29-4-24 Lagos:
Today we kicked off our Portuguese adventure. We started off with a cozy breakfast in our apartment in Sevilla, packing up for the day ahead. Setting off on our journey, we made sure to send some postcards along the way, adding a personal touch to our travels. The scenic drive was punctuated with a pit stop for a delicious lunch, breaking up the journey perfectly. Arriving in Lagos, we couldn't resist exploring the old city, indulging in some mouthwatering ice cream before a memorable seafood dinner that truly hit the spot. Despite the chilly evening breeze catching us off guard during dinner, we wrapped ourselves in blankets and savored every moment of the day. From the simple joys of ice cream to the warmth of shared laughter, today was a day to remember on our Portuguese escapade.
30-4-24 Lagos:
Today marked the end of April, but we were just getting started in Portugal. The morning started off quietly, with the rain prompting us to take it easy. For lunch, we ventured to Sargres, a charming beach town where we indulged in a delightful spread of fresh fish, including prawns and sole. Despite our plans for a coastal walk being thwarted by the weather, we managed to enjoy a stroll later in the evening, soaking in the scenic views of the beach and old city. Dinner was another seafood affair, fitting for our coastal surroundings. Reflecting on the day, our highlights were the simple pleasures of spending quality time together, engaging in meaningful conversations, while the rain served as a gentle reminder to appreciate the tranquility of a relaxed day amidst our six-month journey.
1-5-24 Lagos:
Today in Lagos, Portugal, we embraced a spontaneous adventure by signing up for a kayaking tour despite the chilly weather. We deliberated over the decision, but ultimately decided to seize the moment, and we're glad we did. Paddling along the picturesque coastline, we marveled at the stunning cliffs and hidden caves, soaking in the beauty of nature, with Nicky snapping plenty of "Instagram-worthy" shots. After the invigorating excursion, we treated ourselves to some delicious Portuguese chicken for dinner, savoring the flavors of the region. While the weather wasn't ideal for extended beach lounging, we made the most of our day, relishing in the simple joys of exploration and good food.
2-5-24 Lisbon:
In our latest escapade, we traded the tranquility of Lagos for the bustling streets of Lisbon, embarking on a journey filled with both excitement and monotony. The day began with a lengthy drive, which Nicky amusingly labeled as "boring driving," through picturesque landscapes and thrilling toll booths. Upon arrival, navigating our way into the parking garage turned into a comical ordeal, with worried locals offering their unsolicited assistance. Despite the minor hiccups, our exploration of Lisbon was nothing short of enchanting, as we strolled through its vibrant streets, admiring quirky shops and indulging in local delicacies like the renowned Portuguese custard tarts. However, not all was smooth sailing, as Ben's ill-fated attempt at a vegan pastel de nata left him yearning for the authentic experience. Despite the culinary misadventures, we reveled in the charm and vibrancy of Lisbon, eagerly anticipating the discoveries that await us in the days ahead.
3-5-24 Lisbon:
Today in Lisbon, we delved into the city's rich history through a captivating walking tour led by the knowledgeable Nuno, or was it Nonu? Regardless, we soaked up fascinating tales of kings, dictators, earthquakes, and more, expanding our understanding of this vibrant city. Our culinary exploration took an unexpected turn with a daring taste of the infamous salted cod, leaving us questioning our adventurous spirit. However, we found solace in the simple joys of strolling through picturesque streets, sipping drinks in the park, and navigating the perilous journey of finding an ATM that actually dispensed cash. Despite the salty mishap, our day was filled with laughter, discovery, and the realization that sometimes the best adventures come with a pinch of salt.
4-5-24 Lisbon:
Today in Lisbon, we braved the rainy weather and ventured to Belem, where we explored a mix of modern art and historical landmarks. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, we embraced our inner nerds at the engineering museum, geeking out over renewable energy and interactive exhibits. Nicky's triumphant discovery of a shortcut to the famous pastel de nata shop brought unexpected joy, proving that sometimes the best adventures involve avoiding long lines in the rain. Over in the Museum of Contemporary Art, while the Patti Smith exhibition left much to be desired, we found solace in the Picasso and Andy Warhol pieces. And who could forget our impromptu jam session at the interactive drum exhibit? Despite the rain dampening our spirits, we managed to drum up some fun and ended the day on a high note.
5-5-24 Lisbon:
Today, we embarked on a leisurely day of market exploration in Lisbon, Portugal. Our morning began with a quirky breakfast at an Australian-run café, where we found ourselves surrounded by more Brits than Aussies. After a brief stop at the "very important cultural institution" of the marionette museum, we made our way to the LX Factory, a haven for art and craft enthusiasts alike. Despite resisting the urge to splurge, we couldn't resist browsing through the impressive bookstore. The Timeout Markets beckoned us next, where we braved the crowds to indulge in a variety of delectable treats. However, the day's highlight was undoubtedly the well-deserved afternoon siesta back at our apartment—sometimes, even seasoned travelers need a break from the hustle and bustle. Reflecting on the day, we realized that amidst the fatigue, there's always room for a good book, a cozy nap, and a hearty laugh.
Looks like you managed to make the best of the rainy weather. We also couldn't understand the Portuguese obsession with Bacalau (salted cod)! On the other hand we couldn't get enough of the Portuguese tarts.