Today marks one week since we left the US. It seems like we hav already been here for weeks and we have only stayed in 2 areas in one country, Portugal. We have navigated the busy city of Lisbon, adapted to the time change and eating dinner at 8pm, and learned to speak some of the language.
We love the architecture with all of the beautiful tiles in Lisbon. The sidewalks and streets are all cobblestone, so walking is always with caution and sensible shoes!
We fell in love with the pasteis de nata! We can say hello, thank you, and God bless you (for Grandpa Turtle). Reading the signs is easier than speaking as the locals all speak so fast! English is widely spoken and seems to be the common language.
After Lisbon, we rented a car and drove 2 hours south to the Algarve region of Portugal. It is a series of small beach towns on the Atlantic coast. Slower pace and beach days. . .this feels like we are on vacation!
Our apartment has a spectacular view and we are steps away from the beach. We are staying in a town called Armacao de Pera, between Albufeira and Lagos. Our favorite day was a hike called seven hanging valleys. . .known as the most beautiful hike in Europe. We also enjoyed a boat tour along the coast to the Benagil Caves. Some of the most spectacular cliffs and views in the world! Jason also couldn’t resist a jump off of one the cliffs! He is a daredevil!
One week away from the US. . .missing soft toilet paper and a clothes dryer. Realizing Mari overpacked and wants to buy all new clothes to blend in with the locals 🙂 Loving the cost of foods (daily trips to the market for fresh breads, pastries), the amazing espresso, no tipping, and walking around the towns.
Next stop: Spain, Seville and Barcelona
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