Portugal Travel Agent Specialist

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Matthew VanBuren, Travel Agent in New York, NY

Matthew VanBuren

New York, NY Travel Agent
Super Agent

Matthew VanBuren

New York, NY · 10 Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
(80)
100% Recommended
I am big shopper and find my way to Miami every few months to visit the Design District and shops in SoBe. Over the past twenty... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Portugal, Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Sintra

Interests:

Architecture, Entertainment, Historical Sites, Nightlife, Food & Wine

About Me

Porto
Porto

Working as a travel agent specialist for Portugal has given me a keen insight into what travelers love about the country. Therefore, I can steer you in the right direction when it comes to planning a trip to this interesting and special place.As a tourist, you'll have access to a wide range of scenery's in Portugal. Within a short distance, the landscape can dramatically transform. Therefore, as a visitor, you will never be more than a few hours away from the sun-kissed coasts of the mainland, pastures in the or the south’s rolling plains.Subtropical paradise islands, such as Madeira and the Azores, are ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Several beaches around the Sintra coast, including Ericeira., are ideal for surfing. In contrast, quieter shores are found on the opposite side of the Tejo River. From the coast of Costa da Caparica to the hills of Serra do Arrábida, you will experience some of Portugal's most magnificent coastal scenery.Only in Portugal can you find magnificent medieval monasteries and enchanting vineyards and wheatfields. Travel to Lisbon and enjoy shopping in its historic areas where you can listen to fado music and appreciate its Manueline architecture. The buildings’ design takes its name from King Manuel who ruled Portugal from 1495 to 1521. During this time--the Age of Discoveries--the people in Portugal experienced a new-found wealth and confidence.From one hilltop to the next, Lisbon spreads over a variety of neighborhoods. For centuries, locals have lived in the bairros of Alfama and Castelo where the traditional fado music can still be heard in backstreet eateries. The heart of Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife is the Bairro Alto. Along the Lisbon coast, you will find Mafra’s imposing castle and oceanside resorts as well. Located outside the western suburbs, a spectacular rocky coastline, on Europe’s westernmost point, ascends to a fantasy forested hillside, featuring architectural treasures, such as the Palacio de Pena. The expansive Palacio da Mafra is a monument and tribute to King John V that sits farther north with its lavishly decorated chapel.The city of Lisbon is also home to two of Portugal's most important cultural institutions: the Serralves Museum of Modern Art and Casa da Musica. Tras-os-Montes is an isolated area with varying temperatures, minimal development, and an abundance of natural beauty. Highlights include Serra do Barroso's untamed, boulder-strewn landscapes, Chaves' charming spa town, Bragança's medieval bastion, and the Parque Natural de Montesinho's tranquil and stunning views and treks.In Beira Alta, the tallest mountain range in the country shows off the granite peaks of Serra da Estrela - a place that draws walkers and skiers throughout the winter months. Coimbra, Portugal's third-largest city, is a treasure trove of culture and history while Luso, a tranquil spa town, is a great place to unwind on holiday. In Beira Litoral, the coastal town of Aveiro has an exceptional nautical legacy, which is clearly seen in its colorful moliceiros. Moliceiros represent flat-bottomed and vibrant boats, once used to collect algae from lagoons and are now used for touring Aveiro.As your travel agent professional for all things Portugal, I can provide you with an itinerary that will meet your travel needs and expectations. Give me a call or email me for further details today.

Additional Languages
Spanish

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
80 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 80 reviews

Fabulous
Reviewed By Cindy R - Atlanta, Georgia | Traveled to Miami ~ Florida ~ USA
I am big shopper and find my way to Miami every few months to visit the Design District and shops in SoBe. Over the past twenty years I have probably stayed in thirty hotels in Brickell and Miami Beach but always like to try my hand at a new property to switch things up. While my last travel advisor, Miss Ginger, retired, I was nervous to try someone new out. Let me just tell you, Matt is young and vibrant, eager to help cater to your every need. He chose the best flight times, hotel, and boat charters and kept in contact with me throughout the whole process. He definitely has a taste for luxury so keep that in mind when choosing to work with him (a plus for me but maybe not for a backpacker??).
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
15 of 24 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Wonderful team bonding trip in Mexico!
Reviewed By Joanna K - Pennsburg, PA | Traveled to Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Matt was great and communicative throughout the whole process. He helped us book excursions and kept in touch before we left.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
7 of 9 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Best of the Best
Reviewed By Borris M - New York, New York | Traveled to Turks and Caicos Islands ~ Caribbean
I think Matt is the best of the best. Already referred him to friends and family. Well worth the planning fee he charged for our group of 20. Gave us great rates on the resorts and found very affordable airfare.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
8 of 11 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Good Honesty
Reviewed By Curt F - Saranac, NY | Traveled to South Beach ~ Florida ~ USA
Matt is super nice and respectful. Very pleasant to work with but be prepared for his honesty. We were planning a trip to South Beach because we have not been since the 80's. After expressing that we wanted to stay on Ocean Drive, Matt simply told us that is "not a wise move". Well good thing we took his advice, because Ocean Drive is not the place it used to be! Miami Beach is still incredible and with his recommendations, you will have a great time. Best advice? Listen to his! Will use him again for our next trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
9 of 13 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Thank you, Matt
Reviewed By Will T - Cranston, RI | Traveled to Miami ~ Florida ~ USA
I found Matt through Travel Leaders. He is a great agent to work with. I will definitely use him again.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
10 of 15 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

Client Testimonials

Business Retreat
All of our travel agents in the past never truly cared to help us or understand our business. Matt not only did an incredible job planning our small business incentive trip, but he also took the time to understand our business and needs. We won't ever use a large corporate travel agency again!
Marcos, V., Miami Florida
Group Vacation Excellence
"So welcoming to all of our questions and will do anything to make sure your vacation is perfect. We loved his youthful energy and communication. No matter what the problem is, he is there to help you every step of the way. He handles large groups amazingly and no task is too big. I suggest booking with Matt if you do not want the stress of booking your holiday but still would like to have input in your travel itinerary!"
Grace V, Philadelphia, PA
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