by Mariana, age 9 from Porto, Portugal, asks Santa about his helpers, the Douro River vineyards, and the famous Livraria Lello bookshop.
Dear Santa, my name is Mariana, and I am nine years old. I live in Porto, Portugal, where my avo says our river valley is famous the world over for its steep hillsides covered in vineyards.
Dear Mariana, those steep, sunny hillsides make for one of the prettiest approaches on my entire Portuguese route, your avo picked a truly scenic hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Who is Santa’s little helper? My little sister wants to know if you have one special favorite elf.
I have hundreds of helpers, Mariana, and it would not be fair to pick just one favorite, though my head elf certainly keeps the whole workshop running smoothly. Every single helper matters, big job or small.
My avo says Porto sits along the Douro River, famous for its steep vineyard hills. Is that true?
It is true, Mariana, the Douro River winds through terraced hillsides on its way to your city, one of the most striking landscapes on my entire route. I always slow the sleigh down to admire it.
My avo says our city has one of the most beautiful old bookshops in the entire world. Is that true?
It is true, Mariana, Livraria Lello is famous around the world for its stunning staircase and old world charm, drawing visitors from every corner of the globe. That kind of careful, beautiful craftsmanship, built to last generations, is really worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Mariana Costa
Porto, Portugal
P.S. Does your head elf ever visit that beautiful bookshop?
Every chance she gets, Mariana, elves love a good bookshop.
