Lisbon Lost & Found: A Day of Data & Delight

okay, so i just got back from lisbon. honestly, i'm still processing. i was chasing some vibes, seeing if the numbers matched the feeling. i grabbed a coffee, maybe a little too strong, and just… wandered.

let’s start with the data. that string, 1700802, 1608547808… it feels like a secret code, right? maybe a phone number? a license plate? i’m not sure. but it’s here. it’s very here. and the numbers for the weather? nice and steady. temp: 28.4, feels_like: 31.01, temp_min: 28.4, temp_max: 28.4, pressure: 1008, humidity: 67, sea_level: 1008, grnd_level: 984. that’s… a lot of numbers. feels like a statement. the sky was a weird shade of ochre - like someone mixed a sunset with dirty laundry.

my neighbors? they're a fascinating mix of old-school charm and… well, slightly chaotic energy. someone told me that the old women on Rua das Portas de Santo Antão are fiercely protective of their azulejo tiles, and don't take kindly to pigeons. *Fascinating. i’m guessing that’s a local rumor. maybe something a local warned me about.

i’m always looking for a cheap meal, y’know? found a place called Time Out Market Lisboa - seriously, a foodie paradise, but a little pricey. i heard that the seafood is incredible, though. and the pastries… don’t even get me started. the rumors are that the pastel de nata are so good, they're practically illegal. i’m not sure i’m ready for that level of… temptation. i did find a great little tasca tucked away on a side street, just off the main drag. they didn't have English menus, but i managed with a lot of pointing and enthusiastic gesturing.

Gear List (if you’re feeling adventurous):
Comfortable walking shoes (seriously, you’ll be doing a lot of walking.)
Reusable water bottle - tap water is safe and delicious.
Phrasebook - it's helpful, even if you're mostly communicating through smiles.
Good camera - you’ll want to capture the views.

Pro-Tip: The tram 28 is a tourist hotspot, so get there early or be prepared to queue. Also, don't be afraid to get lost! some of my best discoveries were made when I wandered off the beaten path.

i even stumbled upon a street artist spray-painting a mural on a wall near the river. it was vibrant and really captured the essence of the city. The mural was absolutely breathtaking.*

i heard that someone warned me that Lisbon can be a bit overwhelming at first, but the people are generally friendly and welcoming. and i actually met a really cool dude who was a skateboarder from california. we talked for ages about… well, skateboarding. and life. and the questionable merits of pastéis de nata.

and that number? 1700802… maybe it’s the serial number on a vintage tile? maybe it’s the code to unlock a hidden treasure? no idea. it’s just… there.

i think i’ll go back.