I have not been online for a while and I see that many posts have been removed and plans for Mr. San Diego trip was abandoned.  I have a feeling that many of us are feeling the pinch of the economy.  I still work and have postponed trips for the next few months.  Bummer!!  I wanted to go to England next year to visit as many gardens as I could.  Yes, it sounds boring to anyone who does not love gardens as I do.   As an interior designer I have "done" buildings for years.   Now I just love the natural things.

MrSanDiego,

Thank you for the effort.  I guess I will have to go to Portugal some other way!

Wanjie

Hi, Al,

Sorry your trip didn't pan out.  I've been to Portugal, and it is interesting.  I myself have been running small-group trips for people for over 25 years, and I have a trip going to France (Paris, Provence and the Riviera) June 3-12.  I'm a retired French and Spanish teacher who just got back from Italy where I studied Italian for a few weeks as well.  I've been to France over 50 times over the years, since my first trip there was at age 20 when I was in college.  If you or anyone you know would like to hear more about the trip or would like me to build a trip around them to just about anywhere in the future, just send me an email at my private address jbaker18@hotmail.com.  Thanks!

Joanne

Hi Al,

I know how disappointed you must be.  I think going to Portugal is a great idea, and I would like to go and explore that country; however, for me personally, the timing is not right.  For me, when I am ready, I will plan my trip to the location I want to go and invite others to participate.  That way only those who can go at that time and can make the financial investment will respond.  I hope that makes sense.  I really would like to spend time in Portugal and the Azores, but I can't do it now. 

mtq

Hi Al,  When I thought it through, it seemed like handling the financial aspects of the rent could be awkward.  However, that may just be me....I don't really know anyone except via these posts.  I just couldn't figure out how we could comfortably be sending money to strangers (or in your case, extending credit to strangers).  Sylvia 

 I'm sorry you didn't get the response you'd hoped for Al, but FWIW, didn't I see several people say they might be interested in general, but had no particular desire to go to Portugal? How about suggesting several possible places (without doing all the work of course) and take a poll, then get specific info the place (or couple of places) that get the most interest. I think a lot of people would like to avoid singles' supplements, and might also like having someone to touch base with when they travel.