• Which particular aspect of Saudi Arabia do you like the most?

Saudi sense of humor.

• Can you tell us your favorite and oft-repeated Arabic word?

Ahlan wa sahlan.

• Which book is now on your bedside?

History of Portugal (learning about 500 years of Arabic heritage).

• What is your favorite holiday destination?

Portugal.

• Which country’s people have you found most friendly?

Portuguese and Saudis.

• What is your source of strength during tough times?

My wife Lucia.

• What was your first impression about the Kingdom?

A little bit hot (I arrived in August).

• Which Saudi city fascinated you the most?

So far, Riyadh.

• Your favorite Saudi dish?

Mandi.

• The thing about Kingdom that you will always remember?

Definitely the desert.

• If you were given only one option between Facebook and Twitter, what would you prefer?

None. Not a big fan of social media.

• If you had not become a diplomat, what would have been your profession?

Farmer.

• Is hiding the truth acceptable in diplomacy?

Very rarely but it happens.

• How do you keep yourself fit?

Nothing keeps you fitter than playing tennis in Riyadh in summer.

• Your favorite restaurant?

The Butcher Grill in Riyadh. There you can have Portuguese “Espetada.”

• You are a fan of which football club?

Sporting Clube de Portugal.

• Who is your favorite actor/actress?

John Wayne (The Duke).

• What is your favorite weekend activity?

Going out for lunch, enjoying the pool in the compound and exploring Riyadh.