Lisbon: Lost in Numbers and Pastel de Natas
it’s…warm. like a hug from a really comfy blanket. more like 76°f than a sweltering heatwave, actually. i just checked and it's…there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. i’m in lisbon, and honestly, it’s a whirlwind. 364103…1729581572…it feels almost random, doesn't it? like a code someone scribbled on a napkin. i'm not sure what it means, but it's definitely adding to the mystery of this place.
i'm a digital nomad, originally from the states, but currently bouncing between locations fueled by caffeine and the promise of a good wifi connection. the plan? to wander, work, and eat all the custard tarts. and honestly, baby, i’m succeeding.
i heard a local - an older woman with eyes like melted chocolate - say something about the city’s soul. she said it's in the cracks in the cobblestones, in the way the sunlight catches the azulejo tiles, and in the hushed chatter spilling out of the restaurants at night. something a local warned me about was to avoid the tourist traps near the river - they’re…overpriced, and the wait times are insane. trust me on this one. i heard that someone told me that the real treasures are tucked away down the side streets.
*Pastel de Natas are, obviously, a must. i've tried at least five different bakeries already, and i’m pretty sure i’ve developed a slight pastry addiction. they’re flaky, creamy, and utterly addictive. seriously, they deserve their own Olympic medal.
Gear List (if you’re feeling ambitious):
a good backpack - seriously, you’ll be carrying things.
comfortable walking shoes - cobblestones are not kind to feet.
a portable charger - because let’s be real, you’ll be glued to your laptop.
a universal adapter - Portugal uses a different plug, obvs.
a phrasebook - though most people speak some English, it's nice to know a few basic Portuguese phrases. (i’m still perfecting “obrigado/a”).
*Overheard Gossip:* someone told me that the best seafood is found in the smaller restaurants in the Alfama district. another person whispered that the São Jorge Castle has a hidden courtyard with the best views.
i’m currently exploring the Alfama district. it’s a labyrinth of narrow streets, filled with Fado music and the aroma of grilling sardines. it’s chaotic and beautiful in equal measure. i even managed to get a quick chat with a street artist today - they’re transforming walls with vibrant murals. truly inspiring.
if you get bored, portogual is just a short drive away. beaches, mountains, charming towns…there’s something for everyone. i’m thinking of day trips to Sintra or Cascais - they’re on my must-do list.
i’m also trying to squeeze in some history. i spent a couple of hours wandering through the Jerónimos Monastery - it's breathtaking. the architecture is stunning, and the history is palpable. a local warned me that the monastery is surprisingly crowded, especially during peak season.
right now, i’m sipping coffee at a little cafe in Bairro Alto, watching the world go by. it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon. it’s…something, really. i’m not sure if it’s a rush, a calm, or a feeling, but it’s definitely… present.
i’m off to explore more of the city. more custard tarts await.
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