I slept in as planned. When I decided to face the day I headed out to A Brasileira - a coffee shop nearby that is recommended in my guidebook. (Speaking of guidebooks, I highly recommend Frommer's 'day by day, 20 smart ways to see the city' books.)
A Brasileira has a bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa outside of it. Think that's mainly why it's famous. Watched lots of people pose with him. The guidebook warns that the waiters are not very friendly but a few words of Portuguese go a long way. Sure enough when he came up to me he was aloof and as soon as I ordered his tune totally changed. He was curious and asked me how I was Brasilian and that he would have never guessed.
Same thing happened in a shop. The woman working in there was not nice to the tourist before me but very kind to me, even though she knows I'm also a tourist. I was attracted to this shop because they were playing loud Fado (melancholy music famous in Portugal) and they had a sign saying "hand-made by us" outside. So I was curious what they were hand-making. They were tiles. Lots of decorative little tiles everywhere. I bought one. Turns out it was hand-made by the woman in the shop at the time - she was very proud of that one.
The main thing I did today was go to the Feira da Ladra - an outdoor flea market every Saturday and Tuesday. It was easy not to buy anything there, mostly used junk like old video game controllers, vhs and cassette tapes, and random parts to stuff. They did have some book stands and some new items but nothing I wanted to stop my slow wander for.
It took me quite a while to find it. Was proud I didn't ask anyone, figured I had enough time to find it on my own. It's in the Alfama neighborhood and that's all I knew. It's quite a hilly neighborhood.
The weather was pleasant and sunny, and nice and cool in the shade. It's a bit windy though and I flashed people a few too many times for my liking. Will have to whip out pants tomorrow.
I saw Portugal's version of PETA today - called PAN who petition for the benefit of animals and nature. I gave the guy standing by the table with signs attached to him a thumbs up. He smiled.
I went to the local market to pick up some food and beverages to be cheap for the next few days. My hostel serves a dinner every night and I asked them if they ever do a vegetarian dinner. They said that any night they can have a vegetarian option, you just have to tell them in advance. They are serving chicken piri-piri tonight which seems to be pretty popular. I've just been avoiding meat these days for some reason. Although he did convince me that I MUST try the bacalhau while I'm here, and that he was cooking it tomorrow night. He promised it wasn't very fishy and that it was delicious. I told him I'd give it a go since it's advertised everywhere in the restaurants and markets. I also need to try green wine, working myself up to that. It's not actually green in color, they just pick the grapes young and apparently the wine is semi-sparkling.
While I loved the smaller towns, it's nice to be back in the hustle and bustle of a city. I think one of the reasons (besides there being a lot to see) is that it's easier to blend in among the other tourists and being by myself is less noticeable.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Lisboa
At the bus station this morning a woman walked right up to me and started speaking in German. I smiled and told her I didn't understand. Apparently I look German as well. She asked for my email address so she could practice her English. A bit odd but I gave it to her.
The Eva bus company doesn't mess around. We left a minute early and they had a bus attendant. After a few stops in the Algarve towns we expressed to Lisboa where the attendant walked up and down selling snacks, sandwiches and beverages. Fancy.
It was about a four hour bus ride. Coming into Lisbon we went across the Ponte 25 de Abril where I got to see Portugal's version of the Corcovado. Snapped a few photos. I don't think I'll trek back there to see it.
The bus station connects with the metro station, and after a short metro ride and short walk I arrived at Yes! Lisbon. Nice place. My room has five beds and I somehow managed to get the one that doesn't have a bunkmate. Each bed also has a little curtain for privacy. Pretty swanky.
After settling in I walked to the Praca do Comercio just in time to watch a group of people rally/protest and walk across the square. Something about agriculture.
After sitting on the bus for that long I decided to take a nice long walk. I wandered along the Rio Tejo with the goal of walking to the other main bridge - Vasco da Gama. Turns out it is much farther than I expected. Blisters ensued.
I thought it'd be a pretty walk, but for most of it I walked by shipyards full of shipping containers and factory looking things. The graffiti, litter, and run-down buildings reminded me of Sao Paulo. It finally did get pretty and scenic around the oceanario, casino, a science museum, and several other things. I walked into the Centro Vasco da Gama - a mall. I wanted to see what kind of stores they had. Lots of American chains, both clothing and food. The two most notable things were a kiosk that sold colored toilet paper, and a store called Women'secret. Not just Victoria's here, it's everyone's secret.
I then decided to go to an Indian restaurant in honor of Vasco da Gama, since he established the sea route to India. Not really. I was tired, hungry, and it was close and seemed a better option than fast food or the two Brasilian rodizios.
Most of the walk to that area of town was very desolate. I was the only pedestrian for most of it and got several stares, honks, and a guy even offered to give me a ride. I politely declined. Sketchy. So I decided to take the metro back to the hostel. It turned out it was 12 metro stops away!
I'm going to wake up when I wake up tomorrow. I hope I get up in time for the included breakfast, but so be it if I sleep through it. My favorite days are when I don't have to set an alarm.
The Eva bus company doesn't mess around. We left a minute early and they had a bus attendant. After a few stops in the Algarve towns we expressed to Lisboa where the attendant walked up and down selling snacks, sandwiches and beverages. Fancy.
It was about a four hour bus ride. Coming into Lisbon we went across the Ponte 25 de Abril where I got to see Portugal's version of the Corcovado. Snapped a few photos. I don't think I'll trek back there to see it.
The bus station connects with the metro station, and after a short metro ride and short walk I arrived at Yes! Lisbon. Nice place. My room has five beds and I somehow managed to get the one that doesn't have a bunkmate. Each bed also has a little curtain for privacy. Pretty swanky.
After settling in I walked to the Praca do Comercio just in time to watch a group of people rally/protest and walk across the square. Something about agriculture.
After sitting on the bus for that long I decided to take a nice long walk. I wandered along the Rio Tejo with the goal of walking to the other main bridge - Vasco da Gama. Turns out it is much farther than I expected. Blisters ensued.
I thought it'd be a pretty walk, but for most of it I walked by shipyards full of shipping containers and factory looking things. The graffiti, litter, and run-down buildings reminded me of Sao Paulo. It finally did get pretty and scenic around the oceanario, casino, a science museum, and several other things. I walked into the Centro Vasco da Gama - a mall. I wanted to see what kind of stores they had. Lots of American chains, both clothing and food. The two most notable things were a kiosk that sold colored toilet paper, and a store called Women'secret. Not just Victoria's here, it's everyone's secret.
I then decided to go to an Indian restaurant in honor of Vasco da Gama, since he established the sea route to India. Not really. I was tired, hungry, and it was close and seemed a better option than fast food or the two Brasilian rodizios.
Most of the walk to that area of town was very desolate. I was the only pedestrian for most of it and got several stares, honks, and a guy even offered to give me a ride. I politely declined. Sketchy. So I decided to take the metro back to the hostel. It turned out it was 12 metro stops away!
I'm going to wake up when I wake up tomorrow. I hope I get up in time for the included breakfast, but so be it if I sleep through it. My favorite days are when I don't have to set an alarm.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Lovin' Life
I sat on the beach for most of the day. In the shade. I had a little cove with calm water all by myself. It was fabulous.
Three local girls came into my cove and had a little fashion style shoot of themselves. It was pretty funny to witness.
A lot of topless women at the beach nearby.
I've met several people on this trip who admitted that they didn't like one of the major cities - Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, or Lisbon. I find them all crazy! Granted I haven't been to Lisbon yet but am sure I'll like it.
I had lunch at a little cafe. It looked local from the street but turns out that the owner was from Switzerland. I had a good meal and watched CNN. Got to see my men Obama & Anderson Cooper live.
I then took a little nap at the hostel before heading out to dinner at the Thai restaurant which was very good. I loved the red house wine and asked the waitress what it was so I could try to pick up a bottle in Lisbon. She then brought me the bottle and told me I could finish it. So of course I did. A glass of wine is pretty cheap in Spain & Portugal - average of about 2 euros.
The majority of the other tourists I've met in Italy, Spain & Portugal are from Australia & England. I've told them all that their countries are both on my list. I met a Frenchman today who gave me shit about the war. France is on my list, but not high up there because of their attitude.
I met a Dutch couple today who were sure that I was from Holland. I've been told that I would fit in really well there. Good to know.
Off to Lisboa in the morning!
Three local girls came into my cove and had a little fashion style shoot of themselves. It was pretty funny to witness.
A lot of topless women at the beach nearby.
I've met several people on this trip who admitted that they didn't like one of the major cities - Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, or Lisbon. I find them all crazy! Granted I haven't been to Lisbon yet but am sure I'll like it.
I had lunch at a little cafe. It looked local from the street but turns out that the owner was from Switzerland. I had a good meal and watched CNN. Got to see my men Obama & Anderson Cooper live.
I then took a little nap at the hostel before heading out to dinner at the Thai restaurant which was very good. I loved the red house wine and asked the waitress what it was so I could try to pick up a bottle in Lisbon. She then brought me the bottle and told me I could finish it. So of course I did. A glass of wine is pretty cheap in Spain & Portugal - average of about 2 euros.
The majority of the other tourists I've met in Italy, Spain & Portugal are from Australia & England. I've told them all that their countries are both on my list. I met a Frenchman today who gave me shit about the war. France is on my list, but not high up there because of their attitude.
I met a Dutch couple today who were sure that I was from Holland. I've been told that I would fit in really well there. Good to know.
Off to Lisboa in the morning!
Lagos
I walked to where the bus picks people up to go to Lagos and that's when I realized there is an hour time difference between Spain & Portugal. I knew it beforehand but completely forgot. No harm though, I just checked out and got to Lagos a little earlier than planned.
It was hot yesterday and I finally made use of the hand fan that I brought while on the bus. I met a nice American woman on the bus. She lives in Florida now but grew up in Zimbabwe and has had an apartment in the Algarve for 30 years (she didn't specify which town). She said that this was the perfect time to come, and that in June all the tourists come and then by August all the Portuguese flock south for their beach vacation.
There aren't many stoplights around the Algarve - they seem to love their roundabouts. Grilled sardines are the most popular menu item. Rice & beans apparently are not. I thought I read that somewhere. I'll blame the old guidebook.
Once I got off the bus I headed towards the marina, took a right on the big road, walked past the Shell gas station (which is no longer Shell but luckily still a gas station), past the fresh fish market, past the taxi stand, took a right after the big parking lot, saw the Dois Irmaos bar. And that's where the directions no longer made sense. They didn't use street names in their directions, just landmarks. Only trouble is a lot of those landmarks have either changed names or no longer exist. So I started asking the locals on the street where the Travessa Gil Vicente was. All they could do was point in the direction, but didn't know exactly where it was. So I started asking the shopkeepers. No ideas. Hmm.
My bag was getting really heavy, shoulders were hurting, and I was starting to glisten. So I plopped down at a 'snack bar', sat outside in the shade and had a beer. A large one. After a good amount of people watching and once I felt cooled off I decided to head out again for this supposed hostel. I asked the woman that works at the snack-bar, no idea. This town isn't very big! All the patrons around me were older and not hostel-goer types. But just as I was about to leave two girls sat down and they looked like potential hostel-goers. I couldn't recognize what language they were speaking but hoped that they spoke English. Sure enough they did. They were staying in a hostel. But not mine. They were staying at The Rising Cock. Apparently there is one here too. They let me look at their map, and I was able to locate the street we were on and YES! the street my hostel was on. Not too far away but lots of little turns. I took a photo of the section of the map I needed (quite resourceful if I may say so myself) and managed to find it. I definitely wouldn't have gotten there with the hostel's directions, even if the landmarks were still in place. They definitely need to update the directions on their site. Actually the first thing that they asked me when I arrived was - "was it difficult to find?". I replied yes and told them about my attempts. The guy gave me a high five when I told him I stopped and got a beer during my search.
Shangri-Lagos is a very homey hostel. It's been open 3 weeks. It's also the cheapest hostel I've stayed at (10 euros a night). I picked it based on price and name. Kind of how I pick wine - by the price and the name/label.
Once I settled in I headed back out and walked to the ocean. I snapped a few photos and walked along the road taking in the scenery. At a little statue overlooking the water I ran into those girls. They were happy to hear that I found my hostel.
I walked back towards the little town, it's quite charming. I walked past lots of fish and sardine signs and settled into a pizzeria. I sat outside in the shade and they had this nice instrumental music playing. But I kept hearing this weird sound. I thought it was either a very vocal seagull or perhaps a cat in heat. Took me all of lunch to realize that there was a statue guy at the square about 20 meters from me and he had one of those obnoxious whistles in his mouth. He was using it subtly to try and get people's attention. I'd like to have a few words with the creator of those things.
Walking along the beach the water and sky were so blue that I got the song 'Blue Eyes' by Elton John in my head. And it just came on in the hostel. Coincidence? I think not!
After a short nap I headed back out to the Casa Rosa, the good & cheap place to eat where all the hostels say you must go to. I think they must all be friends recommending each other's places. It was a fun atmosphere with big shared tables. There were 4 veggie options and I chose the burrito because of my craving for beans. It was probably the healthiest burrito I have ever had and it was quite good. The Manchester United game was on so watched that with the other patrons, all tourists. M.U. will take on Barcelona in the Champions League final on May 28th. I'll try to see if I can watch it, definitely will be rooting for Barcelona.
There were four people sitting near me and when a girl walked in one of the guys at the table said "Sorry about last night" and she said "What about last night?" and his reply was "Oh good, you don't remember". Oh boy.
After dinner and several Cristals (beer that apparently the locals drink) I bar-hopped my way home. Lagos is known to be a party town, so I felt the need to check out some of the watering holes, even though most of them were quite empty. Party only gets stared around midnight, but then again there aren't enough people here yet I don't think. My last stop was a bar where only English was being spoken. Will try to find the Portuguese hangouts tonight, but this one was nice and close to my hostel. I spent about three hours chatting with the bartender and his wife. The crowd was older than me by at least 30 years which I enjoyed, nice change of scene.
A guy walked over to me and asked if I wanted to go to a bar. I replied that we're already in a bar. The bartender could not stop laughing. Apparently that's his pickup line. He left and told me he'd try to find a girl elsewhere. I told him good luck, he replied that he didn't need luck. He returned about twenty minutes later solo.
The bartender and his wife told me several interesting things about Lagos. They are British and moved here three years ago. They said it's basically England's Florida where lots of people come to retire because of the year-round sunshine. They also said that in July/August it resembles a small Cancun with all the stumbling drunk kids everywhere. Am sure glad I'm not here during that.
The bartenders wife didn't want me to go so she bought me another beer. I ended up staying there until about 12:30am, way past my planned bedtime.
I also met the very drunk head chef of a Thai restaurant. I promised him I'd go there for dinner tonight.
Based on the little bit of research I did I assumed that Portimão would be more quaint than Lagos because it is less touristy. But it turns out that Portimão is where all of the cruises dock. It also had tons of high-rise apartment buildings. Whoever makes those decisions in Lagos won't allow high-rises. Lagos is a walled town and most of the wall is still standing which is cool. My friends last night told me that someone bought a McDonald's franchise and tried to open one up inside the walls. Those same decision makers vetoed it, so there is one right outside the wall. I love that. Yes it is touristy with lots of little shops, restaurants and bars, but they are really making an effort to keep it low-key and quaint. I hope it stays that way.
It was hot yesterday and I finally made use of the hand fan that I brought while on the bus. I met a nice American woman on the bus. She lives in Florida now but grew up in Zimbabwe and has had an apartment in the Algarve for 30 years (she didn't specify which town). She said that this was the perfect time to come, and that in June all the tourists come and then by August all the Portuguese flock south for their beach vacation.
There aren't many stoplights around the Algarve - they seem to love their roundabouts. Grilled sardines are the most popular menu item. Rice & beans apparently are not. I thought I read that somewhere. I'll blame the old guidebook.
Once I got off the bus I headed towards the marina, took a right on the big road, walked past the Shell gas station (which is no longer Shell but luckily still a gas station), past the fresh fish market, past the taxi stand, took a right after the big parking lot, saw the Dois Irmaos bar. And that's where the directions no longer made sense. They didn't use street names in their directions, just landmarks. Only trouble is a lot of those landmarks have either changed names or no longer exist. So I started asking the locals on the street where the Travessa Gil Vicente was. All they could do was point in the direction, but didn't know exactly where it was. So I started asking the shopkeepers. No ideas. Hmm.
My bag was getting really heavy, shoulders were hurting, and I was starting to glisten. So I plopped down at a 'snack bar', sat outside in the shade and had a beer. A large one. After a good amount of people watching and once I felt cooled off I decided to head out again for this supposed hostel. I asked the woman that works at the snack-bar, no idea. This town isn't very big! All the patrons around me were older and not hostel-goer types. But just as I was about to leave two girls sat down and they looked like potential hostel-goers. I couldn't recognize what language they were speaking but hoped that they spoke English. Sure enough they did. They were staying in a hostel. But not mine. They were staying at The Rising Cock. Apparently there is one here too. They let me look at their map, and I was able to locate the street we were on and YES! the street my hostel was on. Not too far away but lots of little turns. I took a photo of the section of the map I needed (quite resourceful if I may say so myself) and managed to find it. I definitely wouldn't have gotten there with the hostel's directions, even if the landmarks were still in place. They definitely need to update the directions on their site. Actually the first thing that they asked me when I arrived was - "was it difficult to find?". I replied yes and told them about my attempts. The guy gave me a high five when I told him I stopped and got a beer during my search.
Shangri-Lagos is a very homey hostel. It's been open 3 weeks. It's also the cheapest hostel I've stayed at (10 euros a night). I picked it based on price and name. Kind of how I pick wine - by the price and the name/label.
Once I settled in I headed back out and walked to the ocean. I snapped a few photos and walked along the road taking in the scenery. At a little statue overlooking the water I ran into those girls. They were happy to hear that I found my hostel.
I walked back towards the little town, it's quite charming. I walked past lots of fish and sardine signs and settled into a pizzeria. I sat outside in the shade and they had this nice instrumental music playing. But I kept hearing this weird sound. I thought it was either a very vocal seagull or perhaps a cat in heat. Took me all of lunch to realize that there was a statue guy at the square about 20 meters from me and he had one of those obnoxious whistles in his mouth. He was using it subtly to try and get people's attention. I'd like to have a few words with the creator of those things.
Walking along the beach the water and sky were so blue that I got the song 'Blue Eyes' by Elton John in my head. And it just came on in the hostel. Coincidence? I think not!
After a short nap I headed back out to the Casa Rosa, the good & cheap place to eat where all the hostels say you must go to. I think they must all be friends recommending each other's places. It was a fun atmosphere with big shared tables. There were 4 veggie options and I chose the burrito because of my craving for beans. It was probably the healthiest burrito I have ever had and it was quite good. The Manchester United game was on so watched that with the other patrons, all tourists. M.U. will take on Barcelona in the Champions League final on May 28th. I'll try to see if I can watch it, definitely will be rooting for Barcelona.
There were four people sitting near me and when a girl walked in one of the guys at the table said "Sorry about last night" and she said "What about last night?" and his reply was "Oh good, you don't remember". Oh boy.
After dinner and several Cristals (beer that apparently the locals drink) I bar-hopped my way home. Lagos is known to be a party town, so I felt the need to check out some of the watering holes, even though most of them were quite empty. Party only gets stared around midnight, but then again there aren't enough people here yet I don't think. My last stop was a bar where only English was being spoken. Will try to find the Portuguese hangouts tonight, but this one was nice and close to my hostel. I spent about three hours chatting with the bartender and his wife. The crowd was older than me by at least 30 years which I enjoyed, nice change of scene.
A guy walked over to me and asked if I wanted to go to a bar. I replied that we're already in a bar. The bartender could not stop laughing. Apparently that's his pickup line. He left and told me he'd try to find a girl elsewhere. I told him good luck, he replied that he didn't need luck. He returned about twenty minutes later solo.
The bartender and his wife told me several interesting things about Lagos. They are British and moved here three years ago. They said it's basically England's Florida where lots of people come to retire because of the year-round sunshine. They also said that in July/August it resembles a small Cancun with all the stumbling drunk kids everywhere. Am sure glad I'm not here during that.
The bartenders wife didn't want me to go so she bought me another beer. I ended up staying there until about 12:30am, way past my planned bedtime.
I also met the very drunk head chef of a Thai restaurant. I promised him I'd go there for dinner tonight.
Based on the little bit of research I did I assumed that Portimão would be more quaint than Lagos because it is less touristy. But it turns out that Portimão is where all of the cruises dock. It also had tons of high-rise apartment buildings. Whoever makes those decisions in Lagos won't allow high-rises. Lagos is a walled town and most of the wall is still standing which is cool. My friends last night told me that someone bought a McDonald's franchise and tried to open one up inside the walls. Those same decision makers vetoed it, so there is one right outside the wall. I love that. Yes it is touristy with lots of little shops, restaurants and bars, but they are really making an effort to keep it low-key and quaint. I hope it stays that way.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Red buns
Today was exactly what I had hoped for - a nice relaxing day on the beach. It was warm and sunny with the perfect amount of sea breeze.
Praia da Rocha is a beautiful wide beach with fluffy white sand, pretty blue water, and large rock formations, hence the name.
After several hours of sunbathing I had a late lunch at a restaurant right on the beach. There are quite a few that line the edge away from the water, if that makes sense. I've been craving some rice and beans which I know is a staple here, but they don't seem to have it at the restaurants. I ordered a salad with veggies and fruit. Most of the fruit fresh, some canned, all in all it was a tasty lunch.
Once I was done I walked the beach and picked up too many seashells. I did so good yesterday only picking up one! Oh well, they are light and free.
Even though I slathered myself from head to toe with sunscreen I got a bit too much sun in a few places...
Once I was done sunning myself, gazing at the Atlantic, and picking up seashells I headed back to my hotel. I walked to the beach via the town and purposefully strolled down Avenida do Brasil. On the way back I decided to walk by the Arade river, the more scenic route. One of my favorite past-times is to read boat names, so I walked slowly by the docks. What always comes to mind when I do that is what I would name my boat if I had one. I just don't know.
Once I got back I decided to take another bath, taking full advantage of the fancy amenities. Will be back in hostel land tomorrow. The book I'm reading is 'A Long Way Down' by Nick Hornby. It is dark and sarcastic humor so I'm enjoying it. Randomly there are several mentions of September 11th and the Iraq war, seems fitting. Apparently it has been through several hands and several countries, so I'll try to find someone cool to give it to.
I like how quaint this town is and am glad I'm here during the low season - both for the few tourists and for the weather. It was the perfect amount of hot today. It is quite humid as well. I can tell by the curls in my hair. I've only seen one American chain here - Pizza Hut. Happy that there aren't more, or at least I didn't see them. I've seen three locations of a chain called Burger Ranch. I looked it up and Wikipedia says it's the only Portuguese fast-food chain. I won't be going in there for obvious reasons.
Three random things:
1) A lot of hotels claim that they are trying to be environmental and ask that if you are ok with using the same towels twice to leave them hanging, and put ones on the floor if you want them changed. I've been in probably 30+ hotels since this notice has become popular - and this is the FIRST time they actually follow through with it. So proud Made Inn.
2) Key card - when I checked in the guy at the desk let me know that when you leave they ask that you give them your keycard. I laughed and said "oh good, cause I keep losing them". It's 50 euros if you lose it here, yikes. And you may be thinking - since I lost the other two inside the hostel, I could easily lose it in this hotel. Well luckily when you are in the room you are required to put the keycard in a slot for the lights to work - another environmental bonus point for this place.
3) Rooster - in the few souvenir shops here they have lots of ceramic roosters. The same rooster image is the cover of my guidebook. So I decided to consult the internet. There are several stories, but they all seem to have the same gist. The rooster signifies luck, honesty, integrity, trust, and honor. That's a lot to ask of a rooster if you ask me.
Here is what Wikipedia had to say regarding the legend: "One of the many versions of this legend goes that a rich man threw a big party. When the party was over, the rich man noticed that his sterling cutlery was stolen by a guest. He accused a pilgrim and let him go to court. He protested his innocence, but the judge didn't believe him. The judge was about to eat a roasted rooster when the pilgrim said: 'If I am innocent, this rooster will crow three times.' When the pilgrim was about to be lynched, the rooster crowed. The judge released the pilgrim. "
I'm now taking advantage of the TV. There are two British channels - a news station and a movie channel called Men&Movies. A movie called 'Shadow Warriors' with Hulk Hogan just started. Judging it by the first 30 seconds, I changed the channel back to news. Where is the Women&Movies channel I wonder.
Praia da Rocha is a beautiful wide beach with fluffy white sand, pretty blue water, and large rock formations, hence the name.
After several hours of sunbathing I had a late lunch at a restaurant right on the beach. There are quite a few that line the edge away from the water, if that makes sense. I've been craving some rice and beans which I know is a staple here, but they don't seem to have it at the restaurants. I ordered a salad with veggies and fruit. Most of the fruit fresh, some canned, all in all it was a tasty lunch.
Once I was done I walked the beach and picked up too many seashells. I did so good yesterday only picking up one! Oh well, they are light and free.
Even though I slathered myself from head to toe with sunscreen I got a bit too much sun in a few places...
Once I was done sunning myself, gazing at the Atlantic, and picking up seashells I headed back to my hotel. I walked to the beach via the town and purposefully strolled down Avenida do Brasil. On the way back I decided to walk by the Arade river, the more scenic route. One of my favorite past-times is to read boat names, so I walked slowly by the docks. What always comes to mind when I do that is what I would name my boat if I had one. I just don't know.
Once I got back I decided to take another bath, taking full advantage of the fancy amenities. Will be back in hostel land tomorrow. The book I'm reading is 'A Long Way Down' by Nick Hornby. It is dark and sarcastic humor so I'm enjoying it. Randomly there are several mentions of September 11th and the Iraq war, seems fitting. Apparently it has been through several hands and several countries, so I'll try to find someone cool to give it to.
I like how quaint this town is and am glad I'm here during the low season - both for the few tourists and for the weather. It was the perfect amount of hot today. It is quite humid as well. I can tell by the curls in my hair. I've only seen one American chain here - Pizza Hut. Happy that there aren't more, or at least I didn't see them. I've seen three locations of a chain called Burger Ranch. I looked it up and Wikipedia says it's the only Portuguese fast-food chain. I won't be going in there for obvious reasons.
Three random things:
1) A lot of hotels claim that they are trying to be environmental and ask that if you are ok with using the same towels twice to leave them hanging, and put ones on the floor if you want them changed. I've been in probably 30+ hotels since this notice has become popular - and this is the FIRST time they actually follow through with it. So proud Made Inn.
2) Key card - when I checked in the guy at the desk let me know that when you leave they ask that you give them your keycard. I laughed and said "oh good, cause I keep losing them". It's 50 euros if you lose it here, yikes. And you may be thinking - since I lost the other two inside the hostel, I could easily lose it in this hotel. Well luckily when you are in the room you are required to put the keycard in a slot for the lights to work - another environmental bonus point for this place.
3) Rooster - in the few souvenir shops here they have lots of ceramic roosters. The same rooster image is the cover of my guidebook. So I decided to consult the internet. There are several stories, but they all seem to have the same gist. The rooster signifies luck, honesty, integrity, trust, and honor. That's a lot to ask of a rooster if you ask me.
Here is what Wikipedia had to say regarding the legend: "One of the many versions of this legend goes that a rich man threw a big party. When the party was over, the rich man noticed that his sterling cutlery was stolen by a guest. He accused a pilgrim and let him go to court. He protested his innocence, but the judge didn't believe him. The judge was about to eat a roasted rooster when the pilgrim said: 'If I am innocent, this rooster will crow three times.' When the pilgrim was about to be lynched, the rooster crowed. The judge released the pilgrim. "
I'm now taking advantage of the TV. There are two British channels - a news station and a movie channel called Men&Movies. A movie called 'Shadow Warriors' with Hulk Hogan just started. Judging it by the first 30 seconds, I changed the channel back to news. Where is the Women&Movies channel I wonder.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Praia da Rocha
Portimão is a very sleep town at the moment, which is kind of nice and kind of eerie.
I walked around for hours. A lot of 'for sale' and 'for rent' signs that I imagine have to do with the economy. There also seem to be a lot of vacation rentals and apartments that are closed up now, but am sure once high season starts it'll be flocking with people.
I walked along the canal to the Praia da Rocha. I'll probably walk the beach a few times tomorrow. Picked up a shell for my collection, and then wandered back through town towards my hotel. Had some wine at a local cafe before heading home. Watched Portugal's version of the The Price Is Right and then found a news channel that was televising live from The White House. Was glad I could watch a bit of the breaking news...
The language is definitely different here. I've managed to understand a few words here and there. Everyone seems to understand my Portuguese well. Portugal Portuguese is very slurred and mumbled, my best way to describe it. Brasilian Portuguese is much prettier, but of course I'm biased. When I got back to my hotel and asked a question to the woman at the front desk, she literally sat back in her chair in shock that I spoke Portuguese. Was kind of funny.
I walked around for hours. A lot of 'for sale' and 'for rent' signs that I imagine have to do with the economy. There also seem to be a lot of vacation rentals and apartments that are closed up now, but am sure once high season starts it'll be flocking with people.
I walked along the canal to the Praia da Rocha. I'll probably walk the beach a few times tomorrow. Picked up a shell for my collection, and then wandered back through town towards my hotel. Had some wine at a local cafe before heading home. Watched Portugal's version of the The Price Is Right and then found a news channel that was televising live from The White House. Was glad I could watch a bit of the breaking news...
The language is definitely different here. I've managed to understand a few words here and there. Everyone seems to understand my Portuguese well. Portugal Portuguese is very slurred and mumbled, my best way to describe it. Brasilian Portuguese is much prettier, but of course I'm biased. When I got back to my hotel and asked a question to the woman at the front desk, she literally sat back in her chair in shock that I spoke Portuguese. Was kind of funny.
Portimão
Last night after I got home and before I started packing I managed to lose my hostel key card. In a matter of an hour, again inside the hostel. I never lose things! Well, it happens rarely. So I sucked it up and paid the 5 euros for that one and got a new one. I mainly needed it because that's how I got into my locker. I don't use lockers unless I have to, when there is not enough space to leave my luggage on the floor. I usually shove my bag under the bed but since this one was on the floor I couldn't do that.
Anyways, I couldn't really sleep because of the snorers. I couldn't use earplugs because then I wouldn't hear my alarm. The room was an L-shape. Two girls from the other side of the room grabbed their linens and pillow and came over and slept on the floor on my side of the L because of the big snoring offender on their side. That's how bad it was. The guy above me then got up at 3:30am to leave, the girls left at 5am, and I got up at 6am. So all in all not a lot of sleep. Luckily I had two seats to myself on the bus (it was rather empty) and I got a bit of shuteye.
In the Sevilla bus station there were two seats free on either side of this guy. I sat down on one of them and quickly realized why they were both empty and people were standing. The guy was asleep and kept swaying to either side and jolting himself back upright before leaning to the other side. I moved once a seat opened up across from him. Then an old man sat where I had just been and I got to witness someone else experience it. I moved my stuff and motioned for the old guy to come sit next to me. We both watched Mr. Bobblehead and giggled together for 10 minutes. It was amusing enough to take a video of him.
At the Spain/Portugal border two cops hopped on the bus and checked everyone's passports.
I don't think Portimão is a very popular stop for tourists. I was the only one that got off the bus at this stop. Portimão has reportedly one of the best beaches but I have a feeling it is more of a day-trip destination. Excited about that fact. There aren't hostels here that I could find so I'm staying at the Made Inn. It's really nice. Granted anything is really nice after three weeks of hostels. It has a funky vibe to it and everything is shiny and smells new. My room has two twin beds, so one of them is my hangout and suitcase station.
I decided to wash my unmentionables in the sink first so they'd have time to dry. Last laundry day, and it's so much easier to do when you have your own room. I then couldn't stop staring at the tub. I showered last night so felt the need to shower when I got here, but the tub looked so inviting. I put on scalding hot water and washed the basin down a bit (even though it looks new and sparkly clean) and then poured in both Made Inn bath gel bottles into it and made myself a nice bubble bath. Wearing sandals all day trekking around your feet can get pretty gross. So it was nice to soak and clean them up a bit. I tell you I feel the cleanest I have in three weeks. While I never would have thought to take a bath in a hotel, I figured it couldn't be worse than some of the beds and showers I've been in.
It's been sprinkling on and off so I haven't felt too bed about chilling in the hotel for a few hours. I'll head out soon to explore, but this and Lagos are my beach/relax stops, so I don't feel too guilty. It's supposedly going to be nice tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
Anyways, I couldn't really sleep because of the snorers. I couldn't use earplugs because then I wouldn't hear my alarm. The room was an L-shape. Two girls from the other side of the room grabbed their linens and pillow and came over and slept on the floor on my side of the L because of the big snoring offender on their side. That's how bad it was. The guy above me then got up at 3:30am to leave, the girls left at 5am, and I got up at 6am. So all in all not a lot of sleep. Luckily I had two seats to myself on the bus (it was rather empty) and I got a bit of shuteye.
In the Sevilla bus station there were two seats free on either side of this guy. I sat down on one of them and quickly realized why they were both empty and people were standing. The guy was asleep and kept swaying to either side and jolting himself back upright before leaning to the other side. I moved once a seat opened up across from him. Then an old man sat where I had just been and I got to witness someone else experience it. I moved my stuff and motioned for the old guy to come sit next to me. We both watched Mr. Bobblehead and giggled together for 10 minutes. It was amusing enough to take a video of him.
At the Spain/Portugal border two cops hopped on the bus and checked everyone's passports.
I don't think Portimão is a very popular stop for tourists. I was the only one that got off the bus at this stop. Portimão has reportedly one of the best beaches but I have a feeling it is more of a day-trip destination. Excited about that fact. There aren't hostels here that I could find so I'm staying at the Made Inn. It's really nice. Granted anything is really nice after three weeks of hostels. It has a funky vibe to it and everything is shiny and smells new. My room has two twin beds, so one of them is my hangout and suitcase station.
I decided to wash my unmentionables in the sink first so they'd have time to dry. Last laundry day, and it's so much easier to do when you have your own room. I then couldn't stop staring at the tub. I showered last night so felt the need to shower when I got here, but the tub looked so inviting. I put on scalding hot water and washed the basin down a bit (even though it looks new and sparkly clean) and then poured in both Made Inn bath gel bottles into it and made myself a nice bubble bath. Wearing sandals all day trekking around your feet can get pretty gross. So it was nice to soak and clean them up a bit. I tell you I feel the cleanest I have in three weeks. While I never would have thought to take a bath in a hotel, I figured it couldn't be worse than some of the beds and showers I've been in.
It's been sprinkling on and off so I haven't felt too bed about chilling in the hotel for a few hours. I'll head out soon to explore, but this and Lagos are my beach/relax stops, so I don't feel too guilty. It's supposedly going to be nice tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
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