Lisbon, Portugal: A Whirlwind of Tempers and Tides

okay, so lisbon. where do i even begin? i’ve been chasing this vibe for ages, and honestly, it’s a total mess - in the best way possible.

first off, the weather. i just checked and it's...rather sunny and breezy, hope you like that kind of thing. feels like a warm hug, not a scorching one. the air is thick with the scent of salt and something vaguely floral - probably jasmine. my hair’s a disaster, which is perfect. i’m all about embracing the chaos.

i’m a freelance photographer, which means my days are a beautiful blur of coffee shops, hidden alleyways, and chasing the perfect light. seriously, the light in this city is unreal. i'm constantly snapping away, trying to capture the feeling of it all. i’m currently trying to build up my portfolio on Behance. it's a challenge, but worth it. don't expect a perfectly curated feed - it's all about the raw moments.

i’m staying in Alfama, which, let’s be honest, is a labyrinth. it feels like stepping back in time. it's hilly, narrow, and perpetually buzzing with locals. i’ve learned a few things already - mostly involving navigating cobblestone streets and resisting the urge to buy everything from the tiny shops.

Someone told me that the best Fado is in a tiny, dimly lit tavern in Alfama, but you have to ask around. Don't go to the tourist traps.

the food? incredible. fresh seafood everywhere. i devoured a grilled sardine the other night that i’m pretty sure redefined the word 'delicious.' i'm making a list of places to try - lots of recommendations on TripAdvisor. and the pastries! oh my god, the pastries. Pastel de nata… i can’t even. i’m pretty sure i’m going to develop a serious addiction.

*Pro-tip*: ditch the tour bus and get lost. seriously. you'll stumble upon hidden gems - a charming courtyard, a local market, a breathtaking viewpoint. that's where the real magic happens.

i’m trying to make this a sustainable trip though. finding a local board to buy used clothing from has been a lifesaver. I recently found a killer vintage jacket on Etsy. And if you're looking for some local art, check out Lisbon Galleries.

i’ve heard that the locals are… well, they’re reserved at first but incredibly welcoming once you crack the surface. someone warned me about over-sharing my travel plans, but i’m choosing to embrace the spontaneity. i’m trying to go with the flow, and that’s what’s making this trip so special. i also heard that there's a great street art scene around the Mouraria district. I'm looking forward to exploring that.

i'm just trying to soak it all in, one pastel de nata and one cobblestone street at a time. this city is a sensory overload in the best possible way. pretty sure i'm going to be dreaming of Lisbon for months to come.