Day Two
The 5 hour time change kicked our butts last night which led to a late start. We tried something new and asked concierge at the hotel for not only a map, but directions. I know, not our usual plan. We received great information and set off with castles and historical facts bouncing around our brains. With so much going on, I’m amazed we managed to find our station, but we did. Well honestly we thought we did and yes it did eventually get us to Sintra but there was a less costly,easier and faster way. Anyway we arrived and followed the crowd as they obviously knew where they we going. We picked up a map and headed up the walk of 1000 craggy, uneven steps. Actually 1.5 kms but it seemed longer. It was questionable at times but we made it. The Moorish Castle was worth it. More steps,very narrow ramparts and great views. Bill especially loved the very narrow walkways grabbing onto every ancient stone he could, all while trying to not look over the edge. We took photos and enjoyed the scenery. Back down was very different as we ended up on a fairly steep cobbled road. Much easier except for the constant dodging of cars and Tuktuks. We finally reached towns edge and headed towards town center and the train station. Oops we naturally went the exact wrong direction. We stopped at a gas station and asked for direction. No one spoke English. Reminder: learn Portuguese before coming next time. Anyway we met up again with our Moorish Castle friends from Calgary who had naturally followed us down because we knew what we were doing and we’re from Winnipeg. They had given up and called an Uber as they had Wi-Fi. We were discussing the Uber app and our lack of Wi-Fi and were overheard by an off duty tourista type guy who offered us a ride to the train station. Not Uber but a ride and we paid gladly. Train was waiting for us and we jumped aboard. Got off at the correct station and yes got lost yet again. Managed to walk in a big circle and then started over somehow finding our hotel. Tapas for dinner once again. My shoes came off and I watched as my feet expanded like a memory foam mattress glad to be free of it’s sleeper. Tomorrow it’s back on the metro, they won’t fool us twice, and down to city center for a day of exploring and a good meal. I sure hope my shoes will go back on.