Lisbon Lost in Translation: A Traveler's Musings
okay, so lisbon. seriously, lisbon. i'm still trying to figure out if the vibe is 'sun-kissed bohemian' or 'exhaustingly charming.' it’s…complicated. i just checked and it’s… there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. i'm leaning towards the latter.
this whole thing started with a number. 2243271. and then 1024474012. doesn’t even seem to work as a code, does it? like a really, really long phone number. maybe it’s a secret code for a hidden cafe? or a lost treasure? i’m gonna ask around. probably get laughed at.
i'm leaning on my trusty backpack and a seriously questionable translation app. the locals are…intense, to say the least. i heard someone say, 'the trams are like startled cats,' which, honestly, isn't far off. i’m trying to embrace the chaos. i’m attempting to order coffee - a proper coffee, not that milky stuff they push everywhere - but i'm getting lost in the menu. apparently, there are 47 different kinds of bica. 47! i’m thinking i might stick to water.
Someone told me that the Alfama district is best explored getting completely lost. Apparently, it's a labyrinth of tiny alleys and hidden squares, and you’ll stumble upon the most amazing things. I heard that getting lost is half the adventure.
my accommodation is in the Bairro Alto. it's… lively. i’m pretty sure i accidentally walked into a samba practice session. it’s a sensory overload. i saw a cat wearing a tiny hat. a tiny hat. i don’t even know what to make of that.
*Gear List (because even a travel blogger needs a list):
- Comfortable walking shoes (seriously, get these. your feet will thank you.)
- A good backpack (that can carry everything)
- A portable charger (essential for documenting everything)
- A reusable water bottle (it's hot!)
- A phrasebook (or a really good translation app - see above)
- A sketchbook and pen (for capturing the moments)
Pro-Tip: Don't be afraid to take the elevators. Seriously. They're lifesavers when you're navigating those steep hills. Also, treat the local pastries with the respect they deserve. They're basically mini works of art.
I'm also thinking of checking out the Jerónimos Monastery. I heard that the history behind it is pretty fascinating. And maybe finding a really good seafood restaurant. I’m starving. Local advice:* Don't trust the street food that smells vaguely of gasoline. Just a word of caution from a local who warned me about it.
if you get bored, Porto is just a short train ride away. Or maybe you wanna try your luck at the world-famous Feira da Ladra (the Flea Market)? I'm trying to navigate the entire city by foot, and it’s proving to be a challenge. I should really download a helpful map app. I’m currently following a promising new skateboarder who’s just practicing tricks by the river - he’s got serious talent.
this place is a whirlwind, and i have no idea what's going to happen next. but i'm loving it. even the unexpected detours. i think i'm going to need another strong coffee. and maybe a map. definitely a map.
TripAdvisor, Yelp, and even their local community board, Postos have some useful info.
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