Another Cruise: Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal was the highlight destination when we first decided to go on this cruise. We had heard so many wonderful things about the city and the food.  We had also been warned about how hot it can get there. Lisbon did not disappoint on any fronts.

I woke up early as we sailed into the city in order to snap a few pictures of Lisbon's copy-cat attractions: the Salazar Bridge and Christ of Majesty. 

Hmm, where have I seen these before?

This 330 feet concrete statue of Christ is either blessing the city of Lisbon or readying to dive into the river (as the locals say). 

One of the longest suspension bridges in the world, the Salazar Bridge was built by the same company who made the San Francisco Bridge. When sailing under, it hums with the sounds of the vehicles travelling along above. 

Once we finally docked, this was our view from our suite. Very nice!

Rick Steves had three walks planned out for us. I was determined to complete them all. In hindsight, this was a huge mistake as we rushed from one attraction to the next, resulting in me getting whinny.

Our first neighbourhood to explore was Bairro Alto (high town) which had us hiking up hills for unbeatable views of the city.

Our first viewpoint.

I went into a church (Shea was on a conference call while I toured around) where walls of relics were on display.

Some of the relics in Sao Roque Church

Then it was time for more views.  Do you see that cluster of trees at the highest point in the picture (between the two clouds at the top right)? We eventually make our way all the way over there.  That is where I got cranky. Too much walking in the hot, hot heat. 

Much of Lisbon's history is based from an earthquake in 1755 which destroyed most of the area. This was once a convent but only the Gothic arches remain. 

This iron elevator was designed by one of Gustav Eiffel's students (hence why it looks so similar in design to the Eiffel Tower). 

 Our second neighbourhood to explore was Baixa (the lower town). It is mostly a shopping area with grid streets (a result of the area being decimated in the earthquake).  It also has a lot of monuments along the waterfront.  By this time, it was getting really hot so pulling out the camera to take a picture was only happening when I saw something exceptionally brilliant.

Our final neighbourhood was Alfama, where you can find medieval streets and Sao Jorge Castle. We decided to skip the castle, quickly walk the streets and get back to the ship with all its air conditioned glory.

Some of those medieval streets. Many of the homes had budgie cages affixed to the outside of their homes. It made the walk a bit more pleasant, listening to the tunes of these little birds. 

Selfie with the Queen Victoria. So close to air con!

The Alfama area was probably the most beautiful. There isn't a lot to see and do but the streets are unique with sharp turns and stairwells to get lost on. 

We made it back to the ship and I thoroughly enjoyed Lisbon from the sea in a/c. I managed to get quite a few great pictures as we sailed away. 

This is Trade Square (in Baixa). It was the site of Portugal's royal palaces. Now it seems to be a large space with nothing to do or see. 

 Dinner that night was interesting. Our table had one side where the sun was shinning onto. There was only one spot out of three that could be used without going blind. So I got to sit across from these lovely people and judge their table manners.

They look lovely now, but their etiquette was shocking when the food arrived!

Rea and Shea "hugging."