DAY 10 : PORTUGAL : LISBON

Weather : raining : 16o

LAST DAY IN LISBON

 

Very wet day from the outset today. Fortunately we planned to have a relaxing day - as a walking tour was out of the question. We headed towards the main shopping area, Baixa. Footpaths are all tiled, reflecting the nature of the area.

 

 

Rain persisted so we sought refuge in a local cafe - they were trying to attract customers despite the uncomfortable conditions. Portuguese tarts are delicious in any weather.

 

 

Many tourists attracted to riding one of the 4 ornamental  elevators for a view of the city.

This one in Baixa is called 'Elevator of Carmo', built by a protege of Gustave Eiffel to connect downtown to Bairro Alto, the highest point of the city in the early 20th century.

 

A light lunch in the city. We inadvertantly selected a very expensive restaurant - so we

made some guarded choices. It was beautifully presented. I had grilled cod - the national specialty - not particularly tasty - structure of the cod not unlike salmon. Mark had sardines. We have just discovered that unlike France and Spain where bread is included in the overall price (and house wine in some cases), in Portugal small entrees are placed on the table and if you eat them you pay but if you don't, you don't. It can really add substance to the bill if you are not careful.

 

 

Ceramic nativity scenes amid Christmas decorations in stores.

 

 

Lots of traditional colour for the festive season.

 

 

Window shopping in the rain.

 

 

First prize for the smiliest nativity scene, compliments of our local $2 shop.

 

 

 

 

Farewell, Lisbon!

 

 

 

M&M

24/11/12

Our email : mm_smith@bigpond.net.au