Log 25th August:
Another sunset overlooking a surfbreak in southwest Portugal. The guys in the van next to us are singing a few songs with a guitar and harmonica so its idealic.
We have only spent one night in a caravan park in the last 3 weeks so typically we are parked in a dirt carpark above a beach next to some traveling surfer types half our age. Nice! (for me, not so for Chris).
The last few days have been spent cruising south down the west coast of Portugal looking for waves and sun. Still haven't had a day over 28C but it's been pretty warm. Had a good trek today on the cliffs above the southwest cape but no surf.
This area reminds me of Carnarvon/Gnarloo coast - rugged and barren with beautiful capes and beaches. But still there's a billion people at the remotest spots. You don't know how lucky we are to live in WA. There's nothing on the Portugal and Spain coast that isn't better in WA and with a fraction of the crowds. Except the beach bars. Our bureaucrats really need to loosen up. But of course the towns and cities have a lot of history and old world charm. Lisbon was great but mind the pickpockets and derelicts. Well worth a visit but the coast beckons after a day of traffic and tourists.
Only 4 days left in the van then we fly to Athens for 3 nights in a 5 star hotel. Bed, toilet, hot shower and running water - luxury.
Log 27th August:
Yesterday we stumbled upon the biggest sand sculpture exhibition in the world. Amazing! That was a real highlight after a small surf at the place mentioned above. Last night we relented and stayed in a caravan park mainly as we are on the tourist coast and there are billions of cars and people. It's the Ibiza of Portugal and needs to be avoided. Off to Southern Spain now to return the car in 2 days. Tonight at Gibraltar.
Log 29th August: Did Gibraltar today. Wow, what an unexpected highlight. We didn't know it was British ruled and didn't really know the history behind 'the rock' so it was a real eye opener. In our top 5 after 6 weeks, so must he good. And so nice to be in a place where most people understand your language and want our business. Really highlights the deep seated cultural problems that Spain and Portugal have that the GFC doesn't seem to have changed. Don't invest in Spain or Portugal! They have their heads buried in the sand and are s***ting in their own nest, and can't see it.
Last night in the van. Sad, yet exciting. Sold my surfboard today and spent a few hours organizing the next leg of our journey prior to the Gibraltar visit, so a good day today. Tomorrow is Malaga, Spain, then we fly to Athens to check out the rubble. Can't wait for a bed and shower.