Honeymoons
  • Wellness
  • Arts & Culture

Industry Affiliations:

© 2025 Travel Leaders Group