Here is a brief snapshot of my last couple of days in Porto and Lisbon:
Porto is enchanting… Old buildings, cobble stone streets, history, and of course, port. Everywhere you turn, colors reflect off the water. A glossy rose color filters the whole city.
Puppies in Alfama, the LX Factory (warehouses-turned-artistic-and-hipster neighborhood), and the Tile Museum… when in doubt, just wander the streets of Lisbon, you’ll find gems.
The Carmo Monastery (built in the 14th & 15th Centuries)… It’s one of the only buildings remaining in Lisbon (outside of Alfama) that survived the 1755 earthquake. The roof fell in, but the monastery walls remained (as seen below). The colors are mesmerizing and the energy is palpable.
And then there was the Aquarium… Lisbon’s aquarium is the largest in Europe and is definitely a stop to make. I had no idea the aquarium, marina and boardwalk existed in Lisbon until my last day. The restaurants on the marina, the Vasco Da Gama Bridge, and the peaceful running path along the water are beautiful and definitely worth seeing up close.
Carol Case
September 6, 2016 6:19 pmDear Lee,
Thanks so much for sharing your awsome journey this past month. Can’t wait to hear about and see pictures from your next adventure. We just returned from taking Jadie and the grandkids to Alaska for 2 wks and then I leave with my sisters Oct 1st for 3 wks in Northern Ireland and Scotland. Your mom and dad are coming over for dinner Friday night as we wanted to visit with them before they return to Fl.
Your pictures really capture the scenery and vivid colors.
When you mentioned it was like seeing things through rose colored glasses reminded me of a book I read yrs ago about recovery and the title is “A new pair of glasses.” That’s exactly how I felt the first time sober when I visited the Rocky Mts. Experiencing the sights and sounds with clarity of mind rather than with a buzz on. What a natural high it was. WOW
Take care, be safe,enjoy the moment
Hugs and blessings, Carol
Lee Wagner
September 22, 2016 2:37 pmCarol, I’m so sorry to be replying to your note so late (I’m just getting back to the blog after being on the road for 3 weeks without my laptop)- thank you for your comments! Yes, it’s pretty incredible seeing the world completely sober now… I try to stop myself from repeating the line- ‘Do you see that sky? Has it always been that amazing? It’s incredible!’. Colors pop in these cultures even more than back home, although maybe I’m just now aware of it. Thank you for your thoughts- totally agree on the natural high! Have a great time traveling with the family, I look forward to hearing about it!
Love,
Lee