The Top Five Things About Being Portuguese

Hi there, my name is Gazelle and I love that I'm Portuguese – well, half-Portuguese, but who isn't these days?

Basically, I'm half-French Canadian and half-Portuguese. My mother's side is from St. Michael and I was raised by my vavo. Therefore, Viva Portugal.

It's such a colorful and festive heritage of which I am truly proud. From the music to the food and even the athletes, being Portuguese is quite the blessing, if I do say so myself.

A good portion of the SouthCoast is of Portuguese descent to the point that Fall River might as well be "Little Portugal." I mean, think about it: we are home to the largest Portuguese feast in the entire world, held right here in New Bedford. Viva Madeira Feast of the Blessed Sacrament.

Speaking of the Feast, there's one monumental staple that might cause you a decent-sized headache in the morning if consumed too much of: Madeira wine. I'm sure if you're reading this, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Everywhere you look, there's Portuguese cuisine with each chef's own twist and flair on authenticity. Whether you order the bacalhau (salted codfish) or a hot bowl of polio assado (octopus stew), some cacoila (pork) or even a heaping plate of bife a casa (Portuguese steak), you're guaranteed a delicious home-cooked meal no matter what. Viva Portuguese comida (food).

That being said, here are my top five things I love the most about being Portuguese: